Overview
WordPress has introduced a new AI-powered website builder designed to simplify site creation for users at any level.
Unlike traditional tools that require manual setup, theme selection, and content entry, the AI builder takes a user’s description and generates a fully designed website—complete with text, layout, and visuals.
This article compares the WordPress AI builder with traditional WordPress site setup and other AI-based builders, outlining the pros, cons, and use cases for each.
1. Setup Process: AI vs Traditional WordPress
| Feature | WordPress AI Builder | Traditional WordPress |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | Under 10 minutes | 1–2 hours (avg) |
| Technical Knowledge Required | None | Medium |
| Customisation Level | Low-to-medium (initially) | High |
| Design Control | Guided by AI | Fully manual |
| Content Creation | Auto-generated | Manual |
Pros of WordPress AI Builder
- No need to select a theme or plugins
- Generates content automatically
- Requires minimal input from the user
Cons of WordPress AI Builder
- Limited customisation during setup
- Only works for new WordPress.com sites
- Not suitable for ecommerce or complex integrations (yet)
Winner: WordPress AI Builder
Best for users who need a fast, no-code setup and are building a new site.
2. Features and Flexibility
| Feature | WordPress AI Builder | Classic WordPress | Other AI Builders (e.g. Wix ADI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Page creation | Prompt-based | Manual | Prompt-based |
| Content editing | Chat-based or manual | Full WordPress editor | Block-based or visual |
| Developer tools | Available on Business plan+ | Fully available | Often restricted |
| Themes & Plugins | Limited initially | Full ecosystem | Limited compared to WP |
Pros of WordPress AI Builder
- Integrated into the WordPress ecosystem
- Seamless switch to manual editing
- Includes 30 AI prompts for tweaks
Cons
- AI editor only available on new sites
- Limited theme/plugin access at the start
Winner: Classic WordPress
For users needing full flexibility, plugin compatibility, and custom design capabilities, the traditional approach still wins.
3. Cost Comparison
| Tool | Free Option | Cost for Upgrades | Domain Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| WordPress AI Builder | Yes (30 prompts) | Hosting starts at $4/month | Yes (first year) |
| Classic WordPress | Yes | Custom domains/themes/plugins cost extra | No |
| Other AI Builders (e.g. Squarespace, Wix) | Limited | Starting $12–$16/month | Yes |
Pros of WordPress AI Builder
- 30 prompts free without paid plan
- Affordable hosting with domain included
- No need to purchase a theme separately
Cons
- Ongoing cost after initial hosting period
- Unlimited AI usage only available with paid plan
Winner: WordPress AI Builder
Delivers better value for beginners looking to get online quickly with fewer upfront costs.
4. Use Case Suitability
| Use Case | WordPress AI Builder | Classic WordPress | Other AI Builders |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blogs | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Portfolios | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Business sites | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| eCommerce | ❌ (not yet supported) | ✅ (via WooCommerce) | ✅ (limited features) |
| Client projects | ✅ (fast mockups) | ✅ (full control) | ❌ (limited dev access) |
Winner: Tie between WordPress AI Builder and Classic WordPress
The AI builder is faster for basic sites. Classic WordPress is stronger for ecommerce and advanced features.
Final Verdict
The WordPress AI Website Builder is a strong choice for:
- Beginners creating new sites
- Freelancers needing fast mockups
- Business owners launching brochure sites or portfolios
It offers a faster, simpler setup than traditional WordPress and more flexibility than other AI builders.
However, it lacks support for ecommerce and complex plugin-based features, making it less suitable for advanced users or those with existing sites.
Recommendation:
- Use the AI builder if you’re starting fresh and want something live in minutes.
- Stick with Classic WordPress if your site needs ecommerce, full plugin support, or custom functionality.
Comments 0 Responses