Format vs Squarespace: Which One Is Better for Your Website in 2025?
Are you trying to choose between Format vs Squarespace for your website? Both platforms offer great tools. But the question is, which one best fits your needs?
Here’s the short answer: Format is better for photographers and artists who need a portfolio. On the other hand, Squarespace is best for most businesses, blogs, and online stores.
Both platforms have great features, but they serve different needs. In this article, we’ll compare their pricing, ease of use, design options, and more. By the end, you’ll know which one is right for you so you can make your decision. Let’s get started.
Key Takeaways
Knowing what Format and Squarespace offer is key to picking the right platform for you.
Format is great for creatives with its client management tools.
Squarespace has more features and templates for a wide range of websites.
Consider pricing, ease of use, and features to decide between Format and Squarespace.
What Is Format
Format is a website builder made for creative people. Photographers, artists, designers, videographers, and illustrators use Format to build professional-looking websites quickly.
The platform offers ready-to-use templates, tools to organize image galleries, ways to share work with clients, and options to sell products online.
Format helps creative professionals show their work online without needing technical skills. They can control how their work looks to visitors and potential clients.
Moreover, Format helps artists manage their work well and safely. It also has cool features for selling and sharing art. It's easy to use and has tools just for artists.
What is Squarespace
Squarespace is an all-in-one platform that gives you all the tools to build a professional website quickly. It helps you build websites without knowing how to code. You can create blogs, online stores, and business websites by dragging and dropping elements onto your pages.
The platform offers:
Ready-made templates that look good on phones and computers.
Tools to sell products online.
Blog features with comment sections.
Help to make your site show up in Google searches(SEO tools).
Reports that show how many people visit your site.
Options to buy your domain.
Ways to send marketing emails.
Tools to let customers book appointments and more.
Squarespace has launched a lot of useful updates in the last few years. Some of the the big updates are the Fluid Engine editor which gives you more design freedom and Squarespace Blueprint AI which allows you to build your website using the power of AI.
You can pay monthly or yearly to use Squarespace. Many small business owners, artists, and entrepreneurs choose Squarespace because it makes their websites look professional without hiring a designer.
By the way, Squarespace has a 14-day free trial that you can start with. No credit card is required for you when you start the trial. So feel free to use my discount code MEHDI10 to get 10% off of your first-year subscription with Squarespace.
Format vs Squarespace
When choosing between Format and Squarespace, it's important to consider the features that matter most to you.
Format is a more affordable option, particularly appealing to artists and photographers who want to showcase their work easily.
Squarespace, on the other hand, offers more features and flexibility. This makes it ideal for users who want a more robust website with advanced customization options.
Both platforms have their strengths, and understanding what each one offers can help you make the best choice.
When looking at website building platforms, like Squarespace vs Format, it's key to examine the data. This data shows how each platform meets different user needs. Let's take a quick look at what each offers.
Here’s a detailed comparison between Format and Squarespace based on their key features:
| Feature | Format | Squarespace |
|---|---|---|
| User Base | 100,000 active users | 3.8 million users |
| Template Options | 20+ mobile-responsive themes | Over 100 designer templates |
| Price Range | $6/month to $25/month | $16/month to $52/month |
| Payment Processors | 3 major platforms | More than 20 payment processors |
| Customer Support | Email support | 24/7 email support and live chat (4 AM to 8 PM EST weekdays) |
| SEO Tools Rating | 3.5 out of 5 stars | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| Analytics | Basic features | Advanced insights with real-time data |
Format’s affordability and simplicity might appeal to artists and photographers. However, Squarespace stands out with its broader range of features and a larger selection of templates.
If you're looking for more robust tools and customization, Squarespace may be the better choice, while Format could be a great option for those with simpler website needs. Ultimately, your decision depends on the specific requirements of your website and your budget.
You can also watch the below YouTube video comparison of Format vs Squarespace to learn more.
Format vs Squarespace: Which One Is Better?
Key Differences Between Format and Squarespace
When choosing between Format and Squarespace, you need to know how they differ. Here's a clear comparison to help you pick the right website platform.
1. Ease of Use
Squarespace makes website building simple with its drag-and-drop editor. You can see your changes instantly as you build your website. They offer helpful guides, videos, and an active community to answer your questions.
Format keeps things simple but focuses on creative professionals. Their tools work well for artists and photographers but might limit other business types. The platform guides you through setup but doesn't offer as many features as Squarespace.
