Why Should You Upgrade From Squarespace version 7.0 to Newest Squarespace 7.1 Version
From our perspective, there's no immediate pressure to update your website if you're satisfied with its current state. Fortunately, Squarespace has assured users that they will provide ongoing support for the 7.0 version, alleviating any concerns. Moreover, while 7.1 does introduce alterations to the editing interface, it doesn't significantly contribute new functionalities to the platform.
Squarespace version 7.0
Squarespace's default platform from 2014 until the unveiling of 7.1, which is version 7.0, stands as a Great and viable choice for many individuals.
One compelling reason to stick with 7.0 is that transitioning to 7.1, if you've already built your site on the former, can be quite challenging (essentially requiring a website rebuild). According to Squarespace, they will continue to provide support for this version indefinitely, offering peace of mind for 7.0 users.
Another advantage of Squarespace 7.0 is its static nature. Squarespace no longer introduces additions or modifications to this platform. Consequently, once you've grasped how everything operates, you can count on the stability of your website throughout its lifetime. This is in contrast to 7.1, which undergoes frequent updates that might disorient users with less technical expertise following major changes.
Current Squarespace version 7.1
Version 7.1 represents the most recent and dynamic iteration of Squarespace. Continuously updated with fresh features, it ensures you have access to the latest functionalities Squarespace offers.
One standout update is the introduction of the fluid engine, a significant development. With it, you can freely drag and drop elements onto your website using a 12-column grid system. Although the drag-and-drop builder may be a bit more complex for designing (and it requires separate mobile view editing), it opens up a realm of possibilities for your website's design.
While the 7.1 classic editor still remains available until a certain point in 2023, it employs a simpler design system and will eventually be phased out. So, if you opt for 7.1, be aware that you'll likely need to transition any sections to the fluid engine as the classic editor gets phased out.
As a Squarespace designer, I wholeheartedly endorse using Squarespace 7.1 and advocate for building your site with the latest platform version if possible. This choice provides you access to the most cutting-edge features, enhances your design control, and offers increased flexibility for mobile view. This is particularly vital for business websites, as a substantial portion of your audience likely accesses your site via mobile devices.
When you're ready to embark on creating your Squarespace website, the next crucial step involves selecting the right template. Squarespace offers a variety of pre-designed templates at no additional cost. While the free templates offer a solid starting point, they may require significant adjustments to align with your specific business or niche since they aren't tailored to individual industries.
Simplify the process of content updates and management.
Squarespace 7.1 introduces an enhanced and more user-centric experience. This upgraded version simplifies the entire website management process, making it a breeze to keep your content fresh, generate new pages, tailor your navigation, and fine-tune your site's configurations.
One standout feature of 7.1 is the elimination of index pages. Previously, these were somewhat cumbersome to assemble. In the latest version, every page is just that, a standalone page, and you can populate it with as many sections as you need. What's even better is that the creation of pages and section additions now takes significantly less time.
Squarespace Templates:
Template selection plays a pivotal role in Squarespace 7.0. Each template comes with its own set of features, which can significantly impact your site's design capabilities.
The Brine template family, for instance, is a personal favorite due to its compatibility with full-width banner images featuring text overlays, ideal for creating captivating index pages. Regrettably, not all Squarespace 7.0 templates offer this functionality, often necessitating template transitions to Brine.
In Squarespace 7.1, there's a refreshing change. All templates share a unified structure and functionality, which eliminates the ambiguity around which templates provide specific features. The result? Simplified and streamlined template choices, ushering in a new era of Squarespace design. (Please note that this refers to the new 7.1 templates, distinct from existing 7.0 templates, and templates are not interchangeable between the versions.)
Design Interface:
Squarespace 7.1 introduces substantial changes to the back-end design interface, which may require some adjustment for users familiar with the previous setup.
Here are some notable improvements:
Organized Design Settings: Design settings are now categorized by fonts, colors, buttons, and more, offering a more intuitive and efficient structure compared to 7.0. This means you can access all design settings from a central location, making it easier to fine-tune your site's elements.
Color Themes: The ability to establish color themes for consistent usage throughout your site.
No More Index Pages: In 7.1, single pages can stack to create long, scrolling pages. This eliminates the need for index pages, streamlining the creation of section layouts and enabling full-width banner images within any section.
Enhanced Section Styling: Greater control over the styling of individual page sections.
Built-in Heading 4 Styling: The addition of Heading 4 (h4) styling provides an extra heading option, benefiting both design and SEO. Headings play a role in helping search engines understand and rank your page's content.
However, there are also some downsides to the new 7.1 design interface:
Consistent Fonts: In 7.1, you can't select different fonts for each heading style, although you can adjust their sizes. All heading styles share the same font.
Limited Mobile Customization: 7.1 offers fewer options for customizing mobile designs.
Blog Post Editing: There's no "live" editor to work on your blog post as it will appear; you must use a small pop-up window instead.
