Column Shortcodes vs Magazine Columns (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Column Shortcodes has a higher user rating (4.8/5 from 134 reviews) and leads in active installations (60K+ vs 600). Both are free WordPress plugins. Column Shortcodes has accumulated 894K+ total downloads while Magazine Columns has 66K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Column Shortcodes | Magazine Columns | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.8/5 | ◄ | 3/5 |
| Total Reviews | 134 | ◄ | 5 |
| Active Installs | 60K+ | ◄ | 600 |
| Total Downloads | 894K+ | ◄ | 66K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 3 years ago | ◄ | 10 years ago |
| First Released | 2012 | 2009 | |
| Age | 14 years | 17 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.8+ | 2.7+ | |
| PHP Requires | false+ | false+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.0.1 | 1.0.7 |
Rating Breakdown
Column Shortcodes
Magazine Columns
Download Trends
Recent Reviews
Column Shortcodes Reviews
Basic column shortcode, I’m sure there are better ones out there.
I only use this because it’s what my client already had installed and they’ve been using it for years. When I asked why I can’t align content vertically within a column I was simply told, “it can’t do
Perfect
Perfect plugin! Thanks a lot.
Easy to use
Simple and easy to use, that is the reason I like it.
Magazine Columns Reviews
No reviews yet
More Plugins Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as Column Shortcodes and Magazine Columns
A comprehensive collection of visual components for your site
Take control of your WordPress admin list tables. Add, remove, and reorder columns for posts, users, media, and more - no coding needed.
Enable Columns, Filters, Quick Edit and Bulk Edit for ACF Fields in WordPress List Tables
Adds shortcodes to easily create up to 42 different columned layouts.
Easily add desktop, tablet and mobile friendly columns to your content using an easy to use shortcode.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Column Shortcodes or Magazine Columns more popular?
Which has better ratings — Column Shortcodes or Magazine Columns?
Are Column Shortcodes and Magazine Columns free?
Which plugin has better support — Column Shortcodes or Magazine Columns?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.