Final verdict
Format and Jimdo both offer unique advantages, but they cater to different user needs and preferences.
-
Format (Overall Grade: 5.8/10)
is tailored for creative professionals such as photographers, artists, and designers. It excels in providing visually appealing, customizable templates and an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, making it easy for users to showcase their portfolios. However, its ecommerce capabilities and plugin support are limited, which may not be ideal for users looking for extensive customization and advanced features. When comparing Format vs Jimdo, Format is best suited for creatives seeking a straightforward platform to display their work. -
Jimdo (Overall Grade: 7.2/10)
stands out with its user-friendly design and comprehensive feature set, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from personal bloggers to small business owners. It offers a diverse range of templates, robust ecommerce functionalities, and strong marketing tools. Jimdo’s AI capabilities and flexible user management further enhance its appeal. In the Format vs Jimdo comparison, Jimdo is the better choice for users seeking a versatile and easy-to-use platform with more advanced features and customization options.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Design functionalities & templates |
7.0 |
7.2 |
Ease of use |
8.3 |
8.0 |
Ecommerce |
5.2 |
7.0 |
Website Editors |
7.5 |
7.8 |
Product testing options |
8.3 |
6.4 |
Price |
7.9 |
7.5 |
Hosting quality |
5.0 |
6.7 |
Website speed optimization |
5.0 |
7.6 |
Plugins and integrations |
4.9 |
7.4 |
Marketing features |
5.3 |
7.2 |
Customer support |
7.0 |
6.8 |
Security |
7.4 |
8.3 |
AI capabilities |
0.0 |
6.0 |
User Management |
2.8 |
5.8 |
Best for ecommerce
Verdict
: Jimdo is the better choice for ecommerce, offering a more comprehensive set of features and higher scores in key areas compared to Format.
-
Format
: Format is tailored for creative professionals, offering basic ecommerce functionalities that are sufficient for photographers and artists. However, its ecommerce capabilities are limited, with a score of 5.2, making it less suitable for extensive online stores. When comparing Format vs Jimdo, Format’s focus on showcasing portfolios may not meet the needs of more complex ecommerce operations. -
Jimdo
: Jimdo excels with a score of 7.0, providing a robust set of ecommerce features that cater to small businesses and ecommerce entrepreneurs. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive tools, including no transaction fees and extensive product page customization, make it a more versatile option for a wider range of users.
Best for informational & business websites
Verdict
: When it comes to creating informational and business websites, Jimdo slightly outperforms Format. Jimdo’s diverse range of templates and comprehensive hosting services make it a versatile choice for various industries. Format, while excellent for creative professionals, may not offer the same level of flexibility for broader business needs.
-
Format
: Format is tailored for creative professionals, offering nearly 100 customizable templates designed to showcase portfolios beautifully. Its drag-and-drop interface and integrated online store make it a solid choice for artists, photographers, and designers. However, its focus on creative fields might limit its appeal for more general business websites. Format scores 7.2 in this category. -
Jimdo
: Jimdo is a user-friendly platform suitable for a wide range of users, from personal blogs to small business websites. It offers a diverse range of templates and robust hosting options, making it a versatile choice for various industries. Jimdo’s ease of use and comprehensive design functionalities make it ideal for those looking to create professional-looking informational websites without extensive technical skills. Jimdo scores 7.4 in this category.
Detailed comparison
Design functionalities & templates
Design FunctionalitiesRepresents how well each platform allows for creative design and customization of websites.Score Components:
- Template Variety (30%): Range and quality of design templates.
- Customization (30%): Flexibility and options for design alterations.
- User Interface (20%): Ease and intuitiveness of the design process.
- Responsiveness (10%): Adaptability to different devices and screen sizes.
- Innovation (10%): Unique design features and tools.
Winner: Jimdo.
Although both platforms offer a range of templates and design functionalities, Jimdo edges out with a slightly higher score and a more diverse range of templates suitable for various industries and user preferences.
