We’re in a golden age of WordPress theming. Full Site Editing (FSE) is revolutionizing how we build websites, offering unparalleled flexibility and control. Gone are the days of clunky page builders and rigid theme frameworks. Now, we can craft truly unique designs, fine-tune every element, and unleash our creative vision with the power of WordPress blocks.
And the best part? Many of the best FSE themes are completely free, opening up a world of possibilities to website owners of all budgets. In this article, we'll explore 21 of the most stunning and versatile FSE themes, highlighting their key features and showcasing why they're perfect for your next project. We'll also cover the pros and cons of FSE themes and answer some common questions about this exciting new era in WordPress.
What is WordPress Full Site Editing?
Before diving into the best themes, let's take a moment to understand what makes FSE so special. In essence, FSE empowers you to edit every facet of your website directly within the WordPress editor, using a unified block-based system. Imagine a drag-and-drop interface where you can seamlessly rearrange layouts, style text, add images, and customize every detail without ever leaving the WordPress dashboard.
This approach drastically simplifies the website building process, eliminating the need for separate page builders or external design software. It also ensures a consistent experience across all devices, ensuring your website looks fantastic on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
The Advantages of Choosing an FSE Theme
Choosing an FSE theme offers a plethora of benefits:
- Flexibility and Control: FSE empowers you to create a truly unique website that reflects your brand and vision. Customize every element, from typography and colors to layouts and animations.
- Ease of Use: The block-based editor is intuitive and user-friendly, making website building a breeze. No coding experience is required to unleash your creative potential.
- Responsive Design: FSE themes automatically adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring your website looks perfect on all devices.
- SEO-Friendly: FSE themes are built with SEO in mind, incorporating best practices for better search engine visibility.
- Cost-Effective: Many excellent FSE themes are available for free, allowing you to build a professional website without breaking the bank.
The 21 Best WordPress Full Site Editing Themes of 2024 (Mostly Free)
Now, let's dive into the heart of this article – the 21 best FSE themes for 2024, categorized by their intended use and specific features:
1. Twenty Twenty-Four (Free)
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Twenty Twenty-Four is the latest default WordPress theme, and it showcases the power of FSE in its purest form. It's designed to be a blank slate, allowing you to start from scratch and customize every aspect of your website. Its simplicity and flexibility make it perfect for personal blogs, portfolios, and businesses looking for a clean and modern aesthetic.
Key Features:
- Block-based layout system
- Customizable header and footer
- Built-in support for custom fonts
- Multiple color palettes
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Extremely flexible and customizable
- Minimalist design ideal for showcasing content
Cons:
- Requires more effort for complex designs
- Limited pre-built templates
2. Astra (Free/Pro)
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Astra is one of the most popular WordPress themes, and for good reason. It's fast, lightweight, and highly customizable, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced developers alike. Astra's FSE capabilities are robust, providing pre-built templates, starter sites, and a wealth of customization options.
Key Features:
- Extensive customization options
- Pre-built templates for various niches
- Integration with popular page builders
- Fast loading speeds
- WooCommerce-ready
Pros:
- Wide range of starter sites and templates
- Highly customizable and easy to use
- Excellent performance optimization
Cons:
- Some advanced features require the Pro version
3. OceanWP (Free/Pro)
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OceanWP is another highly regarded FSE theme, renowned for its ease of use and impressive design capabilities. It offers a clean and modern aesthetic, along with a wide variety of customizable elements, making it a versatile choice for various websites. OceanWP excels in creating stunning landing pages and showcasing content effectively.
Key Features:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Pre-built website demos
- Extensive customization options
- WooCommerce compatibility
- Fast loading speeds
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Pre-built demos for quick setup
- Excellent performance and SEO
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
4. Neve (Free/Pro)
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Neve is a fast-loading and lightweight FSE theme known for its flexibility and minimalist design. It's perfect for creating clean, modern websites, especially those focused on showcasing content or highlighting products. Neve offers a wide range of pre-built templates and customization options, allowing you to create a unique and visually appealing website.
Key Features:
- Fast loading speeds
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- Built-in support for WooCommerce
- Easy to use and customize
Pros:
- Minimalist design and fast loading speeds
- Extensive customization options
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Some advanced features require the Pro version
5. Blocksy (Free/Pro)
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Blocksy is an exceptional FSE theme, designed to prioritize performance and user experience. It offers a sleek and modern aesthetic with a focus on speed and efficiency. Blocksy is a fantastic choice for those looking to create fast-loading websites without compromising on design.
Key Features:
- Fast loading speeds
- Extensive customization options
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- WooCommerce integration
Pros:
- Excellent performance optimization
- Highly customizable and easy to use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Some advanced features require the Pro version
6. GeneratePress (Free/Pro)
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GeneratePress is a powerful FSE theme known for its speed, flexibility, and lightweight design. It's a favorite among developers for its clean code and easy customization. GeneratePress offers a fantastic base for building custom websites, especially those with complex layouts and demanding performance requirements.