2. Design and Customization Options
Squarespace gives you many professional templates for all kinds of businesses. All designs work well on phones and computers. You can change colors, fonts, and layouts easily. In addition to that, you can add custom code if you want.
Format comes with templates that showcase visual work beautifully. Their themes include features that photographers and artists need, like fullscreen galleries and image protection. These designs look great but serve creative fields better than general businesses.
3. Features and Tools
Squarespace includes everything you need: blogging, online stores, email marketing, and booking tools. You can add more functions through their extensions marketplace to grow your site as you want.
On the other hand, Format builds tools specifically for creative work, like client review galleries, password protection, and print ordering. These features help photographers and artists work with clients but don't support complex business needs as well.
4. Website Templates and Themes
Squarespace offers over 140 templates. They are modern and work for almost any type of website(blogs, stores, or business sites). You can easily customize colors, fonts, and layouts.
Templates are organized by industry, like photography or restaurants, so finding the right one is simple. All templates look great on both desktop and mobile.
For example, a restaurant might use the Atlantic template to show its menu and location. A blogger could pick the Almar template for a clean magazine-style look.
On the other hand, Format has fewer templates, but they are perfect for creatives. They focus on portfolios, with designs that highlight images and keep layouts clean.
Customization is easy, even for beginners. Some templates include tools for client proofing, which is great for photographers and designers.
For example, a photographer might use the Horizon template for a gallery-style portfolio. A designer could choose the "Reed" template to showcase projects in a grid format.
Key Differences
Squarespace has more than 140 templates, while Format has fewer themes but focuses on creative portfolios.
Squarespace is better for advanced customization, while Format keeps things simple.
Squarespace works for all types of websites, while Format is best for showcasing creative work.
Based on my experience and expertise, I would say Pick Squarespace if you want variety and flexibility for blogs, stores, or business sites. But only choose Format if you’re a creative professional who wants a simple, elegant portfolio.
5. Pricing and Plans
Format costs less, with plans starting around $8 to $13 per month. This makes it affordable for freelancers and independent artists. However, you pay more for additional features like client galleries.
On the other hand, Squarespace charges more(starting at $16 per month) but includes more business tools. The higher price brings better analytics, marketing features, and more powerful online store options.
6. SEO Capabilities
Squarespace gives you strong SEO tools built right in. You can easily edit meta descriptions, customize URLs, create 301 redirects, and add alt text to images.
Their structure helps search engines find and understand your content better.
Format offers basic SEO settings but doesn't provide as many advanced options. While you can add titles and descriptions to your pages, the platform lacks some deeper SEO customization that serious marketers might need.
7. E-commerce Functionality
Squarespace powers robust online stores with product variants, tax calculators, shipping options, and multiple payment gateways.
You can sell physical products, digital downloads, courses, and services all in one place.
Format focuses on selling creative works and offers print-on-demand services that connect directly with professional printers.
While effective for selling art prints and photo books, it lacks the comprehensive inventory management and shipping options that Squarespace provides.
8. Mobile Responsive Designs
Squarespace builds all templates with mobile-first thinking. Your site automatically adjusts to look great on phones, tablets, and computers without extra work. The platform tests design across many devices to ensure smooth performance everywhere.
Format also creates mobile-responsive templates but with special attention to how visual portfolios display on smaller screens. Their gallery layouts adapt particularly well to maintain image impact on phones.
You can preview your mobile design before publishing to ensure your work shows perfectly across devices.
9. Customer Support
Squarespace provides 24/7 email support and live chat during business hours. Their extensive knowledge base covers most common questions, though they don't offer phone support.
Format delivers specialized support from a team familiar with creative professionals' needs. They typically respond within 24 hours by email and offer chat support during business hours. Their smaller size sometimes allows for more personalized assistance.
10. Plugins and Extensions
Squarespace offers a growing collection of first-party extensions and integrations through its Marketplace. You can add tools for shipping, accounting, marketing, and social media without needing to code.
While not as extensive as WordPress plugins, these official extensions work seamlessly with the platform. However, there are a lot of free and premium Squarespace third-party plugins that you can find on platforms like Ghost Plugins.
Format takes a different approach by building specialized tools directly into its platform. Rather than offering many third-party plugins, they focus on creating purpose-built features for creative professionals.
This means fewer options but better integration of the tools they do provide, such as proofing galleries and print ordering.
11. Blogging Features: Squarespace vs Format
Squarespace makes blogging easy with tools built for content creators. You can organize posts with categories and tags, schedule posts in advance, and manage multiple authors.
