Themes also provide a simple framework for creating stunning — yet functional — WordPress sites. Of course, more advanced users, like developers, can not only build their own theme but also take advantage of the incredible flexibility of a theme builder plugin. A theme builder plugin is a modern approach to web design that allows users much more flexibility than a standard WordPress theme and doesn’t require them to be developers.

In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the 8 best WordPress theme builder plugins, covering their features and functionality, advantages and disadvantages, and pricing. These plugins offer greater customization than basic page builders, making it easier and less stressful to create a visually appealing and highly functional website. For beginner, intermediate, or even advanced developers, it’s important to know the capabilities of each of these plugins to make an informed choice about which one best suits your needs.

• Elementor
• Beaver Builder
• Divi Builder
• WPBakery Page Builder (Visual Composer)
• Thrive Architect
• Themify Builder
• SiteOrigin Page Builder
• Brizy
• Avada
• Bricks Builder
• BeTheme Builder (Muffin Builder)

Elementor

Features: It has a drag-and-drop editor, a wide selection of widgets, many templates, and WooCommerce support. It’s highly versatile and user-friendly.

Pros: Easy to use, wide range of widgets, strong community support.

Cons: Can be resource-intensive, some advanced features require the premium version.

Pricing: Available in free and premium versions.

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Beaver Builder

Features: Includes a drag-and-drop interface, live previews, numerous modules, and templates. Known for ease of use and clean code.

Pros: Intuitive interface, reliable performance, SEO friendly.

Cons: Free version has limited features, premium can be costly for some users.

Pricing: Free lite version and premium versions available.

Divi Builder

Features: Includes a drag-and-drop editor, pre-made templates, multiple modules, and WooCommerce compatibility.

Pros: Highly customizable, many templates, powerful design capabilities.

Cons: Learning curve for beginners, can be slow at times.

Pricing: Annual subscription or lifetime access.

WPBakery Page Builder (Visual Composer)

Features: Offers both front-end and back-end editors, numerous content elements, template management, and WooCommerce support.

Pros: Versatile, supports many themes, extensive customization options.

Cons: No free version, interface can be overwhelming.

Pricing: Paid versions only.

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Thrive Architect

Features: Thrive Architect is optimized for fast load times, offers drag-and-drop editing, conversion-focused elements, and WooCommerce compatibility.

Pros: Optimized for speed, conversion-focused tools, easy to use.

Cons: Subscription-based pricing, fewer templates compared to others.

Pricing: Subscription-based.

Themify Builder

Features: Works with any theme, includes both front-end and back-end editors, and offers a large library of modules.

Pros: Compatible with any theme, many modules, flexible.

Cons: Can be slow with complex designs, occasional bugs.

Pricing: Free and premium versions available.

SiteOrigin Page Builder

Features: SiteOrigin is a free plugin with an easy drag-and-drop interface and compatibility with a variety of widgets.

Pros: Completely free, user-friendly, widget compatibility.

Cons: Limited advanced features, premium add-ons required for extra functionality.

Pricing: Free.

Brizy

Features: Known for its user-friendly interface, drag-and-drop editor, and cloud-based templates.

Pros: Easy to use, cloud-based features, affordable premium options.

Cons: Limited customization options, some features are only in premium.

Pricing: Free and premium versions available.

Avada

Features: Avada includes Fusion Builder, a drag-and-drop editor, and numerous pre-built templates. It supports WooCommerce.

Pros: Extensive templates, powerful customization, WooCommerce ready.

Cons: Paid only, can be overwhelming for beginners.

Pricing: One-time payment.

Bricks Builder

Features: Bricks Builder offers a quick and easy drag-and-drop editor with full-site editing capabilities.

Pros: Fast and lightweight, full site editing, SEO friendly.

Cons: Paid only, newer on the market.

Pricing: One-time payment.

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BeTheme Builder (Muffin Builder)

Features: This builder includes a drag-and-drop editor, numerous pre-made templates, and WooCommerce support.

Pros: Many templates, WooCommerce compatible, intuitive interface.

Cons: Paid only, can be expensive for some users.

Pricing: One-time payment.

Why Use These Plugins When Gutenberg or Block Structure Exists?

Although Gutenberg and the WordPress block editor provide a solid foundation for creating content and basic layouts, they are not always equipped to handle more complex designs. Theme builder plugins like Elementor, Divi, and WPBakery offer advanced functionality, such as large widget libraries, pre-built templates, and more intuitive, sophisticated drag-and-drop interfaces. These tools allow for more control over your website’s design, enabling you to go beyond the capabilities of the block editor to create unique and engaging layouts.

In addition, theme builder plugins come with dedicated support and regular updates to ensure compatibility with WordPress core as well as other plugins. They also often have active communities and extensive documentation, which makes it easier to get help when needed. For users with advanced requirements or those who want a highly customized website, investing in a theme builder plugin can significantly improve the website-building experience.

To sum up, choosing the right WordPress theme builder plugin depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise. Whether you opt for the extensive features of Elementor, the user-friendly interface of Beaver Builder, or the performance-focused Bricks Builder, these tools can greatly enhance your website-building experience.