Showit and WordPress are two different web design platforms that serve different purposes and target different audiences. Showit is a cloud website builder specifically designed for creating photography websites, while WordPress is a widely recognized Content Management System (CMS) that offers high end functionality, powerful integrations, and design customization options.
Both platforms can be used to create portfolio websites, but they differ in their initial implementation, functionality, and range of services offered. While both platforms are user-friendly, they may not be equally easy for an average user to use. To determine which platform is best for your project, it is necessary to compare and review both Showit and WordPress.
WordPress vs Showit: General Overview
Showit is a website builder designed specifically for creating photography websites. It has a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and offers complete creative
control over the design and layout of projects. Showit is suitable for both beginners and web design professionals who want to create high-quality portfolio websites without needing to know how to code. Since its launch in 2006, Showit has gained a growing customer base and has helped create over 29,962 websites. It is a valuable tool for building projects with a focus on your business and customer needs.
WordPress is a well-known Content Management System (CMS) that is popular worldwide. It offers advanced design customization tools, powerful integrations, and a personalized approach to website development. Originally launched in 2008 as a blogging platform, WordPress has since expanded to support the creation of any type of website, including portfolio projects. There are currently more than 28,183,568 live websites built with WordPress, covering a wide range of industries and functionality.
Both Showit and WordPress are popular with their target audiences, despite their differences in industry specialization and feature sets. Showit is a website builder specifically designed for creating photography websites, while WordPress is a more general-purpose CMS that can be used to create any type of website. Both platforms are highly regarded by their users due to the various benefits they offer.
Showit vs WordPress: Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, Showit may be simpler than WordPress for some users. Showit is designed to be user-friendly and does not require any coding knowledge to use. Its drag-and-drop editor allows users to easily customize the layout and arrangement of content on their website. Showit also provides guidelines and web design tools to help beginners get started, as well as customer support through its Help Center, Live Chat, and social media accounts. The platform is compatible with the latest version of Chrome, but users may need to install this browser if they do not have it or use a different one.
On the other hand, WordPress may be more complicated for some users, as it requires at least a basic understanding of programming to use effectively. While it does not have a drag-and-drop editor, it does have a convenient and intuitive editor for adding and editing content, integrating media files, and customizing website pages.
That being said, since WordPress is open source, there is a ton of flexibility in third part page builders. I personally install Elementor on all my client’s sites and provide training so they can easily make updates themselves if they ever want to.
When going with WordPress, users will need to provide their own domain name and hosting for their website, as these are not provided by default. WordPress also does not have official customer support, but it has a wealth of online resources, tutorials, manuals, and community forums to help users find answers to their questions.
In general, Showit may be a simpler web design solution for beginners, while WordPress may be more suitable for those that need more flexibility and more advanced web design skills.
Showit vs WordPress: Design and Flexibility
ecommerce
The functionality of Showit and WordPress is determined by their initial focus and specialization. Both platforms offer a range of features, tools, and options for creating quality portfolio websites, but WordPress can also be used to create other types of web projects. When deciding between Showit and WordPress, it is important to consider the specific features and capabilities of each platform.
In terms of eCommerce, Showit does not have an eCommerce engine and cannot be used to create a web store on its own. However, it does support WordPress integration, which means that users can connect their Showit website to a WordPress-based web store using an eCommerce plugin. This is a useful option for photographers who want to sell their work online, but it does require some time, skills, and effort to set up.
On the other hand, WordPress has built-in support for eCommerce and can be used to create small-to-large web stores using eCommerce plugins. The most popular of these is WooCommerce, which is an open-source shopping cart that allows users to customize eCommerce templates, manage products and inventory, and support geolocation. In terms of eCommerce functionality, WordPress is more capable than Showit, as it has a wider range of options for creating professional digital stores.
Blogging
Showit does not have a built-in blogging platform, but users can start and manage a blog on their Showit website by integrating it with WordPress. Showit offers a single blog template that can be customized within the Showit editor or in WordPress itself. Users can also transfer an existing blog from another platform to Showit for free.
WordPress, on the other hand, was originally created as a blogging platform and has a range of tools and features specifically designed for this purpose. To start a personal or business blog on WordPress, users can simply go to the dashboard of the service and set up the necessary parameters, add and edit posts, and adjust SEO and promotion settings. WordPress also offers a variety of blog templates and allows users to integrate third-party plugins to enhance the performance of their blog.
