Websites · By MDJI · Thursday 8 October 2026 · 3 min read

WordPress or custom-built: what fits your business?

WordPress is quick to set up, custom-built does exactly what you need. The differences in cost, maintenance, speed and freedom side by side.

The question "WordPress or custom-built?" comes up in almost every intake call. No answer is always right. Both have strengths, and both have a cost you do not always see in the quote. To be honest up front: MDJI Services builds custom, such as our own booking and contract system. That is exactly why we also set out below when WordPress is the better choice.

What is the difference?

WordPress is a ready-made system for managing websites. You choose a theme for the design and extend the site with plugins: separate pieces of software by other makers, for example for a contact form, a web shop or a calendar.

With custom-built, the site or application is built for your situation. It contains only what you use, and features such as a booking system or client portal are part of the site itself instead of a plugin by another party.

WordPress and custom-built side by side

When WordPress is a good choice

• You want to post texts, photos or updates yourself often, without calling anyone.
• Your site is mainly information: a few pages, a news item, a contact form.
• A reliable plugin exists that does exactly what you are looking for.
• You have someone who keeps up with the updates, or you do it yourself.

Note that WordPress itself is free, but the site around it is not. Hosting, premium themes and plugins with a yearly licence, and keeping up with updates cost money or time. WordPress itself recommends always using the latest version (WordPress's explanation); a site that is not updated becomes vulnerable.

When custom-built fits better

• Your site needs to do something no standard plugin does well, such as booking appointments, making quotes or letting customers log in.
• Speed matters: every extra plugin adds code that visitors have to load.
• You do not want to depend on ten different makers who each release their own updates.
• You expect your site or system to grow with your business in the coming years.

With custom-built you agree beforehand what will be built, and the code is yours after payment. Want to edit texts yourself? Say so in the intake call; it will then be built in and included in the price.

What does it cost?

At MDJI a custom website starts at 1,250 euros and a one-page website at 750 euros, excluding VAT. Systems such as a client portal or planning tool fall under a web application, from 750 euros for a first, small version. After the intake call you receive a fixed price.

With WordPress, compare not only the build price but also the yearly costs: hosting, theme and plugin licences, and the time or subscription for updates.

How we approach it

1. In the intake call we discuss what your site needs to do and who will keep it up to date.
2. If a standard solution fits your situation better, we tell you.
3. If you choose custom-built, you receive a proposal with a fixed price and a schedule within a few working days.
4. During the build you follow along in a test environment. See the process.

Frequently asked questions