WordPress.org & WordPress.com are the rockstars among content management systems (CMS). Whether you want to start a blog, create an online store or build a stunning website, WordPress has got you covered.
Moreover, an additional advantage is? It’s free and open-source software!
However, it’s important to note that there are two sides to the WordPress coin: WordPress.com vs WordPress.org.
Many beginners mistakenly believe that these two platforms are identical, but the truth is that they offer unique features and capabilities.
We understand that selecting the perfect blogging platform can be challenging, so we’ve thoroughly compared the free versions of WordPress.com and WordPress.org (self-hosted version). We aim to provide you with an exhilarating overview of the significant differences between these two powerful platforms.
So why wait? Let’s get the ball rolling!
Similarities between WordPress.org & WordPress.com
WordPress.org & WordPress.com share many similarities, including core software, CMS, open-source license, and community support. The main differences between the two platforms are related to plugin and theme availability and installation.
Core software
The core software of WordPress is the same for both WordPress.org & WordPress.com. Both platforms use the same open-source software maintained and developed by the WordPress community.
CMS (content management system)
WordPress.org & WordPress.com both use the same CMS. WordPress is a powerful and flexible content management system allowing users to create and manage websites easily.
Plugins and themes
Both WordPress.org & WordPress.com allow users to use plugins and themes to extend the functionality and design of their websites. However, there are some differences between the two platforms regarding the plugin and theme availability and installation.
On WordPress.com, users can access a limited selection of plugins and themes the platform’s team curates. In contrast, WordPress.org users can access a vast library of plugins and themes from the official WordPress repository and third-party sources. They can also upload and install custom plugins and themes.
Open-source license
WordPress.org & WordPress.com use the same open-source license, meaning the software is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute.
Community support
Both WordPress.org & WordPress.com have active communities that offer support to users. The WordPress community is known for its helpfulness and generosity, and users can find answers to their questions through forums, documentation, and other resources.
Comparison b/w WordPress.org & WordPress.com
| Category | WordPress.com | WordPress.org |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting | WordPress.com hosts your website for you | You need to find your hosting provider |
| Domain | You can use a subdomain of WordPress.com (e.g. yoursite.wordpress.com) or purchase a custom domain through WordPress.com. | You need to purchase your own domain from a domain registrar |
| Cost | Offers free and paid plans with varying levels of features | The software is free, but you need to pay for hosting domain, and any additional features/plugins/themes |
| Customization | Limited customization options for free plans; more options available with paid plans | Unlimited customization options, including the ability to upload custom themes and plugins |
| Maintenance | WordPress.com handles software updates and security | You are responsible for updating the software and maintaining the security |
| eCommerce | Limited eCommerce functionality available on paid plans | Limited support is available on free plans; more support is available on paid plans. |
| Advertising | You have complete control over advertising and revenue | Support is available through the WordPress.org community, documentation, and third-party services. |
| Support | No advertising is allowed on free plans; advertising allowed on paid plans with revenue sharing. | No advertising is allowed on free plans; advertising is allowed on paid plans with revenue sharing. |
WordPress.org & WordPress.com – Which is beneficial?
If you’re looking for a simple, hassle-free way to create a website or blog without worrying about the technical aspects of hosting and maintenance, then WordPress.com may be your better choice. WordPress.com offers a user-friendly interface and handles all the technical aspects of hosting and maintenance, so you can focus on creating content.
However, if you want complete control and customization over your website or blog, then WordPress.org is likely the better choice. With WordPress.org, you have the freedom to choose your own hosting provider and have access to the full range of customization options, including the ability to install custom plugins and themes.
Bottom Line
Both WordPress.org & WordPress.com are excellent options depending on your needs, budget, and technical expertise. It’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and preferences before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I transfer my website from WordPress.com to WordPress.org?
Yes, you can export your content from WordPress.com and import it to a self-hosted WordPress.org site. However, you must purchase web hosting and set up your website from scratch.
Are there any costs associated with WordPress.org & WordPress.com?
WordPress.org is free to download and use, but you must pay for web hosting, domain name, and any premium themes or plugins you want to use.
WordPress.com offers free and paid plans, but the free plan has limited features and displays ads on your website. The paid plans start at $4 monthly and offer more features and customization options.
Can I use plugins and themes on both WordPress.org & WordPress.com?
Yes, you can use plugins and themes on both platforms. However, on WordPress.com, you can only use the plugins and themes available on their platform or the ones you purchase from them. On WordPress.org, you can use any plugin or theme from the WordPress repository or third-party providers.
Is WordPress.org or WordPress.com better for SEO?
Both platforms offer SEO-friendly features, but WordPress.org gives you more control over your website’s SEO. With WordPress.org, you can install SEO plugins like Yoast SEO or All in One SEO, which offer advanced SEO features like XML sitemaps, meta tags, and more.
On WordPress.com, you have limited control over the SEO settings, but they do offer basic SEO features like meta descriptions and titles. Ultimately, the quality of your content and backlinks will significantly impact your SEO, regardless of which platform you use.
Leave a Reply