As WordPress evolves, theme development has shifted dramatically with Full Site Editing (FSE) and Block-based customization. Today, WordPress offers Classic Themes, Block Themes, Hybrid Themes, and Universal Themes—each catering to different needs.

In this guide, we'll compare these four theme types, their pros & cons, and help you choose the right one for your website in 2025.

1️⃣ Classic Themes (Traditional PHP Themes)
🔹 Best For: Websites that rely on PHP templates, page builders (Elementor, WPBakery), or custom code.
🔹 Example Themes: Astra, GeneratePress, OceanWP

📌 Key Features:
✅ Uses PHP template files for layouts (header.php, footer.php, etc.)
✅ Supports Classic Editor & Page Builders (Elementor, WPBakery, Beaver Builder)
✅ Customization via Customizer & Widget Areas
✅ Highly compatible with existing plugins

❌ Limitations:
🚫 Doesn't support Full Site Editing (FSE)
🚫 Requires custom PHP coding for advanced modifications
🚫 Future updates may phase out Classic Themes in favor of Block Themes

💡 Best for users who prefer classic WordPress workflows with PHP template flexibility.

2️⃣ Block Themes (Full Site Editing - FSE Themes)
🔹 Best For: Websites that want complete block-based control over layouts & styling without coding.
🔹 Example Themes: Twenty Twenty-Four, Ollie, Spectra One

📌 Key Features:
✅ Uses Full Site Editing (FSE)—customize headers, footers, pages with Gutenberg
✅ No need for PHP coding—everything is block-based
✅ Custom templates & theme parts via WordPress Site Editor
✅ Built-in block patterns & styles

❌ Limitations:
🚫 Limited theme/plugin support (Not all old plugins work well with FSE)
🚫 Less control over advanced customizations without coding
🚫 Gutenberg learning curve for non-tech users

💡 Best for beginners & modern websites that want full visual editing without PHP templates.

3️⃣ Hybrid Themes (Mix of Classic + Block Functionality)
🔹 Best For: Users who want to combine PHP templates with block-based features.
🔹 Example Themes: Kadence, Blocksy, Neve

📌 Key Features:
✅ Supports Classic PHP-based templates + Gutenberg customization
✅ Works with both Classic Editor & Full Site Editing (FSE)
✅ Ideal for gradual migration to block-based design
✅ Compatible with Page Builders & Gutenberg

❌ Limitations:
🚫 Can be complex to manage (mixing PHP templates & block features)
🚫 Some FSE features may not work fully

💡 Best for users who want to keep PHP templates but gradually adopt Block-based design.

4️⃣ Universal Themes (Future-Proofed Hybrid Themes)
🔹 Best For: Websites that need flexibility for both Classic & Block workflows.
🔹 Example Themes: GeneratePress 3.0, Kadence, Blocksy Pro

📌 Key Features:
✅ Supports Classic Editor, Page Builders, & Full Site Editing (FSE)
✅ Works with Gutenberg, Elementor, Bricks, Beaver Builder
✅ Can be used as a Classic or Block Theme (fully flexible)
✅ Future-proofed—adapts to WordPress updates

❌ Limitations:
🚫 Slightly heavier than pure block themes due to added compatibility
🚫 Can be overwhelming for beginners choosing between features

💡 Best for freelancers, agencies, and businesses that need flexibility & future compatibility.

🏆 Which Theme Type Should You Choose?
✅ Go with Classic Themes if: You rely on PHP templates, page builders, or legacy workflows.
✅ Choose Block Themes if: You want Full Site Editing (FSE) with 100% Gutenberg control.
✅ Pick Hybrid Themes if: You need both PHP templates + Gutenberg support.
✅ Use Universal Themes if: You want a future-proof theme that works with all builders.