WordPress has embraced change since its inception. As such, it has evolved multiple times to get where it is now. With WordPress 5.0, the old TinyMCE editor was replaced by a new block editor called Gutenberg, which allows WordPress users to explore new design possibilities.
However, many users are still utilizing other page builders to create their website layouts. One of the more popular ones is the Divi page builder. If you’re using Divi and thinking about migrating over to Gutenberg, here’s why it’s a good idea.
The Benefits Of Gutenberg
Before Gutenberg, if users wanted to change one aspect of their website’s theme, they would almost have to start the entire website over from scratch. This is because the unique code that each theme uses prevented simple changes.
However, Gutenberg changes all that with its unique foundational structure of interchangeable blocks. This simplifies the process of altering themes or any aesthetic aspect of your website. It makes it easy for non-technical users to create beautiful, custom layouts to suit their needs.
By making use of the default blocks, users can drag different sections and blocks around for great flexibility and design experimentation.
Gutenberg also signifies a shift to a more modular way of code writing, which allows more flexibility when building a website. Theme developers have more options and tools to use. This means that they can customize instructions per block.
Divi Page Builder
Divi gives you access to a large library of elements, various customization options, and the freedom to create just about any layout that appeals to you. However, unlike Gutenberg, Divi isn’t available as a free version and can only be purchased as part of the $89 Elegant Themes membership.
However, to truly get a good feel of what Divi offers in comparison to Gutenberg, it is important to weigh up the options.
Comparing Gutenberg To Divi Page Builder
With Divi, you get the following:
- More than 45 different customizable blocks that can be used to build your content.
- The ability to incorporate features like testimonials, forms, portfolios, counters, etc.
- Various layouts with multiple columns and multi-column rows.
- The ability to control spacing with custom margins.
- An option to save your designs so you have the option of working on them later.
- Access to various style controls that gives you the ability to change how each module looks.
With the Gutenberg block editor, you can do the following:
- Create multiple pages, custom content, and posts by using the drag-and-drop editor.
- Gain access to more than 25 blocks to breathe life into your content. This includes blocks for text, images, videos, tables, buttons, and various HTML integrations.
- Have the ability to customize your Gutenberg blocks, rearrange them, or delete them.
- Work across all screen sizes and devices.
- Use fewer plugins.
- Create a multi-column layout.
Divi allows you to choose two different ways to create your designs. First, you can use the Abstract Builder where all your content is represented by generic blocks.
However, if you use the Visual Builder you will be able to build your design using a live preview of your page. Both methods allow you to edit modules by using popup interfaces instead of a sidebar.
When comparing Divi to the Gutenberg block editor, it is quite apparent that although Divi offers a lot of design options, Gutenberg is more suited to web builders that are just starting out.
With Divi, you can expect more of a learning curve, which is something that a lot of companies simply don’t have time for. Gutenberg’s drag-and-drop system is extremely intuitive and requires little to no experience when it comes to designing a website.
The Future Of WordPress
Gutenberg has ultimately changed how we use WordPress and will continue to do so as the full vision for this block editor is realized. Recent additions to WordPress that specifically benefits the use of Gutenberg blocks include:
- Typewriter mode, which makes it easier for users to write text in a block.
- Block previews, which allows you to review each block’s functionality before using it.
- Navigation mode, which allows for keyboard navigation and improves accessibility.
Some of the things that users can look forward to include social icons that you can add anywhere by using a Gutenberg block. Among other things, the main navigation will also be improved along with color gradients, and new block directories. There will also be the addition of the multi-button block.
When it comes down to it, WordPress is preparing to launch the Gutenberg block editor to even greater heights. This means it should be the obvious choice if you are looking to create your own website.
If you are looking to migrate from Divi page builder to Gutenberg without having to redo your entire website, give WordHerd a call for a seamless migration.