

Meta Box Columns
Meta Box Columns by Meta Box is a WordPress plugin that extends the Meta Box plugin. It places your custom fields side by side in a 12-column grid, so long edit forms become shorter and easier to work through.
- Version
- 1.2.16
- Released
- Aug 19, 2024
- Developer
- Meta Box
- Type
- WordPress plugin
- Requires
- Meta Box
- Licence
- GPL
- Included in
- Every plan, or $4.79 a year on its own
What’s new in Meta Box Columns 1.2.16
- FixedFix running PHP Codesniffer when installing and autoload the plugin's main file via Composer
What it does
Custom fields in WordPress normally stack one on top of another. On a post type with many fields, such as an artist profile or a detailed listing, that means a lot of scrolling and a form that is hard to scan. This add-on for the Meta Box plugin solves that by letting you lay fields out horizontally in columns, so related inputs sit next to each other and more of the form fits on screen at once.
The layout is based on a 12-column grid, which gives you room to size each field to suit its content. It works with existing Meta Box configurations, so you can add columns to meta boxes you have already built without rewriting them. It also pairs with the MB Tabs extension, letting you group fields into tabs and then arrange each tab's fields in columns for an even tidier editing screen.
Best for
- Developers building custom post types with Meta Box
- Sites with long, field-heavy edit screens
- Agencies wanting tidier admin forms for clients
Features
Arrange custom fields side by side using a 12-column grid, so you can decide how much width each field takes in the edit form.
Placing fields in rows instead of a single vertical stack cuts down the length of the form and reduces scrolling for editors.
Add column layouts to meta boxes you have already registered with Meta Box, without rewriting your existing field definitions.
Combine columns with the MB Tabs extension to group fields into tabbed sections and then lay out each section in a grid.
The column layout applies to the WordPress admin edit screens and is designed to work alongside your theme without styling conflicts.
Helpful for post types with many fields, such as artist profiles or multi-field forms, where a clear arrangement makes data entry easier.
Meta Box Columns older versions
- 1.2.15Apr 18, 20231 fix
Members and buyers of this product can download older versions.
Questions about Meta Box Columns
Does Meta Box Columns work without the Meta Box plugin?
No. It is an extension for the Meta Box plugin and adds column layouts to the custom fields you create with it. You need Meta Box in place for this add-on to have fields to arrange.
Will I have to rebuild my existing meta boxes to use columns?
No. The extension is built to work with existing Meta Box configurations, so you can add column settings to meta boxes you already have instead of rewriting your field code from scratch.
Can I use columns together with tabs?
Yes. It works with the MB Tabs extension, so you can split fields into tabbed sections and then arrange the fields inside each tab using the column grid. This keeps very long forms organized.
How flexible is the column layout?
Fields are placed on a 12-column grid, which lets you set how wide each field is. You can put two, three or more fields in a row, depending on how you divide the 12 columns.
Is Meta Box Columns free?
The code of Meta Box Columns 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 Meta Box Columns is this?
Version 1.2.16, released Aug 19, 2024. New versions appear here when the developer publishes them, and members get them as automatic updates.
How do I update Meta Box Columns?
Install the free GPL Feast Updater on your site and connect it with your API key. It installs new versions of Meta Box Columns automatically and keeps a backup, so you can roll back.
What does Meta Box Columns need?
Meta Box Columns needs Meta Box installed and active.
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