When it comes to blogging, WordPress is a more capable platform than Showit. WordPress has a wide range of built-in blogging tools and also allows users to integrate third-party plugins to further enhance their blog. Showit, on the other hand, does not have a built-in blogging platform, but it does allow users to start a blog on their Showit website by integrating it with WordPress.
Third-Party Integrations and Special Features
Showit does not offer a wide range of extensions or an app market for users to add to their website. However, it does provide the option of using the WPEngine-powered solution, which allows users to enhance their website’s performance by choosing and connecting relevant WordPress plugins related to their niche. Showit also includes a collection of custom images that users can browse and use in their portfolio projects, as well as the ability to create their own libraries of media files, images, and other items.
On the other hand, WordPress is known for its powerful integration options and has a wide selection of free and paid plugins that users can choose from to add to their website. Some of these plugins are provided by default, while others can be downloaded from the web. WordPress also has a range of popular photography and portfolio plugins, including Envira Gallery, WP Invoice, Modula Gallery, Sunshine Photocart, WP Forms, BirchPress Scheduler, and Social Media Share Buttons.
One key difference between Showit and WordPress is that WordPress does not include domain name or hosting by default, so users must choose and connect to a hosting provider on their own. The recommended provider is Bluehost, which offers a range of hosting features at a cost of $2.95/month for the cheapest plan. In terms of integrations and special features, WordPress has more extensive options, including a wider range of plugins and the ability to choose from various hosting providers. Showit’s integration options are more limited and primarily rely on WPEngine integration.
Template Editing
Showit includes a collection of premium templates that are specifically designed for professional photographers and creatives. These templates can be customized or completely redesigned without the need for coding knowledge, which is attractive to many users. Showit offers both free and paid templates, with prices ranging from $200 to $750 depending on their functionality and special features. All Showit templates are mobile-ready and developed by third-party web designers, and users can preview the details of a particular template and see how it will look on different screens using the preview feature. While Showit does not offer a wide range of customization options, users can choose from a variety of color palettes, fonts, and styles to give their project a personal touch.
On the other hand, WordPress has a range of built-in themes and hundreds of additional themes available online from third-party designers. Users can choose from both free and paid templates, with paid templates starting at $30 and going up to $200, depending on their specifications and features. While WordPress does offer more customization options than Showit, customization can be time-consuming, especially for beginners, and may require some coding knowledge or web design experience. The process involves creating web pages, categories, and tags, as well as integrating plugins and using customization tools. To make customization easier, WordPress has introduced the Gutenberg Editor, which is similar to standard HTML/text editors or website builders. Users can also switch to the classic WordPress editor if they prefer.
Overall, both Showit and WordPress offer a range of design options to choose from, with Showit specializing in high-end photography themes and WordPress offering a larger selection of both free and premium templates.
Showit vs WordPress: General Pricing Comparison
Showit offers several premium subscription options for its users:
- Showit ($19/mo): includes web hosting with 20GB of media storage space, regular design backups (stored for 7 days), no blogging option, secure certificate, and the Showit website builder.
- Showit + Basic Blog ($24/mo): allows users to design their own WordPress theme in the editor, includes daily blog backups (stored for 30 days), the ability to start a new blog or transfer up to 50 posts from a blog hosted with WordPress or Squarespace, pre-installed plugins, up to 10K monthly blog visits, and WP hosting powered by WP Engine.
- Showit + Advanced Blog ($34/mo): includes custom WordPress plugin installation, up to 25K monthly blog visits, SEO support from Showit experts, the ability to migrate a blog with over 50 posts, FTP and database access, and free advanced blog migration.
Showit also has two additional plans for large-scale blogs with advanced features and high traffic:
- Showit+Advanced Blog 50K ($64/mo)
- Showit+Advanced Blog 100K ($124/mo).
WordPress is a free content management system that can be downloaded and installed at no cost. Users can also use the free version of the system to create simple projects and improve their web design skills. However, for larger scale website creation, additional plugin integration and templates from third-party experts may be necessary, depending on the project’s specialization and requirements.
Hosting and domain names must be chosen separately when using WordPress, as the CMS does not include these options by default. One popular option is Bluehost, which is recommended by WordPress for its credibility, high-end functionality, and affordability.
