Which Type of Web Builder is Better – Hosted vs Desktop Solutions
When choosing a web builder, the very first decision that you need to make is whether you want a hosted solution or a desktop solution. Both of these options have a strong fan-base, which means that they both have something to offer. The key is determining which one is right for you. Here is a quick comparison of what to expect from both a hosted and desktop web builder to help you decide which one is right for you.
How Many Websites Do You Want to Create With Your Web Builder?
If you are only going to be making a handful of websites, then both of these options are fairly similar. On the other hand, if you plan on designing a lot of websites, then a desktop solution might be better. This is because desktop software will allow you to save your templates in a centralized location and then access them whenever they are needed. With hosted solutions, you will need to set up each website nearly from scratch, although you can start off with the templates that are provided.
What Additional Expenses Do You Expect to Pay?
In terms of overall expenses, hosted solutions tend to have recurring subscription fees whereas a desktop web builder will normally only require a one-time fee (although some will charge for future updates). At the same time, a hosted web builder will also include website hosting and often a domain name, whereas a desktop solution will not. If you are looking for a web builder primarily to design websites for other people, then hosting and domain name registration won’t be much a concern for you. If you are creating these websites for yourself, the monthly fees will not be much different from what it would cost for a solid hosting plan anyways.
How Much Experience Do You Have Creating Websites?
As a general rule, hosted web builders tend to be much more user-friendly for people with little experience designed websites. In fact, many of them can be used to create a feature-rich website without having to do any of the coding yourself. This is accomplished by using customizable pre-built templates that are easy to edit. Desktop web builders tend to favor people who understand and are comfortable with languages like HTML, CSS, and PHP. While they can be a little harder to use initially, they do offer greatly flexibility over the long run.
The Best Type of Web Builder If You Are Just Getting Started
If you are just getting started, then using a hosting solution like Intuit or Wix will normally be the best choice. They will give you an opportunity to get a fully functioning website built in the least amount of time. Plus, they will also provide you with hosting and a domain name. The best part is that you can actually get started for free using a sub-domain and upgrade once you have decided that you have chosen a hosted solution that you are comfortable with. Additionally, they allow you to upgrade or cancel at any time, which means you could always switch over to a desktop web builder at a later date.