Key Features:
- Ultra-fast loading speeds
- Lightweight and efficient design
- Extensive customization options
- WooCommerce support
- Highly SEO-optimized
Pros:
- Excellent performance and SEO
- Customizable and flexible design
- Developer-friendly and clean code
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
7. Zakra (Free/Pro)
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Zakra is a versatile FSE theme offering a range of pre-built templates and customization options. It's ideal for creating various websites, from blogs and portfolios to e-commerce stores. Zakra is a great option for those looking for a theme with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of design possibilities.
Key Features:
- Pre-built website demos
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- WooCommerce integration
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Wide range of pre-built demos
- Easy to customize and use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
8. Hestia (Free/Pro)
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Hestia is a modern and visually appealing FSE theme designed to create stunning websites with minimal effort. It offers a variety of pre-built demos and customization options, making it perfect for showcasing products or services. Hestia is a great option for businesses looking for a professional and modern website.
Key Features:
- Pre-built website demos
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Modern and visually appealing design
- Pre-built demos for quick setup
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
9. Kadence (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Kadence Theme]
Kadence is a powerful and flexible FSE theme, known for its speed, customization options, and seamless integration with popular page builders. It's ideal for creating unique and visually appealing websites, especially those with complex layouts and advanced design requirements. Kadence is a fantastic choice for businesses and agencies looking to create high-quality websites.
Key Features:
- Fast loading speeds
- Extensive customization options
- Pre-built website demos
- WooCommerce integration
- Elementor integration
Pros:
- Excellent performance and customization
- Pre-built demos and starter sites
- Integration with popular page builders
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
10. Sydney (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Sydney Theme]
Sydney is a clean and modern FSE theme designed for businesses, portfolios, and freelancers. It features a minimalist design and a focus on showcasing content effectively. Sydney is a great option for those looking for a professional and easy-to-use theme to create a website quickly.
Key Features:
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Clean and modern design
- Easy to customize and use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Limited pre-built templates
- Some features require the Pro version
11. ColorMag (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of ColorMag Theme]
ColorMag is an excellent FSE theme specifically designed for magazines and blogs. It features a stylish layout and a focus on showcasing content effectively. ColorMag is a great option for those who want to create a professional and engaging magazine or blog website.
Key Features:
- Magazine-style layout
- Multiple post formats
- Customizable header and footer
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Ideal for magazines and blogs
- Easy to customize and use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Not as versatile as other FSE themes
12. Business Blog (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Business Blog Theme]
Business Blog is a well-designed FSE theme specifically for businesses and bloggers. It offers a modern and professional layout, with a focus on showcasing content and driving engagement. Business Blog is a great option for businesses looking to create a website that showcases their brand and expertise.
Key Features:
- Business-focused layout
- Multiple post formats
- Customizable header and footer
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Ideal for businesses and bloggers
- Easy to customize and use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Not as versatile as other FSE themes
13. Storefront (Free)
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Storefront is an official FSE theme designed specifically for WooCommerce stores. It's a clean and functional theme focused on creating a seamless shopping experience. Storefront is a great option for those looking to build an online store with WordPress and WooCommerce.
Key Features:
- WooCommerce-specific design
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- Integration with popular WooCommerce extensions
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Designed specifically for WooCommerce
- Easy to customize and use
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Limited customization options compared to other FSE themes
14. WordPress (Free)
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The default WordPress theme is a powerful and flexible FSE theme that provides a clean and modern canvas for building websites. It's a great starting point for beginners who want to learn how to use WordPress and the block editor. WordPress offers a minimal design, allowing you to focus on your content.
Key Features:
- Block-based layout system
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- Responsive design
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Simple and easy to use
- Minimalist design
Cons:
- Requires more effort for complex designs
- Limited pre-built templates
15. Hello Elementor (Free)
[Insert Image of Hello Elementor Theme]
Hello Elementor is a lightweight and flexible FSE theme designed specifically for use with the Elementor page builder. It's a great option for those who are familiar with Elementor and want a simple yet powerful theme to build their websites. Hello Elementor provides a blank canvas for creating unique designs with Elementor.
Key Features:
- Elementor-specific design
- Customizable header and footer
- Multiple layout options
- Responsive design
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Ideal for Elementor users
- Simple and easy to use
- Customizable and flexible
Cons:
- Requires Elementor for full functionality
16. Blank (Free)
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Blank is a completely blank FSE theme, offering no pre-defined elements or layouts. It's perfect for experienced developers who want ultimate control over every aspect of their website design. Blank allows you to create a unique and highly customized website from scratch.
Key Features:
- No pre-defined elements or layouts
- Completely customizable
- Block-based layout system
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Ideal for experienced developers
- Unlimited customization possibilities
- Minimalist design
Cons:
- Requires advanced coding skills
17. The7 (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of The7 Theme]
The7 is a powerful and feature-rich FSE theme known for its stunning visual effects and advanced customization options. It's ideal for creating unique and visually appealing websites for businesses, agencies, and portfolios. The7 offers a wide range of pre-built templates and design elements, allowing you to create a truly unique and professional website.
