Classic Editor vs Classic Widgets (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Classic Editor has a higher user rating (4.9/5 from 1,225 reviews) and leads in active installations (9.0M+ vs 2.0M+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Classic Editor has accumulated 85M+ total downloads while Classic Widgets has 7.3M+. Classic Widgets has a higher support resolution rate (25% vs 0%).
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Classic Editor | Classic Widgets | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | |
| Total Reviews | 1,225 | ◄ | 263 |
| Active Installs | 9.0M+ | ◄ | 2.0M+ |
| Total Downloads | 85M+ | ◄ | 7.3M+ |
| Support Resolution | 0% | ► | 25% |
| Last Updated | 3 months ago | ► | 3 months ago |
| First Released | 2017 | 2021 | |
| Age | 9 years | 5 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.9+ | 4.9+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.2.4+ | 5.6+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.6.7 | 0.3 |
Rating Breakdown
Classic Editor
Classic Widgets
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Classic Editor averaged approximately 12,737 daily downloads while Classic Widgets averaged 2,179.
Recent Reviews
Classic Editor Reviews
Back to Simple
Really helpful if u don’t like the block editor. Feels familiar n easy to work with. Not fancy, but it makes editing way more comfortable for me.
perfect for users who prefer the old WordPress
The Classic Editor plugin is perfect for users who prefer the old WordPress editing experience. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and works flawlessly without any setup. Highly recommended for a simple a
Keeps It Simple
Installed this cz I prefer the old editor. Works exactly as expected, no issues so far. Makes writing posts much easier for me. Would be nicer if it had few more options, but still solid. tnkz devs.
Classic Widgets Reviews
Works Like Before
Does exactly what I needed. Brought back the old widget system without any issues. Super easy to use, no extra setup needed. tnx to devs, saved my time 👍
Old Widgets Back
Installed Classic Widgets cz I prefer the old widget screen. Works exactly like before and keeps things simple. No confusion with block widgets anymore. Really glad this exists. Tnkz devs!
Great and very helpful plugin
Great widget plugin. The widgets are flexible, easy to style, and they do not slow down the site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.