What is the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com?
WordPress.org is the free, open‑source CMS you download and host yourself—offering unlimited customization, plugin access, and full control. WordPress.com is a hosted platform managed by Automattic—ideal for quick setup with maintenance handled, but with limitations on themes, plugins, and monetization unless upgraded. Choose .org for flexibility and scale—.com for ease and convenience.
While both use the same WordPress software, WordPress.org and WordPress.com cater to different needs:
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WordPress.org is open-source CMS software you download and host independently. It offers full control over customization, themes, plugins, and monetization. Version updates, backups, and security all rest on you.
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WordPress.com is a fully managed hosting platform powered by Automattic. It includes infrastructure, backups, security, and support under one roof. You create and publish without worrying about technical details—but face limitations unless on higher-tier plans.
Core Differences
| Feature | WordPress.org | WordPress.com |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting & Maintenance | Self-hosted; you manage hosting and updates | Hosting handled automatically by WordPress.com |
| Customization | Unlimited themes, plugins, and code access | Limited to built-in options unless on Business+ plan |
| Monetization | Full control over ads, affiliate tools, eCommerce | Restricted unless on paid plans |
| Security & Support | You manage plugins and hosting provider support | Automatic updates, backups, and customer support |
| Scalability | Ideal for growth, large sites, custom builds | Best for simple blogs and businesses initially |
Hosting, Costs & Ownership
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WordPress.org hosting is separate—starting at ~$4–$5/month for shared hosting. Domain costs apply. You own the full site—database, files, and content.
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WordPress.com includes free plans with basic features but shows WordPress.com ads unless upgraded. Business and eCommerce plans unlock plugin/theme access and monetization freedom. You own content but operate within their ecosystem.
Design, SEO & Performance
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WordPress.org allows installation of tools like Yoast SEO, GTM, optimized hosting stacks, and complete SEO flexibility.
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WordPress.com offers basic SEO features out-of-the-box; advanced tools require paid plans. Performance is managed; the infrastructure is optimized without manual configuration.
Monetization & Growth
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WordPress.org provides complete freedom for affiliate links, ad networks, membership systems (like WooCommerce), and custom monetization strategies.
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WordPress.com supports monetization through built-in programs on paid tiers. Free plans don’t allow third-party ads. Commerce plans offer eCommerce options with restrictions.
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose WordPress.org if you want:
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Full customization and scalability
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Unlimited plugin/theme control
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Ownership and portability
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Advanced SEO and marketing flexibility
Choose WordPress.com if you want:
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Quick, beginner-friendly setup
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Hosting and security handled for you
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Basic website needs without technical upkeep
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Tiered support options on paid plans
For those starting small but anticipating growth, WordPress.com can be an easy entry point—and you can always migrate to WordPress.org later.
Migrating Between Platforms
Migrating from WordPress.com to WordPress.org is common. You can export content and import it into your new self-hosted WordPress.org setup. Many hosts offer migration services to make the process smoother.
Both WordPress.org and WordPress.com are built on the same WordPress core—but who manages it makes all the difference. One gives you full control, flexibility, and scalability. The other simplifies setup and maintenance but limits customization. Your choice should align with your technical comfort, budget, long-term goals, and desired level of control.