Divi 5 – A Long-Awaited Upgrade, But Is It Enough?

Divi 5 has been one of Elegant Themes’ most anticipated updates. With a complete framework overhaul, faster performance, and ongoing feature additions, it promises to bring Divi up to modern standards. Divi 5.0 is a complete rewrite of Divi’s core technologies, focusing on stability, scalability, and extendability—three things long-time users have been asking for.

But does it deliver? As someone who has used Divi in the past but moved on to Elementor, I have mixed feelings. Let’s look at what’s new, how the community reacts, and whether Divi 5 is a game-changer or too late.

More than 1.5 million existing Divi websites, making it one of the most popular page builders in the WordPress ecosystem.

What’s New in Divi 5.0?

The most significant shift in Divi 5 is its new HTML5-based framework, which replaces the old shortcode-based system. This has been in the works for years, and now, with the public alpha available, users are finally getting a hands-on experience.

Key Improvements in Divi 5:

• Performance Boost – Build speed and render times are significantly improved (some users report 30% faster rendering).
• No More Shortcodes – The foundation has been rebuilt with modern HTML instead of relying on shortcodes.
• Regular Feature Additions—Divi 5 is still in public alpha, and new features are added every two weeks.
• The new X-Ray mode allows users to visualize the hierarchical structure of page layouts.
• New user interface

Ongoing Divi Feature Updates:

(as of May 2025)

• Divi 5 AI
• Advanced Units
  • A recent example of Divi 5’s evolving nature is the Advanced Units feature. This update replaces existing unit fields and sliders with a more flexible system, offering:
  • Draggable anchors for precise adjustments.
  • Improved unit validation logic.
  • Support for CSS value functions and variables.
  • A quick unit picker for commonly used values.
• Design Variables
• With Nested Rows, you can embed rows within other rows, offering limitless nesting capabilities. This allows for the creation of intricate and sophisticated complex layout structures.
• Flexbox Layout: This is one of Divi 5’s most crucial features, unlocking remarkable flexibility in web design and custom layouts. It allows for innovative layout structures and offers precise control over the ordering and wrapping of internal elements.
• Attribute Management: It’s an exciting addition! Attribute Management introduces an extensive system for copying, pasting, and resetting attributes, including presets, styles, and content. This feature allows you to selectively manage different attribute types at the element and group levels, streamlining your workflow with unprecedented efficiency.
  Divi 5 aims to deliver the most comprehensive attribute management system among page builders, significantly enhancing productivity.

Since Divi 5 is still being developed, more enhancements are expected, meaning today’s opinions may change over time.

I will update this section with new ongoing features

Divi Community Reactions – Mixed Reviews

As expected, the response from WordPress users has been divided. Here’s what people are saying:

Positive Reactions ✅

• Much Faster Than Divi 4 – Many users appreciate the performance boost.
• Still Great for Quick, Client-Friendly Builds – Some developers find Divi useful for fast, simple projects.
• New Features Show Potential – With biweekly updates, there’s hope that Divi 5 will keep improving.

Negative Reactions ❌

• Not a Real Evolution – Many say that while Divi 5 is rebuilt, it doesn’t feel new.
• Accessibility Issues Persist – Divi still lacks proper semantic HTML, relying too much on <div> elements.
• Too Late? – Some argue that Elementor, Bricks, and GeneratePress have already dominated the market.

I share some of these concerns. The performance boost is excellent, but Divi 5 still feels like Divi at its core, and that may not be enough to win back users who have moved on.

Migrating from Divi 4 to Divi 5

The transition from Divi 4 to Divi 5 is a key concern for existing Divi users. Elegant Themes has introduced the Divi 5 Migrator System, designed to make the process smooth and seamless.

How Does the Divi 5 Migration Work?

1. One-Click Migration – The Divi 5 Migrator allows users to convert Divi 4 content into Divi 5 with a single click.
2. Backward Compatibility – If a module isn’t yet fully supported in Divi 5, it will function in compatibility mode, ensuring your site remains functional.
3. Pre-Migration Check – Before migrating, the system scans your site and provides a report of any potential issues.
4. Reversion Option – If issues arise post-migration, there’s an option to restore back to Divi 4.

Below is an example of the Divi 5 migratory and the checks.

If you’re considering migrating, waiting until Divi 5 is out of alpha may be the best approach for production sites. Using Divi 5, I think creating a simple website like a Brochure is okay.

Should You Switch to Divi 5?

Divi 5 is a significant update, but your needs depend on whether it’s the right choice.

Who Might Benefit from Divi 5?

• Current Divi users are looking for a speed boost.
• Beginners who want an easy drag-and-drop builder.
• Agencies needing fast client site delivery.

Who Might Stick with Other Builders?

• Developers & power users who need more flexibility (Bricks, Breakdance, or GeneratePress may be better choices).
• Users who left Divi and don’t see enough improvements to return.
• Those need accessibility compliance since Divi still has shortcomings.

My Personal Divi 5 Review

I moved away from Divi for now, but I haven’t ruled it out completely. Since I have the Divi Lifetime Deal (LTD), it’s still an option for me, and I continue to test new features on a dedicated site. As long as Elegant Themes keeps improving Divi 5, I’ll evaluate whether it’s worth using again for future projects.

I find Divi pricing is fair and straightforward, especially when compared to the growing trend of expensive subscriptions in the page builder space. Divi offer is for unlimited websites. There is no restriction like other competitors. While I already own Divi through the Lifetime Deal, I think the pricing remains reasonable for new users:

• $89/year for yearly access to all Divi theme, Divi Builder including Divi Dash for central management.
• $249 one-time payment for lifetime access
• Divi Pro (with features like Divi Dash, Divi Ai, Divi Cloud and Divi Teams) is $277/year.

If you’re considering securing the Divi LTD, you can get it with a 10% discount using this link

As someone who mainly uses Elementor, I find Divi interesting, but not enough to switch back—at least not yet.

Final Thoughts – Is Divi 5 a Real Comeback?

Divi 5 is an improvement but not a revolution. It’s faster, better optimized, and built on a modern foundation, but it works like Divi. The builder has potential, but it depends on how well Elegant Themes continues to evolve it.

My Verdict:

• If you’re already a Divi user, Divi 5 is a welcome upgrade.
• If you use Elementor or Bricks, there’s little reason to switch—unless future updates introduce more innovation.
• If accessibility is essential, Divi still falls short.

Since Divi 5 is still in development, it may continue to improve. I’ll watch its progress for now, but I’m not making the switch yet.

What’s Your Take?

Have you tested Divi 5? Does it feel like a real comeback, or is it too little, too late? Let’s discuss it!

I will update this article with new features as long as Divi 5 is still in development.

I would love to get some feedback from you. Was this article helpful? Please share your opinion with me in the comment section below. Or, if you prefer a more personal touch, feel free to email me directly at info@edywerder.ch. Your thoughts and insights are always appreciated. Additionally, you can connect with me on Reddit at Navigatetech.