Classic Editor Review - In-Depth Analysis
Restores the classic WordPress editor and Edit Post screen. Supports plugins that extend the classic interface.
Performance Overview
User Rating
4.9/5 (based on 1234+
reviews)
Active Installations
9,000,000+
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
Classic Editor is an official plugin maintained by the WordPress team that restores the previous classic WordPress editor and the Edit Post screen. It makes it possible to use plugins that extend that screen, add old-style meta boxes, or otherwise depend on the previous editor.
Classic Editor is an official WordPress plugin, and will be fully supported and maintained until 2024, or as long as is necessary.
At a glance, this plugin adds several features. Administrators can select the default editor for all users and allow users to change their default editor. When allowed, users can choose which editor to use for each post. Each post opens in the last editor used regardless of who edited it last, which is important for maintaining a consistent experience when editing content.
In addition, the Classic Editor plugin includes several filters that let other plugins control the settings, and the editor choice per post and per post type. By default, this plugin hides all functionality available in the new block editor.
Comparing to Alternatives
Classic Editor is a straightforward plugin that restores the traditional WordPress editing interface, appealing to users who prefer simplicity over the newer block editor.
Strengths
- Restores the familiar classic editing interface.
- Lightweight and fast with no unnecessary features.
- Simple and clean user experience without distractions.
- Widely supported and maintained by WordPress core team.
Weaknesses
- Lacks modern block editing features.
- Interface feels outdated compared to newer editors.
- Limited customization options.
- Not suitable for users wanting advanced content layouts.
User Sentiment Analysis
User feedback highlights appreciation for the plugin's simplicity and reliability, though some note its dated feel and missing features.
Positive highlights
- "Feels simple and familiar." - pablo740
- "Lightweight, fast, and doesn’t add unnecessary features." - Sky North
- "Simple and clean editor, works smoothly." - corinne30
- "Makes editing feel clean and easy again." - scottkerr2
- "Perfect for users who prefer the old WordPress." - Get Homeservice Quotes
Common complaints
- Feels outdated and misses modern block options.
- Lacks some new editing features.
- Limited options for customization.
- Not suitable for users wanting advanced content creation.
Weaknesses
- Interface is basic and not visually modern.
- No integration with block-based workflows.
- Minimal feature set compared to newer editors.
Who Should Use This?
Best for
Users who prefer the classic WordPress editing experience and want a simple, distraction-free writing environment without the complexity of block editors.
Not ideal for
Users seeking advanced content layout options, block editing features, or modern editing tools will find this plugin limiting.
Pricing & Value
Free version includes
The free version fully restores the classic WordPress editor with no limitations, providing a reliable and simple editing experience.
Final Verdict
Classic Editor remains a valuable plugin for those who prefer the traditional WordPress editing interface, offering simplicity and reliability without added complexity.
While it lacks modern features and customization, it effectively serves users who want a straightforward, familiar editing experience without the block editor.
Other Notable Features
Here are a few other notable features of this free
Classic Editor plugin.
FAQ
When activated and when using a classic (non-block) theme, this plugin will restore the previous (“classic”) WordPress editor and hide the new block editor (“Gutenberg”).
These settings can be changed at the Settings => Writing screen.
There are two options:
- When network-activated and when using a classic (non-block) theme, this plugin will set the classic editor as default and prevent site administrators and users from changing editors.
The settings can be changed and default network-wide editor can be selected on the Network Settings screen. - When not network-activated each site administrator will be able to activate the plugin and choose options for their users.
It is in the main block editor menu, see this screenshot.
No, as block themes rely on blocks. See Block themes article for more information.
Contributors and developers
“Classic Editor”
is open source software. The following people have
contributed to this plugin.