Format is a website builder specifically designed for creatives, offering nearly 100 customizable templates tailored for various artistic disciplines. It emphasizes high-quality imagery and mobile-friendly designs, ensuring portfolios look professional on any device.
On the other hand, Jimdo offers a diverse range of templates suitable for various industries and user preferences, with options to preview and select templates easily. The platform allows flexibility in changing templates for existing websites and also provides a “Blank Template” for custom designs, catering to both beginners and advanced users.
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Ease of use
Ease of useReflects the platform’s overall user-friendliness.Score
Components:
- Learning curve (40%): Quickness and ease of getting started.
- Interface design (30%): Simplicity and intuitiveness of layout.
- User guidance (20%): Quality of tutorials and support.
- Flexibility (10%): Adaptability to various user skills.
🏆 Winner: Format
. Scoring 8.3, Format edges out Jimdo, which scored 8.0, in terms of ease of use. Format’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface and straightforward dashboard make it accessible for users without extensive technical skills. While Jimdo is also user-friendly, especially for beginners, it may not be ideal for more complex websites or those requiring advanced customization.
Learning Resources
🏆 Winner: Jimdo
. Both platforms offer solid learning resources, but Jimdo stands out with its user-friendly tools that cater to both beginners and those with some experience in website design. Format, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive help center and an official YouTube channel.
For ecommerce
EcommerceMeasures the platform’s effectiveness in supporting online business activities.Score Components:
- Ecommerce themes and templates (20%): Variety and design of templates.
- Product management (25%): Ease of managing and organizing products.
- Payment options (25%): Variety and convenience of payment methods.
- Ecommerce features (20%): Features for managing an ecommerce store.
- Integration (10%): Compatibility with external e-commerce tools and services.
When it comes to ecommerce, Jimdo outperforms Format with a score of 7.0 compared to Format’s 5.2. While Format offers basic ecommerce functionalities tailored for creatives and photographers, Jimdo provides a more comprehensive set of ecommerce features suitable for a wider range of users, including small businesses and ecommerce entrepreneurs.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Ecommerce themes and templates |
4.0 |
6.5 |
Product page customization |
5.5 |
6.8 |
Payment processing and commissions |
4.5 |
7.5 |
POS capabilities |
0.0 |
5.0 |
Payment gateways |
6.5 |
7.0 |
Product numbers |
5.0 |
6.0 |
Additional ecommerce features |
3.5 |
6.5 |
Format ecommerce features:
- Inventory management and tracking
- Discounts
- Multiple currency options
Jimdo ecommerce features:
- Product details and variations
- Inventory tracking
- No transaction fees
- Discount codes and promotions
- Email marketing
Ecommerce themes & templates
Format does not offer ecommerce-specific templates, which may limit its appeal for those looking to build a comprehensive online store. On the other hand, Jimdo offers a diverse range of pre-designed ecommerce templates that are mobile-friendly and easy to customize, making it a more attractive option for those looking to launch an online store.
Product page customization
Format offers limited details on product page customization, focusing more on showcasing products through high-quality imagery and detailed descriptions. In contrast, Jimdo allows for extensive customization of product pages, including editing text, adding images, adjusting layouts, and modifying design elements to enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the online store.
Payment processing
Format integrates with major payment gateways like Paypal and Stripe but charges a commission on sales, which may not be ideal for all users. It also lacks built-in POS capabilities. Jimdo, however, facilitates payment processing through various popular gateways and does not impose transaction fees, making it a more flexible and cost-effective option for ecommerce.
Website Editors
Website EditorsEvaluates the platforms’ website building and editing capabilities.Score Components:
- Customization tools (40%): Range and power of editing features.
- Editor usability (30%): User experience within the editor.
- Design flexibility (20%): Freedom in layout and design changes.
- Update and maintenance ease (10%): Simplicity of updating and maintaining the site.
