The one-page site is a modern alternative to traditional websites. Minimalist, fluid and visually impactful, it appeals to many companies and freelancers looking to create a website that's both simple and striking. But is it really an effective solution for every project? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a single-page site compared to a traditional website? Before you get started, find out everything you need to know about this type of website.
1. What is a one-page site?
1.1 Definition and principle of the one-page site
A one-page site is a website with a single page where all content is structured in successive sections. Unlike a traditional site, which is based on a hierarchy of several pages (Home, Services, About, Contact), a one-page site presents all information on a single page.
Its main navigation mode is based on fluid page scrolling, often enhanced by animations and visual effects. Anchor links allow direct navigation to the various sections, without reloading a new web page.
The difference between a one-page site and a classic site
- A classic site divides its content into several web pages, which facilitates organization and referencing.
- A one-page site adopts a linear approach, ideal for fast, immersive reading.
1.2 When to use a one-page site?
A one-page site is not suitable for every project. It is ideal for needs where simplicity and visual impact take precedence over quantity of information.
Types of sites suited to the one-page format:
- Landing page: Perfect for a successful marketing campaign or product launch.
- Showcase site: Ideal for freelancers and small businesses looking for a simple, effective web presence.
- Portfolio: An excellent format for creative people (photographers, designers, freelancers).
- Event site: A one-page site is ideal for a conference, concert or trade show.
When to avoid a one-page site?
- If you have a lot of content: A one-page site doesn't allow you to organize a blog or complex documentation.
- If SEO is a priority: A classic site benefits from more effective SEO thanks to its optimized web pages.
2. The advantages of a one-page site
Choosing a one-page site offers several benefits in terms of design, user experience and technical management.
2.1 Fluid, intuitive user experience
A one-page site offers simplified navigation, improving accessibility and visitor engagement.
Intuitive navigation: Users scroll seamlessly through the site, without having to switch from one web page to another.
A responsive, mobile-friendly site: One-page sites are particularly well suited to mobiles and tablets, offering frictionless reading.
Users are looking for fast information. With a simple website, they can access content directly without having to click through several menus.
2.2 Impactful, attractive design
A one-page site favors a clean, dynamic layout, which enhances its appeal.
Modern, attractive templates: Whether on WordPress, Wix or Webflow, numerous site templates enable you to create a visually striking one-page site.
Effective linear storytelling: By controlling the order in which sections are displayed, you can guide visitors towards a specific objective (contact, registration, purchase).
A one-page site is easier to optimize for brand image, as it imposes a strong, consistent visual identity.
2.3 Easy to set up and manage
Creating a website in one-page format is often faster and requires less maintenance than a conventional site.
Quick to put online: A one-page site means you can have your digital presence up and running in a matter of hours.
Less maintenance: No need to manage multiple web pages or maintain a complex structure.
With HubSpot, you can quickly create a site without advanced technical skills!
2.4 An asset for certain marketing strategies
A one-page site is particularly well suited to conversion-oriented campaigns.
A direct sales tunnel: With no distractions, visitors follow a guided path to a call to action (registration, purchase, contact).
Ideal for a landing page: A single-page website maximizes conversion rates by eliminating unnecessary steps.
Optimizing your one-page site for advertising campaigns is a winning strategy for capturing leads efficiently.
3. The disadvantages of a one-page site
One-page sites undeniably have their advantages, but it's essential to understand their limitations too, before taking the plunge. Their simplicity can become an obstacle if the project requires a more complex structure.
3.1 SEO problems
SEO is often one of the most delicate issues when it comes to a one-page site. Unlike a classic website with several pages, each optimized for a specific keyword, a one-page site doesn't allow for a wide range of positioning on Google.
- Fewer SEO opportunities: With a classic website, each page can be optimized for a specific query (services, blog, FAQ, etc.). A one-page site, on the other hand, concentrates all its content on a single URL, thus limiting SEO opportunities.
