When it comes to creating a website using WordPress, there are two main types of themes available – block themes and classic themes. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two largely depends on your personal preference, website goals, and the specific needs of your website.
Block themes
Block themes are a relatively new addition to WordPress, introduced with the release of WordPress 5.8 in July 2021. These themes are designed to work specifically with the block editor, which was also introduced in WordPress 5.0. Block themes are built entirely using blocks, which are pre-designed content elements that can be added to pages and posts. With block themes, you have more options for customizing your website’s layout and design, with a focus on creating visually appealing pages.
Classic themes
On the other hand, classic themes are the traditional type of theme that has been used in WordPress for many years. These themes are built using a combination of PHP, CSS, and HTML code, and offer a higher level of flexibility and customization. Classic themes have been around for a long time and are widely supported by the WordPress community, with a plethora of tutorials and resources available online to help users create their own custom themes.
Which is better?
When it comes to deciding between block themes vs. classic themes, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind:
Ease of Use: Block themes offer a more intuitive and user-friendly interface for building websites. The block editor is a visual drag-and-drop interface that allows you to easily add, arrange, and customize content elements on your website. This makes it easier for beginners to create beautiful websites without any coding knowledge. Classic themes, on the other hand, require more technical knowledge and experience with coding.
Customization: Classic themes offer a higher level of customization than block themes. With classic themes, you have complete control over every aspect of your website’s design, from the layout to the color scheme to the fonts used. This level of control makes it possible to create a truly unique website that stands out from the crowd. Block themes, while still customizable, offer a more limited set of customization options due to their focus on pre-designed content elements.
Performance: While both block and classic themes can be optimized for performance, block themes are inherently faster and more lightweight than classic themes. Because block themes are built using the latest web technologies and are optimized for the block editor, they can provide a faster and more streamlined user experience for visitors to your website.
Compatibility: Classic themes are widely supported by the WordPress community and are compatible with most WordPress plugins and tools. However, block themes are still a relatively new addition to the WordPress ecosystem and may not be compatible with all plugins and tools. This can be a factor to consider if you rely on specific plugins or need advanced functionality for your website.
Best places to find classic WordPress themes
If you’re looking for a classic theme for your WordPress site, there are a few places where you can find high-quality options.
WordPress Theme Directory
The WordPress Theme Directory is the official repository for free themes that have been reviewed and approved by the WordPress team. While many of the themes in this directory are more modern, there are still plenty of classic options available. To browse classic themes, simply search for keywords like “classic,” “retro,” or “vintage.” You can also filter your search results by features such as layout, color scheme, and subject matter.
ThemeForest
ThemeForest is a marketplace for premium WordPress themes. While these themes come at a cost, they often offer more customization options and features than free themes. When searching for classic themes on ThemeForest, look for keywords like “classic,” “traditional,” or “timeless.” You can also filter your search results by price, rating, and features.
Elegant Themes
Elegant Themes is a popular provider of premium WordPress themes and plugins. Their themes are known for their elegant design and advanced customization options. While not all of their themes are considered “classic,” they do have several options that fit the bill. Some keywords to search for include “vintage,” “retro,” and “elegant.”
TemplateMonster
TemplateMonster is another marketplace for premium WordPress themes. They offer a wide range of classic themes that are ideal for businesses, portfolios, and personal sites. To find classic themes on TemplateMonster, search for keywords like “classic,” “traditional,” or “clean.” You can also filter your search results by price, rating, and features.
MOJO Marketplace
MOJO Marketplace is a marketplace for both free and premium WordPress themes. They offer a wide range of classic themes that are perfect for businesses, blogs, and personal sites. To find classic themes on MOJO Marketplace, search for keywords like “classic,” “vintage,” or “retro.” You can also filter your search results by price, rating, and features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between block themes vs. classic themes largely depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your website. Block themes are a great choice if you want a user-friendly interface for creating visually appealing websites, while classic themes offer greater flexibility and customization options. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual goals and priorities for your website.
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