Don’t Pick the Best Web Design Software Until You Try These 6

I set out to build a website—something clean, professional, and modern. Nothing too fancy, just a site that looked great on any device, loaded fast, and didn’t feel like a relic from the early 2000s. Should’ve been easy, right?

It wasn’t.

Some web design tools claimed to be “drag and drop” but felt more like “drag, drop, and wrestle with the layout for the next 20 minutes.” Others offered total creative freedom—if you were willing to write code for every tiny tweak. And then there were the ones that dangled beautiful templates in front of me, only to lock half the customization options behind a paywall.

After battling rigid layouts, frustrating UI decisions, and the occasional full-blown website meltdown, I decided to take a methodical approach. I tested some of the best web design software built for every skill level—from beginner-friendly site builders to pro-level design tools—to see which ones actually made website creation smooth instead of a struggle.

Some were a dream to use, making it easy to build a stunning, functional website in minutes. Others made me question my life choices. 

If you want the best web design software that works with you, not against you, I’ve broken down the best platforms, what they do well, and where they might drive you up the wall.

6 best web design software I tried and loved

Web design software is the secret weapon behind every great-looking website. As a marketer, I rely on it to create sites that aren’t just visually appealing but also functional, responsive, and optimized for conversions. It’s what lets me build landing pages that actually convert, brand sites that feel polished and professional, and product pages that don’t scare customers away with clunky layouts.

Some platforms make it as easy as dragging and dropping elements into place, while others give full creative control with advanced design tools and code access. The best ones strike a balance—offering flexibility without overwhelming me with unnecessary complexity.

At the end of the day, web design software isn’t just about making a site look good—it’s about creating an experience that keeps visitors engaged, guides them toward action, and ultimately drives results. Because what’s the point of a beautiful website if it doesn’t help grow a business?

This comprehensive review process ensured that the web design software I recommend is not only highly rated but also robustly tested and validated by the user community.

What makes the best web design software worth it? My checklist

When I was evaluating different web design software, I delved deep into the functionalities that differentiate the good from the great. Here are the top six factors that guided my review:

• User experience (UX) design: The best software should make the design process as intuitive as possible. I looked for platforms with a clean, organized interface that minimizes distractions and maximizes usability. Features such as grid views, alignment tools, and easy-to-access style editors are key. Real-time preview options that allow me to see changes as they happen help me avoid errors and refine the design without switching between modes.
• Responsiveness and flexibility: I needed software that guarantees my designs look great on any screen size, from desktops to smartphones. This involves not only adaptive templates but also tools that allow for manual adjustments of layout elements at various breakpoints. The ability to preview and adjust designs for different devices directly in the editing interface is a game-changer, ensuring that the final product is effective across all viewing platforms.
• Customization capabilities: Deep customization is critical for standing out in a crowded digital space. I expected advanced capabilities like editing the underlying HTML and CSS for those who have the skills, as well as the ability to add and customize JavaScript elements. Importing custom assets such as fonts, icons, and graphics should be straightforward, allowing me to truly personalize websites without feeling constrained by the default options provided.
• Comprehensive feature set: Robust features are non-negotiable. From SEO optimization tools that help my sites rank well in search engines to social media integration that enables content sharing to full-featured e-commerce solutions capable of handling global sales—the software must support all these elements natively. I also looked for features that support user engagement and conversion, such as pop-ups, contact forms, and newsletter signups, which are integral to effective digital marketing strategies.
• Performance optimization: Website performance is directly tied to user satisfaction and SEO rankings. I prioritized software that automates performance enhancements like image compression and code minification. Support for modern standards such as HTTP/2, lazy loading of images, and integration with content delivery networks (CDNs) helps ensure that the websites I build are fast and efficient, providing a smooth user experience regardless of traffic volume.
• Support and resources: Exceptional customer support can make or break my experience with web design software. I chose platforms that offer comprehensive support through multiple channels: live chat, email, and phone. Community resources such as user forums, detailed documentation, and regular training sessions are crucial for resolving issues quickly and learning new features. Ongoing updates and a commitment to improving the software based on user feedback are also important factors contributing to a positive long-term experience.

After using these criteria for testing over 20+ web design solutions, I have my final cut.

The list below contains genuine user reviews from G2’s best web design software category page. To be included in this category, a solution must:

• Provide a platform for editing HTML and CSS
• Provide customizable templates or web frameworks
• Offer tools for visualizing front-end design code
• Provide elements libraries or shortcodes
• Possess web publishing capabilities

*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.  

