The digital world offers many types of websites, each designed to address specific business or target audience needs. Most websites fit into several categories, each with its own set of standards for design and functionality. We’re focused on the nine most popular, excluding social media platforms (those rarely get crafted from scratch these days).
From business websites to databases, we outline each website type’s main functions and essential characteristics. We’ll also provide design tips along with examples for websites to inspire and assist you in building your own.
- Different website types serve specific business purposes. Matching your site type to your goals leads to better results.
- Most successful business websites combine elements from multiple website categories.
- The right website features depend on your industry, audience needs and how customers prefer to interact with you.
- Start with core website functionality and add features as you grow.
- Professional website builders make it simple to create any type of website without technical expertise.
1. Business website
Today, the first thing most people do to understand a business is visit its website. Whether you’re introducing innovative services or reaffirming the credibility of your traditional business, your website is crucial to your business.
Business website design by anna.uxui via 99designs by Vista
Your website’s design should mirror your company’s brand identity. For instance, a tech startup should use modern visuals and informal language, while a law firm should opt for a classic design and professional tone.
Are you curious about what type of website and layout is best for your business? A business site needs to clearly show who you are, what you offer and why someone should choose you. Think of it as your digital storefront. Ideally, it will have a strong homepage, a clear About page, simple navigation and visible trust signals like testimonials or case studies.
Design matters, but simplicity wins. A well-structured layout with easy-to-read content and clear calls-to-action is more effective than flashy animations. And for service-based businesses like consultants or contractors, it’s often those quiet credibility cues, like licenses, reviews or professional tone, that matter most.
If you’re not sure where to start, check out our guide on how to create a business website. And remember: Your website doesn’t need to do everything, just the right things for your audience.
Features
- Detailed service descriptions
- Insightful company biography on the “About Us” page
- Essential contact details such as address, phone and email
- Clear mission statement
- Solutions for customer pain points and a strong value proposition
- Direct call-to-action for initiating business
2. E-commerce website
E-commerce websites turn your online presence into a sales channel, allowing customers to browse and buy directly. Compared to standard business websites, they require extra features—like inventory management, secure checkout and user accounts.
With cart abandonment hovering near 70%, according to Statista, a smooth, trustworthy shopping experience matters.
E-commerce website design by Mediaspace via 99designs by Vista
For retailers with extensive product lines, it’s essential to create individual pages for each item. These pages draw in customers through engaging descriptions, vivid photographs and dynamic videos.
As your inventory expands, website navigation can become more complex. An effective layout coupled with features like filters and category tags guides customers to their desired products more efficiently.
Given the inherent hesitation some shoppers feel towards online purchases due to the inability to physically inspect items, the quality of your visual content is vital. Employ crisp, well-angled photos and videos to provide a clearer understanding of what you’re selling.
This approach is particularly critical in apparel sales, where fitting is a major concern. Including comprehensive sizing charts with precise measurements significantly enhances customer confidence in how garments will fit, mitigating the lack of a physical fitting experience.
Features
- Gallery showcasing products with high-resolution images
- Dedicated product pages
- Secure payment processing, including SSL encryption
- Personalization features like wishlists, saved shopping carts and customizable user profiles
Not sure where to begin? Our small business guide to e-commerce and top e-commerce tools can help you get started without tech headaches.
3. Blog and news websites
In the digital era, blogs and news websites are taking over the roles traditionally held by newspapers and magazines. A significant majority of Americans—around 86% according to Pew Research Center—prefer to access their news online, a trend bolstered by the free access most of these sites offer.
News website redesign by Anton S. via 99designs by Vista
Given the large number of articles these sites host, it’s essential to have easy navigation. Many sites use tags or categories, similar to sections in a newspaper like “Sports” or “Entertainment,” to help readers quickly find the content they’re looking for.
Blog websites are often featured on larger websites, including business sites, where they engage visitors and boost search engine rankings. Keeping blogs filled with fresh, keyword-rich content enhances a site’s visibility online. However, it’s crucial to focus on high-quality content to avoid the trap of clickbait, which can turn readers away as quickly as it draws them in.
Forget design tricks: Content strategy is what counts. Focus on topics your audience is already searching for, and organize content into clusters to grow your authority over time.
Ready to start writing? Explore how to start a blog and find the best blogging platforms for your needs. Done well, blogging builds long-term SEO results and lasting trust.
Features
- Comprehensive article directories
- Individual pages for each post
- Article tagging and categorization for easy navigation
- Payment systems and user accounts, when necessary
4. Portfolio website
Portfolio websites are vital for visually driven professionals, such as photographers and design agencies. Their main goal is similar to that of business websites—to convey ideas to visitors and capture potential business—yet they specifically highlight actual work to set client expectations regarding style and quality.
Portfolio website design for an artist by Soda Creek Digital via 99designs by Vista
These sites are designed to show more than tell; they typically include galleries that are easy to navigate, possibly using tags or categories to sort the work effectively.
Key details like contact info and a concise professional biography are also crucial, providing authenticity and a personal touch.
Additionally, an effective call-to-action, such as a messaging feature, is essential. This should be prominently placed across the website to facilitate straightforward and quick communication with prospective clients.
Food photographer’s portfolio website design for a photographer by Armin Braunsberger via 99design by Vista
Features
- Display of high-quality project images
- Information about the professional or agency
- Brief explanation of services
- Strong call-to-action for initiating contact
5. Landing page
Landing pages are designed for a specific function, like gathering email sign-ups or promoting app downloads, with a layout that directs all attention to one action. These pages feature prominent, eye-catching CTAs and straightforward text that clarifies the CTA’s value or offers reassurances like “We won’t share your email.”
