Wordpress, Hostinger Horizons and Wix logos over a screen with code

Gen-AI current state

In 2026, artificial intelligence is not only present into the well-known chat assistants (ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot...). More and more platforms are incorporating generative AI features into their websites and applications.

Web design and development is no exception to this trend. **The main web hosting platforms promote their own AI-powered website builders** like a definitive solution for anyone who needs a website.

How much of this is actually true? Is it really possible to achieve professional results in seconds as many sites claim?

In this article, **we will analyze the most popular AI website builders**, analyzing **how its use affects the end customer** and **comparing this technology with other available options**.


How did we make our tests?

We have tested AI website builders from the most popular platforms on the market: __Wix, Hostinger, Squarespace, and WordPress__.

To put them to the test, we wrote a description of a coffee shop specifying __brand identity, services offered, and a desired visual aesthetic__.

![Hostinger Horizons - Prompt (screenshot)](//images.ctfassets.net/f72x4eycv2pv/2Tjgp7NS66Sq3MQnCavmJs/2b59568f01a989a91643f3b6abd04e89/horizons-1.png)

After analyzing the first version of each design, __we requested the necessary corrections__ to test the editing capabilities of these platforms.

You can see a summary of the results in the following sections.

First impressions

The initial results show how much this technology has advanced in recent years: the AI builder can design a basic website that, in general terms, matches the proposed idea.

__The result is far from outstanding, but it can be acceptable__ in many cases (something completely unthinkable just a few years ago).

![Wix AI website builder (Screenshot)](//images.ctfassets.net/f72x4eycv2pv/nfMFyqqHzW9ncHMhqQuXU/f1d666a08ac6b7f61696b49b8eb5f898/wix-1.png)

The generated website __would be an excellent foundation on which to build something more professional and complete__. However, this is where the main issue we identified lies: __the results don’t improve much beyond this first version__.

What if I want to modify the results?

Although most of the platforms we tested allowed us to manually edit many text elements, there were several instances where __the only option was to use the AI chat__ to make those changes.

![Hostinger Horizons - Non-editable text (screenshot)](//images.ctfassets.net/f72x4eycv2pv/3rikpvhNwQgD78hzmAxSLQ/98a38d1565030b6dbd1e9bfebf372854/horizons-2.png)

From what we observed, this leads to two potential problems:

1. The model __struggles to fix specific errors__. In our case, there were important elements that __we couldn’t modify as needed__ (for example, the business location on the map).  
2. The __number of requests__ is __limited__. To increase this limit, you’ll need to spend more money on a __premium subscription__.

![Hostinger Horizons - Chat message (screenshot)](//images.ctfassets.net/f72x4eycv2pv/1qvdzzJ7eOGaVPc0qok1LJ/7c25680f57004193d6672f86ec6fa8d2/horizons-3.png)

![Hostinger Horizons - Incorrect map (screenshot)](//images.ctfassets.net/f72x4eycv2pv/7faejLkDgAXGdGzKzjdMgW/ae03fbf41ef9ed1b8fbad247a55f0d7e/horizons-4.png)

Visually, the platforms generate __simple and functional (but generic) designs__. The same issue appears here: when we asked to adjust the website’s style to better match our business, __our specific requests were ignored and replaced with slight variations__ of the original design.

How many features can my AI-generated website have?

Available features and pricing vary depending on each platform’s specifications. __Certain features (such as booking calendars) can be added through extra monthly payments, while others are simply not included__.

If you decide to use this type of platform, we recommend you to carefully review which features are available in each case. We also suggest you to ask yourself what are your possible long-term needs, because if they are not supported by your chosen platform, you may end up having to rebuild your website from scratch using a different technology (without recovering the time and money previously invested).

Is it economically worth it?

__For your AI-generated website to remain published, you will need to keep paying a subscription to these platforms__, so the answer to this question will depend on how long you want your site to be online and the features you want it to have.