It also lets you moderate comments, share posts on social media, and use AMP for faster mobile loading. The blog designs look professional and include helpful features like related posts and customizable content blocks.
You can read my blog blog post here for more information: Is Squarespace Good for Blogging?
Format focuses more on visual portfolios but still offers basic blogging tools. You can create and publish blog posts, but it lacks advanced features like scheduling, multiple authors, or detailed comment management. It works well for simple blogs but isn’t ideal for serious bloggers.
Choose Squarespace for powerful blogging tools or Format if you need a simple blog alongside a visual portfolio.
12. Website Speed: Format vs Squarespace
Website speed is critical for user experience and SEO, and both platforms handle it differently.
Squarespace delivers fast loading times thanks to its built-in Content Delivery Network (CDN), which ensures your site loads quickly for visitors no matter where they are.
It also includes features like AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) for blogs and automatic image optimization to keep things running smoothly.
As you can see in the picture example above, my Squarespace blog website has a 96 score in terms of performance. That’s according to PageSpeed Insights.
Format, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity and is optimized for visual content, which helps image-heavy portfolios load quickly. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of advanced speed optimization tools or CDN support as Squarespace.
If speed is a priority, Squarespace’s CDN and optimization features give it the edge, while Format is better suited for simple websites.
Think about what you need, how comfortable you are with technology, and your budget. Based on my experience using both platforms, I would say choose Format if you're a creative professional who needs to showcase visual work. But I highly recommend Squarespace if you want a custom website with room to grow.
Format vs Squarespace Pricing and Plans
When it comes to pricing, both Format and Squarespace offer a range of plans to suit different needs, but there are key differences to consider.
Squarespace Pricing and Plans
Squarespace provides four main pricing plans:
Squarespace Personal Plan: It costs $16 per month billed annually. It’s ideal for simple websites or blogs. It includes basic features but lacks advanced tools like e-commerce functionality.
Squarespace Business Plan: It costs $23 per month billed annually. It’s best for small businesses. It includes e-commerce features, though transaction fees apply.
Squarespace Commerce Basic: It costs $28 per month billed annually. It’s designed for online stores, this plan removes transaction fees and adds advanced selling tools.
Squarespace Commerce Advanced: It costs $52 per month billed annually. It’s perfect for growing businesses, offering the most advanced e-commerce features, like subscriptions and abandoned cart recovery.
By the way, Squarespace also offers a 14-day free trial to test the platform and have a look at all its features. No credit card is required during the trial period. So I highly encourage you to start your free trial now.
Format Pricing and Plans
Format focuses on creators and offers three main plans:
Basic Plan ($8/month): Great for simple portfolios with up to 100 images. It includes basic features but lacks advanced customization.
Pro Plan ($11/month): Best for professionals, offering unlimited images, video uploads, and more customization options.
Pro Plus Plan ($13/month): Includes everything in the Pro Plan, plus additional features like a custom domain for free for the first year and priority support.
Format also provides a 14-day free trial to explore its features. You might need to start the trial to have a look at all the available features.
Key Differences
Squarespace is more versatile, offering plans for blogs, businesses, and online stores, but it’s generally more expensive.
Format is more affordable and tailored for creators, especially those focused on visual portfolios, but it lacks advanced e-commerce and blogging tools.
If you need a feature-rich platform for blogging, business, or e-commerce, Squarespace is worth the investment. For creators on a budget who need a simple portfolio site, Format is a cost-effective choice.
Format vs Squarespace: Pros and Cons
Choosing between Format and Squarespace requires understanding their unique strengths and limitations. Both platforms offer valuable features, but they cater to different audiences. Let's delve into the pros and cons of each to guide your decision.
Format Pros and Cons
Pros:
Tailored for Creative Professionals: Format is designed specifically for photographers, artists, and designers, offering specialized tools to showcase visual work effectively.
User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive drag-and-drop functionality makes it accessible for users with minimal technical expertise.
High-Quality Image Rendering: Ensures fast loading speeds for high-resolution images, enhancing the visual appeal of portfolios.
Global Accessibility: Available in nearly 200 countries, making it a versatile choice for creatives worldwide.
Cons:
Limited Template Options: Compared to some competitors, Format offers a narrower selection of templates, which may restrict design flexibility.
Basic Blogging and eCommerce Features: While these functionalities exist, they are relatively simple and may not meet the needs of users seeking advanced capabilities.
