Building a website used to be a task reserved for tech experts, but times have changed. Today, thanks to no-code and low-code website builders, creating a professional-looking site is within reach for everyone, regardless of their technical expertise. In fact, by 2025, 70% of businesses are set to rely on these tools to streamline their web development process and save costs. 

No-code and low-code platforms are not just trends; they're revolutionizing the way we approach web development. In this article, we'll look at what makes these website builders so appealing and explore the key differences between them. 

What is a no-code website builder?

No-code website builders are a game-changer for anyone who wants to create a website without writing a single line of code. These platforms empower users to build and customize websites using simple, intuitive tools. Let's break down what makes no-code website builder options so popular.

Key features

Drag-and-drop interfaces

The hallmark of no-code website builders is their drag-and-drop functionality. This means you can simply click on elements (like text boxes, images, and buttons) and drag them to where you want them on your page. It's as easy as arranging furniture in your living room.

Pre-designed templates

Don't have an eye for design? No worries. No-code platforms come with a variety of pre-designed templates. You can choose a template that fits your style and industry, then customize it to make it uniquely yours. This saves a ton of time and ensures your site looks polished from the get-go.

User-friendly design tools

These builders offer a suite of design tools that are straightforward and easy to use. Want to change a color, adjust a font, or add a background image? It’s all just a few clicks away. Plus, you can preview changes in real-time, so you know exactly how your site will look before it goes live.

Popular no-code website builders

Wix 

Wix is one of the most well-known no-code platforms. It offers a massive selection of templates and a powerful drag-and-drop editor. Whether you're building personal blogs and web pages or online stores, you can use Wix to set up your online presence.

Squarespace

Squarespace is a favorite for creatives, thanks to its sleek, modern templates. It’s ideal for portfolios, small businesses, and blogs. Plus, it comes with robust e-commerce features if you’re looking to sell products online.

B12

B12 stands out with its AI-driven design process, which helps you create a professional website quickly. It’s great for businesses that want a professional look without spending hours tweaking every detail.

Pros of no-code website builders

• Ease of use: You don't need any technical skills to get started.
• Speed: You can have a website up and running in just a few hours.
• Cost-effective: No need to hire a developer, saving you money.
• Creative control: Customize your site exactly how you want it.

Cons of no-code website builders

• Limited flexibility: While you have many customization options, there are still limits compared to custom-coded sites.
• Scalability issues: As your site grows, you might find some limitations in functionality and performance.
• Less unique designs: Because many people use the same templates, it can be challenging to make your site stand out, especially for website builders that don’t offer a ton of selection. 

What are low-code website builders?

Low-code website builders are a fantastic middle ground between no-code platforms and full-on coding. They provide powerful tools that simplify the web development process while still allowing for more customization and flexibility through coding. Perfect for those who have some technical know-how but don’t want to start from scratch, low-code platforms make building robust and dynamic websites much easier.

Key features

Visual development tools

Low-code platforms come with visual development tools that let you build your site using a graphical interface. This is similar to the drag-and-drop functionality in no-code builders but often with more advanced options. You can visually arrange elements and design your site layout without manually coding everything.

Custom code capabilities

One of the main advantages of low-code builders is the ability to add custom code. This means you can tweak and enhance your site beyond the standard options provided by the platform. If you know some HTML, CSS, or JavaScript, you can incorporate custom features and functionalities to make your site truly unique.

Integration options

Low-code platforms often come with robust integration options, allowing you to connect your site with various third-party services and APIs. This can include anything from CRM systems and analytics tools to payment gateways and social media platforms, giving you the ability to expand your site’s capabilities seamlessly.

Popular low-code website builders

Loopple 

Loopple is a great choice for those who want to build professional-looking dashboards and admin panels quickly. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it a favorite among developers who need to create complex interfaces with minimal effort.

Shuffle.Dev

Shuffle.Dev offers a wide range of customizable templates and components, making it easy to build beautiful websites. Its low-code approach allows for significant flexibility, giving users the ability to tweak designs and functionality as needed.

TeleportHQ

TeleportHQ provides a collaborative platform that supports real-time editing and design. It’s ideal for teams working on web projects, offering a seamless way to build and iterate on websites with both visual and code-based tools.

Pros of low-code website builders

• Flexibility: More customization options compared to no-code platforms.
• Efficiency: Speeds up the website development process while still allowing for detailed customization.
• Scalability: Better suited for complex projects that might grow over time.
• Integration: Easier to connect with various third-party services and tools.

Cons of low-code website builders

• Learning curve: Requires some coding knowledge, which might be a barrier for complete beginners.
• Cost: Often more expensive than no-code platforms due to the advanced features and capabilities.
• Complexity: While easier than full coding, it still requires a certain level of understanding and effort to get the most out of the platform.

Comparison between no-code and low-code website builders

Both no-code and low-code website builders offer a convenient way to create professional-looking websites, but they serve different purposes and audiences. 

Target audience

No-code website builders are designed for people who want to get online quickly without diving into the technical details. They’re perfect for small business owners, bloggers, artists, and anyone else who needs a professional-looking website without the hassle of coding.

Low-code website builders are aimed at users who have some technical knowledge and want more control over their website’s functionality and design. These platforms are ideal for startups, tech-savvy entrepreneurs, and development teams who need to create complex websites or applications with custom features.

Complexity and flexibility

With no-code builders, simplicity is key. They offer a straightforward, drag-and-drop interface and a selection of pre-designed templates. This makes them easy to use but also means they have some limitations when it comes to customization and advanced features.

Low-code builders strike a balance between ease of use and flexibility. While they come with visual development tools that simplify the building process, they also allow for custom coding. 

Cost considerations

No-code platforms are generally more affordable, especially for basic websites and landing pages. They often come with tiered pricing plans, so you can start with a free or low-cost option and upgrade as your needs grow. However, premium features and e-commerce capabilities can increase the cost.

Low-code platforms tend to be more expensive due to their advanced features and greater flexibility. Pricing can vary widely, so it’s important to consider what features you really need.

Learning curve and skill requirements 

No-code builders are designed to be user-friendly and accessible to everyone, regardless of technical skill. You can get started right away, and there’s usually plenty of support and tutorials available to help you along the way.

Low-code builders require a bit more technical knowledge and coding skills, making the learning curve steeper. You’ll need to understand some basic coding concepts to get the most out of these platforms. 

Choose the right website builder to streamline website creation

No-code and low-code website builders have made web development accessible to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned developers. Website builders like B12 are perfect for those who want to quickly create a beautiful, functional website without any coding. 

B12 uses AI to help you design and launch a professional website quickly while still offering customization options to tailor your business website to your specific needs. Plus, it offers even more value in the form of client engagement tools, such as email marketing tools and online scheduling, to help you run your business more smoothly. 

Get started today and experience building your B12 website without the hassle of coding!