💡WordPress.com vs WordPress.org — What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions beginners ask is:
“What’s the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org?”
Although they sound similar, they offer very different experiences. Let’s break it down so you know which one is right for you.
🎯 WordPress.com – Hosted Solution
✅ Pros:
- No need to buy hosting or manage a server
- Automatic updates, backups, and security
- Great for personal blogs or small hobby sites
🚫 Limitations:
- Limited customization (unless you pay)
- Ads on free plans
- You don’t have full control over your site
👉 Best for: Beginners who want a quick, no-maintenance setup
🎯 WordPress.org – Self-Hosted Solution
✅ Pros:
- Full control over your website and its content
- Access to thousands of plugins and themes
- Monetization freedom (ads, shops, memberships)
- Ideal for serious bloggers, businesses, and online stores
🚫 Considerations:
- You’ll need to buy hosting and a domain
- Responsible for backups, security, and updates
👉 Best for: Those who want flexibility, scalability, and ownership
🔍 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | WordPress.com | WordPress.org |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting | Provided | You manage it |
| Custom Themes/Plugins | Limited (paid plans) | Full access |
| Monetization | Restricted | Unlimited |
| Maintenance | Handled for you | You’re responsible |
| Best For | Simplicity | Flexibility & control |