Page builders have transformed how websites are built in WordPress, making it possible to design professional layouts without writing code. For years, WPBakery Page Builder—originally known as Visual Composer—was the go-to choice for both beginners and developers. Bundled with thousands of premium themes, it quickly became one of the most widely installed plugins in the WordPress ecosystem. In this WPBakery Page Builder Review, we’ll examine whether it’s still a practical choice in 2025.
Today, WPBakery faces strong competition from Elementor, Divi, Beaver Builder, Bricks, and the native Gutenberg editor. These newer tools promise faster performance, more design flexibility, and modern interfaces, which have led many users to question whether WPBakery has kept up with the times.
In this review, we’ll break down WPBakery’s features, ease of use, performance, pricing, pros and cons, and comparisons with other leading page builders. By the end, you’ll know whether WPBakery is still a reliable option for building WordPress websites—or if it’s time to consider alternatives in 2025.
What is WPBakery Page Builder?
WPBakery Page Builder is one of the earliest and most widely used WordPress page builder plugins. Launched over a decade ago under the name Visual Composer, it was rebranded as WPBakery Page Builder to separate it from the newer Visual Composer Website Builder. Despite the name change, WPBakery has remained a familiar tool for millions of WordPress site owners.
At its core, WPBakery is a drag-and-drop editor that allows users to build custom layouts without coding. It offers both a backend editor (for working in the WordPress dashboard) and a frontend editor (for visual, real-time design). This dual approach gives users flexibility depending on their workflow preferences.
One of WPBakery’s biggest advantages is its widespread availability. It is bundled for free with thousands of premium themes on ThemeForest, making it a default choice for many site owners. It also supports a large number of third-party add-ons, extending its functionality with extra modules and design elements.
Although newer builders like Elementor and Divi have become more popular, WPBakery continues to be maintained and updated, making it a viable option for users managing legacy sites or themes built around WPBakery integration.
Why Choose WPBakery Page Builder?
With so many modern alternatives like Elementor, Divi, and Bricks dominating the WordPress ecosystem in 2025, some may wonder why anyone would still choose WPBakery Page Builder. The answer lies in its legacy, compatibility, and widespread use.
First, WPBakery remains one of the most widely bundled plugins in the WordPress world. Thousands of premium themes on ThemeForest still come with WPBakery included at no extra cost. For users who purchase such themes, WPBakery becomes a natural, built-in choice for building and customizing layouts.
Second, WPBakery offers both a backend editor and a frontend editor. While many newer builders focus only on front-end visual design, WPBakery’s backend editor appeals to developers and users who prefer a more structured workflow within the WordPress dashboard.
Third, WPBakery has a large add-on ecosystem, with hundreds of extensions providing extra modules, design elements, and advanced functionality. This allows users to extend the core builder and tailor it to specific project needs.
Finally, for those maintaining legacy websites, WPBakery is often the easiest option. Because it relies on shortcodes, switching to another builder can break layouts. Sticking with WPBakery ensures stability for older sites.
In short, WPBakery is still worth choosing in 2025 if you rely on theme compatibility, shortcode stability, or bundled access through premium themes.
Key Features of WPBakery Page Builder
Despite the rise of newer tools like Elementor and Divi, WPBakery Page Builder still offers a wide range of features that make it a functional and versatile option for WordPress users in 2025. Here’s a closer look at its key capabilities.
1. Backend and Frontend Editors
WPBakery gives you the flexibility to build pages in two ways:
- Backend Editor: Works inside the WordPress dashboard, ideal for users who prefer a structured, grid-like workflow.
- Frontend Editor: Offers a visual, real-time drag-and-drop interface for designing pages while previewing changes instantly.
This dual editor setup remains one of WPBakery’s distinguishing features, catering to both traditional WordPress users and those who prefer visual design.
2. 50+ Built-In Content Elements
WPBakery comes with over 50 content elements, including text blocks, images, buttons, accordions, tabs, progress bars, pricing tables, and call-to-action modules. These building blocks cover most standard design needs without requiring extra plugins.
3. Template Library
The plugin includes a template library with pre-designed layouts for common pages like homepages, portfolios, services, and contact pages. Templates can be customized and reused, saving time for site owners who don’t want to start from scratch.
4. Responsive Design Controls
WPBakery provides responsive design options that allow you to adjust layouts for desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. You can hide or reorder elements for specific devices, ensuring a smooth browsing experience across all screens.
