Web Development

Custom Website Development vs. AI Website Builders – What’s Right for You?

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Umber Awan November 11, 2024 - 6 mins read
Custom Website Development vs. AI Website Builders – What’s Right for You?

There are two popular options for creating websites these days: custom website development and AI website builders. The question is – what’s the best way to bring your vision to life?

Each option has advantages, but understanding their differences will allow you to see closer and make a more informed choice. And since customized websites are the tried-and-true methods, let’s first explore the alternative.

What are AI Website Builders?

AI builders are tools that use artificial intelligence to help users create websites. They allow people who have no experience in design and coding to create websites from scratch.

Think of them as automated website generators that log your preferences on style and content and turn them into functional websites.

Unlike traditional website builders – which require some design input – AI site builders use targeted questions. Based on your answers about your business, they can deliver you a quick and efficient website solution.

It’s kind of like ordering a pizza. If you’re baking it at home, you have to choose every topping and ingredient to get the flavor right. However, if you order a pizza, all you have to do is fill a form based on your preferences.

AI builders are designed to streamline processes and cut the setup time. That’s why they seem easier and quicker than custom website development and similar alternatives.

Types of AI Website Builders

There’s a wide range of AI builders available, each with a unique offering. Here’s a breakdown of the major types

  • Design-Oriented Builders: Tools of this type focus on aesthetics and offer a wide variety of pre-designed templates and layout options. They also have customized color schemes for specific industries. Therefore, they’re perfect for users who want a visually appealing website without having design expertise.
  • Content-Driven Builders: Content is one of the most time-consuming processes of building a website. However, this can be cut short with content-driven builders as they use algorithms to generate text based on your needs.
  • E-commerce Builders: For e-commerce businesses, this type of AI builders adds a lot of value. It comes with tailored features like product recommendations, pricing, and chatbots to provide customer support.
  • Code-Based Builders: If you’re looking to create a more complex website with custom functionalities, code-based site builders are a great option. These platforms use AI to automate parts of the coding process, allowing users to create feature-rich websites faster. That’s why even custom website development experts use them.

Examples of AI Website Builders

If you’re curious about AI web builders, here are some of the popular ones you can try.

  1. Wix: This is the all-round AI website builder. It features a ChatGPT integration that provides users with AI-powered support in order to create content, make layout adjustments, and more.
  2. Hostinger: In addition to being inexpensive, Hostinger has made a reputation for itself for its AI logo generator and copywriting assistance.
  3. Shopify: Ideal for online retailers, this tool includes advanced eCommerce features, from product recommendations to pricing optimization.
  4. Jimdo: This builder has a customizable setup, allowing users to personalize their site. It’s the most feasible option for first-time site owners.
  5. GoDaddy: This tool has one of the fastest setup times. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to go online in record time.

Traditional Custom Website Development vs. AI Website Development

Now that you have an idea of what AI web builders are, how do they stack against custom web development? If you need to make a decision between these two choices, factor in the following aspects.

1. Speed vs. Strategy

An AI website builder can have your site live in just hours or days, thanks to pre-set templates and an intuitive setup process. This approach is fast, but it may lack the strategic foundation that makes a website truly impactful.

Meanwhile, speed isn’t the focus of custom website development; strategy is.

A website-building company will build the right strategy to reach your target audience. That way, the final product you receive will feel and look like what you have always envisioned.

Every part of that website will be planned, from the design to the layout so that every feature speaks your brand’s story. By using a custom website development service, you can further define your business goals.

So, while AI builders provide quick and convenient solutions, they can’t match the long-term benefits of a custom-designed website.

2. Accessibility vs. Limitation

AI builders are easy to use and can be a great fit for users without technical expertise. However, they come with certain limitations:

  • Creative Constraints: AI builders rely on algorithms that may restrict your ability to customize design elements. If you have a clear, specific vision, an AI builder might not deliver the creative freedom you’re looking for.
  • Editing Needs: AI-generated content is often a starting point. While it saves time, it may require edits to align with your brand voice or target audience.
  • Algorithmic Errors: AI’s accuracy can vary, and certain limitations in its algorithms can lead to content or design errors that need manual correction.

Meanwhile, custom website development offers complete creative control. You’re not limited by ready-made templates, and you have the flexibility to adjust every detail.

3. Customization vs. Efficiency

AI website builders are built for efficiency, making them an ideal choice if you’re on a tight schedule or budget. But when it comes to creating a website that truly stands out, custom development is the way to go due to –

  • Design Freedom: A custom-built website is unique. Working with a design team, you can achieve a site that looks like no other, with branding, layouts, and color schemes created specifically for your business.
  • Content and SEO: Content creation is often the backbone of a website. AI builders can create basic content, but custom development agencies offer in-depth guidance on best practices for SEO and user engagement. They work with you to build a strong content strategy that supports your site’s functionality and growth.
  • Long-Term Performance: Websites built by real people prioritize background coding and SEO. They’re designed to perform well in search engine rankings and provide consistent user experience over time. Moreover, custom website development offers more value as maintenance and on-site SEO support may be included.

In contrast, AI-generated websites may get you started quickly but grow limited as your business scales or requires unique functionalities.

Your Custom Website Awaits!

Deciding between an AI website builder and custom development comes down to your priorities and goals.

If you need a simple site fast, AI builders are a valuable resource. However, if you’re looking for a fully customized experience that grows with your business, a custom website offers the flexibility, strategy, and long-term support you need.

And if you decide to go the custom website development way, you’re on the right page. Get in touch with our experienced developers via the form below, and let’s get started on your site.


Umber Awan
Umber Awan