Classic editor vs. Gutenberg: WordPress editors for effective web development
Classic editor vs. Gutenberg
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Updated April 29, 2024
Key takeaways:
- WordPress Gutenberg revolutionizes content creation with a block-based editor introduced in WordPress 5.0.
- Classic Editor offers simplicity but lacks modern features like block-level editing.
- Gutenberg provides enhanced creative control and flexibility, simplifying complex layouts without coding.
Discover the evolution of WordPress editing with Gutenberg vs. Classic Editor. Gutenberg’s block-based system offers unprecedented flexibility, while the Classic Editor remains a reliable choice for simplicity.
What are the key differences between WordPress Gutenberg and the Classic Editor, and which one suits your web development needs best?
WordPress Gutenberg, introduced in version 5.0, presents a modern, block-based editing system, offering enhanced creative control and flexibility. On the other hand, the Classic Editor provides simplicity but lacks modern features like block-level editing. Depending on your preference for simplicity or advanced functionality, either editor could suit your web development needs best.
The classic editor and Gutenberg – two different approaches to web development
Introducing the WordPress classic editor
The WordPress Classic Editor has been a staple of the WordPress platform since its early days. One of its biggest advantages is its ease of use. The Classic Editor’s interface is straightforward and intuitive, making it easy to use regardless of the web designers’ skills levels. Additionally, it’s often preferred by those who value a more traditional writing experience as it provides a straightforward editing experience. It features a single text field for content creation and is a first choice for users who prefer a simpler interface and are comfortable with HTML and shortcodes.
Having its beginnings in the world of blogs the focus naturally is on offering a distraction-free writing environment. An additional advantage is that the Classic Editor is still widely supported by many plugins and themes, making it a reliable choice for those who have invested in their WordPress setup.
However, the Classic Editor also has its disadvantages. One major con is its lack of modern features and functionality. In contrast to the newer Editor, the Classic Editor lacks advanced features such as block-level editing and a more visual interface. This can make it less efficient for users who need to create complex content or manage multiple elements on a page. Additionally, the Classic Editor’s reliance on HTML and CSS can be intimidating for those without coding experience, which may limit its appeal to a wider audience. Overall, while the Classic Editor remains a reliable choice for some, its limitations may make it less appealing to those seeking a more modern and user-friendly website building experience.
WordPress Gutenberg arrives with WordPress 5
WordPress Gutenberg vs classic editor comparison arrived as part of WordPress 5 in December 2018 is a new way of creating content on WordPress websites. It’s a block-based editor that allows you to build your content using pre-designed blocks, rather than writing code or using a traditional text editor. This means you can create complex layouts and designs without needing to know how to code. Gutenberg is designed to make it easier for non-technical users to create good looking and well functioning websites while still giving developers the flexibility to customise their content as needed.
Gutenberg is often compared to the Classic Editor, which was the traditional way of creating content on WordPress websites. While the Classic Editor was easy to use, it had its limitations. For example, it was difficult to create complex layouts or designs without using custom code or plugins. Gutenberg, on the other hand, offers a more visual and intuitive way of creating content, making it easier to create complex layouts and designs without needing to know how to code.
WordPress classic editor vs Gutenberg offers options to web designers. While the Classic Editor offers simplicity, it provides enhanced creative control over your website’s design. Its block-based system makes it easier to create complex layouts and add rich media elements, with better responsiveness and mobile-friendliness.
If you prefer a simpler editing experience and have existing content that relies on shortcodes or custom HTML, the Classic Editor may be suitable.
Insights into the new editor
It is a block-based system introduced in WordPress 5.0. It offers a new approach to content creation and management in WordPress.
Definition and purpose of blocks
The principle of Gutenberg, the modern visual editor introduced in WordPress 5.0, is simple yet powerful. Each element of your content, whether it’s a paragraph, an image, a video embed, or a custom button, is represented as an individual block. These blocks can be moved, edited, and manipulated independently, offering an unprecedented level of control and customization over your website’s design.
With Gutenberg’s block-based editing approach, you can easily create complex layouts and add rich media elements to your pages and posts. It provides a wide range of block options, including common elements like headings and lists, as well as more advanced blocks for embedding social media posts or displaying galleries.
Intuitive drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to rearrange blocks and experiment with different layouts.
Overview of the Classic Editor
The Classic Editor follows the ‘What You See Is What You Get’ (WYSIWYG) model. This traditional approach offers limited flexibility and requires additional tools for complex layouts.
A Comparison of Gutenberg and the Classic Editor
User interface
It offers a simplified user interface with document/block settings on the top right toolbar, providing undo/redo functions and block management options, while the central area serves as a workspace where you can add/manage blocks.
Flexibility and customisation
It offers more flexibility and customisation options through its block-based system, which allows for complex layouts without the need for special plugins or deep knowledge of HTML/CSS.
Content creation
It simplifies content creation through its drag-and-drop functionality, while the Classic WordPress takes a more traditional approach.
Compatibility
It is built to work in harmony with your WordPress theme ensuring a consistent look across your website while compatibility with old themes/plugins may be an issue when using the Classic WordPress.
The transition from the classical editor to Gutenberg
Steps for a smooth transition
WordPress has made this process seamless the default when updating to version 5.0 or higher. However, you can still switch back by installing the Classic WordPress plugin if you’re not ready.
What are some popular blocks and their uses?
Some popular core blocks include the paragraph, image, heading, gallery, list, quote, shortcode, and archives blocks.
FAQs
- What is the Gutenberg WordPress Editor? It is a block-based editor introduced in WordPress, offering a more modern and intuitive approach to creating content on your site.
- Can I use my existing WordPress plugins with Gutenberg? Most WordPress plugins are compatible with Gutenberg. However, check with the plugin developers for any specific compatibility issues or updates.
- What are reusable blocks in Gutenberg? Reusable blocks allow you to save and reuse the same block in different posts or pages, making content creation faster and more consistent.
- How do I create a new page with the WordPress block editor? To create a page, simply open WordPress, go to Pages > Add New and start adding blocks to build your page.
- What types of blocks does the Gutenberg editor offer for content creation? It offers a variety of blocks, including text, image, video, gallery, and custom HTML blocks, among others.
- Are there any tips for beginners? Beginners should start with basic blocks, explore the block options, and use the tips provided in the WordPress help section for a smoother learning curve.
- How does it handle media and images? It has dedicated media and image blocks, making it easier to insert, manage, and design visual content on your site.
- Can I still use HTML and shortcodes in Gutenberg? Yes, it allows you to insert custom HTML code and use shortcodes within blocks for more advanced customization.
- Is it better for SEO and performance? The editor is designed to be SEO-friendly and efficient, potentially improving site performance and search engine ranking.
- How often does WordPress release updates for Gutenberg? WordPress regularly releases updates for Gutenberg, adding new features, improving performance, and addressing user feedback and issues.
- What should I do if I encounter issues with Gutenberg? If you encounter issues, you can seek help through WordPress forums, and support channels, or check for updates that might resolve your problem.
- Can I switch between Gutenberg and the Classic WordPress? Yes, you can switch between editors. However, it is the default editor in the latest WordPress versions.
- Does Gutenberg support different post and page formats? It supports various post and page formats, providing flexibility in how content is displayed on your website.
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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