SharePoint has evolved significantly over the years, with the introduction of modern pages offering a more dynamic and user-friendly experience compared to the traditional classic pages. While classic pages are still supported, organizations often need to decide whether to continue using them or transition to modern pages for improved functionality and usability.
This guide explores the key differences between classic and modern SharePoint pages, their advantages and disadvantages, and when to use each option.
1. What Are Classic and Modern Pages?
Classic Pages (Traditional SharePoint Experience)
Classic pages are part of older SharePoint versions (SharePoint 2013, 2016, 2019, and classic SharePoint Online) and provide a structured but less flexible design.
Characteristics of Classic Pages:
✔ Uses Wiki Pages, Web Part Pages, and Publishing Pages
✔ Requires SharePoint Designer and custom coding for advanced modifications
✔ Supports classic web parts like Content Editor and Script Editor
✔ Relies heavily on master pages and page layouts
✔ Requires more effort to be mobile-friendly
Modern Pages (Newer SharePoint Experience)
Modern pages, introduced with SharePoint Online and SharePoint Server 2019, offer a responsive, interactive, and mobile-friendly experience with better integration into Microsoft 365 services.
Characteristics of Modern Pages:
✔ Uses a drag-and-drop, no-code interface for easy customization
✔ Optimized for mobile devices and responsive design
✔ Built-in integration with Microsoft 365 apps (Teams, OneDrive, Power Automate, Viva Connections, etc.)
✔ Enhanced security and performance with the SharePoint Framework (SPFx)
✔ Does not rely on master pages
Tip: Modern pages are easier to use and more visually appealing than classic pages, making them the preferred choice for most organizations.
2. Key Differences Between Classic and Modern Pages
| Feature | Classic Pages | Modern Pages |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Outdated, requires coding for customization | Modern, sleek, and easy to customize |
| Customization | Uses SharePoint Designer, master pages, and scripts | Drag-and-drop editing, no coding required |
| Mobile Responsiveness | Requires additional CSS for responsiveness | Fully responsive and mobile-friendly by default |
| Performance | Slower due to reliance on older technology | Faster, optimized for better performance |
| Web Parts | Classic web parts (e.g., Content Editor, Script Editor) | Modern web parts (e.g., News, Quick Links, Power BI, Stream) |
| Integration with Microsoft 365 | Limited integration | Seamless integration with Teams, OneDrive, Power Automate, etc. |
| Security & Compliance | Requires manual configurations for security | Built-in advanced security features |
| Search & Navigation | Classic search experience | AI-powered Microsoft Search for better content discovery |
| Customization & Development | Requires JavaScript, jQuery, and custom code | Uses SharePoint Framework (SPFx) for customizations |
| Ease of Use | Requires technical expertise | User-friendly and easier for non-technical users |
Tip: If your organization relies on custom-coded solutions, you may need to rebuild them for modern pages using the SharePoint Framework (SPFx).
3. Advantages & Disadvantages of Classic and Modern Pages
Classic Pages: Pros & Cons
Advantages:
✔ Supports older SharePoint versions
✔ Highly customizable with CSS, JavaScript, and jQuery
✔ Works well with existing classic SharePoint solutions
✔ Publishing features (e.g., page approval, scheduled publishing) are available
Disadvantages:
✖ Outdated UI, requires manual styling
✖ Not mobile-friendly by default
✖ Difficult to integrate with newer Microsoft 365 tools
✖ Slower performance due to older architecture
Modern Pages: Pros & Cons
Advantages:
✔ Fast, modern UI with responsive design
✔ Drag-and-drop customization (no need for coding)
✔ Seamless integration with Power Automate, Power BI, Teams, and OneDrive
✔ Better performance & security with cloud-first technology
✔ AI-powered search for better content discovery
Disadvantages:
✖ Limited customization compared to classic pages
✖ Does not support classic web parts
✖ No master pages or page layouts, requiring a different approach to branding
✖ Some advanced publishing features are missing (e.g., scheduled publishing in some scenarios)
Tip: Organizations moving from classic to modern pages may need to rebuild branding elements and web parts.
4. When to Use Classic vs. Modern Pages?
Use Classic Pages If:
✔ Your organization still runs SharePoint 2013/2016/2019
✔ You rely on customized web parts built with JavaScript/jQuery
✔ Your business processes are deeply integrated into classic workflows
✔ You need advanced publishing features not yet available in modern pages
Use Modern Pages If:
✔ You are using SharePoint Online or SharePoint Server 2019+
✔ You want a mobile-friendly, easy-to-customize experience
✔ You need seamless integration with Microsoft 365 apps
✔ You want better performance, security, and cloud support
✔ You aim for no-code or low-code solutions
✅ Tip: Microsoft recommends moving to modern pages to take advantage of the latest features and future-proof your SharePoint environment.
5. How to Convert Classic Pages to Modern Pages
Manual Conversion (Rebuilding from Scratch)
- Create a new modern page in your SharePoint site
- Manually copy content from your classic page to the new modern page
- Replace classic web parts with modern alternatives (e.g., Quick Links, News, Power BI)
- Save and publish the new modern page
Use SharePoint Page Transformation Tool
Microsoft provides the PnP Page Transformation Tool to automate conversion from classic to modern pages.
Steps to Use the Tool:
- Install PowerShell PnP (Patterns and Practices) module
- Run the ConvertTo-PnPPage command to migrate classic pages
- Review the converted modern page and apply finishing touches
Tip: Page transformation works best for basic pages—heavily customized pages may require manual migration.
6. Best Practices for Transitioning to Modern Pages
✔ Assess existing pages before migrating—determine which ones are still relevant
✔ Redesign outdated layouts to fit modern web parts
✔ Test migration in a development environment before applying changes site-wide
✔ Train users on modern SharePoint features for smooth adoption
✔ Keep branding minimal to maintain future flexibility
Tip: Consider using Microsoft Viva Connections to further enhance the modern experience within Teams.
Conclusion
Both classic and modern pages serve different purposes in SharePoint. While classic pages offer deep customization and legacy support, modern pages provide better usability, performance, and integration with Microsoft 365.
If you’re starting fresh, go with modern pages—they’re faster, mobile-friendly, and future-proof.
If you’re using classic pages, consider migrating to leverage the latest features.
By understanding the differences and best practices, organizations can make informed decisions on how to optimize their SharePoint experience for improved collaboration and productivity.