WordPress is the most popular Content Management System (CMS) used worldwide. However, many might not know there are two platforms of WordPress, i.e., WordPress.com and WordPress.org.
WordPress.com and WordPress.org are different from one another. Even those who know they are different platforms, may need to learn their differences. Both are used to build websites but how to know which one is the suitable platform for you? Which one is better?
The main difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org is that one is hosted while the other is self-hosted. Therefore, first and foremost, your choice will depend upon the kind of website you are creating.
In this post, we will explain both platforms and highlight their features. Learning about these features will help you to differentiate and hopefully, aid in choosing the suitable platform for you.
What is WordPress.com?
WordPress.com is a platform with a hosted service. It runs on pre-installed WordPress software. The platform is a great choice for personal blogging and creative individuals. The WordPress software takes care of all the security and maintenance, hence, it is easy to run the site.
Since it requires a web host, you can use web hosts like BlueHost, Dreamhost, GoDaddy, and Siteground. Likewise, it is easy to set up websites on WordPress.com and great for beginners. All you have to do is sign up, choose the theme of your liking, and then you can start publishing your content.
WordPress.com gives you three plans that you can choose from, Personal, Premium, and Business plan. Each plan comes with flexible customization and certain access to control over the site. For full customization and control, there is a limit to it.
WordPress.com has several integrated features that reduce the necessity of having to install multiple plugins. The platform is SEO-friendly without installing plugins to boost SEO. It is a great option for those looking to set up their website quickly and do not want the hassle of dealing with designs and technical issues.
The pros and cons of WordPress.com are as below:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to use and also offers paid plans | The free version only has basic components |
| Easy to set up | Limited Customization |
| Web hosting service is provided | Pre-approved themes and limited plugin |
| Free Domain available | No ownership over your content |
| The platform handles all updates or backups | Google Analytics is not integrated |
| No need to worry about security | Limited monetization |
What is WordPress.org?
WordPress.org is a self-hosted site and 100% free to use. For anyone looking to build any kind of website, WordPress.org is the ideal choice for everyone. However, you will have to pay for your web hosting service and install the WordPress software.
WordPress.org is easy to use for both beginners and experts. Similarly, it allows you to have full control of your website, unlike WordPress.com. It is best for online stores and e-commerce sites among others.
There are numerous free and premium themes and plugins available on the platform. The themes are great for customizable while the plugins are great for adding additional functionality. Since the platform is self-hosted, you will have to maintain your website.
In WordPress.org, you can run your advertisement independently and generate income. There is no need to share revenue with the host site. There are plugins available for SEO enhancement, security, maintenance, updates, and many more. Likewise, WordPress.org allows you to create membership sites and sell them to offer premium content.
The pros and cons of WordPress.org are as below:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to use | Need intermediate technical knowledge for set up |
| Self-hosted platform | Need to buy a domain |
| Full control and ownership over your website | Need to pay for web hosting, premium themes, and plugins |
| Flexibility and unlimited customization | Reliability on plugins |
| Monetization of your content | Responsible for maintenance and update |
| Integration of Google Analytics | Responsible for backups |
Comparison
These were the major differences between WordPress.com and WordPress.org. You will need to choose one before you start building your website. Each platform caters to different types of websites and users. Here’s a quick comparison:
| WordPress.com | WordPress.org | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Built-in host. | Need to buy a web host. |
| Cost | Free but have to pay for upgrades or plans to access full features. | Free download but have to pay for web hosting and domain. |
| Expertise required | Beginner-friendly but also great for expert users. | Requires moderate technical knowledge. |
| Operational features | Built-in features eliminate the need for many plugins. Plugins can be installed based on the plan. | Free and premium plugins are available. Compatibility must be tested. |
| SEO-friendly | The platform itself is SEO-friendly. | Need to install plugins to boost SEO. |
| Customization | Based on the plan, users can get access to customization options. | A huge selection of free and paid themes is available, thus, flexible customization. |
| Analytics | Google Analytics is not integrated. | Integration of Google Analytics. |
Final Words
Now that you know the difference, we hope it is easier for you to make the selection. We also recommend that you do your research on the type of website you want to build.
In our opinion, WordPress.org is hands-down the best platform among the two. From bloggers to corporates, it is suitable for everyone. However, the choice rests upon you. Based on your needs and budget make your selection wisely.
We hope you find this article useful. Thank you for reading!