1. Wix

Wix is one of those platforms that makes web design feel less like a technical puzzle and more like an open canvas. However, from the moment I got started, it was clear to me that Wix isn’t just about building websites—it’s about giving you control over how they look, feel, and function.

It’s built for anyone who wants to get a website up and running fast—whether that’s a freelancer showcasing their work, a small business selling products, or someone who just wants a professional-looking online presence without dealing with code. 

One of the first things I noticed was Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence). It’s a surprisingly smart tool that asks you a few questions about your site’s purpose and style and then generates a full-fledged website in seconds. If you want something quick and effortless, this is a great way to go. But if you’re like me and enjoy tinkering with layouts, the drag-and-drop editor is where Wix really shines. Unlike website builders that limit where to place elements, Wix lets you position things freely—no rigid grid snapping, no predefined boxes, just smooth and intuitive design.

I also took a deep dive into the Wix App Market, and this is where things get interesting. There’s an app for almost everything—email marketing, social media integrations, booking systems, and even AI-powered chatbots. I tested a few of them, and they installed seamlessly, instantly expanding my site’s capabilities. Want a customer to book an appointment directly from your site? Done. Need pop-up forms to capture leads? Easy. If you’re running a business, this ecosystem makes Wix feel more like a fully digital platform rather than just a website builder.

For those who care about SEO (and you should), Wix has built-in SEO tools that guide you through optimizing your site. You don’t need to be an expert—Wix walks you through key areas like metadata, mobile responsiveness, and even Google indexing. I tested this with a fresh site, and within a couple of days, it was already appearing in search results. Not bad for a website that took under an hour to build.

Wix does have its quirks, though. The biggest one? Template lock-in. Once you choose a template and start editing, you can’t switch to another without rebuilding your site. That means you must be very sure about your choice from the beginning. 

The dashboard is packed with features, settings, and options, and while that’s great for flexibility, it also means you’ll spend a fair amount of time figuring out where everything is. If you’re looking for a quick way to build a website, Wix might make you work a little harder than expected.

Also, while Wix is great for visual customization, it’s not the best for advanced design tweaks—you won’t get the deep-level control that platforms like Webflow or WordPress offer.

What I dislike about Wix:

• There were moments when the wealth of customization options felt daunting. Navigating the advanced settings without guidance could take time to master, particularly for less experienced users.
• Once a template was selected, switching to a different template was frustrating because it required starting the design process over, which isn’t ideal for experimentation or rapid iteration.

What G2 users dislike about Wix:

“The website loading speed is poor and may appear slow, particularly on mobile devices. Users who are less patient may visit our websites less frequently and explore our pages less thoroughly. The mobile aspect of the website is non-responsive, which is quite annoying because we know that is how the majority of our clients find us.”

- Wix Review, Sunny D.

2. Webflow

Webflow isn’t just a website builder—it’s more like a visual development tool disguised as one. The first time I opened it, I could tell this wasn’t designed for casual users who just want to throw together a site in 30 minutes. This is for people who care about pixel-perfect design, intricate animations, and a degree of control that most builders simply don’t offer. It’s powerful, but it’s also a bit intimidating at first.

The interface feels like a mix of Photoshop and a coding environment. There are layers, classes, and even a full-fledged CMS built right in. I started off by testing the drag-and-drop editor, which isn’t your typical “plop elements anywhere” kind of deal. Instead, Webflow makes you think about structured layouts, similar to how front-end developers approach web design. It was a little jarring at first, but once I got the hang of it, I loved the level of precision.

I also dove into Webflow’s Interactions and Animations panel, which honestly blew me away. Most website builders offer simple hover effects or basic transitions, but Webflow lets you build scroll-triggered animations, complex multi-step transitions, and even parallax effects—all without touching JavaScript. I created a fade-in effect for images as I scrolled down a page, and it looked like something straight out of a high-end agency website.

Then there’s Webflow’s CMS, which is a game-changer for dynamic content. Instead of manually duplicating pages, I could set up content collections (like blog posts, portfolios, or product listings), design a single layout, and have Webflow automatically generate new pages based on that template. This feature makes scaling a website infinitely easier.

But with great power comes a learning curve. Unlike beginner-friendly builders like Wix, Webflow requires some patience. I found myself watching tutorial videos more often than I expected just to understand how classes and styles worked. It’s less “drag, drop, done” and more “plan, structure, execute.” 

Also, Webflow’s pricing can be steep, depending on what you need. If you just want a personal website, it’s fine—but if you’re managing multiple sites or need advanced hosting, the costs may add up.

