Elements vs Classic

Learn more about switching from Classic to Elements

Migrating from RapidWeaver Classic to RapidWeaver Elements is a fantastic move if you’re looking to modernise your web design workflow and unlock new creative possibilities.

Elements introduces a fresh approach, offering unmatched flexibility and precision for designing responsive, professional-grade websites.

RapidWeaver Alternative

Unlike RapidWeaver Classic, Elements eliminates the need for outdated themes and stacks, streamlining your process while giving you greater control over your projects. The switch might feel like a big step, but the improved performance, future-proof tools, and enhanced creative freedom make it well worth the journey. Plus, the supportive Elements community is here to help you every step of the way!

Testimonials from RapidWeaver Classic users upgrading to Elements

"'After many years of building websites using Rapidweaver Classic, I eagerly anticipated the release of Elements, the next-generation website builder. The two-way engagement has been a refreshing experience. The support provided by the Realmac team has been exceptional, exemplifying how to effectively interact with customers." — Steve Woodgate

"Elements is a huge leap up from Rapid Weaver Classic. It’s so cool to design a website where all the basic design stuff is right there in the App, without having to use third-party add-ons. The ability to quickly make custom components is a huge plus. The beta has been a a refreshing experience because the development team has been super open, flexible, and very responsive to our feedback." — Jon

"I discovered RapidWeaver through a monthly Dutch Mac magazine, and it has since become my most-used app. In my spare time, I volunteer to build websites for smaller organizations.

Inspired by the weekly developer videos and forum discussions, I started experimenting on my own in Elements. With the help of AI, I’ve been able to achieve solutions that, as someone with no programming background, I never thought possible. I’m now creating my own components for Elements that previously required me to purchase Stacks in RapidWeaver Classic. — Bart Vosters

RapidWeaver Classic FAQ

Q: Will my existing RapidWeaver Classic themes be compatible?

A: Elements does not support Classic legacy themes. It’s been a tough decision to make, but ultimately we think Elements is a much better product as we built it for the future of web design.

Q: Can I import my RapidWeaver Classic projects into RapidWeaver Elements?

A: Not at this time, Element based websites are built completely differently so there's no easy way to open those older Classic documents.However, you could see this as a great opportunity to refresh your website and bring it up-to-date with modern web technologies and standards.

Q: Is it possible to use RapidWeaver Classic and RapidWeaver Elements side-by-side?

A: Yes, you can install and run both applications simultaneously on your Mac. We anticipate this scenario to be quite popular as it allows users to manage older projects in Classic while simultaneously migrating and developing newer projects in Elements.

Q: Will RapidWeaver Classic be phased out and replaced by RapidWeaver Elements?

A: No, both versions of RapidWeaver will coexist as they cater to slightly different customer needs.

RapidWeaver Classic continues to serve thousands of customers who maintain and build existing websites using a variety of legacy plugins and addons. We will continue to develop and update RapidWeaver Classic to support this "classic" workflow. RapidWeaver Classic requires macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or a newer version.

RapidWeaver Elements represents our vision for reimagining web design on the Mac, it's easier and more powerful than ever before to build no-code websites.