WordPress Gutenberg plugin – what it is, how it works, and why you need it
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The WordPress Gutenberg plugin, now part of WordPress itself, introduced a new way to create and manage content using blocks. It replaced the classic editor with a modular system, where users can build pages and posts by adding and arranging individual blocks for text, images, media and more.
Introduction to the WordPress Gutenberg plugin
The way we build and manage content in WordPress has changed dramatically in recent years, and much of that transformation is thanks to the Gutenberg editor. Originally launched as a standalone plugin, Gutenberg introduced a new, block-based approach to editing that made it easier for users to visually build pages and posts.
Today, Gutenberg is built into WordPress core, meaning every new WordPress site has access to its features out of the box. However, the Gutenberg plugin is still actively developed and available on the WordPress Plugin Directory. It serves as a testing ground for upcoming features that will eventually make their way into future WordPress releases.
In this post, we’ll explore what the Gutenberg plugin is, when to use it, how it differs from other editors and page builders, and how to get the most out of it, especially when paired with compatible tools like Maxiblocks, Stackable, and more.
Whether you’re new to WordPress or looking to modernize your workflow, this guide will help you understand the role of the Gutenberg plugin and how it fits into the evolving WordPress ecosystem.
What is the WordPress Gutenberg plugin?
The WordPress Gutenberg plugin is the original version of what is now the default editor in WordPress. When it was first released, it introduced a new way of building content with blocks instead of relying on the old classic editor. Each element on a page, whether it’s a paragraph, image, button, or video, is treated as a block that you can move, customize, and style without writing code.
Although Gutenberg is now fully integrated into WordPress core, the Gutenberg plugin continues to exist and it plays an important role.
Why does the Gutenberg plugin still exist?
The plugin is used as a testing environment for upcoming features that are still in development. Installing the plugin allows users and developers to preview new tools, layout options, or performance improvements before they are merged into a future WordPress release.
It’s essentially a beta version of the editor, and while it’s stable enough for most users, it’s especially useful for:
- Theme and plugin developers
- Agencies and freelancers who want to stay ahead of new features
- Power users who want early access to full site editing updates
Where can you get it?
The Gutenberg plugin is available for free in the WordPress Plugin Directory. You can install it directly from your dashboard by searching for “Gutenberg,” then clicking “Install” and “Activate.”
Key features of the Gutenberg editor
The Gutenberg editor introduces a modern, flexible way to create content in WordPress. Instead of relying on one large text box, it uses individual blocks to build layouts, making it easier to add structure, media, and design elements to your pages and posts. Here are the core features that make Gutenberg such a powerful tool:
Block-based editing
At the heart of Gutenberg is its block system. Each piece of content, like a heading, paragraph, image, button, or gallery is a separate block. You can drag, duplicate, move, or customize these blocks individually. This gives you full control over your layout without needing HTML or shortcodes.
Full site editing (FSE)
When used with a block-based theme, Gutenberg allows you to edit every part of your site, not just posts and pages. This includes headers, footers, sidebars, archive pages, and more all within the same block editor. You no longer need to edit theme files to change the look and feel of your entire website.
Reusable blocks
You can save any block (or group of blocks) as a reusable block, which is perfect for recurring elements like call-to-action sections, forms, or custom buttons. Once saved, reusable blocks can be added to multiple pages and updated in one place.
Block patterns
Block patterns are pre-designed layouts made from multiple blocks. These help you build visually appealing sections—like testimonials, pricing tables, or image galleries without needing to design them from scratch.
Global styles
With global styles, you can control the design of your entire website from one place. You can define your brand’s colors, fonts, spacing, and more, ensuring consistency across all content. Changing a font or background color here will update it site-wide.
Responsive and accessible design
Gutenberg is built with responsive design in mind. Most blocks automatically adjust for mobile devices, and additional settings let you control how blocks behave on tablets and smartphones. Accessibility is also improving with each release, making the editor more usable for everyone.
Embed support and media blocks
Easily embed content from YouTube, Twitter, Spotify, Vimeo, and more. Gutenberg also includes native blocks for images, video, audio, files, and galleries—making it easy to create rich multimedia content without plugins.
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When should you install the Gutenberg plugin?
While Gutenberg is already built into WordPress core, the Gutenberg plugin serves a unique purpose, it gives you access to the latest features that haven’t yet made it into a full WordPress release. But since it’s essentially a testing ground for upcoming tools and enhancements, it’s not always necessary for every user to install it.
Here’s when it does make sense to use the Gutenberg plugin:
1. You want early access to new features
The plugin version of Gutenberg is updated regularly, often weekly, with experimental features, layout controls, and design tools. If you like trying out the latest functionality before it’s officially released in WordPress, installing the plugin is the way to go.
2. You’re a theme or plugin developer
Developers often install the Gutenberg plugin to test compatibility between their products and upcoming Gutenberg features. This helps them stay ahead of changes and avoid issues once those features become part of WordPress core.
3. You’re building client sites with cutting-edge tools
Agencies and freelancers who want to build modern, future-ready websites often use the Gutenberg plugin to take advantage of features like advanced global styles, new block variations, or layout improvements that aren’t yet in core.
4. You want to contribute to Gutenberg
If you’re interested in contributing to the WordPress project, testing the plugin and reporting issues is a great way to get involved. It helps the community improve the editor for everyone.
