Block Themes vs Classic Themes: WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems for building websites. When designing a website using WordPress, choosing the right theme is an essential decision.
With the introduction of block themes, users have a new option for creating websites. Block themes offer a more modern and flexible approach to website design, allowing users to create complex layouts with ease using the block-based editor.
However, Classic themes still remain a popular choice due to their traditional layout and availability. In this article, we will explore the key differences between block themes and classic themes, helping users make an informed decision on which one to use for their website.
What is the difference between Block Theme and Classic Theme
Block themes and classic themes are two different types of themes in WordPress. Here are 12 key differences between the two:
1. Layout:
Block themes use a block-based layout, which means the content is created using blocks, while classic themes use a traditional layout.
2. Flexibility:
Block themes offer greater flexibility than classic themes. Users can easily customize the look and feel of their website by dragging and dropping different blocks.
3. Content Creation:
Block themes make it easy to create complex layouts without the need for custom coding. Classic themes require more technical knowledge and experience.
4. Visual Editing:
Block themes have a visual editor allowing users to see website changes in real time. Classic themes require users to preview changes before publishing.
5. Storage Location:
The key difference between block themes and classic themes is that they store files in different locations. For example, block themes keep these in the templates folder whereas classic themes place template files in the root directory of your site.
6. Compatibility:
Block themes are compatible with the WordPress block editor, while classic themes may not work as well with the block editor.
7. Speed:
Block themes are generally faster than classic themes because they use a more modern, streamlined approach to website design.
8. Integration:
Block themes integrate well with other WordPress plugins, making it easy to add new features and functionality to your website.
9. Ease Of Use:
Block themes are generally easier to use than classic themes because they use a simple, intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
10. Mobile Responsiveness:
Block themes are designed with mobile responsiveness in mind, meaning they look great on all devices. Classic themes may not be optimized for mobile devices.
11. Classic Themes use PHP whereas Block Themes rely on HTML
Classic themes use PHP to display website content. They also use PHP functions for some tasks like displaying content and translating text. Whereas, page templates in block themes are HTML files with block markup. Furthermore, block themes use blocks for almost every function, relying on block patterns and block settings to achieve certain results.
12. Availability:
Block themes are relatively new, so there are fewer of them available than classic themes. However, the number of block themes is growing rapidly as more developers embrace this new approach to website design.
Block Themes vs Classic Themes: Which Is Good For You
| Block Themes | Classic Themes |
| Use HTML (PHP as a fallback) | Use PHP |
| Mainly Use block patterns and settings | Mainly Use PHP functions |
| Use blocks | Use widgets |
| Examples: Spectra One, Visual Blogger, etc. | Examples: Astra, Kadence, Generate Press, etc. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, block themes and classic themes are two different types of themes in WordPress that have distinct differences. Block themes offer greater flexibility, visual editing, mobile responsiveness, and integration with other plugins, making them easier to use for both beginner and advanced users. Classic themes require more technical knowledge and experience, may not be optimized for mobile devices, and may not work as well with the block editor.
However, classic themes are more widely available, and some users may prefer the traditional layout they offer. Ultimately, the choice between block themes and classic themes depends on the specific needs and preferences of the website owner.