5. Role Manager
For multi-user sites, the Role Manager lets administrators control who can access and edit WPBakery. This is especially helpful for agencies or businesses that delegate tasks to team members but want to restrict certain permissions.
6. Advanced Grid Builder
One of WPBakery’s unique features is its Grid Builder, which allows users to create custom post grids, portfolios, and galleries. With filters, sorting, and layout options, this tool is useful for blogs, agencies, and creative portfolios.
7. WooCommerce Compatibility
WPBakery integrates with WooCommerce, enabling you to design product pages, category layouts, and custom shop elements. While not as flexible as Elementor or Divi’s WooCommerce modules, it still provides enough tools for basic eCommerce customization.
8. Large Add-On Ecosystem
Over the years, developers have created hundreds of third-party add-ons and extensions for WPBakery. These add-ons introduce additional content elements, advanced sliders, animations, and more, extending the plugin’s core functionality.
9. Theme Compatibility
Perhaps WPBakery’s biggest strength is its massive theme compatibility. Thousands of premium themes on ThemeForest and other marketplaces come bundled with WPBakery, making it one of the most widely distributed page builders in WordPress history.
10. Shortcode-Based Structure
WPBakery relies heavily on shortcodes to generate content. While this ensures compatibility across themes, it also means that switching away from WPBakery can leave behind messy shortcode remnants. For users sticking with WPBakery, however, this system provides stability and reliability.
11. One-Time Payment Model
Unlike many competitors that use yearly subscriptions, WPBakery is available with a one-time purchase license. This makes it an affordable long-term choice for site owners who don’t want ongoing fees.
How to Set Up WPBakery Page Builder (Step-by-Step Guide)
One of the reasons WPBakery Page Builder remains so widely used is its simple setup process. Whether you purchased it as a standalone plugin or received it bundled with a premium WordPress theme, getting started is quick and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Install and Activate the Plugin
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If WPBakery came bundled with your theme (common with ThemeForest themes), it may already be included. Simply activate it from your WordPress dashboard under Plugins → Installed Plugins.
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If you purchased a standalone license, download the plugin ZIP file from CodeCanyon (Envato Market).
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Go to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin, choose the ZIP file, then click Install Now and Activate.
Step 2: Enable WPBakery on Your Content Types
Once activated, go to WPBakery Page Builder → Role Manager in your dashboard.
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Select which post types (pages, posts, custom post types) should use the builder.
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This ensures you can use WPBakery where you need it most.
Step 3: Create a New Page or Post
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Go to Pages → Add New or Posts → Add New.
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You’ll see buttons for Backend Editor and Frontend Editor.
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Backend Editor works inside the WordPress dashboard.
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Frontend Editor lets you design visually in real time.
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Step 4: Add Elements and Templates
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Click + Add Element to insert modules like text blocks, images, buttons, or sliders.
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Use the Template Library to load a pre-made layout, then customize it with your own content.
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Rearrange elements with drag-and-drop controls.
Step 5: Customize Responsiveness
In the element settings, adjust responsive options to hide or resize content for mobile, tablet, or desktop views. This ensures your site looks polished on all devices.
Step 6: Save and Publish
Once you’re happy with your design, click Publish (or Update) to make your page live.
WPBakery Page Builder Pricing in 2025
Unlike many modern WordPress page builders that follow a subscription-based model, WPBakery Page Builder still uses a one-time payment structure, which makes it appealing to users who don’t want recurring fees.
As of 2025, WPBakery offers two main licenses through CodeCanyon (Envato Market):
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Regular License – $64 (one-time fee)
Designed for a single website, this license includes:-
Access to both backend and frontend editors.
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All core content elements and templates.
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6 months of premium support (extendable to 12 months for an extra fee).
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Lifetime plugin updates.
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Extended License – $320 (one-time fee)
Intended for developers creating websites or applications they plan to sell. It includes the same features as the regular license but grants additional usage rights for redistribution in projects.
How WPBakery’s Pricing Compares
When compared to competitors, WPBakery stands out for its no-renewal policy.
- Elementor Pro: $59/year for one site (recurring).
- Divi Builder: $89/year or $249 for lifetime access.
- Beaver Builder: $99/year for unlimited sites.
WPBakery’s $64 one-time fee is cost-effective for individuals or small businesses that need a builder for a single site. However, for agencies managing multiple projects, tools like Divi or Beaver Builder may provide better long-term value.
