Why You Shouldn't Use Google Sites — Drawbacks & Disadvantages

Many potential clients have asked about the weaknesses of Google Sites, so we'll endeavor to give an honest evaluation of the platform with all its pitfalls, drawbacks, disadvantages and misgivings. Obviously we won't be studying Google Sites in a positive light here with this article, which is odd considering we champion the platform. Anyways, let's study the most frequently cited cons of using Google Sites for websites and intranets.

Certain SEO Options Are Not Available

Google Sites won't be able to compete for all the SEO features available on platforms like Wordpress. Sites isn't devoid of SEO capability, but it is certainly stunted. SEO is of primary concern for the like of affiliate, niche blogging, or ecommerce websites, so rethink Google Sites in that case. If you want to learn more about the specific SEO options Sites does and doesn't have, check out our page on the subject, including FAQ.

Absence of a CMS (Content Management System)

For Ecommerce

It's hard to manage hundreds of products natively. There is no dedicated CMS (Content Management System) to properly setup a database of items. We have a few online shop building templates in case you are interested in a simple setup.

For Blogging

No tagging, archival and default posting solutions.

Lack of Creative Freedom

For Developers

Embed code won't give you the head or body code insert access most developers love. You cannot insert custom HTML/CSS or Javascript into the site template.

Design Restrictions

Don't go crazy in Canva and Figma and then expect to export it all into Sites. We try our best as Google Sites designers to push the boundaries of templates. Browse of Google Sites templates marketplace for design inspiration and ideas.