Website vs. Landing Page — What’s the Difference (and Do You Need Both)?
Website vs. Landing Page: When Do You Actually Need Each?
I was recently working on a series of landing pages for a client when it hit me:
this question comes up all the time… often without people even realizing it.
Many clients come to us asking for a landing page, when what they really need is a full website. Other times, someone wants an entirely new website, when a strategically built landing page would actually serve them better (and faster, and less expensive).
So I want to talk about it because while websites and landing pages are related, they are not the same thing. And choosing the wrong one can slow down your growth.
When a Landing Page Makes Sense
A landing page is designed for one specific purpose. One message. One action.
They’re great when:
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You’re running ads or promotions
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You need people to book a call, sign up, or purchase one thing
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You want something fast and focused without extra distractions
Landing pages work because they remove choices. There’s no menu to click around, no multiple paths—just one clear goal. And when done right, they convert very well.
This is often where clients start, especially if they’re launching something new or testing an idea.
For example, this is a landing page for a fitness company I designed a couple months ago; it is not their website, but a page simply to convert visitors into customers.
https://www.coachleenyc.com/semiprivate
When a Website Is the Better Move
Here’s where we see things go sideways.
Many businesses start with a landing page… and then stop there. But as soon as someone wants to learn more (who you are, what else you offer, whether you’re legit) they hit a wall.
A website gives your business:
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Credibility and trust
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Long-term SEO value
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Room to grow, expand, and add content
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A place for people to actually understand your brand
If your goal is to show up in search results, build authority, and support your business long-term, a website isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Same example, here is the website for the same company, FitBride by Lee; you’ll notice you have a menu and options of where to go and what to do.
Why This Comes Up So Often
Small business owners are busy. You don’t always have time to figure out which digital tool does what; you just want something that works.
That’s why part of our job isn’t just designing pages, but helping you decide what you actually need right now, and what will support you six months from now.
Sometimes the answer is:
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Start with a landing page, then build the website
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Launch a website, then add landing pages for campaigns
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Or redesign what you already have so it actually works
We Design Both
At Wagner Web Designs, we build both websites and landing pages—but more importantly, we help clients understand how they work together.
Whether you’re a small business in Charleston, SC, Delray Beach, FL, New York, or beyond, our goal is the same: build something that fits your business, your timeline, and your goals.
If you’re unsure whether you need a landing page, a website, or both, you’re not alone – just ask!