- Limited structure for SEO: Google values well-structured sites with effective internal linking.
However, without multiple web pages, it becomes difficult to organize an effective semantic cocoon.
This doesn't mean that a one-page site can't be well referenced, but you'll need to redouble your efforts on other aspects (Hn tags, loading speed, netlinking...).
3.2 Lack of flexibility for content
A one-page site imposes a strict framework: all content must fit on a single URL and be optimized for linear reading. This constraint can become a problem depending on the needs of the project.
- Limitation of information: If the company wishes to detail its offers, publish case studies or integrate a blog, the creation of a one-page site quickly becomes an obstacle.
- Not suitable for e-commerce: An online sales website needs to present several products with detailed information sheets, which is almost impossible on a single page.
3.3 Potential site slowdown
One of the risks often underestimated concerns performance. A single-page website can quickly become heavy to load if its content is too dense.
- Impact on speed: The more images, animations and interactive elements, the longer the loading time, especially on mobile devices.
- Optimization problems: Unlike a traditional site, where content is spread over several pages, a one-page site has to load everything at once. A poor layout or lack of file compression can therefore impact the user experience.
3.4 Scalability
A one-page site is often thought of as a quick and easy solution. But what happens if the company grows and the need to evolve arises?
- Adding complex new sections: Unlike a traditional website, extending a one-page site may require a complete redesign.
- Limited adaptability: Eventually, the transition to a classic site may be unavoidable, meaning additional cost and development time.
4. How to create an effective one-page site
If, after weighing up the pros and cons of a one-page site, this format proves to be the right choice, it's crucial to optimize it right from the design stage.
4.1 Define your needs and objectives
Before you start creating a one-page site, you need to check that the format meets your expectations.
- Main objective: Is it a landing page, a showcase site, a portfolio? Defining the central objective is the first step.
- Targeting and user path: Content must be designed for fluid reading, with a common thread that guides the user from point A to point B (e.g.: information → persuasion → conversion).
4.2 Choosing the right design tool
To create a one-page site, several solutions exist, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
- HubSpot: The best option for a technically sound, SEO-optimized site.
- WordPress: A flexible option with numerous optimized templates, but may require some technical configuration.
- Wix: Ideal for quick site creation without technical skills, but with limits in terms of customization.
- Webflow: Allows you to create an ultra-customized one-page site with total control over design and interactions.
The choice of the right tool therefore depends on the level of customization required and the technical skills available.
4.3 Structure your content intelligently
A one-page website must follow a clear logic to avoid drowning the surfer in a mass of poorly organized information.
- Section organization : The hierarchy must be well thought out, with a layout that follows the user's path:
- Hook and promise
- Product or service presentation
- Testimonials and reassurance
- Contact or call to action
- Balance content and design: A one-page website should be uncluttered, without excessive text or graphic overload.
4.4 Optimize referencing
Even if a one-page site is more difficult to reference, there are solutions to maximize its SEO impact.
- H1, H2 tags and structuring: Each section must be clearly identified, with well-optimized titles.
- Optimization of loading time: Reducing image weight, compressing CSS/JS files, and caching to ensure fast display.
- Netlinking strategy: To compensate for the lack of internal content, it's crucial to obtain relevant backlinks.
- Meta-descriptions and optimized URLs: Even on a single page, it's important to work on every detail to boost visibility.
Should I create a one-page site?
Before taking the plunge, it's essential to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of a one-page site versus a classic website.
If you have a need for rapid visibility, a clear proposition and a targeted audience, this format can be an excellent option.
On the other hand, if your project involves long-term development with rich, evolving content, a classic site is preferable.
- A one-page site is perfect for simple, high-impact projects.
- A classic site is indispensable for SEO needs, advanced functionalities and scalability.
Are you hesitating between a one-page site and a classic website?
if/else agency, HubSpot's expert web development agency, can help you design a site perfectly suited to your objectives.
