How to Convert Elementor to Divi: A Step-by-Step Guide

Convert Elementor to Divi can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can seamlessly migrate your website without losing important data. Whether you’re looking for better performance, ease of customization, or a streamlined workflow, transitioning to Divi can be a rewarding move. In this guide, we will walk you through the process step by step.
Why Switch from Elementor to Divi?
Before diving into the conversion process, let's explore some reasons why you might want to switch from Elementor to Divi:
- Performance Optimization – Divi has a more optimized performance framework compared to Elementor, which can result in faster page loading times.
- Integrated Theme and Builder – Unlike Elementor, which is a standalone plugin, Divi is both a theme and a page builder, allowing for deeper customization.
- Lifetime Pricing Model – Divi offers a one-time purchase option, unlike Elementor's annual subscription plans.
- Pre-Made Layouts & Templates – Divi provides a rich library of professionally designed templates that can streamline website development.
- Seamless Customization – Divi’s visual builder allows for real-time front-end editing with a drag-and-drop interface, making website design more intuitive.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Elementor to Divi
Step 1: Backup Your Website
Before making any major changes to your website, create a full backup to prevent data loss. You can use plugins like:
- UpdraftPlus
- Duplicator
- All-in-One WP Migration
This ensures that if anything goes wrong during the conversion, you can restore your website quickly.
Step 2: Identify Pages Built with Elementor
Since Elementor pages are built using shortcodes and widgets, you need to identify all the pages and sections that use Elementor. Go to Pages > All Pages in your WordPress dashboard and look for pages marked as Elementor.
Step 3: Install and Activate Divi
If you haven't already, purchase and download the Divi Theme from Elegant Themes. Then follow these steps:
- Go to Appearance > Themes
- Click Add New and upload the Divi theme ZIP file.
- Activate Divi.
- If you prefer to use Divi Builder with another theme, install the Divi Builder Plugin instead.
Step 4: Recreate the Layouts in Divi
Since Elementor and Divi use different structures, there's no direct migration tool. You'll need to manually rebuild your pages in Divi. Here’s how:
- Create a New Page – Go to Pages > Add New and enable Divi Builder.
- Use Pre-Made Layouts – Select from Divi’s pre-designed templates to quickly replicate your existing Elementor pages.
- Rebuild Manually – If you have a custom design, use Divi modules (like text, images, buttons, and sliders) to recreate your Elementor layout.
Step 5: Transfer Content
- Text and Images – Copy and paste text manually from your Elementor pages into Divi.
- Shortcodes & Widgets – Elementor widgets won’t work in Divi, so replace them with Divi’s equivalent modules.
- Custom CSS & Code – If your Elementor site includes custom CSS, transfer it to Divi Theme Options > Custom CSS.
Step 6: Test and Optimize
After rebuilding your pages, thoroughly test them to ensure everything looks and functions as expected.
- Check responsiveness on mobile and tablet views.
- Optimize performance by enabling Divi Performance Settings under Divi > Theme Options.
- Test links and forms to ensure proper functionality.
Step 7: Remove Elementor and Clean Up
Once you’ve completed the migration, uninstall Elementor to prevent unnecessary bloat:
- Deactivate and delete the Elementor and Elementor Pro plugins.
- Use a database cleaner plugin like WP-Optimize to remove leftover Elementor shortcodes.
- Perform a final speed test using GTmetrix or Google PageSpeed Insights.
Conclusion
Migrating from Elementor to Divi requires time and patience, but the benefits of improved performance, better customization, and a cost-effective pricing model make it worth the effort. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition and enjoy the powerful features that Divi offers.
If you need professional assistance with the conversion, consider hiring a Divi expert to speed up the process and avoid common pitfalls. Happy designing!