🏆
Winner: Jimdo
. Jimdo, with a score of 7.8, offers two main modes: Jimdo Dolphin and Jimdo Creator. Dolphin, an AI-driven tool, is ideal for beginners and creates websites based on user responses to a series of questions, streamlining the web design process. On the other hand, Jimdo Creator provides a more traditional website building experience with greater customization options, including a drag-and-drop editor and HTML widgets, catering to users seeking more control over their site’s design.
Format’s editor, scoring 7.5, offers a variety of features for creating online portfolios. It provides nearly 100 professionally designed templates and thousands of design variations without requiring any coding. Users can express creativity with custom pages, incorporating unique gallery layouts, colors, text formatting, and custom code embeds. The templates and pages are fully responsive, ensuring a mobile-first experience. Format also supports direct video hosting, high-quality image rendering, and easy template switching to give sites a new look.
Mobile editor/app
🏆
Winner: Jimdo
. Both Format and Jimdo offer mobile-friendly websites, but only Jimdo provides a dedicated mobile app for editing and managing websites. Format does not offer a dedicated mobile app, and while it is possible to edit your website using a mobile browser, the interface is the same as the desktop version, which can be challenging to use on a smartphone.
On the other hand, Jimdo offers a mobile editor app, allowing users to create and manage their websites directly from their smartphones or tablets. This app provides a convenient way to edit and update your site on the go, including adding or modifying content, adjusting design elements, and managing your online store.
In summary, Jimdo’s mobile editor app offers more flexibility and convenience for users who want to manage their websites on the go, earning it a higher score in this category.
Product testing options
Product Testing OptionsAssesses the options for trying out platform features before commitment.Score Components:
- Trial quality (40%): Extent and usefulness of the trial or free version.
- Feature accessibility (30%): How many features are available to test.
- Trial duration (20%): Length of the trial period.
- Ease of transition (10%): Smoothness of moving from trial to paid plans.
Overall Result
:
Format wins
. Format scores 8.3 in product testing options, while Jimdo scores 6.4. Format offers a 14-day free trial during which users can test all premium features. They also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee. On the other hand, Jimdo offers a free version with basic features and a 14-day money-back guarantee for all paid plans.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Free Plan |
No |
Yes |
Trial Duration |
14 days | No, however they have 14 days money back guarantee |
Testing Premium Features |
Yes, during the free trial |
Yes, with paid plans |
Money Back Guarantee |
30 days |
14 days |
Price
PriceLooks at the cost-effectiveness and value for money of each platform.Score Components:
- Plan value (40%): What each pricing tier offers.
- Transparency and clarity (30%): Clearness of pricing structures.
- Flexibility of plans (20%): Range of options to suit different budgets.
- Hidden costs (10%): Additional expenses not included in the plan.
Format and Jimdo have similar price scores, indicating that they offer comparable value for money. However, Format is specifically designed for creative professionals, while Jimdo caters to a wider range of users.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Free |
No offering at this amount. |
Play ($0/month): Basic, entry-level plan offering limited features, ideal for testing Jimdo’s capabilities. Includes 500MB storage and up to 5 website pages. Limited ecommerce functionality. |
$0-$10 |
No offering at this amount. |
Start ($9/month): Aimed at small projects or businesses just starting out. Provides 5GB of storage and up to 10 website pages, along with SEO tools for online visibility. Not directly focused on ecommerce. Value for price: 6.0 |
$10-$17 |
Basic ($12.00/month): Offers core services like mobile-optimized site, up to 10 web pages, and up to 70 high-resolution images. 3 client galleries, up to 2GB file transfers. No video uploads or custom code editor. Value for price: 5.0 |
Grow ($15/month): Targets growing businesses needing more space and features. Offers more flexibility but still lacks dedicated ecommerce capabilities compared to the Business plan. Provides 20GB bandwidth with up to 50 website pages. Value for price: 7.0 Basic ($15/month): Up to five forwarding email addresses, up to 10 website pages, convenient payment methods. Value for price: 6.5 |
$15-$25 |
Pro ($24.00/month): Includes all from Basic, plus unlimited web pages, 1500 high-resolution images,15 mins video hosting, 100GB cloud storage, a free custom domain, Online Store with up to 15 products, 50 client galleries and up to 5GB file transfers. Value for price: 7.5 |
Business ($19/month): Designed for small to medium-sized online stores, offering ecommerce features without transaction fees. Includes selling on Facebook and Instagram, and various payment options. And up to 50 website pages. Value for price: 8.0 |
$30+ |
Pro Plus ($36.00/month): Adds on Pro features with priority support, unlimited pages and high-res images, 120 mins video hosting, and 1TB cloud storage. Online Store with up to 1000 products, 250 client galleries and 10GB file transfers. Value for price: 8.5 |
VIP ($39/month): Provides comprehensive features for large or expanding online stores, including unlimited storage and priority support and unlimited website pages. Includes professional design review and no transaction fees. Value for Price: 9.0 Unlimited ($39/month): Offers unlimited bandwidth and storage, up to 20 forwarding email addresses and unlimited website pages. Includes priority support and professional design reviews. Value for Price: 9.5 |
location. As a result in rare cases the prices displayed here can differ from the ones you see on their
websites.
