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Find a Place For Your Voice to be Heard
You know you want to start blogging, either as a new career path, a hobby or maybe just something to do to unwind and get creative. What you may not know is which one of the many blogging platforms is best for your needs and skill level.
We’re going to be taking a look at the top blogging platforms for any type of blogger. There will be a variety ranging from free blogging platforms to subscription-based payable blogging sites. You will be able to contrast and compare these platforms and determine which one fits your needs, style, time-frame, budget and tech skills.
It’s important to pick a platform that suits you, but will also include the needs of your target audience as well.
You may find yourself easily getting caught up in making this decision, however just know that there’s no right or wrong choice. It’s just a matter of figuring out what works and makes sense for you.
Things to Consider if You're a New Blogger
If so, it might be best to test out a free blogging platforms first before you dive into something pricey. This will allow you to become more comfortable with the idea of a blogging platform and what they have to offer Once you become more familiar or if your blog gets bigger you can upgrade to something more advanced. There are downfalls to taking this route though, which you will learn about more later in the article.
We want you to avoid buyer's remorse: You know that feeling when you’re only a few weeks into an annual subscription and you suddenly realize you’ve made a huge mistake because you weren’t able to research each platform to the fullest.
Therefore you need to think of yourself as Goldilocks (or something less infantile); you don’t want one that’s too expensive, too advanced, or one that doesn’t offer enough variety. You want one that’s just right for you, your audience, and your blogging needs!
We did the hard work for you and got all the details you’ll need for each of these top 5 blogging platforms.
Our Top 5 Picks for Self-Hosted Platforms
1. WordPress.org
WordPress.org offers you the ability to download their software script directly from their website and customize your blog site through their management system.
There are a couple of things you need to do first. You will:
• Be required to have an active hosting service with a third party provider in order to upload and install the WordPress software to your hosted servers.
• Need to make sure that your host meets the minimum requirements to operate with the WordPress software.
One of the best things about using the downloadable option of WordPress is that your blog site and it’s content are completely owned by you, not WordPress. In addition to being a full content management system, WordPress is a completely customizable through endless themes, designs, plugins, widgets, and more. It’s extremely versatile, and it’s a free blog platform that allows you to have full ownership of your blog and it's contents.
Hence, it’s no surprise that WordPress is the most popular among their competitors. With this caliber of freedom to do what you want, WordPress.org is one of the best blog platforms for making money!
What You Need to Know About WordPress.org
Will There Be Costs?
Not for the platform itself. To download the WordPress 4.8 script is absolutely free. That being said, you will need to have an active hosting subscription with a third-party provider in order to upload and install this software and start building your blog. Therefore you will be paying either monthly or annually for the hosting space you’ll be using with that company. WordPress lists Bluehost, DreamHost, Flywheel, and SiteGround as their recommended web hosts.
Is Hosting Included?
No. As explained above, the software is free but it does not include hosting. You’ll have to get that set up with a third-party hosting service provider.
Will it Include a Domain Name?
No. You’ll have to register your domain name in order to set up your hosting service and use WordPress.
How Easy is it to Use?
WordPress is a little more advanced than other blogging platforms in that you will have to install and configure it accordingly to your host. This can be time-consuming especially if you haven’t done it before. Yet, as you continue to use it more often to publish your content it will become easier for you. WordPress also offers an extensive array of guides on their website to help you out as much as possible throughout the process.
Do They Offer Design Options?
Do they ever! You have the option to download tons of free or premium themes on their website at WordPress.org. In addition to what they offer, you can also pick out custom themes from hundreds of other stores out there. It’s virtually an endless pool of options.
Do They Offer Plugins and Extensions?
Yes! Same as the themes – you’ll be able to download thousands upon thousands of plugins and extensions from their site and even more from other sources available online.
Can You Monetize Your Blog with WordPress.org?
Absolutely! WordPress allows you to maximize your monetizing options. They offer so many themes and plug-ins that will make cashing in a breeze.
With WordPress.org, you can:
- Allow advertisements on your blog: This is simple and doesn't take much effort, however it can make your blog look cheap.
