Showit vs Squarespace: Which Platform is Right for Your Website?

Did you know that 94% of first impressions about your business are design-related? Yep, people decide if they trust you (or click away) in less time than it takes to sip your coffee.
So, if you’ve finally decided to build (or rebuild) your website — exciting times! — you’re probably staring at two very shiny options: Showit and Squarespace. Both have loyal fan clubs, both claim to make your life easier and both can technically get the job done.
But… which one’s actually right for you? Let’s break it down the pros, cons and quirks of each to help you decide where your brand should call home on the internet.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Squarespace: all-in-one, beginner-friendly, affordable, great for DIY and small business.
 - Showit: drag-and-drop freedom, runs on WordPress for blogging/SEO, highly customisable, but pricier and with a steeper learning curve.
 
Think of it this way: Squarespace is the IKEA of websites (functional, stylish, everything comes in the box). Showit is more like custom interior design, a bit more effort, but your space ends up uniquely you.
Design Flexibility
Showit’s Drag-and-Drop Freedom
If you want total creative control, Showit is your playground. You can literally drag things anywhere, no invisible “grid” boxing you in. Perfect for creative businesses that want their site to feel like an extension of their brand, not just another cookie-cutter template.
Want your logo to float diagonally across the screen? Go for it. Want overlapping text and funky layered images? Knock yourself out.
Squarespace’s Templates and Fluid Engine
Squarespace, on the other hand, keeps you within the lines. Their templates are clean and modern, but you’ll always feel a little “template-y.” The new Fluid Engine editor tried to be more flexible… but honestly? It’s still a bit clunky.
If you’re cool with a polished, professional look without the headache of too many design decisions, Squarespace is solid.
Ease of Use
Beginner-Friendly Squarespace
Squarespace is made for the DIYer who wants a website up by next weekend. You don’t need to know custom code and you won’t get overwhelmed with too many options. If you can drag files into a folder, you can build on Squarespace.
Learning Curve with Showit
Showit isn’t hard per se, but it definitely takes more patience. The flip side? Once you get it, you’ll never feel boxed in again. Designers especially love it because they can go wild without a developer.
Blogging and SEO
Showit + WordPress for Blogging Power
Here’s a biggie: Showit runs its blogging on WordPress, which is like the Beyoncé of blogging platforms. WordPress is SEO-friendly, flexible and built for content marketing. If blogging and Google rankings matter to you, Showit + WordPress is a winning combo.
Squarespace’s Built-In Blogging Tools
Squarespace has blogging too, but it’s a bit… basic. You can absolutely still rank and run a blog there, but you won’t have the same flexibility or integrations that WordPress offers.
E-Commerce Capabilities
Squarespace’s All-in-One Storefront
Squarespace shines if you’re selling products. Built-in e-commerce tools mean you can launch an online store without messing around with extra platforms. For small shops or digital products, it’s easy and seamless.
Showit’s Limitations with Online Sales
Showit? Not so much. It’s really not designed for e-commerce. You’ll need to integrate Shopify Lite or another tool, which can feel like duct-taping two systems together. If selling products is your main game, Squarespace is the better fit.
Pricing and Value
Affordability of Squarespace
Squarespace starts cheaper and the pricing is straightforward. It’s a great option if budget is tight and you want everything included.
Premium Pricing for Showit
Showit costs more and if you want blogging, you’ll also be paying for WordPress hosting. But you’re paying for custom design freedom and serious SEO power. If your site is a major part of your brand and marketing, the investment can pay off big time.
Best Fit for Different Users
Who Should Choose Squarespace
- Small businesses who want something polished and fast.
 - DIYers who don’t want to fuss with tech.
 - Online shops that want an all-in-one solution.
 
Who Should Choose Showit
- Creatives and service-based businesses (photographers, coaches, designers, studios).
 - Anyone who wants their site to feel 100% unique.
 - Businesses focused on blogging and SEO growth.
 
The real question isn’t which platform is ‘better,’ but which one actually supports the way you want to run your business. Squarespace is your go-to if you want something affordable, simple, and all-in-one (especially if selling products is your jam). Showit, on the other hand, is the winner if you crave design freedom, want your site to look like no one else’s and plan on blogging or leaning into SEO for growth.
Think of it like this: Squarespace is the ready-made suit that always looks sharp, while Showit is the tailored outfit that fits you perfectly. Neither is wrong, but one will feel more like home for your business.
Ready to stop stressing about templates and start building a website that actually works for you? Check out my website design services, let’s create something that not only looks incredible but helps your business grow.
Curious about Showit? You can trial it free for a month here and see if the design freedom is worth the hype.
And if you’re ready to stop stressing about templates and start building a website that actually works for you, check out my website design services. Let’s create something that not only looks incredible but helps your business grow.