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Top picks for block-compatible WordPress themes & plugins


Top picks for block-compatible WordPress themes & plugins
Top picks for block-compatible WordPress themes & plugins

Updated April 29, 2024

Key takeaways:

  • They support Full Site Editing (FSE), allowing complete site customization using blocks.
  • Block patterns, predefined layouts, can be found and customized within the Block Editor.
  • Astra, GeneratePress, Neve, OceanWP, Kadence WP, and Blocksy are among the top Gutenberg-compatible WordPress themes in 2024.

What are block-compatible themes and plugins?

What are block themes on WordPress?

Block themes on WordPress are new types of themes that are specifically designed to work with the block-based editor, also known as Gutenberg. These themes are built from the ground up to take advantage of the editor’s features and capabilities, allowing users to create custom and unique designs for a website. Unlike traditional themes that rely on templates and shortcodes, block themes use a new approach that’s centred around blocks, which are reusable pieces of content that can be easily arranged and customised to create a wide range of layouts and designs. 

With a WordPress block theme, users can create custom blocks for different types of content, such as headings, paragraphs, images, videos, and more, and arrange them in a way that’s visually appealing and easy to navigate. Block themes also often include advanced features like customizable layouts, responsive design, and SEO optimization, making it easy to create a professional-looking website that attracts and engages an audience. Overall, block themes on WordPress offer a new level of flexibility and creativity, allowing you to build a website that’s truly unique and reflects your brand’s identity.

What is a wordpress block pattern?

Where to find block based patterns

In WordPress, block patterns can be found within the Block Editor when you are editing a post or a page. To access these patterns, follow these steps:

  1. Open the block editor: Create a new post or page, or edit an existing one in your WordPress dashboard.
  2. Access the block library: Click on the ‘+’ (plus) icon, usually found at the top left corner of the editor or within the content area, to open the block library.
  3. Navigate to the patterns tab: Within the block library, you’ll find a tab labeled ‘Patterns’. This tab showcases all the available block patterns.
  4. Browse and select: You can browse through various categories. When you find a pattern you like, click on it to insert it into your post or page.
  5. Customize as needed: After inserting the pattern, you can customize individual blocks within the pattern to suit your content and design needs.

The availability and variety of block patterns depends on the active theme and installed plugins, as some add their own unique designs to the library.

The 6 best Gutenberg-compatible WordPress themes in 2023

  1. Astra Theme
    Known for its speed and seamless integration with Gutenberg, Astra Theme provides an array of customisation options that are all compatible with Gutenberg blocks. Astra Theme
  2. GeneratePress
    GeneratePress prioritises performance and usability, offering a clean and efficient design that aligns well with Gutenberg’s block editor. GeneratePress
  3. Neve
    Neve is a lightweight, flexible theme with an emphasis on speed. Its wide range of customisation options and Gutenberg compatibility make it a user-friendly choice. Neve
  4. OceanWP
    OceanWP is a versatile and highly extendable theme that works beautifully with Gutenberg, making it a great fit for any type of website. OceanWP
  5. Kadence WP
    Kadence WP stands out with its robust Gutenberg-compatible features, such as custom blocks and templates, providing a remarkable amount of design flexibility. Kadence WP
  6. Blocksy
    As its name suggests, Blocksy has been designed with Gutenberg in mind. It offers a range of unique design options that fully harness the potential of Gutenberg blocks. Blocksy
block-compatible theme
Block-compatible themes

What is the difference between a theme and a plugins?

Compatibility checker plugin

There is a plugin called Plugin Compatibility Checker by Dinesh Pilani that can help you check the compatibility of your plugins with the latest stable version of WordPress before performing an update. It displays all the information about your plugins on one page, including the current running plugin version, the latest release of the plugin version, and whether or not they are ready to update with the latest version of WordPress. The plugin also provides a filter to check if a plugin is activated or not and displays the total number of issues resolved in the last two months.

Another plugin that can help you check compatibility is the WP Engine PHP Compatibility Checker. This plugin can be used by any WordPress website on any web host to check PHP version compatibility. It will scan the theme and plugin code installed on your WordPress site and give you back a report of compatibility issues for you to fix.

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How to choose the right block-compatible theme for your website_
How to choose the right block-compatible theme for your website?

How to choose the right block-compatible theme for your website?

When choosing a block-compatible theme for your website, it’s important to select one that is designed to work well with the WordPress block editor and reflects your brand identity. Take the time to read reviews and ratings, and make sure the theme offers key features such as customization options, responsive design, and SEO optimization.

Factors to consider for selection

Choosing the right block-compatible theme for your website involves considering several factors. Here are some steps to follow:

For advanced developers

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

WordPress itself

Official Website
wordpress.org – This is the official website for WordPress, where you can download the software, find documentation, and learn more about using it.

WordPress Codex
codex.wordpress.org/Main_Page – This is a comprehensive documentation resource for WordPress, covering everything from installation and configuration to specific functionality and troubleshooting.

WordPress Theme Directory 
wordpress.org/themes – The official WordPress theme directory is a great place to find free and premium WordPress themes. You can browse themes by category, feature, and popularity.

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