WordPress.org and WordPress.com are two entirely different platforms, designed for distinctive purposes. Although many users confuse between the two, this misunderstanding often leads them to select the wrong platform for their blogging needs.
However, with the differences between the two not as clear as meant to be, even those users who are aware of their dissimilarities may also get confused between the two. Although there are key differences between the two, users often face this common query, which is better: WordPress.org or WordPress.com? Read on and find out, which blogging platform is considered better than the other.
- WordPress.org
Pros of Using WordPress.org
The WordPress mania originally started with WordPress.org. This open-source software is relatively easy and can be used by anyone. The only thing that a user needs is a unique domain name and web hosting service, which is also why it is often called the self-hosted WordPress option. There are various advantages and disadvantages of using the self-hosted WordPress option. Primarily, WordPress.org allows users to have optimum control of their website. The users can personalize the website as much, or as little as they like. This is why it is often regarded as a top choice for the website builder. What’s more, is that users have full authority over their digital property and all the data that’s put up on the site. Users also have the option to add free/paid WordPress plugins that can be customized as well.
They can also create individual membership sites that display premium content while building a strong community around the website. Moreover, there are plenty of customization options available. Users have the option to select any free/paid WordPress theme that they want, which can also be customized as per their liking and requirements. Since these web designs can be modified anytime, users have the freedom to generate revenue and are not required to share with any third-party individual. They can also incorporate and synchronize online tools such as Google Analytics for custom analytics/tracking.
Why not use WordPress.org to set up an online store for all kinds of products, both physical and digital merchandise, add various payment options, and deliver or ship to the destination directly from the website. Just make sure that your internet connection offers a high-end connection like the Grande Internet, otherwise, your business can suffer.
If you need more about latest plans and packages then do visit BuyTVInternetPhone.
Cons of Using WordPress.org
On the other hand, there are several disadvantages to using WordPress.org. Though these are far and few, they are present there nonetheless. Firstly, users need to set up WordPress.org with the hosting provider, which isn’t much complicated and is a simple and easy installation process. Although WordPress is technically free, you will need to get web hosting for a certain fee, ranging from $3 to $10/month. The user has to manage all kinds of software updates, including managing regular backups, which can easily be done with numerous backup plugins available for users to add. Ultimately, users will have to pay for the kind of website they are trying to build, which could range from simple blogs to a portfolio website to an e-Commerce store, etc. Websites can be built on a budget as low as $46 yearly.
- WordPress.com
Pros of Using WordPress.com
The confusion between the two, WordPress.org and WordPress.com often takes place because they both have the same founder and share a common name with slight differences. While WordPress.org allows website owners to develop everything from scratch to ensure maximum control over website functionality, WordPress.com is the total opposite. Created by Automattic, the same corporate organization that was led by WordPress Co-founder Matt Mullenweg, WordPress.com ensures that one doesn’t need to go through all that hassle. Users of WordPress.com can simply pay up for a standard online space that can be made better with the addition of several third-party tools.
What’s more, is that the free WordPress.com options are great for new users. Especially those, who want to take up blogging as a hobby or utilize it as a tool of creative expression. Furthermore, if a user opts for the basic free plan, they get around 3 GB of storage and if they want to add more space, they will have to opt for a high-paid plan. As for regular upgrades, they are no longer an issue for the WordPress.com user as these are automatically done.
Cons of Using WordPress.com
However, WordPress.com comes with numerous limitations. Site customization tools are not that common unless the user selects a highly costly plan, something like the VIP, which starts at $5000/month. Ads are commonly placed on free websites and unfortunately, users don’t earn money from them. If users don’t want to see these ads, then they need to upgrade their current paid plan. What’s more is that the website limits monetization options, namely the refusal to sell ads on a website. Plug-ins cannot be uploaded while users get built-in packs, which do not cater extensively to maximum customization options.
The free plan does not allow the user to upload themes of their choice and the options available are also not many, in comparison to the premium ones. Google Analytics cannot be installed and users will have to make do with available options in stats. Custom domain names are not free and require payment. Your site can be deleted at any time if it violates the terms of service. Payment gateways are not present and the hosting options in general, are quite limited.
Wrapping Up
To conclude this debate, both are great options if you are using them for the right reasons. WordPress.com is great if you plan to start your blogging journey and minting money from the website is not a concern. However, if you do aim to earn decent from your online endeavor, then WordPress.org is perfect. What’s more, is that if you want more flexibility and are not concerned much with the high-end technicality, try WordPress.org.