Building a website with this technology is one of the options with the lowest upfront cost, which can make it a good alternative for tests or short-term projects. However, if you want your website to last for years, __the accumulated costs will likely end up exceeding what it would cost to develop and maintain a custom-built website__.

For example: the most popular __Horizons__ subscription (Hostinger’s AI website builder) costs around __$170__ per year.

__After 6 years__, the total amount spent exceeds __$1,000__ (not including extra costs such as the domain), and if paid monthly, it can reach __$1,400__.

By comparison, a professional custom web development is usually done with a one-time payment, involving a higher initial investment but much lower recurring costs (at Alius, we have provided quotes starting __from $650__ with a maintenance fee of __$19 per year__).

The other side of AI generated content

The standardization of these types of tools allows anyone to create simple websites quickly. This may seem like an opportunity for businesses looking to establish an online presence, but it could become their biggest problem.

The huge volume of designs and texts generated by artificial intelligence (all very similar to each other) is starting to overwhelm many users. __It is increasingly unlikely that an AI-generated website will surprise anyone or, worse, inspire the trust needed in a potential customer__.

In this new landscape, it will be more important than ever to stand out and differentiate yourself, especially for businesses and projects that want to last for years.

Comparison with other options

From what we have observed, websites created with these platforms resemble classic templates with automatically generated text. If you don’t mind having a basic website and want a bit more control, you could consider using __WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace without their AI builder__. That said, __keep in mind that you will need to invest some time and will still depend on subscriptions (and possibly paid plugins)__.

On the other hand, __if you are looking for a more professional result or plan to use your website for years, custom web development will give you the best outcome and full control over your site with minimal time investment__. The initial cost will be higher, but you will save money in the long run and only pay for what you actually need.

Conclussions

From our perspective, AI website builders are not something to ignore. We believe they are a tool __worth considering if you have a temporary project or one that does not need to compete with others__.

However, __if you are planning a serious or long-term project, we do not recommend relying on this type of technology__, because:

1. Long-term costs may exceed those of custom development.
2. You will likely need changes over time that might not be supported by the platform.
3. A generic-looking website is a competitive disadvantage and may even create distrust among potential customers.

It is important to weigh the pros and cons when making a decision about your business or project’s website, as it will likely accompany you for years to come. If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact us: we will be happy to explain all the available options in detail so you can make the best decision.

We’ve analyzed the most popular AI website builders. Here are the results.

AI website builders: are they worth it in 2026?

F&M Psicología logotype

Forensic psychology

Eduardo Fernandez, 3D artist

3D artist

Marten Dumpster self-portrait

Illustrator

Don't hesitate to contact us, we'll be glad to listen to your ideas and start collaborating.

You can ask us anything via the form on the right or by sending an email to the next address:

__contact@alius.dev__

Contact us

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alius - Logo

Some real-life examples of projects made for our clients. We took charge of all the phases (from design to code and launch).

Developed websites

What do we offer?

lalimbo.es screenshot

Limbo Illustration

soundstabs.com screenshot

Sound Stabs

fmspicologia.es screenshot

F&M Psychology

Marten Dumpster portfolio screenshot

Marten Dumpster

efromero3d.com screenshot

Eduardo Fernandez

elianalale.com screenshot

Eliana Lale

amalgamapostal.es screenshot

Amalgama

Don't hesitate to contact us, we'll be glad to listen to your ideas and start collaborating.

You can ask us anything via the form below or by sending an email to the next address:

__contact@alius.dev__

alius is a freelance web design project that offers services such as web development (with custom design and SEO optimization), corporate design (logotypes and branding)alius is a freelance web design project that offers web development (with custom design and SEO optimization), corporate design (logotypes and branding) and has multiple collaborators in other fields such as community management,  product photography, 3D Modelling and illustration.

alius | Web Development and Brand  Design

We always create websites that are __fully optimized for SEO__ and __100% adapted to your needs__.

Highly-customized web development

Whether you need a new __logo__ or you want a __website that truly represents your brand__, we make sure each design __visually communicates your identity__.

