5 Ways to Discover the Best Free WordPress Plugins
If you’re a WordPress user, you know the joy of finding a new plugin that instantly transforms your website. With over 25,000 plugins available in the WordPress.org repository, it can be overwhelming to find the best ones. In this article, we will explore five different ways to discover the latest and greatest free WordPress plugins.
1. Alternative Plugin Directories
While the official WordPress.org plugins repository is popular, it has its weaknesses. Fortunately, there are alternative plugin directories that utilize the data from WordPress.org but offer a better user experience. Two notable options are RankWP and WP Plugins.
RankWP allows you to browse plugins by category and sorts them using a custom algorithm. WP Plugins lets you filter plugins by variables such as minimum downloads and ratings. These directories provide a different perspective and increase your chances of finding hidden gems.
2. The WPDaily Plugin Roundup
WPDaily is a leading source of WordPress news, publishing multiple posts every day. Among these posts is the Daily Plugin and Theme Roundup, which features newly released and updated plugins and themes from WordPress.org.
Each plugin is accompanied by a small bio, giving you an idea of its functionality without leaving the page. This roundup is an excellent option if you want to stay updated on new and updated plugins submitted to WordPress.org.
3. WPMail.me
For those who prefer a curated list rather than an automated one, WPMail.me is a WordPress newsletter service that provides a weekly email featuring handpicked articles from around the blogosphere. The newsletter includes a section dedicated to plugins, offering the latest news, features, and articles.
If you’re looking for more than just a developer’s summary of a plugin’s functionality, WPMail.me’s carefully curated articles will be right up your alley.
4. ManageWP Plugins of the Month
The ManageWP Plugins of the Month series is a great way to discover new plugins. The series features lesser-known plugins that have been manually reviewed and selected based on factors like creation date, number of downloads, and ratings.
This curated list ensures that you find plugins that you may not have heard of before. The series is published monthly, so be sure to check it out for the latest recommendations.
5. The D.I.Y. Approach
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can immerse yourself in the world of WordPress plugins. Start by referring to the resources mentioned above, but also subscribe to WordPress blogs and developer blogs like Pippin’s Plugins and Rémi Corson.
Additionally, sign up for RSS feeds from WordPress.org to stay updated on new and recently updated plugins. While this approach requires more time and effort, it allows you to be at the cutting edge of plugin development.
In conclusion, finding the best free WordPress plugins can be a daunting task due to the sheer number of options available. However, with alternative plugin directories, curated lists, and a DIY approach, you can discover hidden gems that will enhance your website’s functionality. Take advantage of the resources available to make your search easier and more efficient.
What’s Your Favorite Unknown Plugin?
We’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite “unknown” WordPress plugin in the comments section below. Let us know about a plugin that you use and love, even if it has just a few thousand downloads. Together, we can uncover the best hidden gems in the WordPress plugin world.