Key Features:
- Stunning visual effects
- Extensive customization options
- Pre-built website demos
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Wide range of design elements and templates
- Powerful and customizable
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Some features require the Pro version
18. Enfold (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Enfold Theme]
Enfold is a multi-purpose FSE theme designed to create various websites, from blogs and portfolios to e-commerce stores. It offers a wide range of pre-built templates and customization options, making it a versatile and powerful choice for any website. Enfold is known for its advanced features and flexibility.
Key Features:
- Pre-built website demos
- Extensive customization options
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Versatile and powerful
- Wide range of pre-built demos
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Some features require the Pro version
19. Avada (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Avada Theme]
Avada is a popular and feature-rich FSE theme, known for its extensive customization options and pre-built website demos. It's ideal for creating various websites, from personal blogs to business websites. Avada is a great option for those looking for a versatile and powerful theme with a wide range of design possibilities.
Key Features:
- Pre-built website demos
- Extensive customization options
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
- SEO-friendly
Pros:
- Versatile and powerful
- Wide range of pre-built demos
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Some features require the Pro version
20. Divi (Free/Pro)
[Insert Image of Divi Theme]
Divi is a popular FSE theme known for its drag-and-drop builder and extensive customization options. It's ideal for creating unique and visually appealing websites for businesses, agencies, and portfolios. Divi offers a wide range of pre-built templates and design elements, allowing you to create a truly unique and professional website.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop builder
- Extensive customization options
- Pre-built website demos
- WooCommerce integration
- Responsive design
Pros:
- Easy to use and customize
- Wide range of design elements and templates
- WooCommerce-ready
Cons:
- Some features require the Pro version
21. ThemeForest (Various Paid Themes)
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ThemeForest is a popular marketplace where you can find a vast collection of premium FSE themes, including many with advanced features and unique designs. If you're looking for a theme that offers unparalleled customization options and advanced features, ThemeForest is an excellent resource.
Key Features:
- Wide range of premium FSE themes
- Advanced features and unique designs
- Support from theme developers
- Regular updates
Pros:
- Access to premium FSE themes
- Advanced features and unique designs
- Support from theme developers
Cons:
- Requires a paid subscription
The Pros and Cons of Full Site Editing Themes
While FSE themes offer numerous advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Pros:
- Intuitive and User-Friendly: The block-based editor makes website building a breeze, even for beginners with no coding experience.
- Flexibility and Customization: FSE themes offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to customize every aspect of your website to match your unique vision.
- Responsive Design: All FSE themes automatically adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring your website looks fantastic on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
- SEO-Friendly: Many FSE themes are built with SEO in mind, incorporating best practices for better search engine visibility.
- Cost-Effective: Many excellent FSE themes are available for free, making it possible to build a professional website without breaking the bank.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: While the block editor is user-friendly, it may take some time to learn all the features and functionalities.
- Limited Theme Options: Compared to traditional themes, FSE themes may offer fewer pre-built templates and design elements.
- Performance Considerations: Some FSE themes may require more resources, which can impact website loading speed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Full Site Editing Themes
Here are some common questions we receive about FSE themes:
1. Are FSE themes compatible with older versions of WordPress?
FSE themes require a recent version of WordPress (5.9 or higher) to function correctly. If you're using an older version, you'll need to upgrade to use FSE themes.
2. Can I use FSE themes with page builders?
Yes, you can use FSE themes with page builders like Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Gutenberg. However, some themes may be designed specifically for use with a particular page builder, so it's essential to check the compatibility before choosing a theme.
3. Do I need to know how to code to use FSE themes?
No, you don't need to know how to code to use FSE themes. The block-based editor is intuitive and user-friendly, making website building a breeze even for beginners. However, some advanced customization options may require basic coding knowledge.
4. What are the best FSE themes for e-commerce?
Several excellent FSE themes are specifically designed for e-commerce, including Storefront, Astra, OceanWP, and Kadence. These themes offer features like product display options, shopping cart integration, and support for popular WooCommerce extensions.
5. What are the best FSE themes for blogs?
Many FSE themes are excellent for blogs, including ColorMag, Business Blog, and Twenty Twenty-Four. These themes offer features like magazine-style layouts, multiple post formats, and customizable blog sections.
Conclusion
Full Site Editing is transforming the WordPress landscape, offering unprecedented flexibility and control for website creators. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a complete novice, there's an FSE theme out there to suit your needs and budget.
We've covered 21 of the best FSE themes, highlighting their key features and showcasing why they're perfect for various website projects. From free options like Twenty Twenty-Four and Astra to premium choices like The7 and Divi, you have a wealth of possibilities to explore.
Remember, the best FSE theme for you depends on your specific requirements, design preferences, and budget. Take your time, explore the options, and choose the theme that best fits your vision for your website. As the FSE landscape continues to evolve, we'll be sure to update this list with the latest and greatest themes.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of FSE themes and unleash your creative potential with WordPress!