Custom Post Type UI Review: Create Custom Post Types Without Code (2026)

What Is Custom Post Type UI?

CPTUI by WebDevStudios lets you create custom post types and taxonomies through a visual form. 1M+ installs, 4.6/5 stars (273 reviews).

Key Features

• Visual CPT registration — no PHP needed
• Custom taxonomy creation
• Import/export as JSON or PHP code
• PHP code generation for theme migration
• Detailed settings (labels, slugs, REST API, icon)
• Multisite support

Free vs Premium

100% free. Optional CPTUI Extended ($29-$249) for front-end templates and admin columns. Most users pair with ACF instead.

Do You Still Need CPTUI?

Since ACF 6.1, ACF includes CPT registration. CPTUI is redundant if you use ACF. Use CPTUI if you do not use ACF or prefer its simpler UI.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Free, simplest CPT tool, PHP export, proven stable

Cons: ACF now does the same, no front-end display, no custom fields, infrequent updates

Best Alternatives

• ACF — CPTs + custom fields in one plugin (since v6.1)
• Pods — Free, CPTs + fields + templates all-in-one
• Code — register_post_type() in functions.php

Frequently Asked Questions

Redundant with ACF?

Mostly yes since ACF 6.1. Keep CPTUI if you have existing configs.

Does it create front-end pages?

No — only registers types in admin. Need templates or page builder for display.

Can I export to PHP?

Yes. CPT UI → Tools → Get Code generates ready-to-use PHP.

What if I deactivate?

CPTs disappear from admin but content stays in database. Reactivate to restore.

Works with Gutenberg?

Yes. Full block editor compatibility.

Sources: WordPress.org, WP Rocket