- Offer services, consulting and coaching: WordPress offers portfolio themes for service based blogs, as well as plugins that allow you to make a portfolio, create book and add testimonials.
- Start an Online shop: There are many themes dedicated to helping you create an online shop. Plus they have amazing plugins like WooCommerce that gives you all the tools you need to run a shop.
- Take advantage of affiliate marketing: WordPress offers tools that allow you manage and insert affiliate links into your content.
This is just scratching the surface as to how you can use WordPress.org to monetize you blogging dreams!
What We Think of WordPress.org
If you're looking to take blogging seriously, we strongly suggest going with WordPress.org. Yes, it may be a little difficult at first. However it's worth it in the long haul. Especially if you're interested in monetizing your blog.
You really can't go wrong! WordPress offers so many guides, forums, themes, tools and plugins that the learning curve will be worth it!
2. WordPress.com
In a nutshell, WordPress.com is the hosted alternative of WordPress.org. All you need to do to start building your blog is visit WordPress.com, create a free account, pick your plan and start building.
You can access and manage your blog site online directly through your browser. There is no software or hosting subscription required. On of the major differences between the two is that you do not actually own your blog if you use WordPress.com. This means, they can shut it down at any time as explained in their terms and conditions.
What You Need to Know About WordPress.com
Will There Be Costs?
It depends. You can either choose to get a free site or get more variety with payable subscription-based packages. The cost ranges from $0 to approximately $32 per month varying on the currency.
WordPress.com offers 4 plans to choose from:
1. Free (for life) : A free site to start publishing your content quickly and easily.
2. Personal Blog Site (~$4/mo): Removes WordPress ads and gives you the option to add a custom domain name. You are also given email hosting and live chat support.
3. Premium (~$11/mo): Gain advanced design tools, CSS editing, more space and the ability to monetize using ads.
4. Business (~$32/mo): You get unlimited premium and business themes, Google Analytics support, unlimited storage and the removal of WordPress branding on your site.
Is Hosting Included?
Yes! Hosting is included at no extra cost, however, depending on your package you may be paying a monthly subscription-based fee.
Will it Include a Domain Name?
Sort-of. Choose a paid package and your domain is included. On the other hand, if choose the free plan you will get a subdomain for your blog, but you will not have a domain name.You do have the option to add your domain name but that will cost you an extra ~$18 per year.
How Easy is it to Use?
It’s a breeze. Hosting, setting up and configuring your site are all out the window with this option. You will be up and running in a matter of minutes. WordPress.com also offers a guide on how to get started if you’re stuck.
Do They Offer Design Options?
Yes. They offer a selection of hundreds of themes you can use. Furthermore, the premium plans will allow you to customize these themes. WordPress.org still offers a much larger selection of themes.
Do They Offer Plugins and Extensions?
Yes. You get the basics, but again there isn’t as much selection as what WordPress.org offers.
Can You Monetize Your Blog With WordPress.com?
Yes you can. It's not quite as easy to do as it is with WordPress.org, but it is possible. They don't offer a lot of plugins or tools that will help you on your journey.
With WordPress.com, you can:
- Use Affiliate Links: WordPress.com does allow this on their sites. You will most likely have to install each link manually, as there aren't any tools to help with this.
- Try Sponsored Posts: This just means you can be paid to write about a product or a service on your blog. WordPress does stipulate that all you content can't be sponsored posts.
- Sell Digital and Physical Products: A good option if you just have a few things to sell. There isn't a lot of design options for creating sales pages. Plus there isn't a Shopping Cart option, you will have to set up Paypal on your blog for payments.
What We Think of WordPress.com
It's a great site if your are going to be blogging as a hobby.
It doesn't cost a lot, you don't have to pay for hosting and it's easy to get started. Yet it lacks the capability for your site to grow into something bigger and better.
Thus, this a great platform for those who want to stay small and humble.
3. Wix
Wix is a subscription-based, user-friendly, and easy to use online website builder and web hosting service. To use their service there is no installation of software required.