The cheapest Bluehost subscription costs $2.95/mo. When it comes to pricing, WordPress may be a more affordable option compared to Showit. Showit has fixed prices for its subscriptions, while the cost of using WordPress depends on various factors such as hosting package, the number and cost of plugins and themes chosen.
Showit vs WordPress: Which One Is the Best for SEO?
Showit provides a range of SEO features that allow users to optimize their website for search engines, including the ability to customize title tags and meta descriptions, add alt tags to images, and create custom URLs. The platform also offers SEO best practices guides and resources to help users improve their website’s ranking on search engines.
WordPress is also a strong choice for SEO, with a range of built-in features and plugins that can help improve the ranking of a website on search engines. The platform allows users to customize title tags and meta descriptions, create custom URLs, and add alt tags to images. It also offers a range of SEO plugins, such as Yoast SEO, that provide additional features and tools to help optimize websites for search engines.
Overall, both Showit and WordPress offer a range of features and tools to help improve the SEO of a website. It is important to keep in mind that SEO is an ongoing process and requires consistent effort to maintain and improve a website’s ranking on search engines.
Key Differences Between Showit and WordPress
Ease of Use:
Showit is a simple, specialized portfolio website builder. It is specifically designed for portfolio development and offers a range of features for this purpose. The system has an intuitive interface and easy-to-use dashboard with all the necessary tools.
WordPress is a powerful, widely-used Content Management System that allows users to create any type of web project, including modern portfolios. It may be more difficult for beginners to use due to the learning curve and coding proficiency required.
Functionality:
Showit is focused on photography and portfolio development, offering advanced image editing options, improved website security, WP engine support, and other specialized features. WordPress has a wide range of features that allow users to create a variety of simple or complex web projects, including blogs, online stores, business websites, landing pages, and portfolios.
Design:
Showit offers a selection of free and paid templates created by third-party experts. It does not have a wide range of customization tools, but the available features are sufficient for standard portfolio projects.
WordPress has a collection of built-in templates and also offers hundreds of additional designs available online. The themes are available for free or at a cost and are optimized for mobile browsing.
eCommerce:
Showit does not have an eCommerce engine, so it is not possible to create an online store with the system. However, it is possible to integrate WP eCommerce plugins to add this functionality.
WordPress allows users to create an online store through eCommerce plugin integration. The most popular open-source WordPress shopping cart plugin is WooCommerce, which is free to use.
Blogging:
Showit does not have a built-in blogging platform, but it does allow users to create a blog using WP plugins.
WordPress was originally created for blogging and offers a range of powerful tools and plugins to create personal or business blogs.
Small Business:
Showit is suitable for entrepreneurs and creatives looking to create a quality portfolio website.
WordPress can be used to promote businesses through plugin integration. Users can choose from a variety of industry-specific plugins to add to their website.
Pricing:
Showit offers a 14-day free trial and three premium subscriptions starting at $19/mo. There are also two advanced plans available for high traffic blog creation.
WordPress is free to download and install, but users may need to invest in paid plugins, designs, hosting, and domain names to create a live website. The cost of the most affordable Bluehost subscription is $2.95/mo.
SEO: Showit has integrated SEO tools and also allows users to connect WordPress SEO plugins for more effective website optimization.
Comparison Conclusion: Which One Is Better?
When considering tools to create a powerful website, it’s important to choose one that includes the necessary features and is easy to use. Both Showit and WordPress can be used for creating, customizing, and promoting your business, but they have different focuses and capabilities.
Showit is a specialized tool designed specifically for creating photography websites and works really well for service based businesses, but it does not offer features like the ability to add a blog or online store without integrating WordPress.
WordPress, on the other hand, offers a wide range of features and integration options, including the ability to create a blog or online store, making it a better option for more advanced and custom website development.
If you’re really looking for something that is easy to use, and can’t afford a web designer just yet, I’d recommend checking out Squarespace. I have an article I’ve written here that compares several web design platforms so you can figure out which one is best for you.
I really hope this insight will help you decide which platform you’d like to work with and whether you’d like to work with a template or custom web design. Let me know in the comments what you think, if you have any questions, or if you have any cool insight to provide. I’d love to hear from you.
