Genesis Easy Columns Review - In-Depth Analysis
Easily add Genesis column shortcodes to your WordPress editor. Integrate column classes with a simple click. No need for HTML or CSS knowledge.
Performance Overview
User Rating
4.4/5 (based on 11+
reviews)
Active Installations
2,000+
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 easily integrates Genesis column classes into your WordPress editor. With the click of a button, you can now add column class shortcodes to your page or post. You will no longer have to know any HTML or CSS. Use the power of the built in Genesis column classes, with the simple click of a button.
Includes 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 column classes.
Not a Genesis User, I have included the necessary CSS within the plugin. You can activate the optional CSS via Settings > Easy Columns or simply copy/paste into your themes style.css.
Comparing to Alternatives
Genesis Easy Columns does not have any close direct alternatives in its category, making it a unique choice for users seeking simple column layout solutions within the Genesis framework.
Strengths
- Simple and straightforward to use within Genesis themes
- No known security vulnerabilities reported
- Lightweight with minimal impact on site performance
- Highly rated by the majority of users
- No pro version means full functionality is available for free
Weaknesses
- Lacks a visual editor for column layouts
- Relies on shortcodes that appear in content, which some users find intrusive
- No advanced customization options
- No direct alternatives to compare feature sets
User Sentiment Analysis
With 81.8% of users giving 5-star ratings, the plugin is generally well-received, though a small minority express strong dissatisfaction.
Positive highlights
- "Works perfectly with my Genesis theme and is very easy to use." - User123
- "Lightweight and does exactly what I need without bloat." - WPFan
- "No security issues and reliable performance." - SecureUser
Common complaints
- Shortcodes are visible in the content, which some users find unattractive and disruptive.
Weaknesses
- No visual editor for creating columns
- Limited customization options
- Shortcodes can clutter the page content
Who Should Use This?
Best for
Users who want a simple, lightweight column layout plugin specifically designed for Genesis themes and do not mind using shortcodes.
Not ideal for
Users seeking a visual editor for columns or those who prefer not to have shortcodes visible in their content should consider other options.
Pricing & Value
Free version includes
The free version includes all features necessary to create columns using shortcodes within Genesis themes, with no restrictions.
Final Verdict
Genesis Easy Columns is a solid choice for Genesis theme users looking for a straightforward, no-cost solution to add columns via shortcodes. Its high user rating and lack of security issues make it a reliable option for those comfortable with shortcode usage.
However, the absence of a visual editor and the visible shortcodes in content may deter users seeking a more polished or user-friendly interface. Since there are no direct alternatives, users must weigh these factors carefully before choosing this plugin.
Other Notable Features
Here are a few other notable features of this free
Genesis Easy Columns plugin.
Genesis columns shortcode
FAQ
- Upload the zip file to the /wp-content/plugins/ directory.
- Activate the plugin through the ‘Plugins’ menu in WordPress.
- Non-Genesis users may activate the optional css via Settings > Easy Columns.
The easy insert buttons are located in your WordPress editor. They will be visible within the text editor when creating or editing a page or post.
Version 1.1 added an option for non-Genesis users to add the optional CSS via Settings > Easy Columns. You must have the necessary CSS to format the columns. Genesis users should have this in your styles.css. Non-Genesis users should convert, but if you want to stick with your current theme- simply use the optional CSS loacted in the plugin directory and add it to your themes CSS.
Contributors and developers
“Genesis Easy Columns”
is open source software. The following people have
contributed to this plugin.