Is It Worth the Price?
If your theme comes bundled with WPBakery, you won’t need to purchase a separate license. But for standalone users, the affordable one-time payment model makes it a budget-friendly choice in 2025—especially for personal sites and small businesses.
Pros and Cons of WPBakery Page Builder
Like any WordPress tool, WPBakery Page Builder has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding both sides will help you decide if it’s still the right solution for your website in 2025.
Pros of WPBakery Page Builder
1. Widespread Use and Bundled Access: WPBakery is included with thousands of premium themes on ThemeForest, meaning many users get it at no extra cost when purchasing a theme.
2. Backend + Frontend Editors: The option to choose between a backend editor for structured workflows and a frontend editor for real-time design gives flexibility to different types of users.
3. One-Time Payment Model: Unlike Elementor Pro or Beaver Builder, WPBakery charges a single one-time fee ($64), making it affordable for single-site owners who want lifetime updates without renewals.
4. Large Add-On Ecosystem: Hundreds of third-party add-ons extend WPBakery’s functionality with advanced sliders, grids, animations, and content elements.
5. Theme Compatibility: Its long history means it works seamlessly with a vast number of WordPress themes and plugins.
Cons of WPBakery Page Builder
1. Reliance on Shortcodes: WPBakery uses shortcodes to generate layouts. If you disable the plugin or switch to another builder, your site may be left cluttered with shortcode remnants.
2. Outdated User Interface: Compared to newer builders like Elementor or Bricks, WPBakery’s UI feels less modern and less intuitive, especially for beginners.
3. Slower Performance: The shortcode-heavy structure can impact site speed and Core Web Vitals, requiring optimization for faster loading times.
4. Fewer Updates and Innovations: While maintained, WPBakery doesn’t release new features as rapidly as competitors like Elementor or Divi.
WPBakery vs Other Page Builders
With competition from Elementor, Divi, Beaver Builder, Bricks, and the native Gutenberg editor, it’s natural to ask whether WPBakery is still relevant in 2025. While it remains widely used, newer builders have raised the bar in terms of performance, user experience, and flexibility. Here’s how WPBakery compares to the leading alternatives.
WPBakery vs Elementor
Elementor has become the most popular WordPress page builder thanks to its modern visual editor, extensive widget library, and rapid updates. Unlike WPBakery, it has a free version, making it more accessible for beginners.
WPBakery, however, still has an edge in theme compatibility and its one-time payment model. If your theme comes bundled with WPBakery, it’s essentially free to use. Elementor Pro, in contrast, requires annual renewals.
Choose Elementor if you want a modern editor with frequent updates. Choose WPBakery if you prefer a budget-friendly, bundled solution.
WPBakery vs Divi Builder
Divi Builder stands out for its lifetime license, massive template library, and built-in marketing tools like A/B testing. Its visual editor is more modern than WPBakery’s and integrates seamlessly with the Divi Theme.
WPBakery, while less advanced, has broader theme compatibility since it is bundled with thousands of third-party themes. Divi requires you to stick with the Elegant Themes ecosystem or use the standalone plugin.
Choose Divi if you want a full-featured design suite with lifetime value. Choose WPBakery if you rely on third-party premium themes.
WPBakery vs Beaver Builder
Beaver Builder is known for clean code, stability, and developer-friendly features. It produces lightweight websites and avoids shortcode lock-in, making it easier to switch in the future.
WPBakery, on the other hand, is shortcode-heavy, which makes transitioning away difficult. However, it is generally cheaper upfront and more widely bundled with themes.
Choose Beaver Builder if you value performance and clean code. Choose WPBakery if you want a low-cost, bundled option.
WPBakery vs Bricks Builder
Bricks Builder is one of the newest page builders, designed for performance and developer control. It generates lightweight code, integrates with custom fields, and appeals to advanced users building high-performance websites.
Compared to Bricks, WPBakery feels dated, with heavier code and fewer modern features. However, Bricks is still growing and has a smaller ecosystem, while WPBakery benefits from a large add-on library built over many years.
Choose Bricks if performance and modern architecture are your priorities. Choose WPBakery if you want proven compatibility and add-on support.
WPBakery vs Gutenberg
The Gutenberg block editor, now part of WordPress core, has matured significantly. It’s lightweight, fast, and free, making it a good option for simple websites.
