Web Development
Webflow vs. Code-Built
Webflow is a visual design platform that combines design, content management, and hosting in one system, allowing non-technical users to update content without touching code.
Code-built (hand-coded) websites are built by a developer from scratch using programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, offering maximum customization, flexibility and performance.
Pros, Webflow
Easier to update without a developer
- You can edit content and layout yourself once it's built, once you learn how to use Webflow's design system.
- No need to buy or maintain extra CMS tools.
Fast to launch
- Design + development happen in one place → projects ship quicker.
- Templates and visual tools speed things up.
Lower upfront development cost
- Developers/designers work faster in Webflow → typically less billable time.
Built-in hosting + security
- Webflow includes hosting, SSL, backups, and maintenance in one platform.
- Automatic updates and fewer technical surprises.
Great for dynamic content
- Webflow CMS means blogs, case studies, portfolios are easy to manage.
Visual feedback
- You see live design changes immediately, no code compile cycles involved.
Cons, Webflow
Higher ongoing subscription cost
- Monthly Webflow hosting and plan fees add up over time.
- Not a one-time cost like some traditional hosting.
Less technical flexibility
- Complex custom features (especially advanced backend logic) are harder or impossible.
- You're limited to what Webflow allows.
Exporting is tricky
- You can export code, but Webflow's export isn't friendly for long-term hand-coded evolution.
- Ties you to Webflow unless you rebuild elsewhere.
Performance & SEO control
- Good enough for most sites, but fine-tuned performance/SEO tweaks are harder than with hand-code.
Pros, Code-Built
Ultimate flexibility
- You can build anything, from custom animations to advanced backend systems.
- Integrate with any service or API seamlessly.
Performance optimization
- You control every asset, which can lead to faster page speeds and better SEO.
No ongoing platform lock-in
- Your site isn't tied to a specific SaaS product; you choose hosting, tools, etc.
Better for large, complex sites
- Enterprise features, multi-language setups, intricate workflows fit better.
Potentially lower long-term costs
- No platform subscription; only hosting + maintenance.
Cons, Code-Built
Higher initial cost (usually)
- More development time = higher upfront invoices.
- Designers & developers spend more hours.
Needs developer for ongoing updates
- Changing layout, adding sections, updating style usually requires coding skill.
- Not as user-friendly for non-technical content editors.
Longer build time
- Design → development → testing cycles take more time.
Maintenance responsibility
- You must manage hosting, security updates, backups, SSL certificates, etc.
- If you don't want dev ops work, you'll pay someone to do it.
Which is better for you?
Choose Webflow if:
- You want to learn the Webflow system and update content yourself
- You want a faster, lower-cost launch
- Your site is mostly informational (services, blog, portfolio)
- You value ease of use over deep technical customization
Great for: small business sites, portfolios, marketing sites, simple e-commerce.
Choose Code-Built if:
- You want a custom site beyond what Webflow can provide
- You want maximum performance & control
- You want to avoid the higher recurring fees
- Your site has complex logic, user systems, integrations
- You're okay with a longer development time
Great for: custom applications, unique websites, enterprise platforms, unique performance needs.
Quick Summary
| Factor | Webflow | Code-Built |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (upfront) | Lower | Higher (typically) |
| Ongoing cost | Medium (hosting/subscription) | Low (hosting only) |
| Flexibility | Limited to platform | Unlimited |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Developer required |
| Ease of updates | Easy | Developer required |
| Speed to launch | Fast | Slower |