The evolution of WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) web builder tools has drastically made it easier for users to design websites without extensive knowledge of HTML or CSS. Over the years, these tools have evolved from simple page editing options to sophisticated platforms offering a wide range of functionalities. Among the numerous available tools, here are five best WYSIWYG web builders, recognized for their comprehensive features and continuous improvement:

1. Wix:

Wix is renowned for its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, which has undergone significant enhancements since its inception. It started with basic templates and design options but now boasts advanced features including animation, video backgrounds, and an app market. Its evolution now allows integration with external services through Wix Corvid, enhancing its capabilities to support complex website functionalities.

2. Squarespace:

Squarespace is celebrated for its sleek templates that cater to creative professionals. With a focus on design, this tool has evolved by providing updated and modern templates, replete with built-in functionalities such as eCommerce integration, social media tools, and a robust blogging platform. Furthermore, Squarespace now includes an email campaign service to help users streamline their digital marketing strategies.

3. Weebly:

Initially focused on providing straightforward website creation tools, Weebly has expanded to include a comprehensive set of e-commerce tools facilitated by its acquisition by Square Inc. Features now include integrated email marketing, inventory management, and a mobile app that allows site management on the go.

4. WordPress.com:

While WordPress needs no introduction in the world of content management systems (CMS), the hosted version at WordPress.com offers a more user-friendly experience with its block editor referred to as Gutenberg. This has enhanced customizability tremendously – allowing users to insert various content types easily and arrange layouts using blocks that have grown both in number and functionality.

5. Adobe Dreamweaver:

Unlike other listed builders which are mostly browser-based, Adobe Dreamweaver is a desktop application that offers a more traditional take on WYSIWYG web design integrated with coding interface. Over time, it has evolved to support responsive web design through the use of fluid grid layouts and it is synchronized with Adobe’s suite of products; thereby supporting comprehensive web development workflows.

Today’s web builders offer not just visual editing but also various integrations such as SEO tools, analytics monitoring, and advanced Design AI-powered assistance making website creation accessible to beginners yet powerful enough for professional designers. As technology progresses, we can anticipate more advanced features like AI-driven design suggestions and even more seamless third-party integrations that will further simplify website building and management.