What I dislike about Webflow:

• Despite its no-code approach, Webflow isn't exactly beginner-friendly. I frequently consulted Webflow University to grasp the platform's intricacies. 
• Webflow may not be the fastest solution for smaller, simpler projects. If I just need a basic landing page, it can feel more complicated than other easier drag-and-drop builders.

What G2 users dislike about Webflow:

“Hosting is sometimes an issue with certain clients who don't want to use Webflow. The pricing for some of the additional capabilities is sometimes frustrating. I also wish there were ways for clients to access the "editor" from a basic plan. Sometimes, they just want to make quick text changes but don't have a CMS. I think they have slowed down on providing new updates to the users. I know they're still working behind the scenes on a lot of things, but there's a lot of good ideas in the wishlist that would be good to have.”

- Webflow Review, Natalie R.

3. WordPress

WordPress is basically the Wild West of web design—powerful and flexible, but also completely up to you to figure out. Unlike other web design tools that hold your hand through the process, WordPress hands you the keys to a massive ecosystem and says, “Good luck!”

That’s both its greatest strength and its biggest challenge. WordPress can be anything you want it to be—a simple blog, a full-blown e-commerce site, a portfolio, or even a membership-based platform. But setting it up and making it work exactly how you want takes patience, trial and error, and a willingness to deal with occasional tech headaches.

The first thing I tested was how easy it is to get a basic site up and running. I installed WordPress through a hosting provider, picked a theme, and added some pages. If you stick to the basics, you can absolutely get a functional site up within an hour. But then the customization itch kicked in, and that’s when things got interesting.

Themes and plugins are the heart of WordPress. I tested a few themes, and while some looked great out of the box, others required heavy tweaking to match my vision. The real magic, though, is in the plugin ecosystem—which is both a blessing and a curse. There’s a plugin for almost everything—SEO, security, contact forms, e-commerce, social media, you name it. I installed Yoast SEO, Elementor, and WooCommerce, and within minutes, I had an optimized, drag-and-drop design experience and a fully functional online store.

However, the more plugins you install, the more problems you can run into. Some don’t play well together, some slow down your site, and if one isn’t updated regularly, it can break things. I learned this the hard way when I installed an outdated page builder that completely messed up my site layout.

Then there’s WordPress CMS, which is where it truly shines. Writing and publishing blog posts was a breeze, and the built-in media library made organizing images and videos easy. I also appreciated how much control I had over SEO optimization—with the right plugins. I could tweak metadata, create custom URL structures, and generate XML sitemaps.

Unlike Wix or Webflow, WordPress requires constant updates. Plugins, themes, and even WordPress itself need regular updates to stay secure. I also had to manually configure backups, optimize performance, and occasionally dive into the WordPress forums to troubleshoot weird errors. It’s a website-building experience that rewards effort but isn’t exactly “set it and forget it.”

What I dislike about WordPress:

• I had to stay on top of regular updates for the core software, themes, and plugins to ensure security and functionality. The occasional plugin conflict required troubleshooting, which could be time-consuming. 
• Each plugin adds its own code to the site, and not all are optimized for speed. This meant I had to be selective and ensure I wasn't bogging down my site's performance.

What G2 users dislike about WordPress:

“For me, sometimes WordPress sites are complex like it takes time to load the site because of a lot of plugins and themes added, but the best thing is we do not need coding to create a beautiful site just by using simple features of WordPress we can easily create in a small amount of time.”

- WordPress Review, Yashsvi

4. Adobe Dreamweaver

Adobe Dreamweaver feels like a tool that refuses to fade into the background. It’s been around forever, and while other web design tools have gone the no-code route, Dreamweaver still straddles the line between visual design and full-code editing. 

It’s not quite a beginner-friendly website builder, but it’s not a full-fledged development environment either—it’s somewhere in the middle, which makes it either perfect or frustrating, depending on what you need.

I started by opening a blank project, and Dreamweaver immediately hit me with a familiar split-screen interface: code on one side, live preview on the other. This setup is great because it lets you build your website visually while still seeing the underlying HTML and CSS in real time. I tweaked some layout elements in the Live View mode, and Dreamweaver automatically updated the code for me—a neat balance between manual coding and visual design.

One of my favorite things about Dreamweaver is its flexible coding environment. It supports HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and more, so you’re not just limited to basic websites—you can build dynamic, database-driven sites if you know what you’re doing. I tested its code hints and auto-completion, and they worked well, speeding up my workflow without being intrusive. There’s also built-in Git support, which made it easy to track changes in my project without needing a separate tool.

