Is Dreamweaver Still Used?

Dreamweaver is software that allows the user to build webpages and websites. Dreamweaver was first launched in 1997 by Macromedia and adopted by adobe in 2005. With 23 years passed, is it still one of the most popular software available for web designers?

Dreamweaver is no longer popular as it used to be. It has continued to hit a downward spiral over the decade despite many updates. It is evident that it has become outdated, and not preferred by the web-designing community. 

Let’s find out how one of the most anticipated software was overwhelmed by factors that led to its downfall. I will also be covering the alternate applications that you can use instead of Dreamweaver. So stick till the end to find out. 

Do people still use Dreamweaver?

The software is only used by 0.2% of websites on the internet. The software used to build websites fell at a staggering rate. Over 50% of the users switched to other platforms during the year 2011 till 2021. 

Despite being part of the adobe suite, it remains unutilized. Likely due to its irrelevancy in the modern era where Java, CSS, and HTML are preferred over outdated HTML5. 

Back in the day, Dreamweaver was a savior that saved the users from repetitious and mechanical tasks involved in coding. The software made the code for you, but now with advancements in computer languages, the same feature is a headache for the developer as it restricts interactions with the code. 

Price is another significant factor that discourages the user purchase. The software costs $20 per month as of now. There are lots of other cheaper and better alternatives available, so it is no surprise that Dreamweaver is so out of favor.

With Dreamweaver, you can only build static websites with a fixed size. Most of the reviewers often labeled it as slow and outdated in their reviews. 

Decades ago, web browsers did not have developers tools as they do nowadays. Most browsers provide users with powerful sets of tools that allow the user to see the effects of the code changes almost instantly.

Dreamwork does have these tools, but for access, you need to have the software where results still inaccurate. The improvements in the web browsers were a final nail in the coffin for Dreamweaver. 

In recent years adobe has tried its best to revive the software with frequent updates. But is it too late?

For beginners, it can be a nightmare, and for experts, it is too simple. The software is hovering between the two ends, and no one wants to have it. 

It is useful for people who know HTML or CSS and can help them improve their skills. The software provides you with a real-time preview and helps you write meaningful new codes.

For me, I prefer my coding app to be fast and accurate. The money spent on the software is not worth it as there are lots of other software to choose from. The interface seemed sluggish to me, and the interface was messy. When it comes to open-source web development, Aptana leads the way.

What can you use instead of Dreamweaver?

1) Aptana

Aptana Studio has been around since 2008, making it one of the most established and trusted web development software.

It has an easy-to-use interface that makes it simple for developers to write code and design websites. You can download Aptana and use it free of cost without worrying about the fee.

It supports integration with Git, so developers can control their source codes. Users can access it on Mac, Windows, and Linux as well. 

Customer support is available 24/7. You can reach them online or even through a phone to get answers for your quarries. 

2) Coda

Coda is a web development software released in 2007 by Panic Inc. The release date tells us that the software is reliable. 

It provides the user with all the tools in a single interface to make it easy to use. It helps users create individual webpages and even websites. It is preferred for HTML, CSS, and PHP-related tasks. Its easy interface and loads of tools make it perfect for users of all levels. 

Coda includes everything a web developer needs. 

Coda charges only $99.00 one-time payment and is available for browsers and mac.

3) CoffeeCup HTML Editor

Launched in 1996, it is one of the oldest web development software on the internet. In 2012 a new version introduced had to support WYSIWYG (What You See IS What You Get) editing. 

It is a code-based editor that means you will have to know basic HTML to use it. It offers script help and live chat support to assist the user. It is also faster than any other HTML web developer that saves the user a lot of time. 

It is free to use and is perfect for small businesses and personal sites on a budget. 

4) Web Flow

If you are not a coding person but still like to design websites, Webflow could be the right option. 

It is an online platform that allows the user to design websites without coding, mostly used by beginners who don’t want to bother with any code. 

Any expert coder would not prefer this software due to no interaction with the web code. 

Webflow is free to use, and there are no hidden charges involved. But, you can also choose the basic, business, and CMS plans for more perks. 

5) Goole Web Designer

It is made to create interactive websites that work on all platforms. Google developed the software. 

It works on all platforms including, Mac, Linux, and Windows. Its interface is simple and is easy to use for a beginner. And if you are an experienced designer, you can dig deeper by enabling experienced developer tools. 

It does not need hefty code knowledge, and the user can create and design ads without coding knowledge. It is a great place to learn and design your interactive ads and websites. 

It is integrated with Google Drive, where users can preview their creation and publish the documents.