Hosting quality
Hosting
qualityExamines the reliability and performance of the hosting solutions.Score Components:
- Uptime (40%): Consistency and reliability of website availability.
- Speed (30%): Loading times and performance.
- Bandwidth and storage (20%): Sufficiency of resources provided.
- Data centers (10%): Quality and distribution of hosting infrastructure.
🏆
Winner: Jimdo
Jimdo offers a more comprehensive hosting service, with shared, cloud, and managed hosting options, an uptime of 99.5%, and a distributed network of secure data centers. Format, on the other hand, does not provide specific information about its hosting type, uptime, or data centers, which makes it difficult to assess its hosting quality.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Do they offer hosting? |
Yes |
Yes, included in all plans |
Data Centers: |
Not disclosed |
Distributed network of secure facilities |
Type of hosting: |
Not disclosed |
Shared Hosting, Cloud Hosting, Managed Hosting |
Uptime: |
Not disclosed |
99.5% |
Uptime Guarantee: |
Not disclosed | No |
Website Speed Optimization
Website Speed OptimizationEvaluates optimization of website loading timesScore Components:
- PageSpeed Score (30%): Google’s score indicating performance optimization.
- Loading Time (30%): The average time until a website is fully interactive.
- Mobile Optimization (15%): Optimization effectiveness for mobile devices.
- Resource Optimization (15%): Optimizing images, scripts, and other heavy resources.
- CDN Usage (10%): Use of CDN to enhance speed across geolocations.
🏆 Winner: Jimdo
Both Format and Jimdo prioritize website performance and page speed, but Jimdo has a more comprehensive approach to speed optimization, which gives it an edge over Format.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
Focus |
Image and video optimization |
Content Optimization, CDN, Image optimization, Caching, Mobile Responsive design |
Performance Tools |
Not specified |
Not specified |
Key Strategies |
Image and video optimization |
Content Optimization, CDN, Image optimization, Caching, Mobile Responsive design |
Load Times |
Varies depending on optimization and website complexity |
Varies widely, dependent on optimization |
Page Speed Scores Range |
Not specified |
Scores vary; influenced by plugins, images |
Core Web Vitals Improvement |
Not disclosed |
Optimizing LCP, Enhancing FID, Improving CLS |
Jimdo’s approach to enhancing site speed includes content optimization, use of content distribution networks (CDN), image optimization, caching, and mobile responsive design. These strategies help to improve the load times and PageSpeed scores of websites built with Jimdo. In addition, Jimdo is focused on improving Core Web Vitals by optimizing Largest Contentful Paint (LCP), enhancing First Input Delay (FID), and improving Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS).
On the other hand, Format’s approach to speed optimization is primarily focused on image and video optimization. However, the load times and PageSpeed scores of websites built with Format can vary depending on the level of optimization and the complexity of the website. Format does not disclose any information on their Core Web Vitals improvements.
