When it comes to building your brand’s online presence, there’s one decision that can feel surprisingly personal: to outsource a custom website from a designer or build it yourself from a template.
Think of this decision like having a home built to your specifications or buying one that’s already decorated. Both paths can lead to beautiful results, but one will definitely fit your unique business journey better than the other.
In the 10 years I been in business, I’ve worked with business owners of all kinds… some at the beginning of their business journey, others ready to elevate an established brand to the next level.
The same question comes up: Is a custom website worth the extra investment, or will a template work just fine?
The answer depends on a few key things: your business goals, your audience, and (let’s be honest) your budget.
Let me break down the real benefits of each option and who stands to gain the most from going custom or sticking with a template.
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Pre-made Website Templates
The availability of website templates has grown exponentially in the past 5-10 years with the growing popularity of development platforms like WordPress. A website template will provide you with an already-designed foundation for you site from which you will need to further customize it with your content.
If you’re looking for a quick and simple solution, websites like Showit* and Squarespace are great places to start.
- Average Price – Free to $1000+ (per theme design) or monthly fee ranging from $20-$50.
- Time from Start to Launch – ~1 to 4 weeks, depending on your motivation.
Ideal for: Newer business owners on a budget or with simpler needs (ie. fewer number of pages, or little complexity). Think coaches, small service providers, and e-commerce beginners.
Benefits of using a Website Template
- Budget-friendly and accessible.
- Quick turnaround time to launch.
- Limited-to-no assistance required from a designer/developer required.
Drawbacks to using Website Templates
- Some templates may require some special knowledge/training to customize/setup if you don’t consider yourself tech-literate. Hiring a designer to help setup could be an additional cost ranging from $250 – $1500+.
- Limited design customization: Design capabilities can be restricted to logo, fonts and colors, depending on which platform you’re using.
- Layout may not tailored to your specific business or business goals.
- May have limited functionality or integration abilities.
- Unknown quality from the developer (could be buggy).
- Excessive pre-built customization options could be confusing rather than helpful.
Related Post: 3 So-Worth-I Benefits of Using Website Design Templates
Custom Web Design
Custom sites offer the ‘wow factor’ that you might find lacking in some templates (but not ours of course 😉), built to showcase exactly what your brand is about.
Yes, it’s an investment, but it’s one that pays off in differentiation and adaptability. Not to mention, the design is 100% yours, and like a custom built house, is created with your fingerprint. If you are looking for a comprehensive option, a custom website design is the best approach.
- Average Price – $5,000 to $20,000+
- Time from Start to Launch – 6 to 12+ weeks.
Ideal for: Established brands or growing businesses ready for a 100% unique online presence. Think service-based businesses or brands that thrive on customer engagement and creating an elevated experience.
Benefits of a Custom Website
- Allows you complete personalization of entire layout, functionality and design elements.
- Designer or web agency handles all technical and strategic aspects.
- Built with specialized industry knowledge, web design best practices and research.
- Dedicated support and training available for any technical issues.
Drawbacks of a Custom Website
- Will require you to hire a graphic designer and developer or a web design agency.
- Can be expensive and time consuming.
Related Post: 6 Signs Your Business is Ready for a Custom Website Design
Making the Right Choice for Your Business
Choosing between a custom website and a template isn’t just about aesthetics or budget… it’s about finding the right fit for your brand’s growth, personality, and goals. Website templates can be a powerful tool to get started without stretching your budget, while a custom website offers the flexibility and depth that can help established brands scale even more.
Remember, this decision isn’t set in stone! Many of my clients start with a template and transition to custom as they grow, and both options can support you if chosen thoughtfully. If your current template-based website starts to feel unruly and hopelessly disorganized, is failing to convert, or lacking that extra-special something, it might be time to upgrade.
So reflect on what your brand truly needs right now. Whether you’re ready to invest in a custom-built website or want the simplicity of a template to start, or perhaps even something in-between, each choice can help you make more impact online.
If you’re still unsure or want help deciding what will work best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’d love to help you find the perfect solution and create a website that reflects the heart of your brand.
