Content management systems, commonly abbreviated CMS, are prepared systems to manage websites without coding. The advantage of CMS is that it is easy and convenient to add or remove content, change a site theme or layout through the CMS. You can create a professional-looking website in under an hour — without knowing how to code. 

You’ve probably heard of CMS by their brand names. The top three CMS systems by market share are currently WordPress, Joomla, and Wix. 

Here are the pros and cons of each of these three CMS systems so you can decide what will work best for your business:

WordPress

WordPress is used to create an estimated 90% of websites. Because WordPress is so commonly used that there are plugins and add-ons to customize your site in nearly every conceivable way. There are also regular updates and bug fixes. While WordPress was originally created as a blog platform, it is now used to host all types of websites. 

WordPress Pros

WordPress has a lot in its favor. The most important pros of WordPress are:

• There is a free version, so you can start using it before you invest.
• Can be customized through themes and add-ons.
• Open-source system allows for continuous improvement and customization.
• Fast and easy to install.
• User-friendly and intuitive.
• Third-party add-ons available. 
• Clear control panel.
• Good customer support.

WordPress Cons

The primary cons of WordPress are related to security and site speed. Here is what to consider before selecting WordPress:

• Security can be an issue and requires additional plugins.
• Site speeds may slow significantly, with many add-ons and plug-ins, reducing SEO.
• Premium themes and add-ons, including security plugins, can be expensive.
• Requires someone more tech savvy. WordPress is less intuitive than the other options.

WordPress Summary

Overall, WordPress is a solid choice for your business if you are willing to invest a little in premium themes and additional security plug-ins. Consulting a site speed expert during initial setup to optimize speed will improve search engine optimization (SEO).

Joomla

Joomla allows for the greatest flexibility in CMS for the creation of both websites and applications onlines. 

Joomla Pros

The primary pro of Joomla is that it is free. This makes it popular with website and application developers worldwide.  It is good for both first-time website designers and experienced teams looking to build a customized web space. Here are the main advantages of Joomla:

• Open-source software can be improved.
• Fast and easy to install. 
• Add-ons and themes can create unique customization.
• Dynamic and flexible CMS.

Joomla Cons

The primary downside of Joomla is that it requires knowledge of code and offers minimal customer support. Here are the main drawbacks of Joomla:

• Compatibility issues with certain plugins and themes.
• Requires knowledge of coding.
• The management panel is not intuitive. 
• Lower security.
• Plugins and add-ons can slow down loading speeds.

Joomla Summary

If you are willing to spend some time getting it setup, learning code and tweaking it, Joomla is a solid solution to design a website or app that is completely unique, especially with additional security plugins. 

Wix

Wix is rapidly becoming the first choice for small business owners to easily build user-friendly websites, landing, and sales funnels. Users can build mobile-friendly websites in 5HTML using their intuitive drag-and-drop tools.  

Wix Pros

The main pro of WIX is its intuitive drag-and-drop user interface. Here are other pros of using WIX:

• Flexibility to design your own website or use existing templates.
• Drag-and-drop system increases ease of use, even for those unfamiliar with web design.
• Regularly updated with new designs, templates, and tools.
• Low cost for a complete web setup package.
• Exceptional customer service for both support and training via phone and email. 

Wix Cons

The cons of Wix are similar to the other systems in terms of security, and also flexibility. Here are Wix’s drawbacks:

• After creating a website, you won’t be able to modify the website template. You are stuck with the theme, as it is. 
• If you want to change the code, it is complicated due to drag and drop functionality.
• There can be security concerns stemming from the coding system used.
• Free sites include ads.
• Not the best for SEO optimization or complex websites you plan to regularly update. 

Wix Summary

Overall, Wix is an excellent selection for small and medium sized-businesses looking to create a visually stunning website without a large initial investment. If simplicity of use is a primary concern, Wix is the best choice. 

WordPress vs. Joomla vs. Wix

All of the top three CMS will enable you to create a beautiful, high-performing and customized website. Which system you choose will depend on your priorities in terms of design, price, security, and customer support. In this case, there is no wrong choice!