With the rise of Full Site Editing, many WordPress users are asking: should I use a block-based theme or stick with a classic one? In 2025, both have their place. Here’s a deep dive to help you decide.
1. What Are Block-Based Themes?
- Built entirely using blocks
- Support Full Site Editing
- Better customization without code
2. What Are Classic Themes?
- Use PHP templates
- Relies on Customizer and Widgets
- More mature ecosystem
3. Key Differences
| Feature | Block-Based Themes | Classic Themes |
|---|---|---|
| Editing | Visual (Blocks) | Code-based |
| Customization | High | Moderate |
| Performance | Faster (with clean block themes) | Varies |
| Learning Curve | Easier for non-coders | Easier for developers |
4. When to Use Which?
- Use block-based for marketing sites, portfolios, and rapid prototyping.
- Use classic for custom functionality-heavy, legacy, or complex enterprise projects.
Conclusion: Block-based themes are the future of WordPress, but classic themes still hold value. Choose based on your project’s needs, not just what’s trending.