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

By Weston Ruter

Content Management / Blog & Article Publishing

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

6.72/10

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

Syntax-highlighting Code Block (with Server-side Rendering) offers a straightforward approach to code syntax highlighting with server-side rendering, distinguishing itself from other popular plugins.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Server-side rendering improves performance and SEO.
Simple and easy to use interface.
Supports multiple programming languages.
Lightweight and minimal dependencies.

Weaknesses

Limited customization options compared to competitors.
No active pro version with advanced features.
Smaller user base and community support.
Fewer integrations with page builders and themes.

User Sentiment Analysis

User feedback highlights the plugin's ease of use and performance benefits, though some desire more customization.

Positive highlights

"Love the server-side rendering for faster load times." – User123
"Simple setup and works out of the box." – DevGal
"Supports all the languages I need." – CodeMaster

Common complaints

Lacks advanced styling options.
No premium support available.
Limited updates and feature additions.

Weaknesses

Customization is basic and not very flexible.
Smaller community means fewer shared resources.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Developers and bloggers seeking a lightweight, performance-oriented syntax highlighter without the need for extensive customization.

Not ideal for

Users who want highly customizable code blocks or premium support features may find this plugin limiting.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version includes server-side rendering for syntax highlighting, support for multiple languages, and a simple user interface without ads or nags.