Brand design

We adapt ourselves to the __scale__ and __characteristics__ of your project, counting on a __great variety of technologies and professionals__ to fit your specific case.

Versatility

At alius, we develop highly customized websites that show what makes your project unique and provide corporate identity services to ensure your brand stands out.

We will reply with an email in less than 24h

Tell us your case

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Real-life cases

alius | Web Design Agency

We make sure to create websites tailored to your specific case, __fast and optimized for SEO__.

We design an __unique brand image__ that sets you apart from the rest. __No generic templates__.

Unique brand design

We adapt to the __scale__ and __characteristics__ of your project to deliver __exactly what you need__.


Flexible plans and solutions

We create your website from scratch, __from design to code and launch,__ giving you a visual identity that makes you stand out from the rest.

We created an illustration portfolio that features:

- Galleries with custom filters.
- Dynamic content entries.
- Integrated CV.
- Contact form directly connected to email.

Mockup of an Iphone 13 and a MacBook Pro displaying the website lalimbo.es, a colorful illustration portfolio.

Mockups 2

We developed a responsive website for music artist that includes:

- • Subscription system to an email newsletter.
- Smart link generation with landing pages for albums and songs.

Mockup of an Iphone 13 and a MacBook Pro displaying the website soundstabs,com, an official music artist website.

mockups

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We'll respond in less than 24 hours

Don't hesitate to contact us, we'll be delighted to listen and adapt to your needs.

Ask us anything using the form on the left or **contact us directly**:

Don't hesitate to contact us, we'll be delighted to listen and adapt to your needs.

Ask us anything using the form above or, if you prefer, **contact us directly**:

You're one click away from having the website your business deserves.

Ultra-fast sites that offer a smooth and professional experience to your potential customers.

Performance

Structure and content optimized to stand out in search engines and attract your target audience.

Visibility

Personalized design for your project and 100% custom code, adapted to your idea.

Adaptability

Whether you want to showcase your company, attract customers or generate trust, our approach to creating websites can fulfill your needs.

Advantages of a custom corporate web design

Opting for development from scratch allows us to create a scalable, optimized website aligned with your brand's objectives.

At alius, we develop websites that offer a real technical solution to each project. Our websites allow you to invest only in what you need and stand out from the competition with clean, optimized code completely adapted to your business.

Why choose custom web development?

We offer you a personalized corporate website that represents your brand, helps you generate real opportunities and grows with you.

Your website shouldn't be just a template with your logo on top. It should represent your brand, explain well what you do and help you generate real opportunities.

We design and develop custom corporate websites, with a structure and design created for your identity and your objectives.

We take care of both the visual and the technical part. We create clear, fast and easy-to-use sites, optimized for technical SEO and prepared to convert visits into contacts or sales.

Additionally, we work with a modular and scalable approach: you start with what you need today and your website can grow with you tomorrow, without having to redo everything from scratch.

No generic solutions or unnecessary extras. Just a professional, solid website prepared to grow with your business.

Websites to grow your business

If you need a modern, fast corporate website perfectly designed for your brand, this is your place.

Custom corporate web development

In this section, you can see some examples of real websites we have developed for our clients.

We handle all phases, from design to code and launch.

We seek for each website to adapt to what the project needs in terms of aesthetics and functionalities.

Websites developed for real clients

Some real examples of client projects. In them we handle all phases, from design to code and launch.

Your online store will adapt to your business, not the other way around. We tailor the aesthetics and purchase processes to your specific case.

Customization

We structure your catalogue and content so Google indexes your products properly and you reach more customers.

We develop and update your online store according to what you need at each stage. You can add features whenever you want.

Scalability

A custom-built store adapts to your catalogue, your way of selling and your customers. No moulds, no restrictions.

Advantages of a custom online store

Platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce are a valid starting point, but they have a clear ceiling: you customise within what the platform allows, pay transaction fees or monthly subscriptions, and depend on external plugins for basic features.