No Developer Mode: Developer Mode, an advanced tool for web developers to add extra functionality, is no longer available in Squarespace.
New Features:
Squarespace 7.1 offers numerous advantages, but it's important to acknowledge that not all features from Squarespace 7.0 have made their way into this newer version. While many of these features may eventually be integrated into Squarespace 7.1 as the platform continues to evolve and improve, it's helpful to be aware of the feature differences between the two versions if you're considering using Squarespace 7.1 today.
Here's a rundown of some features from Squarespace 7.0 that are not currently available in 7.1:
Parallax Scrolling on Background Images: The beloved parallax scrolling effect on background images is currently missing in 7.1.
Gallery Blocks: In 7.1, there's no direct support for displaying a gallery of images or videos using gallery blocks.
Secondary Navigation: The option to include secondary navigation is absent in 7.1.
Share Buttons: In 7.1, direct share buttons for visitors to share your content to platforms like Pinterest or social media are not yet part of the feature set.
Header Search Function: While 7.1 offers a Search block that can be added to any page, it doesn't support including a search field in your site's navigation bar.
Squarespace App Compatibility: Full compatibility with the Squarespace app for mobile editing is not available in 7.1.
Flexibility:
In the transition from Squarespace 7.0 to 7.1, one significant transformation stands out: the departure from fixed themes. In the previous version, users had to select a theme upfront, which dictated the available design features and layouts. However, many businesses often find themselves undecided about their website's final look. Fixed themes could limit the creative flexibility required to craft the perfect solution.
Squarespace 7.1 liberates you from these constraints. While you can start with a template as a helpful foundation, there are no creative boundaries. Any 7.1 site can easily adopt the appearance of another, offering limitless possibilities.
Revolutionary Page Sections:
The introduction of page sections in Squarespace 7.1 is a game-changer. It marks a complete overhaul of the old "index page" system, replacing it with a more intuitive approach. Every section of a page is now independently editable. You have the freedom to tailor widths, colors, backgrounds, and more to meet your precise specifications.
Long-scrolling pages are all the rage today, and Squarespace 7.1 simplifies this trend. Fewer clicks are needed to access additional content like contact forms or gallery grids, reducing the effort required to navigate a web page. This means web projects no longer need to drag on for months, with seemingly minimal changes.
Effortless Custom code:
For clients seeking a highly specific look or feature, custom coding can be the solution. Squarespace 7.1 offers easy integration of custom CSS, enabling precise adjustments beyond the platform's native customization options.
new page sections feature, you can apply these tweaks exactly where you want them, effortlessly enhancing your site's appearance and functionality.
Should you use 7.0 or Upgrade To 7.1?
The decision between Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1 can be perplexing, often triggered by the persuasive marketing emails promoting the newer version and its Fluid Engine. However, it's important to separate fact from fiction.
The reality is that many small and medium-sized businesses may not be missing out on critical features by sticking with 7.0. There's a common misconception that they must migrate to 7.1, or else face expulsion from the platform. Fortunately, this is far from the truth.
Adding to the confusion, many budding designers, particularly those well-versed in 7.1, tend to present the switch as an absolute necessity.
In the end, the choice comes down to your specific business needs and goals, rather than succumbing to the pressure of marketing messages.
Switch To Squarespace 7.1 if you're:
Launching a new ecommerce site.
Building an online course with chapters and a progress tracker.
Launching a new small business.
Interested in utilizing Fluid Engine for advanced block placement and separate mobile styling.
However, if you're contemplating a site redesign, the decision to migrate or not should be influenced by factors like your goals, budget, site size, and other unique requirements.
In some cases, using Version of Squarespace 7.0 may be the way to go. This could be applicable if:
You require very advanced functionality that's better supported in 7.0.
Your support staff is well-versed in Squarespace 7.0.
Your business aims to maintain the same overall look but enhance your 7.0 site and SEO content.
For those seeking secondary menu navigation, such as large content sites, multi-audience platforms, and local service businesses, the 7.0 Brine family could be a suitable choice.
However, if the prospect of a site migration merely stems from curiosity and doesn't demonstrate a clear ROI, it might not be worth the investment of time and resources. The key is to make an informed decision that best serves your business goals.
Final Thought: which is better—Squarespace 7.0 or 7.1?
Choosing between Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1 depends on your unique needs and preferences. Squarespace 7.0 is stable and well-supported, making it suitable if you're already using it and don't want to switch. Squarespace 7.1, introduced in 2020, is continuously updated, offering more flexibility and design options. However, it's still evolving and lacks some 7.0 features.
Consider using 7.1 if you're launching a new e-commerce site, building online courses, or starting a small business. It's also the choice for advanced customization and mobile design. Stick with 7.0 if you prefer its familiarity, your site demands very advanced functionality, or you're used to its features. Your decision should align with your project's intricacies and goals.