When planning a new website, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a template-based website or invest in a custom website build. Both have their advantages and the best option depends on your business goals, budget, and how flexible you need the site to be.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences, outline the benefits of each, and cover the typical costs and timelines involved.

Template Websites – Fast, Affordable, and Practical

A template website is built using pre-designed layouts available through platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress themes. You choose a design, plug in your content, and you’re ready to go.

✅ Benefits:

• Speed to launch: You can have a site live in days, not weeks.
• Lower cost: Ideal for startups and small businesses.
• Built-in functionality: Templates often include mobile optimisation, SEO tools, contact forms, and more out of the box.
• No technical expertise needed: Most platforms offer drag-and-drop editors.

💷 Typical cost:

• £500–£1,500, depending on the platform, hosting, and any premium add-ons or help from a freelancer.

⏳ Timescale:

• 1 day to 2 weeks, depending on how much content you already have and whether you DIY or hire a designer.

Custom Website Builds – Tailored, Scalable, and Fully Yours

A custom website is designed and developed from the ground up, specifically for your business and users. This is the route to take if you want full control over branding, user experience, and future scalability.

✅ Benefits:

• Unique design: Built to reflect your brand and differentiate you from competitors.
• Bespoke functionality: You’re not limited by what a template or plugin can do.
• Better performance: Faster, more secure, and easier to scale or integrate with other systems (e.g. ERP or CRM).
• Ownership & flexibility: No reliance on proprietary platforms, your site is yours to host and manage.

💷 Typical cost:

• £2,000–£15,000+, depending on complexity, integrations, and whether e-commerce or multilingual support is required.

⏳ Timescale:

• 4–8 weeks, including design, development, content loading, testing, and deployment.

So, Which Should You Choose?

Final Thoughts

If you’re just starting out or need a web presence quickly, a template website is a smart, cost-effective choice. But if your website is a key part of your business model or you want to future-proof your online presence a custom build is worth the investment.

At NW ERP, we support businesses in choosing the right web and systems infrastructure for growth. Whether you’re building a simple brochure site or integrating a custom e-commerce platform with your ERP, we can help you plan, execute, and scale it.

Need help deciding? Get in touch for a no-pressure chat about your website goals.