Another standout feature is multi-monitor support. Unlike many other web design tools that lock you into a single window, Dreamweaver lets you spread your workspace across multiple screens. I had my live preview on one monitor, my full code editor on another, and my assets panel floating where I wanted it. For someone juggling different elements of a design, this was a huge workflow boost.

However, Dreamweaver relies on an internet connection for certain features. While I could work offline, some features—like live previews linked to a remote site—required me to stay online, which wasn’t always convenient.

I also ran into occasional stability issues. While testing complex layouts with multiple CSS and JavaScript files, Dreamweaver unexpectedly froze a couple of times. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it did make me hesitant to trust it for high-stakes projects without frequent manual saves.

Another quirk I noticed was its slightly outdated UI design. While Dreamweaver has received updates, some parts of the interface still feel clunky, especially compared to modern design tools with cleaner, more streamlined experiences. Some panels felt overcrowded, and finding specific settings sometimes took longer than expected.

What I dislike about Adobe Dreamweaver:

• I noticed that Dreamweaver could be resource-intensive, especially when working on large projects. There were instances where the application lagged, which disrupted my workflow. 
• Dreamweaver is part of Adobe Creative Cloud and operates on a subscription-based model. For occasional users or freelancers, this recurring cost might be a deterrent compared to one-time purchase alternatives.

What G2 users dislike about Adobe Dreamweaver:

“Some people do not like Dreamweaver because it can be a bit difficult to learn at first. You also need to pay to use it, and sometimes it can take a long time to load if your computer is not very fast. Sometimes, there can be many things on the screen, and it can be confusing to find what you need.”

- Adobe Dreamweaver Review, Daniel M.

5. Framer

Framer is one of those tools that feels like it was designed for perfectionists. It’s not just a website builder—it’s a high-fidelity prototyping and web design tool that sits somewhere between Figma, Webflow, and a front-end development environment. It’s built for designers who want complete creative control and sleek animations without needing to touch complex code.

I started by testing Framer’s no-code editor, and I have to say—it’s one of the smoothest I’ve used. Unlike traditional drag-and-drop editors, Framer works more like a design tool, allowing you to place elements anywhere and tweak them with pixel precision. I could set up complex layouts, adjust responsive breakpoints manually, and even fine-tune animations without any rigid limitations.

One of my favorite things about Framer is its component-based design system. I built a reusable navigation bar and was able to apply changes across all instances in real time. This was a massive time-saver, especially for multi-page designs, since I didn’t have to update every section when I made a small tweak manually.

Animations are another area where Framer excels. While Webflow has strong animation tools, Framer makes it even easier to create smooth interactions with scroll effects, hover states, and timed transitions. I tested this by designing a scrolling landing page with fade-in elements, and the results felt more fluid and polished than what I usually get from traditional website builders.

Framer also has AI-assisted site generation, which I tested just for fun. It’s not perfect, but it does a surprisingly good job of setting up a solid starting point based on a few prompts. If you’re in a hurry or just need a basic framework to tweak, it’s a handy feature.

However, Framer isn’t for everyone. First, there’s a learning curve. If you’re used to tools like Wix or Squarespace, Framer will feel more like a hybrid between a design tool and a developer’s workspace. It doesn’t hold your hand as much, and while the no-code functionality is powerful, some advanced features require CSS knowledge to get things just right.

I also found its e-commerce functionality to be lacking. Unlike Shopify or even Webflow’s built-in store features, Framer’s e-commerce tools feel basic and limited to simple storefronts. If you need complex product variations, payment options, or integrations, you’ll likely need a third-party solution.

What I dislike about Framer:

• It’s useful for small online stores, but I wouldn’t recommend Framer for anyone needing a robust e-commerce setup.
• Some advanced design tweaks still require CSS knowledge. While Framer is no-code friendly, if you want complete customization, you’ll occasionally have to dive into CSS.

What G2 users dislike about Framer:

“Since Framer is very new, there are some features missing, like an integrated solution for language translations or more detailed filtering options in the CMS. Currently, there is no export functionality to self-host a Framer website.”

- Framer Review, Sergio L.

6. Google Web Designer

I know Google Web Designer may seem like an odd choice on my list of the best web design software, but hear me out. Yes, this is more of an animation and interactive ad-creation tool. 

Google designed it primarily for HTML5-based ads, banners, and motion graphics—so if you were hoping for a full-fledged website builder, this isn’t it. However, if you need to create interactive elements for your website or digital campaign, there’s a lot to explore here.

