Classic Widgets vs Rich Text Extension (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 Widgets has a higher user rating (4.9/5 from 263 reviews) and leads in active installations (2.0M+ vs 10). Both are free WordPress plugins. Classic Widgets has accumulated 7.3M+ total downloads while Rich Text Extension has 1.4K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Classic Widgets | Rich Text Extension | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.9/5 | ◄ | N/A |
| Total Reviews | 263 | ◄ | 0 |
| Active Installs | 2.0M+ | ◄ | 10 |
| Total Downloads | 7.3M+ | ◄ | 1.4K+ |
| Support Resolution | 25% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 3 months ago | ◄ | 4 years ago |
| First Released | 2021 | 2020 | |
| Age | 5 years | 6 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.9+ | 5.8+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6+ | 7.2+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 0.3 | 1.0.0 |
Rating Breakdown
Classic Widgets
Rich Text Extension
Download Trends
Recent Reviews
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.
Rich Text Extension Reviews
No reviews yet
More Plugins Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as Classic Widgets and Rich Text Extension
Enables the previous "classic" editor and the old-style Edit Post screen with TinyMCE, Meta Boxes, etc. Supports all plugins that extend this screen.
Extends and enhances the block editor (Gutenberg) and the classic editor (TinyMCE).
The growing library of 300+ ready-to-use templates that work with all WordPress themes including Astra, Hello, OceanWP, GeneratePress and more
Power-up Gutenberg with advanced blocks for faster website creation. Build your WordPress website effortlessly using powerful building blocks!
Disable Gutenberg Block Editor and restore the Classic Editor and original Edit Post screen (TinyMCE, meta boxes, etc.).
20+ AI-powered Gutenberg Blocks with endless options, enabling top-notch efficiency for high-performance dynamic website creation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Classic Widgets or Rich Text Extension more popular?
Which has better ratings — Classic Widgets or Rich Text Extension?
Are Classic Widgets and Rich Text Extension free?
Which plugin has better support — Classic Widgets or Rich Text Extension?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.