Native Custom Fields

Native Custom Fields is a tool designed for creating custom content types and meta fields within WordPress using native components from the WordPress core. It addresses the issue of inconsistent user interfaces and high maintenance found in many custom field plugins by leveraging the same React component library used by Gutenberg, WordPress’s block editor. This approach ensures that all form elements—such as text fields, number inputs, toggles, radios, and selects—maintain a consistent look and behavior with the rest of the WordPress admin interface.

The tool allows users to add and configure custom fields in a variety of locations, including posts, custom post types, taxonomies, user pages, and options pages. It supports advanced features such as repeater and group components for more complex data structures. Native Custom Fields also offers import and export functionality through JSON files or PHP arrays, making it easier to synchronize field configurations across different environments or projects.

Built entirely on WordPress native components, the tool avoids duplicating UI logic or introducing competing design systems. This results in a familiar user interface for clients and predictable, standard behavior for developers, including support for React hooks. Data created with Native Custom Fields is stored in WordPress’s native meta tables and the wp_options table, avoiding the creation of unnecessary tables or hidden post types. The architecture is described as clean and future-proof, aiming for long-term maintainability and compatibility with future WordPress core updates.

Native Custom Fields is positioned as being suitable for agencies and enterprise-level WordPress projects, as well as individual developers seeking clarity and adherence to WordPress conventions and APIs. The tool is available as a free download, with no mention of paid features or licensing restrictions.