If your WordPress theme is visually appealing, then it’ll increase the engagement of your site. There are thousands of themes available for WordPress so choosing a particular theme does get tricky.

Your website will make a first impression on any person visiting the site. If it is cluttered, then it will be a turn-off.

Most people choose a WordPress theme that is aesthetic so it creates the right impression on the visitor. Also, the WordPress theme should be chosen based on your product requirement and business niche.

If it is for blogging, then it requires a connection. WordPress themes are available with pre-designed templates and features but you need to consider some other things as well.

8 things to consider when choosing a WordPress theme:

1. Lightweight and Responsive

If the theme is lightweight, then it’ll load faster. Heavy themes generally take time to load and that may affect the performance of the website. If a site does not load in two seconds, then it is a major turn off for the visitor. It is ideal to choose a theme that is lightweight as that is also important for the SEO experience.

Also, look for a theme with a responsive design. The theme should automatically adjust to the format of your blog or site. It should optimize according to the desktop or a mobile layout.

Google prioritizes mobile-friendly and responsive websites. If your WordPress theme is not responsive, you could lose the plot. The layout should adjust to changing screens to make them more responsive.

2. Customization

If you want your blog or site to look unique, then you need to consider customization. Look for a theme that will fairly make it easier for you to customize. There are many themes with limited customization features.

So considering this factor is important. ‘Theme options lab’ feature gives you easy access so you can customize your site depending on the product line or business.

Don’t go for a theme that requires you to edit the CSS files. Editing that part will be more technical so it can be tricky. With the customization feature, you’ll be able to change the site’s look, layout, and many other features. Free themes may not provide you with customization features so you may have to purchase the pro version.

3. Simple Interface

WordPress themes are available with flashy animations, catchy colors, and complex layouts. But if it’s all cluttered and complicated, it’ll confuse the visitor who visits the site.

It is advisable to keep your interface simple so that when any visitor visits your site, it’ll be easier to read the information.

Your site layouts should leave an impact on the visitor. The simpler your site is, the more it will create a positive impact. A website theme should have an easily navigable layout. It should bring in the visitor for the second time.

So, simplicity is surely a factor that should be considered when choosing a WordPress theme. This goes for a new website or a WordPress website that needs an update.

4. Compatible with Browsers

Browser compatibility is another important factor that you need to consider before choosing a WordPress theme. Google Chrome holds a major market share of 60% while other browsers hold a 40% share.

But, if you choose a theme that is only compatible with Chrome, then your WordPress site won’t reach people who use other browsers like Firefox, Internet Explorer and UC browser.

If you are choosing a new theme for your WordPress site, then do a test for all the browsers. This will not only increase your website’s reach but also drive more traffic to your site. Brower compatibility does play an important role in choosing the best WordPress theme for your website.

5. Functionality

Design and layout can be appealing but what about functionality. If a theme is just good in design, it won’t serve the purpose, right. If you want to monetize your WordPress website, then you need to look for SEO optimization.

A WordPress website that is SEO optimized will make your site stand out from other sites in the webspace. You also need to look for a theme that offers you third party integration.

To create a website for your target audience, you may need to integrate with third-party apps. Limited functionality can hinder the possibility of growth. So, functionality plays a big role in making your WordPress site a huge success.

6. Supported Plugins

WordPress becomes all the more powerful when it integrates with different tools and plugins. There is an inventory of WordPress plugins that you can use to create a site.

Choose plugins that can make your site innovative and classy. The choice of more than 50,000 plugins will make your website engaging. But, when you look for a theme with plugins, choose the ones you need for your site’s niche.

Too many plugins and tools can affect the speed of the website. The theme you choose should work well with all the key plugins so that there is no issue managing your site.

Make a list of plugins you need and choose a theme accordingly. Choose the best plugin for your business or site based on the theme.

7. Developer’s Support

At times, you may face a problem with WordPress installation or update so you know you can reach out to the support team.

Even if you are well versed with technical knowledge, support for a theme is always handy. Most free WordPress themes don’t provide that support you need when you are stuck on some issues related to creating a website.

Support is handy when you need help regarding any configuration or technical problem. With the developer’s support, you know that you have someone to bank upon when in trouble.

So, choose a WordPress theme that not only offers you robust support when required but also supports thorough documentation. A developer’s support is a must if you are planning to start a new website. At times, you may face a problem with installation or update so you know you can reach out to the support team.

8. Reviews

A review helps you understand the popularity and efficacy. So, when you choose a theme always lookout for a positive review. At times, even a premium WordPress theme may have a negative review.

While downloading the theme, look out for the rating tab. Any theme with a good rating tab will provide you with the best features. So, do check out the review when you download a theme for your WordPress website.

Choose the best theme,

An ideal WordPress theme can help your business grow and give your site good exposure. With so much competition in the webspace, your website must look different.

The appeal should be great and at the same time, the interface should be simple. Your WordPress theme should have the right mix of elegance and functionality, so choose the best one.

Author Bio. :- Sudhir Bhushan is a Tech & Social enthusiast. He is also a Web Entrepreneur by Profession and loves to write about the latest trends on Social Media & SEO.