Wordpress
WordPress.com vs WordPress.org: What’s the Difference?
If you’re new to WordPress, one of the first questions you’ll face is: “Should I use WordPress.com or WordPress.org?”
At first glance, they seem almost identical—but in reality, they’re two very different platforms. Choosing the right one can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences in plain English, highlight the pros and cons, and help you decide which version of WordPress is right for you.
1. Why the Confusion?
Both platforms share the same name and core software, but they’re managed differently:
- WordPress.org → The free, self-hosted version that gives you full control.
- WordPress.com → A hosted service run by Automattic (the company founded by WordPress co-creator Matt Mullenweg).
Think of it like renting vs owning a home:
- WordPress.com is like renting an apartment—easy setup, but limited customization.
- WordPress.org is like owning a house—more responsibility, but complete freedom.
2. What is WordPress.org (Self-Hosted)?
WordPress.org is the original, open-source software you download for free at wordpress.org.
To use it, you’ll need:
- A domain name (e.g., yoursite.com)
- A web hosting plan (e.g., Bluehost, SiteGround, Hostinger)
- An SSL certificate (often free with hosting)
Key Features of WordPress.org:
- ✅ Install any theme or plugin (free or premium)
- ✅ Full access to code for customization
- ✅ Monetize with ads, memberships, or eCommerce (WooCommerce)
- ✅ SEO-friendly with plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math
- ❌ Requires setup, hosting, and ongoing maintenance
Related: How to Install WordPress on Any Hosting Provider
3. What is WordPress.com (Hosted by Automattic)?
WordPress.com is a commercial hosting platform powered by the WordPress software. Instead of setting up your own hosting, Automattic manages everything for you.
Free Plan Limitations:
- Subdomain only (yoursite.wordpress.com)
- Ads displayed by WordPress.com
- No custom themes or plugins
Paid Plans (as of 2025):
- Personal ($4/mo) → No ads, custom domain
- Premium ($8/mo) → More design customization
- Business ($25/mo) → Install plugins and themes
- eCommerce ($45/mo) → Online stores with payment integrations
Best For: hobby bloggers, personal projects, or anyone who wants zero technical setup.
4. WordPress.org vs WordPress.com – Key Differences
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | WordPress.org (Self-Hosted) | WordPress.com (Hosted) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free software + hosting ($3–10/mo) | Free plan, paid tiers ($4–45/mo) |
| Domain | Custom domain required | Free subdomain or paid custom domain |
| Hosting | Choose your own host | Included |
| Themes | Any free/premium theme | Limited, custom themes on Business+ plans |
| Plugins | Unlimited (WooCommerce, SEO, backups) | Only available on Business+ plans |
| Monetization | Full freedom (ads, memberships, shops) | Limited unless Business plan |
| Customization | Full code access | Restricted |
| Ease of Use | Slight learning curve | Beginner-friendly |
5. Pros and Cons of WordPress.org
Pros:
- Total control of your website
- Thousands of plugins and themes
- Best for SEO, eCommerce, and scaling
- Full ownership of content
Cons:
- Requires hosting and setup
- You manage backups and security
- Small learning curve for beginners
6. Pros and Cons of WordPress.com
Pros:
- Free to start, hosting included
- No maintenance or updates to worry about
- Secure and stable (managed by Automattic)
Cons:
- Ads on free plan
- Limited customization and plugins unless on Business plan
- Less control over monetization
7. Which One Should You Choose?
- Hobby Blogger → Start with WordPress.com free or Personal plan
- Freelancer / Small Business → Choose WordPress.org for flexibility
- eCommerce Store → Use WordPress.org + WooCommerce
- Creative Portfolio → WordPress.com Premium is fine, but .org offers more design control
Related: Choosing the Best WordPress Hosting for Beginners
8. Can You Switch from WordPress.com to WordPress.org?
Yes — and many people do once they outgrow WordPress.com.
- Export content from WordPress.com
- Import into a self-hosted WordPress.org site
- Set up redirects (so you don’t lose SEO traffic)
Related: How to Install WordPress on Any Hosting Provider
FAQs
Yes, the software is free. You only pay for hosting and a domain.
Only on the Business and eCommerce plans.
WordPress.com is simpler, but WordPress.org is better long-term.
Yes, but hosting and ads are controlled by Automattic unless you pay for premium plans.
Conclusion – Our Recommendation
If you want complete freedom, scalability, and the ability to turn your website into a business, choose WordPress.org.
If you just want a simple blog or personal website without worrying about hosting, WordPress.com is enough.
👉 Next steps:
- How to Install WordPress on Any Hosting Provider
- Choosing the Best WordPress Hosting for Beginners
- WordPress Terminology Explained for Non-Techies
