At Cantilever we typically use either Webflow or custom coding (using the JAM Stack) to build new websites. Cantilever is a Webflow Preferred Partner and we love how the platform allows us to build high-quality sites in less time, so we can offer a lower cost to our clients. However, Webflow is quite limited, and often, custom coding is the best way to go. If you are making this kind of choice, here are the factors we recommend considering.

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When to Choose Webflow

Webflow is the only no-code website creation tool we use. It’s ideal for clients who need a high-quality website without the complexity of custom coding. Here’s when Webflow is a perfect fit:

1. Constrained Budget and Timeline: Webflow generally reduces both development costs and timelines compared to custom coding. It’s an all-in-one platform, so you save on hosting, security, and ongoing maintenance costs.
2. Simple Content and Functionality: If your site doesn’t require advanced backend logic, like API integrations or complex user workflows, Webflow is a good option.
3. Modest Site Size: Webflow is ideal for sites with up to 10 sections, with limited need for custom fields or relationships.
4. Full Client Control with Visual Editing: Webflow’s visual editor is user-friendly, allowing platform users to make changes to the website’s templates without needing help from a developer.
5. Long-Term Flexibility: With Webflow, it’s easy to find freelancers or leverage internal staff to manage and update the site.

How much do we trust Webflow? We built this site, Cantilever.co, on it, as well as client sites like BabyPeek.com, and UnityScreen.com, saving budget for our clients while meeting our Site Quality Standards.

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When to Opt for Custom Code

However, Webflow is only right for certain situations. Here are the factors that make us choose a custom-coded approach instead:

1. Higher Quality Standards: Custom coding allows for superior site speed, SEO, and accessibility compared to Webflow. Users will have a more fine-tuned experience on a custom-coded site.
2. Complex Functionality: If your site needs significant backend logic, such as dynamic filtering, extensive API integrations, or complex e-commerce solutions, custom code is the way to go.
3. Content Management: With Webflow, you will need to use the platform’s CMS, which is functional but can be limiting. With custom coding, you can use a CMS like Sanity, which is the best one out there, in our opinion.
4. Complex Development Workflow: Custom coding supports more professional development workflows, including version control and staging environments, which are crucial for larger projects involving multiple developers.
5. Full Ownership: With custom code, you’re not tied to a single platform. You own your site’s code, giving you complete control over its future.

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Making the Final Decision

Ultimately, the decision between Webflow and custom code comes down to your specific needs and constraints. Webflow offers cost-effectiveness, speed, and ease of use, making it a fantastic choice for many projects. However, for larger or more complex websites requiring advanced features and flexibility, custom coding is the clear winner.

If you would like to use Cantilever to build your new site, our first step is a Diagnostic process. One of the key decisions in the Diagnostic is which approach to use to build your site. We work closely with our clients to understand their requirements, then recommend the best approach. Whether you work with us or not, we recommend thinking through it with these criteria so you can feel solid that you have the right approach to your site redesign. Good luck!