WordPress vs Next.js: Which is Better for Your Business in 2026?
When choosing a platform for your business website, you'll quickly encounter two popular options: WordPress and Next.js. But which one fits your situation best? In this article, we compare both platforms on the most important criteria.
What is WordPress?
WordPress is a content management system (CMS) that has existed since 2003. It's used by approximately 43% of all websites worldwide.
Advantages of WordPress:
- User-friendly for non-technical users
- Thousands of plugins and themes available
- Large community and extensive documentation
- Suitable for blogs and simple websites
- Lower initial development costs
Disadvantages of WordPress:
- Slower loading times (especially with many plugins)
- Security risks from third-party plugins
- Regular maintenance required (updates)
- Limited scalability
- Difficult to customize without technical knowledge
What is Next.js?
Next.js is a modern React framework that has existed since 2016. It's used by companies like Netflix, TikTok, and Twitch.
Advantages of Next.js:
- Extremely fast loading times
- Excellent SEO performance
- High security (no database attacks)
- Unlimited scalability
- Full control over design and functionality
- Lower hosting costs in the long run
Disadvantages of Next.js:
- Higher initial development costs
- Technical knowledge required for content updates
- Smaller plugin ecosystem
- Longer development time
Comparison on Key Criteria
| Criterion | WordPress | Next.js |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| SEO | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Scalability | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Initial Costs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Maintenance Costs | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
When to Choose WordPress?
WordPress is the right choice if:
- You have a limited budget
- You want to manage content yourself without technical help
- You need a blog or simple business website
- You want to be online quickly
- You need a lot of standard functionality (webshop, contact forms)
When to Choose Next.js?
Next.js is the better choice if:
- Speed and SEO are crucial for your business
- You want a unique design that stands out
- Your website needs to scale with your growth
- Security is a top priority
- You're building a web application or SaaS platform
- You're willing to invest in quality
Cost Comparison
WordPress Website
- Development: $500 - $3,000
- Hosting: $10 - $50/month
- Maintenance: $50 - $200/month
- Plugins/licenses: $100 - $500/year
Next.js Website
- Development: $2,000 - $10,000
- Hosting: $0 - $20/month (Vercel/Netlify)
- Maintenance: $0 - $100/month
- No plugin costs
After 2 years: Total costs are often similar, but Next.js offers better performance and fewer worries.
Our Recommendation
For most business websites in 2026, we recommend Next.js. The investment is higher, but you get:
- Better Google rankings due to faster loading times
- More conversions due to better user experience
- Less downtime due to more stable hosting
- Lower long-term costs due to less maintenance
WordPress remains a good option for blogs or if you have a very limited budget and want to manage content yourself.
Conclusion
The choice between WordPress and Next.js depends on your specific situation. Think about your budget, technical capabilities, and long-term goals.
Want advice on which platform is best for your business? Contact us for a free consultation.