Formidable Forms vs Jetpack Forms: A Comparative Analysis

Posted by Josh Blackburn, in Contact Form Plugins

Overview of Formidable Forms and Jetpack Forms

Formidable Forms is a versatile WordPress form builder. We consider it an advanced tool for creating custom forms with ease, even for those without coding knowledge. It features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, pre-built templates, and a suite of advanced fields. Users can utilize Formidable Forms for a multitude of purposes, ranging from simple contact forms to complex multi-page forms with calculations and conditional logic.

• Ease of Use: Drag-and-drop interface
• Customization: Pre-built templates and a variety of field options
• Functionality: Supports complex form-related tasks

Whereas, Jetpack Forms is a component of the Jetpack plugin suite for WordPress sites. It is known for its simplicity and integration with the Jetpack ecosystem. For users seeking a straightforward solution for creating basic contact forms, Jetpack Forms offers a user-friendly experience. Jetpack streamlines the process by providing essential form features that cater to standard form-building needs.

• Simplicity: User-friendly and efficient for fundamental form requirements
• Integration: Seamless operation within the Jetpack suite
• Utility: Ideal for users needing basic forms without extensive customization

In comparing both:

• Use Case: Formidable Forms is better suited for users requiring extensive features and customization options. Jetpack Forms is recommended for WordPress users who prefer a simpler, more direct approach to form creation.
• Customization Scope: Formidable Forms offers a wider range of customization due to its advanced features.
• User Base: Formidable Forms caters to users with more complex form-building needs, while Jetpack meets the needs of those looking for basics without the bells and whistles.

Key Features Comparison

When comparing Formidable Forms with Jetpack Forms, it is essential to focus on their respective features to determine which might be the best fit for your WordPress site’s needs.

Form Builder Capabilities

Formidable Forms offers a drag-and-drop builder and a variety of form fields that enable the creation of multi-step forms. Jetpack Forms provides a simpler form creation interface within the WordPress block editor, aimed at ease of use for beginners.

Integrations and Add-Ons

Formidable Forms excels with its extensive integrations including email marketing services like MailChimp and AWeber, and CRM systems. Jetpack Forms offers essential functionalities but fewer advanced integrations.

Ease of Use and User Interface

Jetpack Forms is designed for simplicity, offering a user-friendly UI right within the WordPress editor. Formidable Forms, while equipped with more advanced features, still maintains a relatively easy drag-and-drop experience.

Advanced Features and Customization

Formidable Forms provides extensive customization options through custom CSS and HTML. Conditional logic and complex field types are a staple. Jetpack Forms offers more basic customizations geared towards straightforward form needs.

Security and Spam Protection

Both plugins offer standard spam protection features. Formidable Forms includes CAPTCHA and reCAPTCHA integration, while Jetpack Forms integrates Akismet for spam filtering.

Support and Documentation

Formidable Forms supports its community with comprehensive documentation and developer-focused resources. Jetpack, powered by WordPress.com, also provides reliable support channels and thorough guides.

Pricing and Plans

Formidable Forms has a premium tier with various plans suited for different business sizes, while Jetpack Forms can be used for free with the Jetpack plugin, though there are paid upgrades for additional features.

Forms and Fields Types

Formidable Forms boasts a wide array of field types, including file uploads and complex field choices. Jetpack Forms focuses on essential fields, suitable for standard contact or feedback forms.

Performance and Optimization

Both plugins are optimized for performance, ensuring minimal impact on loading times. However, the complexity of forms created with Formidable Forms can affect efficiency if not properly managed.

User Feedback and Engagement

Formidable Forms allows for the creation of surveys, polls, and quizzes to enhance engagement and insight into user preferences. Jetpack Forms handles basic form responses and leads collection effectively.

E-commerce and Payments

Formidable Forms integrates with eCommerce platforms and supports payments through gateways like PayPal and Stripe. Jetpack Forms does not have native payment integrations but can be paired with WooCommerce for eCommerce functionality.

Marketing and CRM Integrations

Formidable Forms readily integrates with CRM and email marketing services such as MailChimp and AWeber, enhancing marketing efforts. Jetpack Forms lacks these advanced marketing integrations but can connect with other plugins for similar functionality.

Form Management and Submission Handling

With Formidable Forms, users can manage form submissions effectively, access email notifications, sync with Google Sheets, and utilize webhooks. Jetpack Forms provides basic submission handling with email-based notifications.

Post Submission Actions and Workflow

Formidable Forms offers autoresponder, notification scheduling, and workflow automation, which can be configured to follow-up with users. Jetpack Forms presents more simplified post-submission actions mostly centered around email responses.

Comparison with Other Form Builders

Compared to other plugins like Gravity Forms, WPForms, or Ninja Forms, Formidable Forms positions itself as a powerful and scalable option for complex form building. Jetpack Forms is closer to a basic, no-frills solution, less intimidating for casual WordPress users.

Pros and Cons of Formidable Forms and Jetpack Forms

Formidable Forms Pros:

• Comprehensive form-building tools.
• High level of customization available.

Formidable Forms Cons:

• Might overwhelm beginners with its advanced options.

Jetpack Forms Pros:

• Simple and intuitive, great for basic form creation.
• Integrated within the Jetpack ecosystem offering easy access to other features.

Jetpack Forms Cons:

• Limited advanced features for complex form requirements.
• Less customizable than competitors like Formidable Forms.