Classic Editor

1. Core Features (Free Plugin)

The Classic Editor plugin is free and comes with several core features that aim to replicate the pre WordPress 5.0 editing experience. These include:

a. Visual and Text Editors:

• Offers two modes for content creation:
  • Visual Editor: A user-friendly, WYSIWYG interface similar to word processors like Microsoft Word.
  • Text Editor: For those who prefer working directly with HTML and adding custom code.

b. Simple Formatting Tools:

• Allows basic formatting such as bold, italics, underlining, lists, blockquotes, and headings through a toolbar.
• Easy access to tools for adding links, images, media, and embedding video without needing to use blocks.

c. Meta Boxes Support:

• Provides full compatibility with meta boxes commonly used by plugins and themes (e.g., for SEO, custom post types, etc.). These are displayed below the main content area, just like they were in older versions of WordPress.

d. Shortcode Compatibility:

• Seamlessly supports shortcodes, making it easy to add dynamic content by simply pasting a shortcode into the editor.

e. Custom Fields:

• You can add and manage custom fields directly in the editor, which is useful for plugins or advanced custom post types.

f. TinyMCE Integration:

• Utilizes TinyMCE (the editor behind the Classic Editor) for content creation, which gives users an easytouse rich text experience.

g. Switch Between Block Editor and Classic Editor:

• Provides an option for users to switch between the Classic Editor and the Block Editor (Gutenberg) on a per post basis or to disable Gutenberg altogether.

h. Support for Plugins and Widgets:

• Works with many plugins that interact with the post editor, like Yoast SEO, Advanced Custom Fields (ACF), and WooCommerce.

Customization Options

The Classic Editor offers various settings to adjust its behavior and enhance the user experience. Some of these options can be customized directly through WordPress settings:

a. Classic Editor Settings:

• Default Editor for All Users: Admins can choose whether the Classic Editor or Block Editor will be the default for all users.
• Allow Users to Switch Editors: You can enable or disable the option for users to switch between the Classic Editor and the Block Editor on a postbypost basis.

b. Text Editor Customization:

• You can add custom CSS or JavaScript to enhance or modify the editing experience in the Text Editor mode.

c. Addons for TinyMCE:

• Since the Classic Editor is powered by TinyMCE, you can install TinyMCE plugins or extensions to enhance the toolbar (e.g., adding tables, custom fonts, advanced formatting, etc.).

d. Custom Meta Boxes:

• Developers can add custom meta boxes and custom fields to the editor page, giving full flexibility for specialized content types, plugins, or themes.

Integration with Other Plugins/Services

The Classic Editor is highly compatible with many popular WordPress plugins, making it a flexible solution for many types of websites. Here are key integrations:

a. SEO Plugins:

• Works seamlessly with popular SEO plugins like Yoast SEO and Rank Math, displaying their meta boxes below the content editor for easy editing of SEO titles, meta descriptions, and focus keywords.

b. WooCommerce:

• Fully compatible with WooCommerce for editing product descriptions, adding custom fields, and using meta boxes related to product settings.

c. Page Builders:

• The Classic Editor plays well with thirdparty page builders like WPBakery, Elementor, or Beaver Builder, which often rely on this editor interface for custom post types or backend content management.

d. Advanced Custom Fields (ACF):

• Works flawlessly with the Advanced Custom Fields plugin, allowing you to add, edit, and manage custom fields directly through the Classic Editor.

e. Custom Post Types UI:

• Fully compatible with Custom Post Type UI for managing and editing custom post types without conflicts.

f. TinyMCE Plugins:

• You can install various TinyMCE plugins to extend the editor’s capabilities, such as adding tables, advanced media embedding, or custom styles.

g. Content Protection Plugins:

• Works well with content protection plugins (like Restrict Content Pro) to manage access controls and display custom meta boxes within the editor.

In summary the Classic Editor plugin allows WordPress users to retain the traditional editing experience, offering a simple and familiar interface instead of the Gutenberg Block Editor. It’s ideal for those who prefer a straightforward content creation process or need compatibility with older themes and plugins. With official support from the WordPress team until at least 2024, the Classic Editor remains a reliable choice for users who want to avoid the complexity of block-based editing. It’s lightweight, user-friendly, and well-suited for basic blogs, content-driven sites, and legacy setups.