Unlock Elementor’s Potential: Integrate Custom Widgets in the Free Version

Preface

Are you ready to take your Elementor skills to the next level? The Elementor page builder is a fantastic tool for creating stunning websites, even in its free version. But what if you want to add some extra functionality beyond what’s offered out-of-the-box? That’s where custom widgets come in! In this guide, we’ll explore how to integrate custom widgets into Elementor’s free version, empowering you to build truly unique and powerful websites. Let’s dive in and unlock Elementor’s hidden potential!

Why Use Custom Widgets in Elementor?

Elementor’s free version provides a solid foundation for website design, but custom widgets can significantly enhance its capabilities. Here’s why you might consider using them:

• Extend Functionality: Custom widgets allow you to add features not available in the standard Elementor widgets.
• Unique Design Elements: Stand out from the crowd by incorporating unique design elements tailored to your brand.
• Improved User Experience: Enhance your website’s usability with widgets designed to improve user interaction.
• Flexibility: Tailor specific functionalities that align perfectly with your project demands.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the integration process, let’s clarify a few fundamental concepts.

What is a Widget?

In the context of WordPress and Elementor, a widget is a self-contained component that adds specific functionality or content to your website. Think of it as a building block that you can easily drag and drop onto your pages.

Elementor Free vs. Pro

Elementor offers both a free and a Pro version. The Pro version includes a wider range of widgets and features. However, with a bit of know-how, you can extend the functionality of the free version using custom widgets.

Methods for Integrating Custom Widgets

There are several ways to integrate custom widgets into Elementor’s free version. Here are three common methods:

1. Using Plugin-Based Widget Packs
2. Creating Your Own Custom Widgets
3. Employing Third-Party Addons

Let’s discuss each one in detail.

1. Using Plugin-Based Widget Packs

The simplest way to add custom widgets is by using WordPress plugins that offer widget packs specifically designed for Elementor. These plugins provide a collection of pre-built widgets that you can easily install and use.

Recommended Widget Pack Plugins

• Essential Addons for Elementor: This popular plugin offers a plethora of free widgets, including advanced headings, info boxes, and more. It’s a great starting point for extending Elementor’s functionality. You can find it in the plugin directory.
• Happy Addons for Elementor: Another excellent choice, Happy Addons, provides a range of creative widgets and features. Check them out on the WordPress plugin repository.
• Ultimate Addons for Elementor (Brainstorm Force): While this has a pro version, the free version has some decent widgets: Ultimate Addons

Installing and Activating Widget Pack Plugins

1. Navigate to the WordPress Dashboard: Log in to your WordPress admin area.
2. Go to Plugins > Add New: Click on “Add New” to install a new plugin.
3. Search for the Plugin: Type the name of the widget pack plugin (e.g., “Essential Addons for Elementor”) into the search bar.
4. Install and Activate: Find the plugin in the search results and click “Install Now.” Once installed, click “Activate.”

Hint: If you need help installing a plugin, check out this helpful guide: How to Install WordPress Plugins

Using the New Widgets in Elementor

Once the plugin is activated, the new widgets will automatically appear in the Elementor editor.

1. Open Elementor Editor: Edit a page or post with Elementor.
2. Locate the New Widgets: Scroll through the widgets panel to find the newly added widgets from the plugin.
3. Drag and Drop: Simply drag and drop the widgets onto your page to use them.

2. Creating Your Own Custom Widgets

For more advanced users, creating your own custom widgets offers unparalleled flexibility. This method involves writing PHP code to define the widget’s functionality and appearance.

Info: This method requires a basic understanding of PHP, HTML, and CSS.

Setting Up the Development Environment

Before you start coding, set up a suitable development environment.

• Install a Code Editor: Use a code editor like Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, or Atom.
• Local WordPress Installation: Consider using a local WordPress installation for testing purposes. Tools like XAMPP or Local by Flywheel make this easy.

Creating the Widget Plugin

1. Create a Plugin Folder: In the wp-content/plugins/ directory, create a new folder for your custom widget plugin (e.g., my-custom-elementor-widgets).
2. Create the Main Plugin File: Inside the plugin folder, create a PHP file with the same name as the folder (e.g., my-custom-elementor-widgets.php). Add the following code to the main plugin file:

register( new \My_Custom_Elementor_Widget() );

}
add_action( 'elementor/widgets/register', 'register_custom_widgets' );

3. Create the Widget File: Inside the plugin folder, create a folder named widgets. Inside this folder, create a PHP file for your widget (e.g., my-custom-widget.php).

