How does B12 compare to other top website builders?
Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, and beyond — how do B12’s AI website builder and business tools stack up against the major DIY website platforms?
We’ve explored top options on the market for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and professional service providers to see how they compare to B12 on price, business tools, and features.
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Compare B12 with the leading business website builders
B12 vs. Shopify
Shopify is a top ecommerce platform, but how does its website builder compete with B12 for other industries?
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B12 vs. Squarespace
Squarespace is a popular website builder for ecommerce companies and creatives, but will other professionals find it to be the right fit?
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B12 vs. Webflow
Webflow's website builder requires some design skills to execute effectively. Is B12 easier for beginners?
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B12 vs. Weebly
Weebly and B12 share similarities for websites, with key differences for SEO support, invoicing, and other tools.
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B12 vs. Wix
Wix is known for its DIY design and editing tools, but how does it compare to B12 for client management and analytics?
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B12 vs. WordPress
WordPress is one of the original do-it-yourself website builders, but does it still stand up?
Read moreWhat to consider when choosing a web builder
Not all website builders are created equal, especially when you’re busy running your own business. Many provide features geared toward business owners, but often they are limited to ecommerce or are more time-intensive than they seem.
If you’re a service business trying to attract, win, and serve clients online, you need a unique set of features that most platforms don't directly support.
Before you choose a new website builder, ask yourself the following questions:
- What tools do I need to acquire leads and serve clients?
- Is the platform scalable as my business grows and changes?
- Do the features I require cost extra through third-party apps?
Online tools to serve your clients
Most major website-building platforms come with tools for businesses, but in almost all cases, this means ecommerce. Shopify, Squarespace, and Weebly, in particular, specialize in online storefronts yet exclude integrated support for service-based businesses.
Consider how you connect, work, and organize your clients' work. Think online scheduling, payment processing, eSignature and document sharing, email marketing, and other tools. You'll need an entirely different model as a professional service provider.
Your website builder should come with these features baked into the platform without needing extra third-party integrations.
Client engagement and management
Consider your client funnel. What tools would help you attract new clients? What would help you manage your current roster? Chances are you’re already using a handful of pieced-together administrative tools, but what if you could consolidate these into a single platform?
As you compare different website builders, look for solutions incorporating client engagement and management tools into the subscription. Email marketing, contact manager, and intake forms are just the start. Built-in AI tools for writing emails and drafting new web pages geared toward converting clients can also help you save time and scale.
The more features you manage within a centralized dashboard, the more efficient your business becomes.
Third-party integrations
Technically, it's possible to force most of the major website-building platforms to function for your online service business, but it's not always efficient, cost-effective, or client-friendly. Because so few of these platforms come with the specialized tools you'll need to serve clients online, you must bridge the gap with third-party apps and integrations.
Outside integrations can downgrade site speed and website performance. They can also create a confusing experience for visitors that doesn’t help your brand look consistent. Plus, most third-party apps come with additional monthly subscription fees, which quickly add up with only a few additions.
To simplify website building and reduce costs, look for website builders that include online scheduling, payment processing, AI content generation, and client engagement tools within the platform.
Join the 4M+ websites created by B12's AI website builder
With B12, I feel supported and I think it’s absolutely realistic to grow my business. It has saved me countless hours.
Stephanie Roberts
Founder, Find Yourself In Fashion
I can make [website edits] myself, and it’s as simple as working in a Word document. If I need more help, I’ll email the B12 team and within 24 hours, boom, it’s done.
Barbara Bartelsmeyer
Partner / COO, Action Logistix
We get a lot of compliments on our website. Many potential clients are very impressed by our site, and often say it looks expensive.
Brett Packard
Head of Operations, TaxStudio
Experience a platform designed for professionals
B12's AI-powered website builder is for professional service providers and small businesses. A full suite of specialized features in one dashboard helps you attract, win, and serve clients with less time and effort.
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