WordPress.Org and WordPress.Com are two different versions of the same software. Both versions have their own pros and cons, making it difficult and confusing to decide which one to use. In this article, we will compare wordpress.org vs. wordpress.com to help you decide which one is best for your needs!

WordPress.Org: What Is It?

WordPress.org (also known as self-hosted WordPress) is a free software that allows users to create websites or blogs. While WordPress.org is free, you will need to purchase your own domain name and website hosting with this self-hosted option.

I recommend SiteGround, which is a self-hosted WordPress solution. You need the self-hosted version of WordPress to have complete control over your website and access all of the features and plugins that WordPress offers.

WordPress.com: What Is It?

WordPress.com is a website that allows users to create websites or blogs without having their own hosting account, domain name registration, etc., which makes it easy for anyone to start blogging by just signing up on wordpress.com with no additional cost required.

Essentially, wordpress.org installations are installed on your own domain and website hosting. WordPress.com websites are hosted by WordPress and allow you a little less control and fewer features.

Which should you choose: WordPress.org or WordPress.com?

If you have a specific goal in mind, wordpress.org may be the best option for you. For example, if your goal is to set up an e-commerce store and sell products online, wordpress.com will not work because it does not allow payment processing capabilities due to security reasons.

Self-hosting your own WordPress installation and website does not cost too much. Depending on your amount of traffic, you can find great plans under $10 per month, including from SiteGround.

The wordpress.com option is free and easy to use; however, you will not have control over the URL of your website (unless you pay) or any plugins that wordpress.com does not allow for security reasons — those are just a few drawbacks to wordpress.com!

Ready to Have a Beautiful WordPress Website Design?

I’m a professional WordPress website designer, and can create a custom design and setup for your wordpress.org installation. It’s time you get a beautifully designed website that will make your business stand out from the rest. Contact us today!