Comparison of SSG frameworks

Static site generators (SSGs) have gained popularity in recent years as a way to create fast, secure, and easily maintainable websites. In this article, we will compare some popular static site generator software options, highlighting their features, use cases, and benefits.

What is a Static Site Generator?#

A static site generator is a tool that takes content, typically in the form of text files or data, and templates, and generates a complete website composed of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files. Unlike dynamic websites, static sites do not rely on server-side processing or a database to generate pages. This simplicity results in faster loading times, better security, and easy scalability.

1. Jekyll#

Key Features:

• Written in Ruby.
• Great for personal blogs and simple websites.
• Extensible through plugins.
• GitHub Pages integration.
• Markdown and Liquid templating support.

Pros:

• Straightforward to set up.
• Ideal for bloggers and developers familiar with Ruby.
• GitHub Pages, Git integration.
• Large community and extensive documentation.

Cons:

• Limited support for complex, database-driven sites.

2. Hugo#

Key Features:

• Written in Go.
• Blazing fast build times.
• Highly customizable.
• Supports content in multiple formats.
• Theming system for design flexibility.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed in building sites.
• Robust theming and templating.
• Ideal for technical documentation and blogs.
• Active and growing community.

Cons:

• Limited dynamic functionality without external services.

3. Gatsby#

Key Features:

• React-based.
• Rich plugin ecosystem.
• Integrates with various data sources.
• Progressive Web App (PWA) support.
• Excellent performance and SEO capabilities.

Pros:

• Combines the power of React with static site generation.
• Versatile, can be used for a wide range of projects.
• Extensive plugin library.
• SEO-friendly and fast load times.
• Real-time data updates using GraphQL.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for beginners.

4. Hexo#

Key Features:

• Written in Node.js.
• Great for bloggers and developers.
• Easy theming and plugin system.
• Markdown and EJS templating support.
• Speedy build times.

Pros:

• Simple and quick to set up.
• Node.js ecosystem and npm packages.
• Ideal for personal blogs.
• Support for deploying to various hosting platforms.

Cons:

• Smaller community compared to some other options.

5. Eleventy (11ty)#

Key Features:

• Written in JavaScript.
• Highly flexible and configurable.
• Supports multiple template languages.
• Easy integration with various data sources.
• Robust performance.

Pros:

• No boilerplate code, minimal configuration.
• Versatile, suitable for many types of projects.
• Comprehensive documentation.
• Strong performance and flexibility.

Cons:

• Smaller community compared to older SSGs.

Choosing the Right SSG#

The choice of the best static site generator depends on your project's requirements and your familiarity with the underlying technologies. Each SSG has its unique strengths, and you should consider factors like build speed, content sources, theming capabilities, and the size of the community when making your decision.

This site as pointed out before uses the Zola SSG framework. Which was separately reviewed in this post.

In conclusion, static site generators offer a compelling solution for web developers looking to build fast, secure, and easily maintainable websites. Whether you're a blogger, technical writer, or a developer working on a project, there's an SSG that can fit your needs. Choose the one that aligns with your project's goals, and you'll enjoy the benefits of static site generation.

Besides writing in markdown, with git commiting, gives a streamlined blogging experience, where you get to solely focus on the content. And on the other hand, this ecosystem of tools you use, makes you feel like a true hacker which adds to the experience and promotes delivering more content. Which for me personally has been a key motivating factor to maintain this blog.