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Syntax-highlighting Code Block (with Server-side Rendering)

By Weston Ruter

Content Management / Blog & Article Publishing

Reviewed by Abdul Hameid

Trusted WordPress expert with 20+ years of experience evaluating plugins for the WP ecosystem.

Syntax-highlighting Code Block (with Server-side Rendering) Review - In-Depth Analysis

Enhance WordPress Code blocks with server-side syntax highlighting for better performance and AMP compatibility.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

7.04/10

User Rating

5/5 (based on 26+ reviews)

Active Installations

1,000+

Update Frequency

Below 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

This plugin extends the Code block in WordPress core to add syntax highlighting which is rendered on the server. Pre-existing Code blocks on a site are automatically extended to include syntax highlighting. Doing server-side syntax highlighting eliminates the need to enqueue any JavaScript on the frontend and this ensures there is no flash of unhighlighted code.

Reducing script on the frontend improves frontend performance, and it also allows for the syntax highlighted code to appear properly in AMP pages. This extended Code block uses language auto-detection to add syntax highlighting, but you can override the language in the block's settings sidebar.

The plugin supports all programming languages that highlight.php supports. The Code block also is extended to support specifying lines to highlight which get marked up with code elements. There is also a checkbox for whether to show line numbers on the frontend. Lastly, given inconsistencies across themes regarding whether lines in a Code block should be wrapped, this plugin adds styling to force them to no-wrap by default.

For advanced usage, please see the plugin wiki. This plugin is developed on GitHub. See the list of current issues with the plugin. Please feel free to file any additional issues or requests that you may come across. Pull requests are welcome.

Comparing to Alternatives

This plugin stands out in the syntax highlighting category with no direct feature-for-feature competitor matching its server-side rendering approach and performance focus.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Enhances the existing WordPress code block without adding new blocks
Supports a wide range of programming languages
Allows line numbering and highlighting specific code parts
Requires no configuration for immediate use
Improves performance by using server-side rendering

Weaknesses

Lacks a download or copy button for code blocks
Theme customization instructions could be clearer
Limited user interface customization options
No built-in automatic language detection

User Sentiment Analysis

With a perfect 5-star rating from all 26 reviewers, user feedback is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting ease of use and performance benefits.

Positive highlights

"Muy bueno!" - diegoamorin appreciates the plugin's enhancement of the existing code block and extensive language support
"It’s time to switch to get more performance!" - Gwyneth Llewelyn values the improved rendering speed and reduced browser CPU usage
"Works great, thanks!" - Marie Comet
"This works nicely." - OllieJones
"Very good job!" - Salvatore Noschese notes the plugin's good appearance and functionality despite minor feature requests

Common complaints

Weaknesses

Missing a download or copy button for code blocks
Theme customization instructions are not immediately clear
No new blocks added, which may limit flexibility for some users

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users who want a lightweight, high-performance syntax highlighting solution that integrates seamlessly with the default WordPress code block and requires minimal setup.

Not ideal for

Users seeking extensive customization options, built-in copy/download buttons, or automatic language detection may find this plugin less suitable.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version offers full functionality including server-side rendering, support for many languages, line numbering, and code highlighting without any configuration needed.

Final Verdict

Syntax-highlighting Code Block (with Server-side Rendering) delivers excellent performance and ease of use, making it a top choice for users wanting to enhance their WordPress code blocks without added complexity. Its perfect user ratings and lack of security issues reinforce its reliability and quality.

While it lacks some advanced features like copy buttons and extensive customization, its strengths in server-side rendering and seamless integration make it a valuable plugin for most users looking for efficient syntax highlighting.