Are Wix Sites Free?
Are Wix Websites Free? Sort Of.
Times are tough and everyone is trying to find ways to save money. This week I was approached by a few small businesses who wanted to know if they really needed to upgrade to a Wix hosting package or could they get away with using the free version. The short answer is yes, Wix does offer a free plan however it comes with some serious limitations which for a small business can prove costly.
Understanding Wix's Free Plan
Wix offers a free plan that allows users to create and launch a website without any cost. This is an excellent option for those new to website building, providing an opportunity to explore Wix’s features without financial commitment.
The free plan includes:
Access to Wix's drag-and-drop website builder.
A selection of customizable templates.
Wix subdomain (e.g., username.wixsite.com/siteaddress).
Basic web hosting.
However, the free plan comes with limitations:
Wix ads displayed on your website. This really detracts from what could be an otherwise professionally designed website.
No custom domain name (you're limited to the Wix subdomain). Your target audience would really struggle to find you on Google and without a business domain you're missing out on a lot of key features and SEO options.
Limited bandwidth and storage. You may find uploading images to your media library stops once you reach capacity.
Absence of e-commerce capabilities.
Limited access to advanced features and apps.
When to Consider Upgrading to a Premium Plan
While the free version is suitable for personal projects or a basic online presence, upgrading to a premium plan is advisable for more advanced needs. Premium plans offer:
Removal of Wix ads.
Custom domain connection.
Increased bandwidth and storage.
E-commerce functionality.
Access to premium apps and features.
Enhanced customer support.
Professional appearance.
Wix’s premium plans cater to various needs, from personal websites to large-scale e-commerce platforms.
So, Are Wix Sites Really Free
Wix websites can indeed be free, making it an accessible option for beginners and those testing the waters of web design. However, for more professional needs, including branding, e-commerce, and extensive customization, considering a premium plan is beneficial. Ultimately, Wix offers flexibility, allowing you to start for free and upgrade as your needs evolve.
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Hausman Graphics is a certified Wix Partner and creates stunning websites for businesses in the UK, USA and beyond. If you are looking for a new website, a fresh look for your current website, or are seeking to improve your performance on Google, contact us today and let's get started. Or if you'd like to learn a little more first, read our recent feature in The Drum.
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