What is the Gutenberg block editor?
…and why is it considered a major upgrade from ACF or the old editor?

The block editor, also known as Gutenberg, represents one of the biggest changes in WordPress history. The introduction of the new editor in WordPress 5.0 in 2018 marked a shift from the traditional, rigid content editing to a more modern, user-friendly experience. But what exactly is Gutenberg, and why is it considered a major upgrade over Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) and the old TinyMCE editor?
What is Gutenberg?
Gutenberg is actually the code name given to a massive overhaul of the entire WordPress ecosystem. However, many today equate it with the new block-based editor experience. However, it encompasses much more than just the editor, such as a new admin interface, multilingual support from the ground up in WordPress, and simultaneous editing for multiple editors, etc.
In this article, we will start by saying that Gutenberg is a block-based editor that allows users to build and design websites using content blocks. Each part of a page or post, such as headings, text, images, videos, buttons, and even complex layouts, is organized as a separate block. This gives users a visual and intuitive way to lay out content, directly in the editor window.
The blocks are flexible, and many of them come standard with WordPress, while others can be added through third-party plugins or custom-developed.
Why is Gutenberg an upgrade from ACF and the old editor?
1. Visual and intuitive editing
The old WordPress editor (TinyMCE) acted as a plain text box where users typed content without seeing how it would look on the website before publishing it. If you wanted more advanced content, you had to code it into the text. That’s why the third-party plugin ACF was a great alternative. ACF gives developers the flexibility to add custom fields, but there’s still a gap between the editing and the actual end result.
With Gutenberg, you as the user see a preview of the page as you build it. This makes it easier to understand how the content will look, and makes editing much more accessible to people without a technical background.
2. Less need for third-party plugins
ACF has long been a powerful tool for building complex solutions, but it requires developers to set up and maintain their own fields. Gutenberg already has many of the same capabilities built in, which means that in many cases you don't need to use ACF at all.
For example, users can create complex layouts with built-in column blocks, galleries, tables, and buttons, something that would previously have required either custom code or a third-party plugin.
3. Increased design freedom for the end user
As mentioned, Gutenberg gives end users the freedom to change design and layout directly in the editor without involving a developer. This means that marketing teams or content producers can experiment and update pages quickly without waiting for adjustments from a development team.
Unlike, for example, ACF, which often locks the user into predefined templates and layouts, Gutenberg provides a more flexible solution. This makes it easier to customize websites as needed, which is a great advantage in an era where websites must constantly be updated to remain relevant.
4. Faster development and maintenance
For developers, Gutenberg simplifies workflow by reducing the need for custom solutions. Where ACF requires manual creation of field groups, templates, and functions, Gutenberg makes it easy to use and customize existing blocks.
Gutenberg's modular system also makes maintenance easier. Changes to a block can automatically apply to all instances of the block, saving time and minimizing errors.
5. Future-proofing
WordPress has made it clear that the block editor is the future. The continuous work on improving it means that the system is constantly getting better and more functional. By adopting Gutenberg, you are investing in a platform that will receive long-term support and development.
The block editor is actively working towards meeting WCAG 2.2 AA as a minimum requirement for universal design (UD). This means ensuring that content is accessible to all users, regardless of their ability. In comparison, TinyMCE no longer receives updates related to UD, making the block editor a more future-proof choice for those who want to prioritize accessibility and adhere to modern standards.
ACF is still a useful tool for specific needs, but Gutenberg is integrated directly into the WordPress core, which means better performance, compatibility, and support for UU over time.
Are there any disadvantages to switching to Gutenberg?
While Gutenberg offers many benefits, the transition can be challenging for users who are used to ACF or the old editor. However, in the long run, the benefits outweigh these challenges.
That's why we recommend Gutenberg
This editor is not just a new way to edit content in WordPress, it’s a paradigm shift. By providing users with a more visual, flexible, and intuitive editing experience, “Gutenberg” puts end users in control, reduces reliance on developers, and makes it easy to build dynamic, modern websites faster than ever before.
For many projects, Gutenberg will be a full-fledged replacement for both ACF and the old editor.
Do you want to know more?
If you would like to know more about Gutenberg, please contact me for a no-obligation chat!
