Framer is a design-first platform for designers seeking complete creative control and modern interactions, while Squarespace is a template-based website builder prioritizing ease of use for non-designers. Framer excels in design flexibility and performance; Squarespace excels in simplicity and guided workflows.
Framer vs Squarespace — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Framer if you are a designer or have design skills and want complete creative control, modern interactions, and a built-in CMS without plugins. Choose Squarespace if you need a professional website quickly, lack design expertise, and prefer guided templates with minimal decision-making. For e-commerce specifically, Squarespace's integrated tools may offer better out-of-box functionality.
Code-powered design tool for interactive prototypes and motion design
All-in-one website builder with premium design templates and integrated SEO tools
Structured comparison data for Framer vs Squarespace with 195 attributes.
Total Monthly Cost (with Required Services)
Monthly Subscription Cost (Professional Plan)
Monthly Subscription Cost (Individual Plan)
Team Collaboration - Simultaneous Editors
Framer vs Squarespace — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Framer vs Squarespace.
Do I need design skills to use Framer or Squarespace?
Squarespace requires no design skills—templates guide you through the process with drag-and-drop simplicity. Framer assumes design knowledge; it's built for people comfortable making creative decisions. If you don't have design experience, Squarespace is significantly easier to launch with.
Which platform is better for e-commerce?
Both support e-commerce, but Squarespace has more out-of-the-box features (product filters, integrated analytics, email marketing). Framer offers more design flexibility for custom storefronts but requires more setup effort. For non-designers selling products, Squarespace is the faster choice.
Can I manage content without a developer on either platform?
Yes. Squarespace has built-in content management through its dashboard. Framer now offers a relational CMS (2025-2026 update) with no plugins or third-party tools needed, plus AI content generation features. Both are no-code solutions.
Which loads faster—Framer or Squarespace?
Framer is optimized for modern page speed with its infrastructure. Squarespace's heavier template structure can slow load times on complex sites, though both meet acceptable web standards. Framer edges ahead for performance-critical applications.
What if I want to switch platforms later?
Both platforms allow content export, but Squarespace makes migration easier with more established export tools. Framer sites are design-heavy, so moving away may require redesign work. Consider long-term needs before choosing.