Framer vs Eleventy
Framer is design-to-code website builder with real React components and CMS, while Eleventy is simple static site generator with flexible templating and zero client-side JavaScript. Eleventy is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Framer is built for designers who want pixel-perfect websites without writing code, whereas Eleventy targets developers wanting a simple, zero-config static site generator.
| Feature | Framer | Eleventy |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source | — | ✓ |
| Animations | ✓ | — |
| CMS | ✓ | — |
| Data Cascade | — | ✓ |
| Localization | ✓ | — |
| Multiple Templates | — | ✓ |
| Plugins | — | ✓ |
| React Components | ✓ | — |
| Visual Canvas | ✓ | — |
| Zero Config | — | ✓ |
Pricing: Both Framer and Eleventy are free, so this decision comes down to features and philosophy rather than budget.
Feature gaps: Framer offers Animations, CMS and Localization that Eleventy lacks. Eleventy brings Data Cascade, Multiple Templates and Plugins that Framer does not have.
Team fit: Both tools target individuals teams, so the decision hinges on features and workflow fit rather than scale.
Open source: Eleventy is open source, meaning you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in. Framer is proprietary — you are trusting the vendor with your data and uptime.
Where each tool shines: Framer's biggest strengths are: beautiful output — sites look professional. real react components under the hood. Eleventy's biggest strengths are: open source and transparent. includes zero config as a core feature, purpose-built for website builder workflows.
Watch out for: With Framer, users commonly note that steeper learning curve than squarespace/wix. With Eleventy, the main complaint is that may lack some advanced features.
choose Framer if
- You need a tool built for designers who want pixel-perfect websites without writing code
- You specifically need Animations and CMS
- You care about real react components under the hood
choose Eleventy if
- Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting a simple, zero-config static site generator
- You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code
- You specifically need Data Cascade and Multiple Templates
- You care about includes zero config as a core feature, purpose-built for website builder workflows
frequently asked
What is the difference between Framer and Eleventy?
Framer is design-to-code website builder with real React components and CMS, while Eleventy is simple static site generator with flexible templating and zero client-side JavaScript. Eleventy is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Framer is built for designers who want pixel-perfect websites without writing code, whereas Eleventy targets developers wanting a simple, zero-config static site generator.
Should I use Framer or Eleventy?
Eleventy gives you open source and self-hosting; Framer is a managed service. Which trade-off works for you?
When should I choose Framer over Eleventy?
Choose Framer if You need a tool built for designers who want pixel-perfect websites without writing code; You specifically need Animations and CMS; You care about real react components under the hood.
When should I choose Eleventy over Framer?
Choose Eleventy if Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting a simple, zero-config static site generator; You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code; You specifically need Data Cascade and Multiple Templates; You care about includes zero config as a core feature, purpose-built for website builder workflows.
related comparisons
Framer vs Webflow · Framer vs Squarespace · Framer vs Wix · Framer vs Carrd · Framer vs Ghost · Framer vs WordPress.com · Framer vs Astro · Framer vs Hugo