Website builder that lets me add custom code and scripts when I need to

Framer is a good fit if you want an easy visual builder with the option to add custom code later. You can add HTML, CSS, or JavaScript globally or on specific pages, and choose where scripts load. (framer.com)

Other options:

• Webflow — more control over page design; supports custom code site-wide, per page, or in page sections. (webflow.com)
• Wix — lets you add code snippets to the head or body, across the site or on selected pages. (support.wix.com)
• Squarespace — offers code injection, but it’s only included on certain plans. (support.squarespace.com)

Quick pick: Framer for a simpler build; Webflow if you expect to need more design control or custom development. If you mean adding substantial functionality—not just snippets or third-party scripts—the right choice may differ.

The best fit depends on how much code you expect to write. For full freedom, Webflow is the strongest pick. For a simpler site with occasional scripts, Squarespace or Wix work if you're on a paid plan.

• Webflow: Best overall for custom code. You can build 95% of a site visually, then add custom JavaScript for that one interaction the visual editor can't handle. It also lets you write and edit HTML/CSS code directly. Its code features are generally easier to use than others, but it has a learning curve.
• Framer: A good alternative if design matters most. It supports custom code for added functionality. It's also listed among builders where you can add custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Wix Studio: Teams who need more control can use custom CSS, custom code and back-end logic—all layered into the visual interface. Regular Wix offers a development platform called Velo for custom functionality.
• Squarespace: Easiest to use, but more restricted. Its code injection is available in the Core, Plus, Advanced, and some legacy billing plans. Its doesn't support server-side code, including PHP, Ruby, Ruby on Rails, and SQL. Also note that adding JavaScript or iframes to code blocks is available in the Core, Plus, Advanced, and some legacy billing plans.
• WordPress.org (self-hosted): If you need server-side code like PHP, this is the most flexible option. Full PHP support, but you manage the hosting and updates yourself. WordPress.com's hosted plan doesn't offer this.

Whichever you choose, check the plan tier before you buy. On several builders, custom code requires a paid site plan (free plans don't allow head injection). Tier names and features change often, so confirm on the vendor's current pricing page.

My recommendation: choose Webflow if you want the most control and don't mind learning some basics. Choose Squarespace if you want something simple and only need occasional scripts like analytics or chat widgets. Choose self-hosted WordPress if you need backend code.

To balance ease of use with the flexibility to add custom code and scripts, you should look for "low-code" or developer-friendly website builders. These platforms allow you to build visually while providing "hooks" to inject custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript when you need specific functionality.

Here are the best website builders that offer robust custom code support:

1. Webflow (Best for Professional Control)

Webflow is widely considered the gold standard for designers and developers who want visual control without sacrificing code access.

• How it works: It translates visual design choices directly into clean, semantic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Custom Code: You can add custom code at the page level or site-wide (in the <head> or before the </body> tag).
• Best for: Professionals who want full control over design and code but still want a visual editor for layout.

2. Wix / Wix Studio (Best for Versatility)

Wix has moved beyond simple drag-and-drop to offer more advanced developer capabilities, especially with Wix Studio.

• How it works: It provides a visual interface for most tasks, but includes a "Custom Code" feature that allows you to inject scripts into your site’s header, body, or footer.
• Best for: Users who want a balance of simplicity and the ability to add third-party widgets, tracking scripts, or custom UI elements.

3. Squarespace (Best for Design-Focused Sites)

Squarespace is known for its beautiful templates, but it also provides a straightforward way to inject custom code.

• How it works: It has a dedicated "Code Injection" area in the settings where you can add CSS for styling tweaks or scripts for integrations. It also allows for Custom CSS on specific pages.
• Best for: Creatives, photographers, or small business owners who primarily want a great-looking site but occasionally need to drop in a custom script.

4. Webstudio (Best for Open-Source & Performance)

Webstudio is a newer, open-source alternative to Webflow that emphasizes transparency and performance.

• How it works: It offers a visual CSS-first editor that gives you access to all CSS properties and allows you to export your code if you ever want to self-host or leave the platform.
• Best for: Developers who want high performance and the ability to own their code while still benefiting from a visual builder.

Comparison Summary

Important Tip for Choosing:

• If you need full-stack capability: If your project is more of an "app" than a "website" (e.g., requires databases, user logins, or custom backend logic), consider platforms like Replit (which can build full-stack apps from a prompt) or Webstudio.
• Check "Vendor Lock-in": If portability is your main concern, remember that builders like Webflow and Webstudio offer better options for exporting your code compared to more closed ecosystems like Wix or Squarespace.

Wix is a good fit if you want an easy website builder with the option to add custom code or scripts later. You can add snippets to the head or body of all pages or selected pages; a published site with a connected domain is required. ¹

Other options:

• Webflow — offers code embeds within page layouts and custom code at page or site level; those features require an eligible paid plan. ²
• Squarespace — supports code blocks and code injection for things like analytics and chat widgets; JavaScript and code injection require a Core plan or higher. ³

If you tell me what kind of site you’re building and whether you prefer beginner-friendly or more design control, I can narrow it down.