"Free website builder" usually refers to DIY platforms (the likes of free plans from big builders) that let you create a basic website without upfront payment. They offer templates, drag-and-drop editors and a hosted subdomain (yourname.provider.com). While cost-free sign-up is attractive, these plans limit functionality, branding, SEO and long-term performance.
Short answer: not always. For hobby sites, yes. For small businesses that need leads, you'll often pay more later to unlock essential features.
Free plans commonly display the builder's ads or logo. Removing these usually requires a paid plan.
A proper domain (yourbusiness.com) is often not included — expect annual fees for domain registration or to upgrade.
Page speed, schema markup, and server-level SEO features are commonly restricted on free tiers, hurting search rankings.
For trades and local services, a managed website that prioritises local SEO, fast hosting and unlimited updates typically generates more enquiries than a free, limited page.
SEE A BETTER OPTIONSide-by-side practical difference for a small service business in 2025.
If your goal is more local leads, predictable cost and fast edits, Congero's managed service typically outperforms "free" solutions that create friction for real customers.
GET A PRO WEBSITE IN 60sA short, practical checklist to switch without downtime and start getting enquiries.
Text "GO" to our WhatsApp bot or click the demo link.
Business name, services, locations and a logo — simple text answers.
AI publishes a live preview in under 60 seconds; request edits via text.
We register or transfer your domain and handle DNS for you.
Monthly analytics and unlimited edits keep your site converting.
Search engines reward speed, clarity and structured data — areas where free plans frequently fall short.
Shared, slow hosting and large unoptimised images lower Core Web Vitals — a ranking factor in 2025.
If you can't edit titles, descriptions or URL structure, it's hard to win local searches for services near you.
Structured data (LocalBusiness schema), consistent NAP and Google Business Profile connection are essential — often locked behind paid tiers.
We include local SEO, schema markup and performance-optimised hosting as standard, so your business stands a better chance of ranking for local searches.
SEE SEO-READY SITESShort answers to common worries when choosing between a free builder and a managed business website.
Congero builds professional, mobile-first websites in 60 seconds, includes domain, hosting and local SEO, and keeps things simple with unlimited text-in updates for $49/month. No lock-ins. No surprises.
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