I set up a simple project, and the interface immediately reminded me of a hybrid between a video editing tool and a coding environment. There’s a timeline at the bottom (great for managing animations), a workspace for placing elements, and a panel for HTML and CSS if you want to tweak things manually. It’s a nice mix of visual design and coding flexibility, which makes it useful for designers and developers alike.

The real magic happens in Events and Interactivity. I tested creating an interactive ad that responded to user actions—clicks, hovers, or even device motion. It worked smoothly, and I liked that I didn’t have to write JavaScript from scratch to make it happen. 

Google Web Designer lets you set up these interactions visually, with built-in options for things like expanding ads, transitioning elements, or embedding YouTube videos that autoplay on hover. It’s built for dynamic content, which makes it incredibly useful for marketers and ad designers.

Another cool feature I tested was responsive layouts. Since HTML5 ads need to look good across different screen sizes, Google Web Designer makes it easy to preview and adjust layouts for multiple devices. There’s an adaptive view toggle that lets me check how my design would appear on mobile, tablet, and desktop. This isn’t the same as the fluid, freeform responsiveness of a tool like Webflow, but for ad design, it’s a lifesaver.

However, as I mentioned, Google Web Designer is not a general-purpose web design tool. It’s fantastic for animations, interactive elements, and ads, but if you try to build a full website with it, you’re going to have a hard time. It lacks traditional site-building tools like navigation menus, global styles, or even basic content management features. You can technically create multi-page designs, but it’s clunky, and you’re much better off using another tool for that.

What I dislike about Google Web Designer:

• While it's excellent for creating ads and simple animations, I found the tool lacking when it came to building full-fledged websites or complex web applications. Its feature set is primarily geared towards advertising content, which might not meet the needs of all web designers.
• Unlike other web design tools with templates, Google Web Designer mostly expects you to build from scratch. I didn’t find that satisfactory for first-time users.

What G2 users dislike about Google Web Designer:

“If it was invented as a full website creation software, it may have been the best one to use for any website. Unfortunately, seeing the interface and features, it seems to me that the user should be a professional programmer with some advanced coding ideas to use for a full website creation. That means some drag-and-drop features in the cloud apps of google, which can make full websites, are missing in this desktop application. But actually, when it comes to an ad creation or the creation of some parts of a web page, they cannot be considered as a lack of features because the features built are the main intentions of GWD. Also, the latest versions have the ability to code edit as required when importing from other files created outside GWD. ”

- Google Web Design Review, Anil P.

Comparison of the best web design software

Note: G2 ratings are based on user reviews and are subject to change.

Frequently asked questions about best web design software

Have more questions? Find more answers below.

1. Which is the best software for web design?

The ideal web design software depends on your specific needs and skill level. For beginners, platforms like Wix and Weebly offer user-friendly interfaces with drag-and-drop features. Professionals might prefer tools like Adobe Dreamweaver or Webflow, which provide more advanced design capabilities and customization options. 

2. Which software is most used for web development?

WordPress is one of the most widely used platforms for web development, powering over 40% of all websites. Its popularity stems from its open-source nature, extensive plugin ecosystem, and flexibility to create anything from simple blogs to complex e-commerce sites. 

3. Can I design a website for free?

Yes, several platforms offer free website design plans. WordPress, Wix, etc., allow users to create basic websites without any upfront costs. However, these free versions may have limitations in customization and may require additional purchases for advanced features or templates. 

4. Do I need to know how to code to design a website?

Not necessarily. Many modern web design platforms offer drag-and-drop interfaces that don't require coding knowledge. However, understanding basic HTML and CSS can benefit customization and troubleshooting.

5. How long does it take to design a website?

The timeline for designing a website varies depending on its complexity, the designer's experience, and the client's requirements. A simple website might take a few weeks to complete, while more complex sites can take several months. 

6. How much does it cost to design a website?

The cost of designing a website varies widely based on factors like complexity, features, and the designer's expertise. It can range from a few hundred dollars for basic sites to several thousand dollars for more intricate designs.

No more 404s

Picking the right web design software is a lot like shopping for the perfect pair of shoes. Some people just want something comfortable that gets the job done, while others want something custom-fitted, stylish, and built for performance. There’s no single “best” tool—just the one that fits you best.

The best way to find the right one is to dive in and experiment. Most platforms offer free plans or trials, so try building a page, testing features, and seeing what feels right. Whether you need a quick-and-easy website or a fully custom interactive experience, there’s a tool out there that’s perfect for your project.

The hardest part of creating a website is getting started. But once you do, you’ll be surprised how quickly things come together. 

If you're ready to build but don’t want to commit to a paid plan just yet, check out our picks for the best free website builders offering powerful features without a hefty price tag.