Custom Shortcodes vs Classic Text Widget (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Custom Shortcodes has a higher user rating (5/5 from 1 reviews) and leads in active installations (6.0K+ vs 2.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Custom Shortcodes has accumulated 5.7K+ total downloads while Classic Text Widget has 20K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Custom Shortcodes | Classic Text Widget | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 | |
| Total Reviews | 1 | ► | 15 |
| Active Installs | 6.0K+ | ◄ | 2.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 5.7K+ | ► | 20K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 17 years ago | ► | 6 years ago |
| First Released | 2009 | 2017 | |
| Age | 17 years | 9 years | |
| WP Requires | 2.0.2+ | 4.8+ | |
| PHP Requires | false+ | false+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.0 | 1.0.1 |
Rating Breakdown
Custom Shortcodes
Classic Text Widget
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Custom Shortcodes averaged approximately 4 daily downloads while Classic Text Widget averaged 5.
Recent Reviews
Custom Shortcodes Reviews
Still works on WP 4.2.2! Really easy to use, love it.
I stumbled upon this seemingly underrated plugin recently and it’s been great, it just works (and STILL works on WP v 4.2.2, even though it hasn’t been updated in many many years). Nothing to configu
Classic Text Widget Reviews
Lifesaver
The default text widget broke my shortcodes. Thanks for providing an easily solution!
Great For HTML
I was about to make this exact plugin. Thank you for putting this together. Works perfectly!
Wish I Found This Sooner
A week shot, but at least we’re back to pre-update functionality. Thanks a M I L L I O N !!!
More Text Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as Custom Shortcodes and Classic Text Widget
An enhanced version of the text widget that supports Text, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Flash, Shortcodes and PHP with linkable widget title.
Texty is a lightweight SMS notification plugin for WordPress.
Replace text with other text. Handy for creating shortcuts to common, lengthy, or frequently changing text/HTML, or for smilies.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.