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Plugins and integrations
Plugins and integrationsMeasures the range and effectiveness of additional plugins and integrations.Score Components:
- Variety of options (40%): Range of available add-ons.
- Integration smoothness (30%): Ease of integrating plugins into the site.
- Quality of plugins (20%): Functionality and reliability of the options.
- Custom integration capabilities (10%): Support for custom or third-party integrations.
🏆 Winner: Jimdo.
Jimdo scores 7.4, offering a range of plugins and extensions that enhance website functionality and cater to diverse business and marketing needs. Format, with a score of 4.9, offers support for a limited selection of plugins/integrations, which may pose a challenge for users looking for a more extensive suite of tools to customize and enhance their website’s functionality.
Marketing Features
Design FunctionalitiesRepresents how well each platform allows for creative design and customization of websites.Score Components:
- Template Variety (30%): Range and quality of design templates.
- Customization (30%): Flexibility and options for design alterations.
- User Interface (20%): Ease and intuitiveness of the design process.
- Responsiveness (10%): Adaptability to different devices and screen sizes.
- Innovation (10%): Unique design features and tools.
🏆
Overall Winner: Jimdo
. Jimdo stands out with its more comprehensive marketing tools, especially in SEO, email marketing, and social media integration. Format, while offering basic marketing functionalities, lacks in advanced features.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
SEO Tools |
Basic SEO tools for page titles, meta descriptions, and image alt tags | Comprehensive SEO features including mobile optimization, image optimization, and Google Analytics integration |
Email Marketing |
Basic email marketing through branded email and email subscriber forms | Comprehensive email marketing tools including customizable templates, audience segmentation, and performance tracking |
Blogging |
Basic blogging features including blog posts and comments | Advanced blogging features including category management, commenting system, social media integration, and analytics integration |
Social Media Integration |
Direct Instagram integration for displaying Instagram feed on the website | Comprehensive social media integrations including social media buttons, live feeds, social sharing options, and Facebook Pixel integration |
Analytics and Reporting |
Google Analytics integration for tracking visitor traffic and page views | Integrated analytics for monitoring website traffic and Google Analytics integration for in-depth insights |
Ads and Promotions |
Basic promotional features including discounts and discount codes | Comprehensive promotional tools including Google Ads integration, promotional banners/pop-ups, email marketing, and discount codes/coupons for ecommerce |
Customer Support
Customer supportEvaluates the quality and availability of support options.Score Components:
- Response time (40%): Speed of support responses.
- Support quality (30%): Effectiveness and helpfulness of the support.
- Availability (20%): Range of support channels (phone, chat, email).
- Resource richness (10%): Quality of self-help and educational materials.
🏆 Winner: Format
. Comparing Format vs Jimdo, Format takes the lead in this category with a customer support score of 7.0. Format offers 24/7 customer support through email and live chat, ensuring users can get help whenever they need it. The support team is distributed across different countries, which enhances their availability and responsiveness.
Jimdo, with a customer support score of 6.8, provides various support channels, including email, a call center, a knowledge base, and social media support. However, it lacks live chat support, which can be a drawback for users needing immediate assistance. Despite this, Jimdo’s comprehensive help center and specific request forms for common issues are valuable resources for users.
Security
SecurityLooks at the platforms’ security measures and data protection.Score Components:
- Data protection (40%): Safeguards for user and customer data.
- SSL and encryption (30%): Implementation of secure connections.
- Compliance (20%): Adherence to industry security standards.
- Regular updates (10%): Frequency of security updates and patches.
🏆
Winner: Jimdo
. Jimdo’s security measures are comprehensive, including a strong firewall, DDoS protection, HTTPS encryption for all traffic, and SSL certificates for domains. They also ensure GDPR compliance and maintain a dedicated team for legal and information security. These measures create a safe environment for Jimdo users and their websites.
Format also emphasizes user data security with encrypted data storage and strict access controls. They regularly update their security measures to protect against new threats and comply with data protection regulations like GDPR. However, they do not provide as many details about their website security measures as Jimdo does, which may be a factor in their lower security score.
