WordPress has had a built in Details block since version 6.3, and PlexBlocks has an Accordion plugin. Both let a visitor open and close a piece of content, so which one should you use? It depends on what the page needs.
The short answer
Use the core Details block when you need one or two simple expandable notes and want nothing extra. Use the PlexBlocks Accordion when you are building an FAQ or a longer list of panels, want FAQ structured data written for you, or want to put other blocks inside the panels.
Side by side
| Core Details block | PlexBlocks Accordion | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it comes from | Part of WordPress since 6.3 | Free plugin from WordPress.org |
| Extra plugin needed | No | Yes |
| FAQ structured data | Not built in | One click |
| Other blocks inside a panel | Yes | Yes |
| Made for | A single expandable note | FAQs and groups of panels |
| Keyboard and screen reader support | Uses the browser details element | Built to be screen reader friendly |
When the core block is enough
A single note under a form, a short “what is included” fold on a product page, or a spoiler in a post. The block needs no plugin, adds nothing to your site and works with every theme that supports blocks.
When the Accordion is the better pick
- you are writing an FAQ and want search engines to read the questions
- a page has many panels that should look and behave the same
- you want to control the look of the headers and panels from the block sidebar
The Accordion plugin page lists everything it does.
Using both
Nothing stops you from using the core block for small notes and the Accordion for the FAQ on the same site. Each one is independent.