An example of a single-page website (landing page) by Yevhen Genome via 99designs by Vista
Landing pages are often part of larger marketing strategies, such as using a dedicated page for an online raffle to streamline links from ads directly to the action. They can be easily set up and taken down, making them ideal for temporary campaigns.
Landing pages also serve as interim solutions while a full website is being developed, collecting emails to notify users upon launch. This approach not only builds anticipation but also helps plan for adequate hosting resources based on the anticipated traffic.
Landing page design by Akira X3 via 99designs by Vista
Features
- Single, clear call-to-action (CTA)
- Concise service description or pitch
Landing pages are ideal for campaigns, launches and lead gen. Tailor them to specific audiences for better results than a general homepage.
6. Event website
Event websites streamline the management of events like weddings, conferences or social gatherings by centralizing critical details—dates, locations, schedules and guidelines.
Event website design by daffanauran via 99designs by Vista
These sites eliminate repetitive communication, allowing attendees to access all the information they need in one place, with the flexibility to revisit details as needed.
While personal events might require basic websites, larger events may opt for more advanced setups with features like online ticket sales.
Ensure the site includes all vital information such as event timing, dress code, rules, directions, accommodation details and links to nearby facilities.
Pair your site with an event promotion strategy to drive signups through email and social campaigns. And keep the registration process simple—less friction means more attendees.
Features
- Registration functionality
- Accessible guest lists
- Detailed schedule and event information
- Useful attendee information, such as directions and requirements
7. Database or wiki
Databases and wikis are digital encyclopedias designed for quick information access. Each topic typically has its own page with all necessary details. Wikis often enable user contributions, allowing edits and new topics through account creation and moderator oversight.
Database website via IMDb
Many wikis specialize in particular interests or fields, ranging from fan-created pages about entertainment to specialized subjects like hobby crafts.
When setting up these types of websites, ensure your hosting can support the volume of content, which might mean upgrading for more storage. Despite being text-centric, including visuals can make the information more engaging.
Features
- Extensive content with numerous pages
- Efficient search functionality
- Optional user accounts for content creation and editing
8. Forum
Forums are digital spaces for users to create and exchange content, functioning similarly to social media. They provide platforms for discussion and link-sharing on varied interests.
Community forum design by Interfuse via 99designs by Vista
Setting up a forum involves creating an easy-to-navigate system for users to find and engage with different topics. This can be administrator-managed or user-generated.
Effective moderation is essential to maintain a respectful and safe discussion environment. Moderators may be volunteers or paid staff, depending on the forum’s needs.
Additionally, forums can serve practical uses such as job postings or item sales, requiring more rigorous moderation to prevent scams and ensure authenticity.
If you’re implementing community features on your website, start small with blog comments or basic discussion areas, and expand as participation grows.
Features
- Topic-specific discussion boards
- User-generated content
- Moderation to ensure safety
- Customizable user profiles with notifications and favorites
9. Service provider (software as a service, streaming, etc.)
For many businesses, their website is their main service. Platforms like Netflix or Google Translate are central hubs for their users, delivering everything from entertainment to specialized tools.
Screenshot of Netflix’s home page via Netflix
These websites are intuitively designed—their primary service is immediately accessible from the homepage, ensuring users can easily start using them. For example, Google’s search bar is the centerpiece of its homepage, and Grammarly prominently displays its text box for spell-checking.
For subscription services like Netflix, a clear call to action is prominently placed on the landing page, typically prompting new visitors to sign up or log in, making the next steps obvious.
Some services integrate their tools into other websites as a strategic move to draw new users and enhance value for existing ones. It’s vital that these tools are relevant to the host site’s industry to attract appropriate users. For example, a construction company might feature a project estimation tool, aligning with its business focus. To build customer trust with design, focus on intuitive layouts, accessible navigation and reassurance at every step. Your service site should feel like part of the product.
Features
- Sign up/Authorization
- Direct access to services
- Subscription payment options
- Customizable user accounts with features like favorites and recommendations
Choose the right website type for your business goals
Choosing a website type starts with knowing your goal. Do you want to sell, showcase, educate or connect? That determines whether you need a business site, e-commerce store, portfolio or something else.
Many sites combine elements. A portfolio might include a blog. A business site might add e-commerce. Hybrid setups often work best, as long as the user experience stays simple.
Ask yourself:
- What do I want users to do on my site?
- How do people in my industry expect to interact online?
- What content will I update regularly?
- What’s my time, budget and tech comfort level?
Understand the foundation your type of website needs and build from there.
Types of websites: FAQs
How do I know which type of website is best for my small business?
Start with your main goal. Want leads and credibility? A business website is ideal. Selling products? Go for an e-commerce site. Many businesses use hybrid sites that mix elements like blogs and portfolios.
Can I combine multiple website types into one site?
Yep, most websites do. You might pair an online store with a blog or showcase your work alongside contact and service pages. Just keep navigation clear for each audience type.
Should my business website have a blog?
Only if you can keep it updated. A blog boosts SEO and shows expertise, but outdated posts can hurt your credibility. Aim for consistent, quality content.
How do I choose the right platform?
It depends on your needs. Builders like Wix or Squarespace are great for simple sites. Shopify suits e-commerce. Forums or community features may need custom platforms.
What’s the difference between a blog and a news website?
Blogs share educational or personal insights, often evergreen. News sites focus on timely, factual updates. Many business websites use both for different content types.