No Free Plan: Format does not offer a free version, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
Squarespace Pros and Cons
Pros:
Extensive Template Selection: Offers over 140 professionally designed, mobile-responsive templates, providing ample customization options.
Comprehensive Features: Supports various website types, including eCommerce, blogs, and service-based sites, equipped with built-in SEO tools and analytics.
Integrated eCommerce Capabilities: Provides robust online store functionalities, including inventory management and a mobile app for on-the-go management.
Useful Squarespace AI features: Squarespace AI tools make building websites easier. They suggest designs, colors, and fonts for your site and help create logos or edit images without needing other apps.
Cons:
Transaction Fees on Business Plan: Charges a 3% transaction fee on sales made through the Business plan, which could impact profitability for small businesses.
Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While user-friendly, some advanced customization options may require a learning period for new users.
Here’s a quick look at some numbers comparing both platforms:
| Feature | Format | Squarespace |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Websites | ~500,000 portfolios | Over 2 million sites |
| Global Reach | Available in 200 countries | Extensive international presence |
| Template Options | Limited selection | 140+ flexible templates |
| eCommerce Features | Basic online store functionality | Advanced features with mobile management |
| Transaction Fees | None | 3% on Business plan |
| Pricing | Starts at $8/month | Starts at $16/month |
Format and Squarespace cater to different needs. Your choice depends on what's most important to you. Think about your needs and how each platform meets them to make the best decision.
Which Platform Is Right for You
Deciding between Format and Squarespace can greatly impact your online presence. If you're unsure, let's explore the details to help you choose the best option for your needs.
When to Choose Format
Format is perfect for photographers and artists who focus on direct client interactions. It allows for immediate trading, even without a subscription, for up to 3 products or services. With a subscription, you can trade without limits.
This platform is flexible, letting you customize templates with coding for more personal touches. It also offers free SSL certificates for online security. Format's tools make managing clients and proofing easy, ensuring your professional image is top-notch.
When to Choose Squarespace
Squarespace is ideal for creatives who need a large portfolio and an online store. Its extensive template library and advanced e-commerce features are a big plus.
It supports digital products and subscriptions. Moreover, it has great blogging tools with email list integration. Squarespace also has a strong community and detailed analytics for SEO. It's a solid choice for expanding your online business or presence.
Feel free to try Squarespace today for free and have a look at its new powerful features. No credit card is required during the trial period.
Conclusion: Squarespace vs Format
Choosing between Format and Squarespace is easier when you know what you need. Both platforms are great, but they work best for different goals.
Format is the way to go if you’re a creative professional who wants a simple portfolio with tools like client proofing. On the other hand, Squarespace is the better choice if you need a flexible website builder with beautiful templates, eCommerce features, and blogging tools.
Your decision depends on your website goals, budget, and the features you value most. Take advantage of their free trials to test them out and see which one feels right for you. Whether you choose Format or Squarespace, you’ll be on your way to creating a website that works for you.
But based on my experience, I think Squarespace is a great choice if you want a professional website and want to use AI to build a website faster.
That’s why I recommend that you start your 14-day Squarespace free trial to test all the features and website-building tools. You can also use my code MEHDI10 to get 10% off on the first year of using Squarespace.
More blog posts:
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs related to Squarespace and Format:
1. Is Format a good website builder?
Yes, Format is a great website builder, especially for creatives like photographers and designers. It’s easy to use, looks professional, and has cool tools like client proofing. But it’s best for portfolios, so it might not work well if you need a full online store or blog.
2. What’s the downside of Squarespace?
Squarespace charges transaction fees on some plans, which can cost you extra if you’re selling products. Also, while it’s very flexible, it might not have the special tools that some professionals, like photographers, need.
3. Is there anything better than Squarespace?
It depends on what you need. Squarespace is great for most people because it’s versatile and looks amazing. But if you’re creative, Format might be better for portfolios. For online stores, Shopify could be a better choice. It’s all about what fits your goals.
4. Can I sell products on Format?
Yes, Format lets you sell products, but it’s pretty basic. If you have a small store, it might work. But for bigger stores or more features, Squarespace or Shopify would be better.
5. Which is easier to use, Format or Squarespace?
Both are easy, but Format is simpler if you just want a portfolio. Squarespace has more features, so it might feel a bit more complicated at first, but it’s still user-friendly.
6. Do Format and Squarespace have free trials?
Yes, both Squarespace and Format offer 14-day free trials. No credit card is required. This is a great way to try them out and see which one you like before you pay.
