If you're thinking about using Squarespace for your website then we'll help you work out if it's an investment that's right for you with our in-depth review covering features, pricing, and who it's best suited for.

What is Squarespace?

If you're a founder or business owner looking to create a website of some form then the chances are you''ll have come across Squarespace before. It's one of the most widely used tools for creating a website globally with its easy to use interface, beautiful and large range of templates and a ton of features meaning its a versatile option no matter what type of website you're looking to build.

In simple terms, Squarespace is an all-in-one website builder, known for its stunning templates, intuitive interface, and built-in tools. But with so many alternatives around, some of which may be cheaper, the question of 'is Squarespace worth it' is one that often comes up.

Let’s break it down and see if it’s a good investment for you and your needs.

What makes Squarespace stand out?

Firstly, we need to look into what makes this platform stand out from others, it's important to understand the value Squarespace offers before we look into other aspects such as pricing.

Professional and diverse designs

Squarespace templates are clean, mobile-responsive, and highly customizable, with advanced styling and custom CSS options.

• Squarespace templates are clean, professional, and customizable.
• All templates are mobile-responsive, ensuring a polished look on any device.
• The drag-and-drop editor allows for easy website building without coding.
• Advanced styling options let you personalize your site without needing third-party themes.
• Custom CSS capabilities for more flexibility.
• Built-in image editor to refine visuals without additional software.
• A vast library of fonts and design elements tailored to different industries.

Everything in one place

It includes web hosting, domain registration, SEO tools, email marketing, analytics, and automatic updates for hassle-free maintenance.

• Includes web hosting, domain registration, SEO tools, email marketing, and analytics.
• No need to manage plugins or third-party integrations like on WordPress.
• Automatic updates and security patches ensure hassle-free maintenance.
• Integrated scheduling and appointment booking features for service-based businesses.
• Secure cloud-based infrastructure ensures reliability.
• Built-in blogging functionality to enhance content marketing.
• Multiple user roles allow team collaboration and streamlined workflows.

E-commerce options

Built-in online store features support inventory management, payment processing, subscriptions, and flexible product displays.

• Built-in online store features with no transaction fees on higher plans.
• Inventory management, payment processing, and subscription options.
• Customer accounts and checkout customization enhance the user experience.
• Abandoned cart recovery tools help increase sales.
• Integrated shipping and tax calculation tools.
• Flexible product display options for various industries.
• Digital product sales capabilities, including e-books and online courses.
• Custom discount codes and gift cards for promotional campaigns.
• Integration with third-party payment processors like PayPal and Stripe.

Customer support

24/7 email and live chat support, a knowledge base, community forums, and premium priority assistance ensure users get help when needed.

• 24/7 email support and live chat for assistance.
• Extensive knowledge base and tutorials.
• Community forums where users exchange tips.
• Priority support available on premium plans.
• Step-by-step video guides for new users.
• Squarespace Experts program for advanced customization and troubleshooting.

SEO and Marketing Tools

Squarespace offers integrated SEO tools, email marketing, social media automation, and analytics to enhance visibility and engagement.

• Customizable meta descriptions, alt text, and clean URLs.
• Integrated email marketing campaigns.
• Social media integration for seamless content sharing.
• Blogging tools that help drive organic traffic.
• Advanced analytics to track visitor engagement and conversions.
• Built-in A/B testing for email campaigns.
• Google My Business integration for local SEO optimization.
• Social sharing automation to drive website traffic.

Squarespace pricing

One of the main concerns with Squarespace is cost. While it’s not the cheapest website builder, it provides good value for money.

Squarespace offers multiple pricing tiers to suit different users. The Personal Plan is ideal for bloggers and small businesses, while the Business Plan unlocks e-commerce features and integrations. For those serious about online selling, the Basic Commerce Plan and Advanced Commerce Plan provide additional tools such as inventory management and abandoned cart recovery.

Unlike WordPress, where hosting, themes, and plugins are often separate costs, Squarespace bundles these features into a single subscription. This simplifies budgeting and management.

Additionally, annual subscriptions offer a free domain for the first year, making it a cost-effective solution for startups and small businesses.

For businesses with high customization needs, however, the cost may feel steep compared to DIY platforms like WordPress, where users can select specific add-ons based on their requirements. Yet, the time savings and ease of use that Squarespace offers can outweigh the extra expense.

Is Squarespace a good choice for business owners?

Pros: Why it's a great option

• User-Friendly - No coding required; intuitive editor.
• Professional Designs -Visually appealing templates.
• All-in-One Platform - Hosting, SEO, e-commerce, and marketing tools included.
• Secure and Low Maintenance - No plugin updates or security worries.
• Scalability - Suitable for small businesses and growing brands.
• Great for Content Marketing - Blogging, social sharing, and email marketing tools.
• Security and Compliance - Built-in SSL security and GDPR compliance.
• Integrated appointment scheduling - Ideal for service-based businesses.
• Seamless third-party integrations - Including Google Analytics and payment gateways.
• Fast website speed - Optimized servers ensure reliable loading times.

Cons: When it might not be right

• Limited Customization - may not be great for those with very complicated needs
• Cost Can Add Up - Advanced features may require higher-tier plans.
• Not Ideal for Large Online Stores - Shopify may be a better choice.
• Limited Third-Party Integrations -Fewer plugins compared to WordPress.
• No Free Plan - Unlike Wix, Squarespace only offers a trial period.
• Lack of advanced development control - No access to backend coding for custom development.

Who should use Squarespace?

Squarespace is an excellent choice for:

• Founders & Entrepreneurs - If you need a professional site quickly.
• Small Business Owners - If you want a manageable, feature-rich platform.
• Freelancers & Creatives - If aesthetics are a priority.
• E-Commerce Startups - If you sell products but don’t need enterprise-level features.
• Coaches & Consultants - If you require scheduling tools and email marketing.
• Photographers & Designers - If you need a visually-driven portfolio.
• Restaurants & Event Planners - If you need reservation and booking features.
• Nonprofits & Community Groups - If you need a streamlined donation page and membership features.

However, if you're running a large-scale e-commerce operation or need full backend control, Shopify or WordPress might be more suitable.

Final verdict: Is Squarespace worth it?

The short answer: Yes, for the majority of people it's a great option, just check that it fits your needs.

For busy founders and business owners who want a professional, all-in-one website builder without the hassle of managing plugins or security updates, Squarespace is an excellent choice. Its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and built-in features make it a solid investment.

However, if you’re a developer looking for full customization or running a large e-commerce store, you might find its limitations frustrating.