Advanced Custom Fields is a WordPress plugin that allows you to add post meta to your page editor so that you can enter additional info when creating new posts. It can be used for a variety of things, including adding item details, terms, or customer reviews.

For example, if you were creating Classified Ads, you may wish to add several custom fields to suit the adverts that you want to add to your site. ACF is similar to Meta Box, except the paid version of Advanced Custom Fields has many more features that you can use.

What are custom fields?

Custom fields allow you to store and add specific data to new posts if standard tags aren't cutting it. A good example of when to use custom fields is listings for a real estate website. For example, if your theme lacks fields to enter the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, you can use ACF to create these as custom fields.

Are custom fields search engine-friendly?

Your website may get slower if you add too many field groups. However, if the custom fields and the content you create can help elevate the quality of your website, then the changes will make your site more search-engine friendly.

What does ACF Pro offer?

ACF Pro has many more tools than the free version. The tools aim for better convenience and more functionality. In addition, you can also use gallery features with the paid version of ACF Pro.

The free version is sufficient

If you want to tinker with a few custom fields in WordPress, the free version of ACF is sufficient. However, if you want advanced features, you will need ACF Pro or develop a post-data plugin yourself.

A tool for developers

ACF is not a user-friendly plugin for beginners. However, since custom fields are not easy to create, the plugin is helpful if you're moderately tech-savvy.