The idea of using tables in WordPress probably originated from the challenge of presenting structured data in a readable format. In the early days, website creators faced a growing need to display information in a way that was short, to the point, and easy to look at. This drove the idea of adopting tables for a clear, organized, and systematic format of content in WordPress.
At the start, users had to rely on manually coded HTML tables, which required technical expertise and significant effort. A recent shift in table creation for WordPress has introduced block-based plugins that work directly within the Gutenberg editor and allow users to build and customize tables visually without leaving the editing interface.
It’s not difficult to say that Flexible Table Block and Tableberg are the frontrunners among the dedicated block-based table plugins. This article presents an analytical comparison to depict the fundamental differences between these two plugins. Without further ado, let’s get straight to that.
Why Choose Block Tables?
Block tables introduce a significant advancement in how tables are created and managed within WordPress. Compared to traditional approaches that rely on shortcodes or manual HTML, Block Tables allow users to formulate and manage tables directly within the editor without the need for switching between interfaces.
The primary purpose of block-based table plugins is to let users create, modify, and style tables directly within the editor in a grid-like environment that mirrors the table’s final appearance.
Most block-based table plugins prioritize responsiveness and features like horizontal scrolling or stacked layouts for smaller devices. With everything happening within the editor, users no longer need to jump between the WordPress dashboard and external plugin interfaces. As WordPress continues to prioritize the block editor as its core, plugins that integrate with this system are better positioned for long-term support and updates.
Flexible Table Block vs Tableberg
Plugins |
Flexible Table Block |
Tableberg |
|---|---|---|
Active Installations |
30,000+ |
700+ |
Ratings |
||
Free Version |
Yes |
Yes |
Paid Version |
No |
Yes |
Sub-Blocks |
No |
Yes |
Pre-designed Templates |
No |
Yes |
Interactive Features |
No |
Yes |
Search and Sort Features |
No |
Yes |
Sticky Column & Row |
No |
Yes |
Customization Features |
Basic |
Advanced |
Download |
Flexible Table Block
The Flexible Table Block plugin is a lightweight and user-friendly tool designed to help WordPress users create and manage tables directly within the Gutenberg editor. The plugin deploys a straightforward interface and offers practical features for anyone who needs basic yet functional tables for their website.
How It Works
Flexible Table Block works entirely within the Gutenberg editor and lets users build tables without relying on external tools or coding.
You can add the table block to any page or post. When you add the Flexible Table Block, the initial interface prompts you to set the number of rows and columns for your table, with additional options to include headers or footers.
After setting up the initial structure with rows and columns, the table appears in the editor. After that, you can then start editing by clicking into cells to add content, merging or splitting cells, and customizing styles like colors and borders.
The sidebar settings in the Flexible Table Block plugin let you customize table width, enable striped styles, and set text and background colors. You can adjust padding, borders, and alignments for individual cells and set breakpoints for adjusting how the table behaves on smaller screens. There are also editor features for section labels, control buttons, and content handling for merged cells to make the prepared table perfect for your needs.
Best For
The Flexible Table Block is best suited for users who need straightforward, text-based tables without interactive or dynamic features. It shines in scenarios where you need clean, no-fuss layouts for your tables. If your idea of a great table is one that does the job without extra bells and whistles like buttons, icons, images, ratings, or complex interactivity, this plugin is the ideal companion.
A sample pricing table made with the Flexible Table Block plugin will look like this.
Price
Flexible Table Block is entirely free to use.
Tableberg
If we are to draw a line to separate the features of Tableberg from those of Flexible Table Block, the most defining factor should be Tableberg’s ability to add interactive elements directly into cells. Tableberg wins the first round by allowing users to embed elements like buttons, images, lists, star ratings, icons, ribbons, etc., to transform a static table into a visually exclusive power table.
Beyond this, Tableberg offers pre-designed templates, sorting and search functionality, sticky headers, empty cell handling, and multiple different settings for dimension and border. These features position Tableberg as an exceptional choice for anyone seeking to build tables that are highly functional and aesthetically pleasing.
How It Works
When you add the Tableberg block, the initial interface prompts you to define the number of rows and columns for your table. Once the table is created, you can use the sidebar settings to manage headers and footers. You can skip them entirely, designate the first or last row as the header or footer, or insert a new row specifically for these sections.
After the structure is set, Tableberg allows you to add content to cells using its advanced sub-block system. Simply click on a cell and select from elements like text, images, buttons, lists, star ratings, icons, and ribbons. Each element is added as an independent block within the cell, giving you full control over design and content. With the Pro version, you gain some added functionality through the use of sticky columns/rows, sorting, and search features.
The sidebar settings allow customization of dimensions, borders, and colors to ensure tables match your design needs. Through the use of responsive layouts, including horizontal scrolling and stacked views for smaller screens, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief knowing your tables are adaptable to all kinds of devices.
Best For
Tableberg is ideal for users who want to create visually striking tables with interactive elements. It’s a natural fit for pricing tiers, product comparisons, affiliate products, pros and cons, and restaurant menus where a side-by-side showcase of details brings clarity.
The plugin is also ideal for team member displays, event schedules, service offerings, educational course outlines, and portfolio showcases with proper images, descriptions, reviews, and links.
Tableberg’s ability to adapt to a wide range of needs and use cases makes it a powerful tool for creative and functional table designs.
Price
Unlike Flexible Table Block, which is entirely free, Tableberg offers both a free version and multiple Pro tiers. These Pro plans provide additional features at varying price points, starting at $49/year. A detailed table below highlights the available plans, their prices, and the number of supported websites.
Basic |
Plus |
Pro |
|
Yearly |
$49 Yearly |
$79 Yearly |
$149 Yearly |
Lifetime |
$149 Once |
$249 Once |
$449 Once |
1 Sites |
10 Sites |
Unlimited Sites |
|
Ending Note
In the end, the decision between Flexible Table Block and Tableberg comes down to your specific needs and the complexity of the tables you want to create.
You can choose Flexible Table Block if you need a lightweight and free solution to create simple, static tables. The best use of the plugin is for tasks that include basic pricing tables, schedules, or lists that don’t require interactive elements or advanced customization.
Or, go with Tableberg if you focus on creating visually aesthetic tables with interactive elements like buttons, images, ratings, ribbons, and advanced layouts. While the free version offers a solid start, the Pro plans add more cherries on the top with features like search, sort, sticky option, and advanced styling designs.
Ultimately, both plugins have their strengths, and the right choice depends on the level of customization, interactivity, and design you need for your tables. The best approach is to evaluate your requirements, test the plugins using demo sites, and decide which one fits your needs best.
