Highlighting Code Block Review - In-Depth Analysis
Easily add syntax-highlighted code blocks using prism.js. Supports both Block Editor and Classic Editor.
Performance Overview
User Rating
4.5/5 (based on 19+
reviews)
Active Installations
10,000+
Update Frequency
Average
It is calculated using the weighted average of same category
plugins.
Security Score
1 / 10
(Very Low Risk)
It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.
What It Does
The Highlighting Code Block plugin allows you to add a syntax-highlighted code block with just a click. It supports both the Block Editor and Classic Editor, although it is recommended to use it in the Block Editor.
To use the plugin, open the Formatting category of the Block Inserter in the Block Editor and select the custom block named Highlighting Code Block. You can then choose the language of the code and enter your code.
For Classic Editor users, you will see a select box labeled Code Block on the toolbar. Select a language from this box to insert a code block.
Make sure your PHP version is 5.6 or later and your WordPress version is 5.6 or later for the plugin to function properly. You can configure the plugin settings through the [HCB] Settings menu in the management screen.
Comparing to Alternatives
Highlighting Code Block is a straightforward plugin focused on code syntax highlighting within WordPress. Compared to other similar plugins, it offers basic functionality with some customization options.
Strengths
- Simple and easy to use for basic code highlighting needs.
- Supports uploading custom prism.js files for extended syntax support.
- Integrates well with the WordPress block editor.
- Lightweight and does not add significant overhead.
Weaknesses
- Limited syntax support, missing some popular languages like Java and Kotlin.
- No official support for complex code embedding scenarios.
- Occasional compatibility issues with non-block editors.
- Lacks advanced features found in premium alternatives.
User Sentiment Analysis
User feedback highlights both satisfaction with ease of use and concerns about limited syntax support and occasional errors.
Positive highlights
- "Exactly what I was looking for. thanks alot!" - Muhammad Zohaib
- "Works beautifully with the block editor and allows custom prism.js uploads." - Anonymous User 20287723
- "Very thanks!" - ishere
- "read code easily" - sazone
Common complaints
- Lack of support for Android-related syntaxes like Java, Kotlin, Flutter, and XML.
- Plugin errors causing site crashes in some environments.
- Issues when not using the block editor.
- Limited language support reduces usefulness for some developers.
Weaknesses
- Error handling could be improved to prevent site crashes.
- Better support for non-block editor users is needed.
- Expand supported languages to cover more development fields.
Who Should Use This?
Best for
Users who primarily use the WordPress block editor and need a simple, lightweight plugin to highlight code snippets with basic customization.
Not ideal for
Developers requiring extensive language support, Android developers, or those using classic editors may find this plugin insufficient for their needs.
Pricing & Value
Free version includes
The free version offers essential code highlighting features, including support for custom prism.js files and integration with the block editor, providing good value for basic use cases.
Final Verdict
Highlighting Code Block is a useful plugin for WordPress users who want straightforward code syntax highlighting within the block editor environment. Its simplicity and support for custom prism.js files are notable strengths.
However, its limited language support and occasional errors, especially outside the block editor, restrict its appeal to more advanced users or those working with diverse programming languages. Users should consider their specific needs before choosing this plugin.
Other Notable Features
Here are a few other notable features of this free
Highlighting Code Block plugin.
FAQ
The following languages are available by default.
- HTML
- CSS
- SCSS
- JavaScript
- TypeScript
- PHP
- Ruby
- Python
- Swift
- C
- C#
- C++
- Objective-C
- SQL
- JSON
- Bash
- Git
Contributors and developers
“Highlighting Code Block”
is open source software. The following people have
contributed to this plugin.