Coding the Custom Widget

Open the my-custom-widget.php file and add the following code as a starting point:

start_controls_section(
            'content_section',
            [
                'label' => __( 'Content', 'elementor-custom-widgets' ),
                'tab' => \Elementor\Controls_Manager::TAB_CONTENT,
            ]
        );

        $this->add_control(
            'title',
            [
                'label' => __( 'Title', 'elementor-custom-widgets' ),
                'type' => \Elementor\Controls_Manager::TEXT,
                'default' => __( 'Default Title', 'elementor-custom-widgets' ),
                'placeholder' => __( 'Type your title here', 'elementor-custom-widgets' ),
            ]
        );

        $this->end_controls_section();

    }

    protected function render() {

        $settings = $this->get_settings_for_display();

        $title = $settings['title'];

        ?>
' . $title . ''; ?>
{{ settings.title }}

Hint:  Adapt the code to your liking. You can name the class and function as you like. 

Activating the Plugin

Go to Plugins: In your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the "Plugins" section.
Activate the Plugin: Find your custom widget plugin (e.g., "My Custom Elementor Widgets") and click "Activate."

Using the Custom Widget in Elementor
After activating the plugin, the custom widget will be available in the Elementor editor.

Open Elementor Editor: Edit a page or post with Elementor.
Locate the Widget: Search for your custom widget by its name (e.g., "My Custom Widget") in the widgets panel.
Drag and Drop: Drag and drop the widget onto your page to use it.

3. Employing Third-Party Addons
Another approach is to use third-party addons that extend the functionality of Elementor. These addons often provide unique widgets and features not found in standard widget packs.
Researching and Selecting Addons
Before installing any addon, research its features, reviews, and compatibility with your version of Elementor. Ensure that the addon is well-maintained and has a good reputation.
Installing and Using Addons
The installation process is similar to installing widget pack plugins.

Go to Plugins > Add New: In your WordPress dashboard, click on "Add New" under the "Plugins" section.
Search for the Addon: Type the name of the addon into the search bar.
Install and Activate: Find the addon in the search results and click "Install Now." Once installed, click "Activate."
Use the New Widgets: Open the Elementor editor and locate the new widgets from the addon in the widgets panel. Drag and drop them onto your page to use them.

Info:  Some addons will only work with a paid Elementor plan like Elementor Pro, while some work with the Elementor Free version as well.

Best Practices for Using Custom Widgets
To ensure optimal performance and usability, follow these best practices when using custom widgets:

Optimize for Performance: Ensure that your custom widgets are well-coded and optimized for performance to avoid slowing down your website.
Test Thoroughly: Test your custom widgets on different devices and browsers to ensure they work correctly and are responsive.
Keep Code Clean: Write clean, well-commented code to make it easier to maintain and update your custom widgets.
Consider User Experience: Design your custom widgets with user experience in mind. Ensure they are easy to use and provide value to your website visitors.

Hint:  Do you want a showcase of beautiful websites built with Elementor? Look at those two blog posts: Showcase 2 and Showcase 1

Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, you may encounter issues when integrating custom widgets. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Widget Not Showing Up:

Solution: Ensure that the plugin or addon is activated. Clear your browser cache and Elementor’s cache. Double-check that the widget is properly registered in the code.


Widget Not Working Correctly:

Solution: Check the code for errors. Ensure that all dependencies are properly loaded. Test the widget in a clean environment to rule out conflicts with other plugins or themes.


Conflicts with Other Plugins:

Solution: Deactivate other plugins one by one to identify the conflicting plugin. Contact the plugin developers for assistance.



Conclusion

Integrating custom widgets into Elementor’s free version opens up a world of possibilities for creating unique and powerful websites. Whether you choose to use plugin-based widget packs, create your own custom widgets, or employ third-party addons, the key is to understand the basics and follow best practices. With a bit of effort and creativity, you can unlock Elementor's full potential and build websites that stand out from the crowd. So, go ahead, explore, experiment, and start making your websites truly exceptional!