WPBakery offers far more modules, templates, and customization options than Gutenberg. However, for users who only need basic layouts, Gutenberg may be the better choice due to its performance and zero cost.
Choose Gutenberg if you want a lightweight, free editor for simple sites. Choose WPBakery if you need more design options and theme integration.
Bottom Line on Comparisons
- Elementor leads in popularity and innovation.
- Divi offers lifetime value and marketing tools.
- Beaver Builder is best for performance-focused developers.
- Bricks brings modern architecture for advanced users.
- Gutenberg is free and fast for simple sites.
WPBakery, while no longer the most advanced, remains a relevant choice for users who rely on bundled themes, shortcode stability, and a one-time pricing model.
Who Should Use WPBakery Page Builder in 2025?
While newer WordPress page builders often get more attention, WPBakery Page Builder continues to serve a specific group of users in 2025. Its legacy support, theme compatibility, and bundled access make it a practical option for certain situations.
1. Beginners Using Bundled Themes
WPBakery remains bundled with thousands of premium themes sold on marketplaces like ThemeForest. If you’ve purchased such a theme, WPBakery may already be included at no extra cost. For beginners who want to customize layouts without coding, this makes it a convenient and cost-effective choice.
2. Agencies and Freelancers Maintaining Legacy Sites
Many older WordPress websites were built with WPBakery (or its former name, Visual Composer). Agencies maintaining these sites often stick with WPBakery to avoid shortcode issues or layout breakage when switching builders. For legacy projects, it’s often the safest option.
3. Users Who Prefer Backend Editing
Unlike most modern builders that focus exclusively on visual design, WPBakery offers both a backend editor and a frontend editor. This dual approach appeals to users who prefer working inside the WordPress dashboard with a more structured layout system.
4. Budget-Conscious Users
At $64 for a one-time license, WPBakery remains one of the most affordable page builders available. For single-site owners who want lifetime updates without annual renewals, it’s still a solid value.
Is WPBakery Page Builder Still Worth Using in 2025?
After completing this WPBakery Page Builder Review, one thing is clear: while it may not be the most modern WordPress page builder in 2025, it still has its place in the ecosystem. Its strengths lie in widespread theme compatibility, bundled access with thousands of premium themes, dual backend and frontend editors, and a one-time pricing model that appeals to budget-conscious users.
That said, WPBakery does show its age. Its shortcode-heavy structure, slower performance, and less intuitive interface make it feel outdated compared to competitors like Elementor, Divi, Bricks, and Beaver Builder. These newer tools provide more flexibility, cleaner code, and advanced design options for users seeking a cutting-edge experience.
So, is WPBakery still worth it? The answer depends on your needs. If you’re working with a theme that already includes WPBakery, maintaining a legacy site, or want a budget-friendly, stable builder, then WPBakery remains a viable choice. But if you’re starting a brand-new project in 2025, you may find greater long-term value and performance with more modern builders.
In short, WPBakery isn’t the future of page building—but it’s still a reliable tool for the right users and situations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is WPBakery Page Builder free?
No. WPBakery is a premium plugin available on CodeCanyon. It costs $64 for a regular license with lifetime updates and 6 months of support. Some premium themes include it at no extra cost.
2. What is the difference between WPBakery Page Builder and Visual Composer?
WPBakery was originally called Visual Composer. The two later split into separate products. Today, WPBakery remains a WordPress page builder plugin, while Visual Composer has evolved into a broader website builder.
3. Does WPBakery Page Builder work with any WordPress theme?
Yes. WPBakery works with most WordPress themes and is often bundled with premium themes from ThemeForest. This makes it one of the most widely used builders in the ecosystem.
4. Is WPBakery beginner-friendly?
WPBakery offers both a backend editor for structured editing and a frontend editor for visual, real-time design. Beginners may find the interface less modern than Elementor or Divi, but it’s still relatively easy to use.
5. Does WPBakery rely on shortcodes?
Yes. WPBakery generates layouts using shortcodes, which can leave clutter if you deactivate the plugin. While this provides theme compatibility, it makes switching builders more difficult.
6. Is WPBakery Page Builder still worth using in 2025?
As highlighted in this WPBakery Page Builder Review, it’s still worth using if you’re working with bundled themes, maintaining legacy sites, or want a budget-friendly one-time license. For brand-new projects, modern builders may be a better choice.
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