At alius we build your store from scratch, without those constraints. You pay once for something that's yours, loads fast and can be expanded whenever you need.

Why choose a custom store over a generic platform?

We develop your e-commerce from scratch so it's fast, easy to manage and designed to turn visits into sales.

An online store is more than a catalogue with a buy button. It's your business's shopfront, and if it's not done right, customers leave before they get to checkout.

We design and develop your store from scratch: with clear navigation, an integrated payment gateway, well-structured product pages and a shopping experience that doesn't frustrate users.

We create the website code with performance and technical SEO in mind, so Google can properly index your products and the store has optimal performance on any device.

If you already have a physical business, we'll help you take it online. If you're starting from scratch, we'll guide you from the beginning so you make the right decisions for your case.

No unnecessary subscriptions, no plugins you don't understand. Just a solid, well-built store, ready to sell.

An online store built to sell

If you want to sell online with a store that actually works, this is your place.

Custom e-commerce development

Do you have a website idea in mind for your project?

Do you simply want more information or a quick price estimate?

Tell us what you need for free. We'll analyze your case and reply in less than 24 hours.

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We add the necessary cookie banners to your website (like this one).

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about custom web development

FAQs

Custom web development agency

Reviews

What our clients say

We create corporate websites that project confidence, reinforce your identity and convert visits into opportunities.

Corporate websites

We design online stores built to sell: fast, secure and adapted to your catalog and customer type.

Online stores

If you're an artist and need a website to showcase your work, we ensure the final result matches the aesthetic that identifies you.

Custom portfolios

At alius, we specialize in custom web development. We design and build unique sites, adapted to each business's needs.

Custom design allows us to create projects of all types and scales, adapting to the aesthetics and technical requirements that each client needs.

Whether you're looking for an artistic portfolio with a very distinctive aesthetic or you need a sober and elegant corporate website, we build from scratch to adapt to each case.

By not depending on closed templates, you'll have the necessary flexibility so that the result fits with your current idea and is ready to grow in the future in a clean and direct way.

Real examples of projects where we manage all phases: from design to code and launch.

Services

We create unique websites, no templates, designed to grow with your project. From SEO architecture to code, we design every detail custom-made so you achieve the results you have in mind.

Web design and development

We design coherent, memorable visual identities aligned with your brand values. We create logos, color palettes, typography and graphic applications that connect with your audience.

Branding and visual identity

How can we help you?

At alius, we develop unique websites that boost your business from the first click.

We build your website from scratch so you **avoid unnecessary costs** and have **the best performance** with a design that truly **represents your brand**.

Why we are the best option for your custom website

What makes us different from the rest?

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Privacy Policy

Your portfolio is 100% custom-made to fit what you have in mind.

Unique design

We take care of the technical SEO of your website from the start so it ranks well on Google and other search engines.

If you want to add projects or update content without depending on us, we make it simple.

Easy management

A custom-built portfolio is built around your work, not the other way around.

Advantages of a custom portfolio website

Platforms like Behance, Wix or Squarespace are a quick solution, but they have clear limitations: the aesthetic is the platform's, not yours, SEO is generic and you depend on their terms and pricing.

With a custom portfolio, the website is completely yours: the design, the domain, the code and the content. No mandatory monthly fees and the flexibility to adapt or expand it whenever you need.

Why a custom portfolio instead of Behance or Wix?

We design portfolios that reflect the aesthetic you're looking for and set your work apart.

Portfolio templates are made for everyone, which means they're not made for you.

We design and develop your portfolio from scratch so the aesthetic and structure of your website fits your work, without generic templates.

We make sure the navigation adapts to any type of content: photography, illustration, design, fashion, music, media...

If in the future you want to update your portfolio yourself, we connect your website to a simple content manager that doesnt require programming knowledge or monthly subscriptions.

We make sure your page meets the right SEO standards to appear on Google.

Showcase your work in a unique way

If you're an artist, photographer, illustrator or creative and you need a website that shows your work the way you want, this is your place.