How to install the Gutenberg plugin safely
Even though it’s stable, the plugin version is still under active development. Here are a few tips for safe installation:
- Use a staging site for testing new features
- Make a backup before installing it on a live site
- Check compatibility with your current theme and plugins
- Turn off the plugin if something breaks—it won’t affect your existing content
Best Gutenberg-compatible plugins to enhance functionality
While Gutenberg provides a powerful editing experience on its own, you can greatly expand its capabilities by installing block libraries and design plugins that are built specifically for it. These tools add new blocks, design options, templates, and layout controls giving you the flexibility of a full site builder while keeping your site lightweight.
Here are some of the best Gutenberg-compatible plugins you should consider:
1. Maxiblocks
Maxiblocks is an all-in-one design toolkit for Gutenberg. It offers a huge library of pre-designed block patterns, global styling controls, and responsive layout tools. It’s ideal for freelancers, marketers, and small businesses who want high-end design without writing code.
Key features:
- Hundreds of designer-quality block patterns
- Global font, color, and spacing controls
- Mobile-first layouts
- No-code visual design tools
2. Stackable
Stackable adds a full set of premium blocks that come with advanced design settings like animations, hover effects, and gradient backgrounds. It also includes layout templates and UI kits.
Best for:
- Interactive landing pages
- Business websites
- Visual storytelling
3. Kadence blocks
Kadence blocks is a performance-focused library that adds layout blocks like rows, columns, accordions, tabs, and more. It also integrates well with WooCommerce and the Kadence Theme.
Best for:
- Lightweight websites
- Sales pages and custom sections
- E-commerce layouts
4. Generateblocks
Generateblocks keeps it simple with just a few ultra-lightweight blocks (container, grid, image, headline, button) that give you precise control over layout and spacing. Perfect for developers and performance-focused users.
Best for:
- Custom layouts with clean code
- Sites where speed and control matter
- Building from scratch with minimal styling
5. Spectra (formerly Ultimate Addons for Gutenberg)
Spectra is built by the team behind the Astra theme. It provides extra functionality like advanced headings, star ratings, testimonials, sliders, and more.
Best for:
- Bloggers and content creators
- Feature-rich marketing pages
- Astra theme users
6. Coblocks
Coblocks is a free plugin that includes a wide range of useful blocks like maps, accordions, pricing tables, author bios, and social sharing. It’s beginner-friendly and great for simple projects.
Best for:
- Small business websites
- Portfolios and event pages
- Users who want extra blocks without complexity
Pros and cons of using the Gutenberg plugin
While the Gutenberg plugin offers exciting features and cutting-edge tools, it’s important to know when it makes sense to use it and when it might be better to stick with the core editor. Like any plugin in active development, there are both benefits and trade-offs.
Pros
1. Early access to new features
The Gutenberg plugin is where new features are introduced and tested. By using it, you get to try out upcoming tools like layout enhancements, new blocks, and full site editing improvements before they’re officially released in WordPress core.
2. Better tools for developers and agencies
If you build themes or plugins, or manage multiple client websites, the Gutenberg plugin helps you stay ahead. You can prepare for upcoming changes and optimize your workflows based on future
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Gutenberg plugin vs other page builders
If you’ve explored building websites with WordPress, you’ve probably come across popular page builders like Elementor, Divi, or Beaver Builder. These tools have long been go-to solutions for drag-and-drop design, especially before Gutenberg came into the picture. But now that the Gutenberg plugin is growing rapidly, it’s worth comparing how it stacks up against traditional page builders.
Ease of use
- Gutenberg plugin: Built into WordPress, with a clean and familiar interface. Ideal for users who want a native editing experience that integrates well with themes and plugins.
- Page builders: Typically offer more advanced visual controls, with true drag-and-drop placement and detailed design settings. However, they may be overwhelming for beginners.
Performance and speed
- Gutenberg plugin: Lightweight and fast. Since it’s part of WordPress core, it adds very little overhead and results in clean, optimized HTML.
- Page builders: Can add extra scripts and styles, which may slow down your site if not optimized properly—especially when using animations or lots of third-party widgets.
Flexibility and customization
- Gutenberg plugin: Offers high flexibility through blocks, global styles, and reusable layouts. Extensible with plugins like Maxiblocks or Generateblocks.
- Page builders: Often come with built-in templates, widgets, and advanced styling options—great for visual designers or users who want more control out of the box.
Cost
- Gutenberg plugin: 100% free and open source. Most companion tools (like block libraries) have generous free versions.
- Page builders: Typically require a paid license for full access to features, templates, and support. Costs can range from $49 to $199+ per year.
Compatibility and future-proofing
- Gutenberg plugin: Being developed as part of WordPress core, it’s the future of WordPress. Websites built with Gutenberg will continue to be compatible and well-supported.
- Page builders: Depend on third-party developers. While many are well-maintained, there’s always some risk if development slows down or compatibility breaks.
When to choose Gutenberg
- You want fast performance and clean code
- You prefer to work within WordPress core tools
- You need future-proof layouts using full site editing
- You want to customize designs without relying on proprietary systems
When to choose a page builder
- You need pixel-perfect visual design and animations
- You rely on templates and pre-built sections
- You’re building complex marketing pages quickly without custom development
In short, Gutenberg is closing the gap quickly. For many users—especially bloggers, small businesses, and developers—Gutenberg (with the plugin) now offers the balance of flexibility, speed, and cost-efficiency that traditional builders can’t always match.
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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.
maxiblocks.com/go/help-desk
maxiblocks.com/pro-library
www.youtube.com/@maxiblocks
twitter.com/maxiblocks
linkedin.com/company/maxi-blocks
github.com/orgs/maxi-blocks
wordpress.org/plugins/maxi-blocks