Understanding WordPress Block Themes vs Block-Compatible Themes (with Examples)
The WordPress ecosystem is undergoing a major transformation — moving from traditional PHP-based templates to block-based site design. If you’re building a new WordPress site or product, it’s important to understand the difference between block themes and block-compatible themes.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences and share examples of each so you can make the right choice for your project and discuss on Block Theme vs. Block-Compatible Theme.
What Is a Block Theme?
A block theme is a WordPress theme built entirely for the Block Editor (Gutenberg) and the Full Site Editing (FSE) system. It uses HTML templates and block-based layout files, allowing users to design and control their entire site — including headers, footers, and page templates — using the block editor.
Key Features of Block Themes:
- Built using block templates (
.htmlfiles). - Uses the Site Editor (Appearance → Editor).
- Lets users customize layout, typography, colors, and structure visually.
- Supports global styles, template parts, and block patterns.
What Is a Block-Compatible (Classic) Theme?
A block-compatible theme is a traditional PHP-based WordPress theme that supports Gutenberg for content editing, but does not support Full Site Editing. These themes still use the Customizer for global settings and use block editor only for page/post content.
⚠️ Limitations:
- You cannot edit headers/footers using blocks.
- Still relies on PHP templates for theme files.
- Uses WordPress Customizer or theme panels for design controls.
Examples of Full Block Themes (FSE-Ready)
Here are themes built 100% for Full Site Editing:
| Theme Name | Description |
|---|---|
| OllieWP | Clean, modern block theme with a strong focus on Gutenberg and FSE. |
| Twenty Twenty-Four | Default WordPress theme, fully block-based and ideal for testing FSE. |
| Frost | Sleek block theme by WP Engine, focused on performance and simplicity. |
| Tove | Fun and colorful block theme, great for cafes and creatives. |
| Aino | Powerful design system theme for professionals, fully FSE-ready. |
| Spectra One | Built by the team behind Spectra Blocks, modern and fast. |
Examples of Block-Compatible (Classic) Themes
These themes use Gutenberg for content but rely on traditional WordPress structure:
| Theme Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Blocksy | Popular classic theme with strong block support and powerful options. |
| Astra | Lightweight theme with excellent block and builder support. |
| Kadence | Feature-rich theme with excellent Gutenberg block integration. |
| GeneratePress | Fast and reliable theme, compatible with blocks and page builders. |
| Neve | Flexible theme with fast performance and block support. |
Which One Should You Choose?
| Use Case | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| You want full visual control (no code) | ✅ Block Theme |
| You’re building for non-tech users | ✅ Block Theme |
| You rely on WooCommerce + advanced customizer | 🔸 Block-Compatible Theme |
| You need proven plugin compatibility | 🔸 Block-Compatible Theme |
| You want a future-proof design system | ✅ Block Theme |
Final Thoughts
The future of WordPress is block-based. While block-compatible themes like Blocksy and Astra still have their place today, true block themes offer a more seamless, scalable, and intuitive experience — especially for non-technical users or SaaS platforms.
Whether you’re building a blog, a business site, or launching a WordPress-based SaaS, embracing block themes puts you ahead of the curve.
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