A new debate sparked in December of 2018 when WordPress introduced the Gutenberg editor. It transformed the way websites were created and managed. Even though many loved the new block-based system of creating websites, making it easy for them to unleash their artistic side, some missed the simplicity of the Classic Editor.

The reason you’re here probably is because you got caught up in the same debate. So, which one is better for your WordPress website? Let us enlighten you about everything you need to know to make your choice. We will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and use cases of both editors.

What Aflamed the Debate?

Several factors came into play when WordPress revealed Gutenberg as the default editor in version 5.0 (December 2018), and the argument between Gutenberg and Classic Editor got underway. The change was conflicting since it entirely evolved the editing process from a conventional editor to a modern, block-based one.

Some key factors were:

• Classic Editor was a simple text editor like Word. In Gutenberg, users build content with text, pictures, and button blocks. This felt too difficult for simple content development to many users.
• WordPress users, especially non-tech-savvy ones, found Gutenberg harder to use.
• Old themes and plugins for the Classic Editor didn’t work with Gutenberg at launch. Developers had to update them.
• WordPress made Gutenberg the default editor, so users who liked the Classic Editor had to install a plugin. Many thought this forced change was needless and hurried.

Overview Of The Classic Editor

WordPress Classic Editor was the default until Gutenberg launched. The text editor is simple, like word processing software. Content generation was difficult using this editor. Writing and editing posts was challenging for beginners and non-technical people. It wasn’t the best tool for making complex pages like website pages. 

Let’s highlight its key features

• Comfort: It feels comfortable and intuitive for WordPress users who have used the platform before Gutenberg was added in WordPress 5.
• Simplicity: It resembles a simple text editor that looks a lot like Microsoft Word. This makes it easy for people who have used it before to create content without having to learn anything new.
• Compatibility: Some apps or themes are still designed to work better with the Classic Editor.
• Visual: The “Visual” tab (WYSIWYG – What You See Is What You Get) allows easy formatting, while the “Text” tab allows HTML editing. 
• Lightweight: It generally loads quickly and has minimal impact on site performance.

User Experience

Perhaps one of the best things about the Classic Editor is how easy it is to use. Because it’s so easy to use, even people who have never built a website before can start writing right away, without having to learn new things like blocks or complicated themes. While easy and familiar, it doesn’t offer Gutenberg Blocks’ advanced customization features, such as adding media-rich content or complete website overhauls.

Overview Of Gutenberg Editor

The modern block-based editor Gutenberg was introduced in WordPress 5.0. It replaced the Classic Editor as the default content editor, making content creation and design more versatile and appealing.

Let’s highlight its key features. 

• Block-Based Editing: The content is organized into blocks, which can be paragraphs, headings, pictures, videos, or buttons.
• Full-Width Layouts: Allows for both full-width and wide alignments, which is great for current designs.
• Full-Site Editing (FSE): When WordPress 5.9 came out, it allowed Gutenberg to handle full-site editing. This means that users can now use blocks to design whole websites, including headers, footers, templates, and more.
• Flexibility and Customization: The block system allows for better control over how the pages are created. Enabling a much better content-rich design. It’s easy for users to move blocks around, change their settings, and add different kinds of media.
• Future-Proof: It’s receiving constant improvements from the WordPress team.

User Experience

Gutenberg has an easy-to-use interface that works for both new and expert developers. Moving from the old Classic editor to Gutenberg has a bit of a learning curve. 

A user-friendly template editing mode, keyboard shortcuts, and a better block inserter interface let users start writing quickly while yet having advanced customization possibilities. The Gutenberg block editor is a strong and flexible tool for making content that changes over time. It’s easy to make pages that will interest people thanks to its simple interface.

Differences between Classic and Gutenberg 

To help you understand the differences between the Classic Editor and the Gutenberg Editor and determine which one best meets your needs, here is a side-by-side comparison:

When To Use Classic Editor

The Classic Editor for WordPress is ideal for users who want a straightforward, distraction-free layout when creating their content. It works best for blogs or websites that require relatively simple designs. Its main users are those who prefer the simplicity that came with the older WordPress interface.

But keep in mind that as Gutenberg becomes the norm, support for the Classic Editor will probably diminish over time.

When To Use Gutenberg Block Editor

For people who want sophisticated design layouts without knowing any code, WordPress’ Guterberg Editor is perfect. Additionally, web developers who create content that is rich in multimedia. The Gutenberg editor’s greatest benefit is that it is future-proof. It continues to evolve with new features, block libraries, and performance improvements that are being added on a regular basis.

Making the Choice

Project demands and user comfort will determine the Classic Editor or Gutenberg Block Editor winner. The Classic Editor may be preferable for a distraction-free writing environment or content over layout. Its simple design emphasizes writing, and its lengthy history of accessibility improvements makes it easier for those with specific needs.

Gutenberg’s block-based structure is superior for customizing, designing, and laying out complex projects. Gutenberg is ideal for developing unique, dynamic, and interactive web content because of its modular content generation, design and layout flexibility, and Full Site Editing.

However, it is a fact that Gutenberg, with its ongoing development and constant updates, will one day completely take over. It is future-proof without a doubt, and sooner or later, it will flush out its current limitations and be a one-stop solution for all web development needs. 

Wrapping it Up!

After this deep dive into one of the most heated WordPress debates, we hope that it is somewhat easier for you to decide between Classic or Gutenberg Editor. Each project has its own requirements, and carefully accessing those requirements will lead to a successful project.

If you are developing a website and can’t decide what route to take, let the experts handle it! We at LDNinjas provide web development and maintenance services. 
Whether you require SEO enhancements, speed optimization, bespoke plugins, or security monitoring, our vetted professionals can handle it all. Contact us, and we will ensure that your site is kept up to date while you focus on building your business.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use both the Classic Editor and the Gutenberg Editor on my WordPress site?

Yes, you can install the Classic Editor plugin to switch between the two editors.

Where Can I Report A Bug?

Contact us here to report any type of issue, we will resolve it on our first priority.

Which editor is better for beginners?

Gutenberg is more intuitive for new users who want more customization options.

Is Gutenberg better for SEO than Classic Editor?

Both editors are good for SEO, but Gutenberg is better at organizing content ( For e.g, headings and media optimization), which can make it easier to read and help it rank higher.

Will my old posts created with the Classic Editor still work with Gutenberg?

Your old posts will still work, yes. They will be shown in a “Classic” block by Gutenberg.

Can I use shortcodes in Gutenberg?

Yes! Gutenberg includes a Shortcode Block for backward compatibility, but many features are now available as built-in blocks.