Plugin
Updated
MB Blocks
MB Blocks is a WordPress plugin by MetaBox that extends Meta Box so you can create custom Gutenberg blocks with PHP. It removes the need for React, Webpack or Babel, and it lets you build blocks from the same field types you already use in Meta Box.
- Version
- 1.8.4
- Released
- Jun 11, 2026
- Developer
- Meta Box
- Type
- WordPress plugin
- Requires
- Meta Box
- Licence
- GPL
- Included in
- Every plan, or $3.99 a year on its own
What’s new in MB Blocks 1.8.4
Version 1.8.4 · Jun 11, 2026
Latest
- ImprovedEnsure blocks work for block_editor field on non-edit-post screens (like settings pages).
What it does
Gutenberg has been the default WordPress editor for years, and custom blocks are a natural way to shape content for a specific site. Building them the standard way means learning React, JavaScript build tools such as Webpack and Babel, and a different workflow from the PHP many WordPress developers know. This plugin keeps block development in PHP, so you register and render blocks with familiar code and skip the JavaScript toolchain entirely.
It works on top of the Meta Box plugin, which it requires, and gives your blocks access to more than 40 Meta Box field types. Changes appear in a live preview inside the block editor as you work. You can add dynamic scripts for things like sliders, set block alignment, CSS classes and anchors, and pair it with the Meta Box Builder extension to configure blocks visually without writing code. Blocks also work for the block_editor field on screens such as settings pages.
Best for
- PHP developers who want custom blocks without React
- Agencies building client sites on Meta Box
- Site builders configuring blocks visually with Meta Box Builder
Features
Custom blocks in pure PHP
Register and render Gutenberg blocks with PHP alone, without learning React or setting up JavaScript build tools like Webpack and Babel.
Over 40 Meta Box field types
Build block settings from more than 40 Meta Box field types, so complex blocks use the same components you already know from your custom fields.
Live preview in the editor
See block changes in real time inside the block editor, giving editors a what you see is what you get view of the content they are building.
Dynamic JavaScript support
Attach custom scripts to your blocks for interactive elements such as sliders, so blocks can behave dynamically on the page and in the editor.
Alignment, classes and anchors
Use Gutenberg's alignment options, add custom CSS classes and define anchors on your blocks for finer control over layout and styling.
Visual setup with Meta Box Builder
Combine it with the Meta Box Builder extension to choose block settings in a drag and drop interface, which suits people who prefer not to code.
Works beyond the post editor
Blocks function with the block_editor field on non post screens, such as settings pages, so custom blocks are usable in more admin areas.
MB Blocks older versions
- 1.8.3May 144 fixes
- 1.8.2Apr 221 fix
- 1.8.1Apr 91 fix
- 1.7.6Jul 18, 2025
- 1.7.5Apr 21, 2025
- 1.7.4Feb 5, 2025
- 1.7.3Nov 1, 2024
- 1.7.2Sep 26, 2024
- 1.7.1Aug 20, 2024
- 1.7.0Jul 26, 2024
Members and buyers of this product can download older versions.
15 older versions in all. If you need one that is not listed, ask support.
Questions about MB Blocks
Do I need to know React or JavaScript to use this?
No. Blocks are created with PHP, so you do not need React or JavaScript build tools like Webpack and Babel. You can still add custom JavaScript if you want dynamic elements such as sliders inside a block.
Does it need any other plugin?
Yes. It is an extension for Meta Box, so the Meta Box plugin must be active. Your blocks then draw on Meta Box's field types, which number more than 40, to build their settings.
Can non-developers create blocks with it?
With the Meta Box Builder extension, block settings can be chosen in a drag and drop interface without writing code. Without that extension, blocks are defined in PHP, which suits developers.
Can I preview blocks while editing?
Yes. The block editor shows a live preview, so changes to field values appear right away. This gives content editors a clear view of how each block will look while they work.
Is MB Blocks free?
The code of MB Blocks is licensed under the GPL, so anyone may use, change and share it. GPL Feast is a paid service: a plan or a single purchase gives you the download and automatic updates. The developer's own support, licence key and online services are not included.
Which version of MB Blocks is this?
Version 1.8.4, released Jun 11, 2026. New versions appear here when the developer publishes them, and members get them as automatic updates.
How do I update MB Blocks?
Install the free GPL Feast Updater on your site and connect it with your API key. It installs new versions of MB Blocks automatically and keeps a backup, so you can roll back.
What does MB Blocks need?
MB Blocks needs Meta Box installed and active.
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