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Here’s what we got for you today:

Webflow vs. Framer - Which tool is better?

Read time: 6min 14sec

Before we begin…

Before we embark on this battle, let's quickly break down what these platforms are all about.

It’s simple.

Both are no-code website builders, meaning you can create beautiful websites without touching a single line of code.

Cool, right?

We’ll explain which one you should choose.

Let’s start by comparing them.

Webflow and Framer are both popular platforms used by designers and developers to create websites, but they have some key differences that make them better suited for different needs…

One of the major differences between the two platforms is their focus.

Webflow is geared towards creating responsive, customizable websites with extensive integrations, and offers collaboration with versioning.

On the other hand, Framer is designed for creating interactive elements and animations with a no-code approach and supports real-time collaboration.

Let’s go more in-depth…

Let’s start with their design functionalities.

Webflow:

1. Visual CSS grid

This tool allows users to create complex grid structures with multiple rows and columns, adjust element size and spacing, and add custom breakpoints for optimized layouts on different screen sizes.

2. Responsive design

Webflow enables creating layouts for various device sizes and optimizing designs for desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. It also provides pre-built templates for responsive design, serving as a starting point for any screen size.

3. Animation tools

Webflow offers animation tools for creating interactive website experiences. These tools include linking animations and movement to the cursor position, such as fading in content while scrolling or revealing information on hover.

4. Templates and pre-built components

Webflow provides templates and pre-built components for users to easily create professional websites. These components, such as navigation menus and sliders, can be customized to match the website's design and branding.

Framer:

1. Advanced animation

Framer supports visual effects, interactive components, and dynamic animations triggered by scrolling, hovering, or pressing elements. It also provides access to Framer Motion, a React library for creating custom animation styles.

2. Component library

Framer allows you to create a library of reusable components for your team. Easily copy and paste these components between projects or add them to the Team Library for centralized management.

3. Design system support

Framer suggests creating a site for your design system. It should include a catalog of components and their various use cases, which can be easily shared with the team. This way, team members can simply copy and paste the component URL onto their canvas.

Now development…

Webflow

1. Code export

With a paid Webflow workspace plan, you can export your site's code and assets directly from the designer. This enables you to backup your code, share it with clients, or host it elsewhere without attribution.

2. Integrated Code Editor

Webflow is compatible with JavaScript and has an embedded code editor for creating and implementing code components. Proficiency in JavaScript is recommended for using this feature.

3. Built-in CMS

Webflow has a built-in CMS for creating and managing dynamic content on websites without coding or third-party tools. It includes custom collections, fields, form submissions, and blog management.

4. Integrations

Webflow has 280+ integrations to enhance your site. Connect to email marketing, form builders, social media, and customer engagement tools. External tool integration on Webflow is done with code via API, offering possibilities but requiring some knowledge.

5. E-commerce support

Webflow supports e-commerce with customizable product pages, inventory management, order tracking, and payment processing integrations with Stripe and PayPal.

Framer:

1. Code Editor

Developers can use React and JavaScript to extend Framer's capabilities. Framer has a built-in code editor for writing code components. Only use code in Framer if you are comfortable with React and JavaScript.

2. Code Components

Framer lets you add HTML to the canvas or create interactive React components for your projects.

3. Custom integrations

Framer has built-in integrations like Hubspot or Calendly. Developers with Javascript and React knowledge can use the component creation tool to add more integrations.

4. Importing external libraries

Framer can import ES Module-based code, but not all code will work. Your own library for Framer might work, but pre-made code may need adjustments to fit Framer's system.

Sooo which one should I choose?

In conclusion, the choice between Webflow and Framer depends on your needs and objectives.

Webflow is great for creating responsive websites and web applications without extensive coding knowledge. It's ideal for designers and developers looking for a versatile platform that streamlines the design-to-development process.

On the other hand, Framer is perfect for creating immersive user experiences and testing intricate interactions. It's the go-to choice for designers and product teams focused on crafting engaging user interfaces.

When thinking about your project, take into account what it needs, how comfortable you are with design and development tools, and how interactive you want it to be.

Both Webflow and Framer offer incredible value in their respective domains. You can explore and experiment with both to find the best fit for your creative vision.

…Aaaaand that’s a wrap🥳

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