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Custom Field Template

By Hiroaki Miyashita

Content Management / Document Management & Downloads

Reviewed by Abdul Hameid

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

Custom Field Template Review - In-Depth Analysis

The Custom Field Template plugin extends the functionality of custom fields. It allows users to set and manage custom field templates for posts and pages.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.88/10

User Rating

4/5 (based on 24+ reviews)

Active Installations

30,000+

Update Frequency

Outstanding It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

5.1 / 10 (Medium Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

The Custom Field Template plugin adds default custom fields on the Write Post/Page screen. Users can set any number of custom field templates and switch between them while writing or editing posts.

This plugin supports TinyMCE in the textarea, media buttons, and allows for multiple fields with the same key. Users can customize the design of the custom field template with CSS and replace custom keys with labels.

It also offers various options for inserting custom field values into tags, using shortcodes, and supports localization for multiple languages. The plugin is designed to enhance the management of custom fields efficiently.

Comparing to Alternatives

Custom Field Template is a well-established plugin for managing custom fields but faces competition from several popular alternatives offering varied features and user experiences.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Long-term active maintenance ensuring compatibility with WordPress updates
Highly flexible for advanced users familiar with custom fields
Strong community presence with many years of use
No paid version, fully functional free plugin
Regular updates addressing security vulnerabilities

Weaknesses

Steep learning curve for beginners
Complex interface not intuitive for simple tasks
Known security vulnerabilities in past versions, though fixed in updates
Lacks official paid support options for users needing hand-holding

User Sentiment Analysis

With a solid majority of 5-star ratings, users appreciate the plugin's reliability and long-term maintenance, though about a quarter of ratings are low, reflecting usability challenges.

Positive highlights

'Exellent plugin' - beloepero
'Very useful plugin' - aschlemmer
'Actively maintained and reliable' - edwinbradford
'Thanks for solving the issue' - Ravi

Common complaints

Plugin is too complex for simple tasks like adding individual banners
Confusion about supported image extensions and handling multiple images in posts

Weaknesses

Steep learning curve noted by users
Interface complexity causing frustration
Limited guidance or support for non-developers
Past security issues may concern cautious users

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Experienced WordPress users or developers who need a flexible and actively maintained custom fields plugin and are comfortable learning its interface.

Not ideal for

Beginners or users seeking a simple, intuitive solution for basic custom field needs or those requiring dedicated support and hand-holding.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version includes full functionality for creating and managing custom fields without restrictions, making it a cost-effective choice for users.

Final Verdict

Custom Field Template is a powerful and mature plugin with a strong track record of maintenance and updates, including important security fixes. It offers great value as a free tool for advanced users needing flexible custom field management.

However, its complexity and past security vulnerabilities may deter beginners or those seeking a simpler, more user-friendly experience. Alternatives like Advanced Custom Fields may better suit users wanting easier setup and dedicated support.