Silex
Silex is a free, libre, and open-source visual website builder specifically designed for static sites.
Our verdict
Who it's for
Build static websites visually with this free, open-source, and community-owned no-code platform.
Who should look elsewhere
May have a learning curve for users expecting a zero-learning-curve, 10-minute site builder.
Pros
- +Completely free and open-source, with no hidden costs or 'enshittification' risk.
- +Strong emphasis on web standards, promoting future-proof web development skills.
- +Flexible architecture with options for self-hosting and various CMS integrations.
- +Community-owned and driven, ensuring development aligns with user needs.
- +Creates fast, accessible, SEO-optimized, and eco-friendly static websites.
Cons
- −May have a learning curve for users expecting a zero-learning-curve, 10-minute site builder.
- −Advanced features like desktop app and premium templates are dependent on community funding.
- −Primarily focused on static sites, which might not suit all dynamic web application needs.
Key features
- ✓Visual editor for static sites
- ✓CMS integration (WordPress, Strapi, Squidex, Supabase, custom API)
- ✓Hosting included
- ✓Self-hosting capability
- ✓Templates for agencies and freelancers (via funding)
- ✓Desktop application (Windows, macOS, Linux) for offline work (under development)
- ✓Local-first and offline-first capabilities (desktop app)
- ✓Open-source AI integration (desktop app)
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Billing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Silex Cloud | $0 | month | Standard website builder features; No advertising, no tracking; Accommodation GitLab Pages |
| Open Silex Desktop app | $0 | month | AI integration; Works offline, no account needed; You manage hosting, deployment, backups |
| Silex Desktop app Self-Hosted | $0 | month | Full control on your infrastructure, you host Silex+GitLab+11ty+CMS on your servers; No limits in GitLab; Sovereign |
| Managed Hosting | — | month | Self-hosting without constraints; Self accommodation of Silex+GitLab+11ty+CMS; Updates and maintenance |
| No-Code Development | $1500 | month | Design implementation; CMS setup; Deployment & hosting |
| Support & Consulting | $100 | month | Technical support; Architecture review; Migration assistance |
| Custom Development | — | month | Custom Silex plugins; GrapesJS components; 11ty integrations |