If you’re new to WordPress, choosing a theme can be a daunting task. With thousands of WordPress themes available, it’s hard to determine which is the best for your website. It’s essential to choose a theme that suits your needs, is visually appealing, and is functional. Here are some steps you can take to select the best WordPress theme for your site.
1. Choose the right WordPress Theme
Start by narrowing the field. Stick to themes from reputable developers that are updated regularly and have plenty of active installs and reviews. A shortlist of three to five well-supported themes is much easier to compare than thousands of options.
2. Understand your website’s purpose
Before choosing a WordPress theme, you should understand the purpose of your website. The type of website you’re creating will determine the theme you should choose. For instance, if you’re creating a blog, you should look for a theme that’s compatible with blog posts, allows you to showcase different categories, and features a clean and straightforward layout. On the other hand, if you’re creating an e-commerce website, you should look for a theme that’s compatible with online stores, has excellent navigation, and showcases your products attractively.
3. Consider your branding and design needs
Your website should reflect your brand’s identity and values. Therefore, you should select a WordPress theme that’s compatible with your branding needs. For instance, if your brand’s color scheme is blue and white, you should look for a theme that supports these colors. Additionally, consider the layout and design of the theme. The best WordPress theme should be visually appealing, have a clean and professional look, and showcase your content attractively.
4. Check for functionality
Functionality is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing the best WordPress theme. The theme you select should be responsive, meaning it should be compatible with different devices, including smartphones and tablets. It should also load quickly, have excellent navigation, and be easy to customize. Additionally, it’s crucial to check if the theme is compatible with popular WordPress plugins, such as WooCommerce, SEO, and Contact Form.
5. Consider the user experience
The best WordPress theme should provide an excellent user experience to your visitors. You should choose a theme that’s easy to navigate, provides easy access to your content, and showcases your products and services attractively. Additionally, check if the theme supports different post formats, such as audio, video, and galleries, to make your content more engaging.
6. Look for customer support
When choosing the best WordPress theme, it’s vital to consider customer support. The theme you choose should have excellent customer support in case of any issues. Additionally, consider the theme’s ratings and reviews, as they provide insight into the theme’s quality and user experience. Look for a theme that has good ratings and positive reviews.
7. Consider the pricing
WordPress themes come in different price ranges, from free to premium. While free themes are attractive, they may not have all the features you need for your website. Additionally, premium themes come with extra features, excellent customer support, and regular updates. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the pricing and features of the theme you’re selecting.
8. Test the theme
Before selecting the best WordPress theme, it’s crucial to test it to determine if it suits your needs. Most WordPress themes offer a demo version that you can test before purchasing. Additionally, test the theme’s responsiveness, user experience, and functionality. You can also test the theme by installing it on a test site and testing it for a few days before making a final decision.
Our Recommendation
- GeneratePress
- OceanWP
- Neve
- Kadence
“Do Not” Recommend Themes
- Disadvantages of Divi
- Try your hardest to avoid all theme builders like Elementor, Oxygen, Beaver, WPBakery, Wix, etc.
In conclusion, choosing the best WordPress theme is crucial to the success of your website. The theme you choose should be visually appealing, functional, and provide an excellent user experience.
Frequently asked questions
Which WordPress theme does Von recommend?
GeneratePress, OceanWP, Neve, and Kadence. All four are on the recommended list. Start with a shortlist like that, then pick the one that fits your site's purpose and branding. Comparing four themes beats scrolling through thousands, and your afternoon will thank you.
Are free WordPress themes good enough for a business site?
Sometimes. Free themes are attractive, but they may not have every feature your site needs. Premium themes usually add extra features, customer support, and regular updates. Decide what your website actually has to do first, then see whether a free theme covers it before paying for one.
Should I use a page builder like Elementor with my theme?
No. Try your hardest to avoid theme builders like Elementor, Oxygen, Beaver, WPBakery, and Wix. Divi is on the do-not-recommend list too. A well-built theme from a reputable developer that's updated regularly is the better foundation for your site.
How do I test a WordPress theme before committing to it?
Use the demo, then install it on a test site. Most themes offer a demo version you can try first. Better yet, run the theme on a test site for a few days and check responsiveness, navigation, and how easy it is to customize before you switch.
Does a WordPress theme need to work on phones?
Yes. A theme should be responsive, meaning it works on smartphones and tablets as well as desktops. It should also load quickly and play nicely with common plugins like WooCommerce, SEO tools, and contact forms. A theme that only looks good on a big monitor is half a theme.