AI Capabilities
AI capabilitiesMeasures the effectiveness of AI-driven features and tools.Score Components:
- Automation efficiency (40%): Impact of AI on streamlining processes.
- Personalization (30%): AI-driven customization for users or customers.
- AI-Assisted design (20%): Role of AI in website design and functionality.
- Data analysis (10%): Use of AI in interpreting user data and analytics.
|
|
|
---|---|---|
AI Website Builder |
|
Jimdo offers an AI-driven website builder |
AI Ecommerce Features |
|
Basic AI-powered design suggestions for store layouts |
AI Content Generation |
|
|
Additional AI Features |
|
AI guides users through website creation process |
🏆 Winner: Jimdo
. Jimdo, with a score of 6.0, offers basic AI capabilities, primarily integrated into its website creation and ecommerce features. It provides an AI-driven website builder, AI-powered design suggestions for store layouts, and guides users through the website creation process based on their responses to a series of questions.
Format, on the other hand, does not have any AI capabilities. It focuses on providing a range of customizable templates and an intuitive drag-and-drop interface for creative professionals to showcase their portfolios.
User Management
User ManagementAssesses the platforms’ capabilities in managing user roles, permissions, and accessibility.Score Components:
- Role Customization (40%): Flexibility in creating and defining user roles and
permissions. - Ease of Management (30%): User interface and tools for managing users.
- Access Control (20%): Effectiveness of access control measures for different user
levels. - Scalability (10%): Ability to manage a growing number of users efficiently.
🏆 Winner: Jimdo
. When it comes to user management, Jimdo offers more flexibility than Format.
- Format allows only one user to manage and edit websites.
- Jimdo’s Free, Start, and Basic Shop Plans allow website management by a single owner. The Grow Shop Plan permits two editors, including the account owner and one collaborator. The Business Plan extends collaboration to five editors, consisting of the account owner and four collaborators. The Unlimited Plan provides unlimited editors, fostering a collaborative team environment. The VIP Plan, designed for online stores, does not specify a limit on editors for websites.
Additional Features
|
|
|
---|---|---|
SSL Certificate |
|
|
Custom Domain |
|
|
Free Custom Domain Included |
|
|
International Domains |
|
|
Mobile Responsive |
|
|
Page Speed |
|
|
Website Builder Mobile App |
|
|
Convert a Website To An App |
|
|
Website Analytics |
|
|
Multilingual Sites |
|
|
Multiple Users |
|
|
User Feedback
Users highly praise Format for its user-friendly website builder, particularly noting the ease of adding images and the effectiveness of customer service. Many reviewers appreciate the variety of modern templates and the platform’s suitability for users without technical expertise, especially photographers. Format’s mobile app and proofing section receive special mentions for their convenience and functionality. However, some users desire more customization options, particularly for mobile views, and mention minor limitations in template flexibility and SEO functionality. Overall, Format is celebrated for its ability to provide a professional online presence easily and efficiently, solving users’ needs for showcasing work and attracting new clients.
Jimdo, a website builder platform, receives mixed reviews from users. Positive feedback highlights its ease of use, no-code editor, and quick website development for basic sites. However, criticisms include outdated design, limited templates, and concerns about pricing transparency. Some users appreciate it for simple projects, while others find it lacking for more complex websites. Common issues include restricted SEO in the free tier, support limitations, and late responses. The overall impression suggests Jimdo may suit beginners but could be less ideal for those seeking advanced features or modern designs.
The making of this blog
We followed a clear, step-by-step process to write and research this article.
FAQ
Which platform is better for creative professionals, Format or Jimdo?
Can I use Jimdo for ecommerce?
Is Format easy to use for someone without coding knowledge?
How do Format and Jimdo compare in terms of website speed and optimization?
Which platform offers better customer support, Format or Jimdo?
Are there any AI capabilities in Format or Jimdo?
Which platform is more suitable for a user looking for a wide range of plugins and integrations?
How do the platforms compare in terms of additional features like SSL certificates and mobile responsiveness?