iframe vs Code Embed (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, iframe has a higher user rating (4.4/5 from 56 reviews) and leads in active installations (70K+ vs 10K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. iframe has accumulated 1.9M+ total downloads while Code Embed has 514K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | iframe | Code Embed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 | |
| Total Reviews | 56 | ◄ | 45 |
| Active Installs | 70K+ | ◄ | 10K+ |
| Total Downloads | 1.9M+ | ◄ | 514K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 3 months ago | ► | 2 weeks ago |
| First Released | 2011 | 2009 | |
| Age | 15 years | 17 years | |
| WP Requires | 3.0+ | 4.6+ | |
| PHP Requires | false+ | 7.4+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 6.0 | 2.5.2 |
Rating Breakdown
iframe
Code Embed
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, iframe averaged approximately 201 daily downloads while Code Embed averaged 382.
Recent Reviews
iframe Reviews
works just fine
I’ve been using this for several years to embed a public webcam livestream. And also using it to embed google docs. I download the google doc as html, put it on the same server where wordpress is, and
Like they said, it simply does NOT work AT ALL
It does not work AT ALL. You can enter all the shortcodes you like in as many widgets and text boxes as you like. And they do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. This is total fakeware.
Fast Support and Easy to Use
An easy to use plugin with fast and practical support from its developer. More frequently and providing options to generate the shortcode on the posting page could make it even better! Thanks so much!
Code Embed Reviews
Not Helpful
I was working on a client site and I can someone had installed code embed previously but somehow it got forgetten about. Its putting in code even when deactivated.But I have no way of adding code neve
No FAQ – not able to use it
Although page says “see FAQ” there is NO FAQ. Wasted a lot of time trying to get this to work. Someone raised this a year ago and no change has been made. Clearly no support or interest in helping
useful plugin
I have good experience with it. Nice plugin.
More Embed Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as iframe and Code Embed
EmbedPress lets you embed videos, pages, social feeds, embed PDF 3D flipbooks & other content on WordPress without coding & enhance storytelling.
Insert Pages lets you embed any WordPress content (e.g., pages, posts, custom post types) into other WordPress content using the Shortcode API.
Include content the way YOU like in an iframe that can hide and modify elements, does auto-height, forward parameters and does many, many more...
Embed a PDF from the Media Library or elsewhere via oEmbed or as a block into an iframe tag.
Level up your basic video embeds! Advanced features, privacy. Use URLs, Shortcodes or Blocks to customize videos to your needs.
A Compact WP Audio Player Plugin that is compatible with all major browsers and devices (Android, iPhone, iPad)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iframe or Code Embed more popular?
Which has better ratings — iframe or Code Embed?
Are iframe and Code Embed free?
Which plugin has better support — iframe or Code Embed?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.