Choosing the right WordPress theme is an important step in building a website. The theme shapes how the site looks, works, and feels for users. For a site about UX/UI design and technology, the theme should be responsive, easy to customize, and fast. In this review, I compared three popular WordPress themes using a decision matrix to find the best fit for the website’s main goals.
Sources for WordPress Themes
You can find WordPress themes in several places. The safest and most common source is the official WordPress Theme Directory, where themes are checked for coding quality and security. Premium themes are sold on sites like ThemeForest or by independent developers, and they usually offer more customization, support, and advanced layouts. Developers who want complete control can also create custom themes.
When choosing a theme, check for mobile responsiveness, customization options, speed, security updates, and good documentation. Responsive design is important since many people visit websites on their phones. Regular updates keep your site secure and compatible with the latest WordPress version.
Required and Additional WordPress Theme Files
A valid WordPress theme must include specific core files. (Required Theme Files – Theme Handbook, 2023) According to WordPress documentation (WordPress.org, n.d.), required files include:
- style.css – Contains the theme’s header information and cascading style sheet rules.
- index.php – Serves as the main template file and fallback structure.
- functions.php – Adds theme functionality and feature support.
Additional files commonly included in themes provide extended layout and structural control: (Theme Structure – Theme Handbook, 2023)
- header.php – Controls the header section.
- footer.php – Controls the footer section.
- sidebar.php – Manages sidebar content.
- single.php – Defines layout for individual posts.
- page.php – Defines layout for static pages.
- archive.php – Controls category and archive displays.
- screenshot.png – Provides a preview image in the WordPress dashboard.
- theme.json – Used in block themes to define global styles and settings.
Decision Matrix and Theme Selection
I used a decision matrix to compare three WordPress themes—Astra, Neve, and Twenty Twenty-Four—based on mobile responsiveness, customization, speed, fit with UX/UI goals, and ease of use.
I rated each theme on a five-point scale for each category. Astra scored the highest because it is well-optimized, highly customizable, and easy to use. It is lightweight, works with page builders, and loads quickly. These features make Astra a great choice for a tech website focused on user experience and clear design. (Astra – Fast, Lightweight & Customizable WordPress Theme, 2026)
After comparing the themes, I chose Astra and installed it using the WordPress wp-admin dashboard. I found it in the Appearance, then Themes, then Add New section, searched for Astra, installed, and activated it. No extra steps were needed beyond the usual activation.
Picking the right WordPress theme means looking closely at responsiveness, performance, customization, and how well it will work in the long run. By using a decision matrix, I found that Astra was the best fit for the site’s goals. Its flexibility, speed, and modern look make it a strong choice for a professional, user-focused tech blog.
References
WordPress.org. (n.d.). Theme developer handbook. https://developer.wordpress.org/themes/
WordPress.org. (n.d.). Astra theme. https://wordpress.org/themes/astra/
WordPress.org. (n.d.). Neve theme. https://wordpress.org/themes/neve/
WordPress.org. (n.d.). Twenty Twenty-Four theme. https://wordpress.org/themes/twentytwentyfour/
Astra – Fast, Lightweight & Customizable WordPress Theme. WPBeginner. https://wpastra.com/
Required Theme Files – Theme Handbook. WordPress Developer Resources. https://developer.wordpress.org/themes/releasing-your-theme/required-theme-files/
Theme Structure – Theme Handbook. WordPress.org. https://developer.wordpress.org/themes/core-concepts/theme-structure/