Gutenberg vs Classic Editor – Which WordPress Editor Is Easier?

If you’re just starting a WordPress blog, you’ve probably heard of Gutenberg (a.k.a. the Block Editor) and the Classic Editor. Both are powerful tools to create blog content—but they offer very different experiences.

So, which one should you, a beginner blogger, use?

In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare Gutenberg vs Classic Editor head-to-head, explain how each editor works, highlight their pros and cons, and help you decide which is better suited for your blogging needs.

Whether you love simplicity or want full creative control, this guide will make your decision easier.

What Are Gutenberg and Classic Editor in WordPress?

Before we compare them, let’s understand what each editor is:

Gutenberg (Block Editor)

Introduced in WordPress 5.0 (2018), Gutenberg is the default editor. It’s a block-based system, where every paragraph, image, list, or heading is treated as a “block”.

• You drag and drop blocks to build your layout
• It’s more visual and flexible
• No coding skills needed

Classic Editor

The Classic Editor is the old, TinyMCE-based editor that looks like a simplified Microsoft Word.

• One big content box
• All content lives in a single space
• Familiar for traditional writers or Word users

Gutenberg vs Classic Editor: Key Differences

Let’s break it down side-by-side:

Feature	Gutenberg (Block Editor)	Classic Editor
Interface	Visual block-based UI	Text editor-like interface
Ease of Use	Moderate learning curve	Very beginner-friendly
Design Control	High (drag & drop blocks)	Low
Media Embeds	Built-in block options	Needs manual embedding
Customization	Highly customizable	Limited
Speed	Slightly slower initially	Very fast to write
Plugin Compatibility	Fully supported by modern plugins	Still supported, but phasing out

Pros and Cons of Gutenberg Editor

✅ Pros:

• Visual Editing Experience
  You can actually see what your blog post will look like as you build it.
• Reusable Blocks
  Save a block (like a CTA) and reuse it in multiple posts.
• Full Width Layouts
  Supports columns, cover blocks, and layout flexibility.
• More Plugin Integrations
  Many modern themes and plugins are built for Gutenberg.

❌ Cons:

• Learning Curve
  Not as intuitive for users used to Word-like editors.
• Some Bugs or Glitches
  Complex layouts can occasionally cause formatting issues.
• Requires Better Hosting
  Slightly heavier than Classic Editor in load.

Pros and Cons of Classic Editor

✅ Pros:

• Simple and Familiar
  Feels just like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
• Fast Content Entry
  Great for just writing and publishing quickly.
• Stable and Lightweight
  Rarely causes formatting issues or crashes.

❌ Cons:

• Outdated
  Doesn’t support modern design or features.
• No Block Customization
  Layouts are rigid unless you use shortcodes or HTML.
• Fewer Integrations
  Many plugins and themes no longer optimize for Classic Editor.

Real Use Case Comparison

1. Writing a Basic Blog Post

• Classic Editor: Faster and simpler
• Gutenberg: Takes longer but looks better

2. Creating a Landing Page

• Classic Editor: Needs external page builder (like Elementor)
• Gutenberg: Can handle columns, buttons, and more without plugins

3. Embedding a YouTube Video

• Classic Editor: Paste the embed code
• Gutenberg: Use the built-in YouTube block

Why Did WordPress Push Gutenberg?

WordPress aims to modernize the publishing experience. Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Webflow are visual-first. Gutenberg helps WordPress stay competitive with:

• Drag-and-drop interfaces
• Layout control
• Seamless media embedding
• Future expansion into full-site editing

So even though it’s new, Gutenberg is the future of WordPress.

Which WordPress Editor Should You Use as a Beginner?

Choose Gutenberg if:

• You want modern layouts without needing a page builder
• You don’t mind a small learning curve
• You’re starting fresh with WordPress and want future-proof tools

Choose Classic Editor if:

• You just want to write simple blog posts
• You’re more comfortable with Word-style interfaces
• You’re using a theme or plugin that requires it

💡 Pro Tip: You can use both by installing the “Classic Editor” plugin and switching between editors per post.

How to Switch Between Gutenberg and Classic Editor

Step 1: Install the Classic Editor Plugin

Go to: Plugins → Add New → Search “Classic Editor” → Install & Activate

Step 2: Choose Default Editor

Settings → Writing → Choose either Classic Editor or Block Editor

You can also allow switching per post if you want both options!

Our Take: Gutenberg vs Classic Editor – What We Recommend

At Helping Bloggers, we help beginners launch and grow successful blogs. Here’s our recommendation:

Start with Gutenberg.
It’s the future of WordPress, offers more flexibility, and gives you a long-term advantage.

That said, if you’re overwhelmed, try Classic Editor first. It’s still fully supported and can help you focus on just writing.

The best part? You’re never locked in—you can switch editors anytime.

Helpful Plugins That Enhance Both Editors

Here are a few plugins to consider depending on the editor you choose:

For Gutenberg:

• Ultimate Blocks
• Kadence Blocks
• Stackable

For Classic Editor:

• TinyMCE Advanced
• Shortcodes Ultimate

Final Verdict: Gutenberg vs Classic Editor

Editor	Best For
Gutenberg	Beginners who want drag-and-drop control
Classic Editor	Beginners who want simplicity & speed

Start with the one that fits your style. Just remember — Gutenberg is the future, and most themes and plugins will be built for it going forward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

The debate between Gutenberg vs Classic Editor will likely continue—but here’s the truth:

👉 Gutenberg offers the creative freedom and flexibility that today’s content demands.
👉 Classic Editor gives you the simplicity and speed that many beginners crave.

Either way, you’re not making a wrong choice. Choose what works for you now — and adapt as you grow.