Core Web Vitals shape how websites perform online. Website performance has become a defining factor in online success, and Google’s Core Web Vitals are now at the center of how sites are ranked and experienced by users. While WordPress continues to dominate as the world’s most popular content management system, new research indicates that it is falling short compared to other platforms in terms of these vital metrics. From page speed to visual stability, competing CMS options like Webflow, Wix, and Shopify are edging ahead with performance-focused features built directly into their frameworks.
The latest report from HTTPArchive, updated on September 11, 2025, ranks six major content management systems (CMS) based on these Google metrics. These metrics measure speed, stability, and responsiveness. WordPress trails behind, while Duda leads with the best scores. All platforms improved from June, but the gap remains wide.
Core Web Vitals Reveal Ranking Performance Leaders
The Core Web Vitals Technology Report highlights top CMS performers. Data comes from Chrome UX Report and HTTPArchive. Here’s the breakdown:
- July CWV Scores:
- #1 Duda: 84.96%
- #2 Wix: 73.37%
- #3 Squarespace: 68.93%
- #4 Drupal: 60.54%
- #5 Joomla: 54.78%
- #6 WordPress: 44.34%
- Month-over-Month Gains (June to July):
- #1 Joomla: +3.23%
- #2 Wix: +2.61%
- #3 Drupal: +1.47%
- #4 Duda: +1.33%
- #5 Squarespace: +1.27%
- #6 WordPress: +0.90%
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What To Conclude?
Duda tops the list with 84.96% of sites passing Core Web Vitals. Joomla shows the biggest jump but ranks fifth. WordPress, despite a slight rise, stays last. Wix and Squarespace also perform well but lag behind Duda.
Why does this matter? Fast, smooth websites keep users engaged. Slow sites, like those on WordPress, risk higher bounce rates. WordPress faces technical debt from its blogging roots. This old code slows updates and innovation. WordCamp EU 2025 noted contributor burnout adds to the problem.
Some think CMS choice affects SEO rankings. WordPress ranks well despite low CWV scores. Private platforms like Duda and Wix focus on SEO and speed. Still, performance impacts user experience and conversions. The report shows WordPress needs work to catch up on Core Web Vitals.
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