Understanding the Difference
When planning a website, one of the first decisions is whether to go static or dynamic. Here's what that means:
Static Websites
Static websites are pre-built pages that display the same content to every visitor. Think of them like a digital brochure.
Best for:
- Business information sites
- Portfolios
- Landing pages
- Blogs (with static site generators)
Advantages:
- Lightning-fast load times
- Excellent security (no database to hack)
- Lower hosting costs
- Better SEO performance
- Easier to maintain
Limitations:
- Content updates require code changes
- No user accounts or logins
- Limited interactivity
Dynamic Websites
Dynamic websites generate content on-the-fly, often pulling from databases. They can show different content to different users.
Best for:
- E-commerce stores
- Web applications
- Sites with user accounts
- Content that changes frequently
- Booking/reservation systems
Advantages:
- Rich interactivity
- Personalized user experiences
- Easy content updates (usually via CMS)
- User accounts and authentication
Limitations:
- Slower than static sites
- More security considerations
- Higher hosting costs
- More complex to build and maintain
The Modern Hybrid Approach
Modern frameworks like Next.js (which we use) blur these lines. You can have:
- Static pages for content that rarely changes
- Dynamic functionality where you need it
- The best of both worlds
How to Decide
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you need user accounts? → Dynamic
- Will you sell products online? → Dynamic
- Is your content mostly informational? → Static
- Do you need real-time data? → Dynamic
- Is speed your top priority? → Static
Real-World Examples
Static: Computer Store KS's website is primarily static—it loads incredibly fast and ranks well in search engines. The content (services, about, contact) doesn't need to change daily.
Dynamic: An e-commerce site with shopping carts, inventory management, and user accounts requires dynamic functionality.
Our Recommendation
For most local businesses in Topeka, a modern static site (or static-first hybrid) is the best choice. You get:
- Blazing fast performance
- Top-tier security
- Lower costs
- Great SEO results
Not sure which is right for you? Let's talk about your specific needs.