Wix is known for being quite simple, when it comes to creating eye pleasing layouts and interactive designs. With there drag and drop builder, you won't need to know a lick of code to end up with a blog you love.
What You Need to Know About Wix
Will There Be Costs?
Only if you pick a premium plan. Wix offers a free site, however if you want to get more you can choose from 5 premium plans. The cost varies from $0 to approximately $25 per month.
1. Connect Domain (~$4/mo): The most basic package that will display Wix ads. You do not get a free domain with this package.
2. Combo (~$9/mo): Good for the use of a personal blog site. No more Wix ads with this package and onward.
3. Unlimited (~$12/mo): Ideal for entrepreneurs and freelancers. Wix provides you with ad vouchers, boosters and builder apps.
4. eCommerce (~$16/mo): Best for small businesses and professionals. Turn your blog into an online store and sell your products.
5. VIP (~$25/mo): Package that offers the most unlimited resources and priority support.
All Premium Plans include free hosting, domain connection, 500MB+ of storage, Google Analytics, premium support, and no set-up fees.
Is Hosting Included?
Yes. All plans include hosting!
Will it Include a Domain Name?
No. You will have a sub domain available for your blog site but you can register a domain name with Wix that will cost you an annual registration fee.
How Easy is it to Use?
Wix is incredibly easy to use. You can create an account and launch your site within minutes of turning on your computer. Wix also provides you with extensive FAQ articles and forums for additional help.
Do They Offer Design Options?
Yes. Choose from hundreds of templates, all quick and easy to configure. The only problem is that once you have chosen your initial them, you can't change it.
Do They Offer Plugins and Extensions?
Yes. Gain access to many plugins and extensions that are already built-in. Furthermore, through the Wix App store, you can purchase more advanced features.
Can You Monetize Your Blog With Wix?
You sure can. Wix comes with all the basic things you need to make money with your site, plus they have an amazing app market. You'll have all the apps needed to be successful business owner. This includes E commerce apps, Marketing apps and Business apps.
What We Think of Wix
Wix is the best platform for someone who is keen on design and doesn't mind spending a little cash on a monthly subscription.
It's also the best drag and drop platform for monetizing a blog. With Wix's continually growing app market you are always going to have a ton of options to help in growing and improving your site.
Just remember you can't change your theme once you have chosen it!
4. Squarespace
Squarespace is an online hosted website building platform that provides all-in-one services that do not require advanced skills. You'll find that Squarespace and Wix are quite similar in that they are both quick, simple, user-friendly, intuitive and great for first-time website builders.
This platform also offers tons of styling options and gorgeous designer templates. It's style editor allows you to customize pretty much anything you want. Plus all of their templates are mobile responsive.
What You Need to Know About Squarespace
Will There Be Costs?
Yes. Squarespace is one of the more pricey blogging platforms on the market. The cost ranges from ~$12 to $46 per month. You can select from either two website packages or two online store packages:
1. Personal Website (~$12/mo): A simple and easy-to-use website that offers 9 services for your blog.
2. Business Website (~$18/mo): Get more with email hosting, $100 Google AdWords Credit, and a smaller sales transaction fee.
3. Basic Online Store (~$26/mo): Ideal for getting your business started. This package offers a vast array of services and resources for your blog site.
4. Advanced Online Store (~$40/mo): For professionals looking for extra security and additional eCommerce functionality.
Is Hosting Included?
Yes. All plans include hosting!
Will it Include a Domain Name?
Yes. You will get a domain name free for the first year. However, you will have to renew your domain at the standard annual renewal fee.
How Easy is it to Use?
It's is one of the easiest to use blogging platforms available. For the price range, you would expect it to be. They offer a user-friendly, simple, and initiative interface. Like Wix, you’ll be able to build your site through the simple technique of drag and drop.
Do They Offer Design Options?
Yes. They offer a large selection of chic and modern templates.
Do They Offer Plugins and Extensions?
Yes. Each package will already be equipped with the best features you’ll need. If you want more advanced plugins or extensions you can incorporate them through the help of third party sites.
Can You Monetize Your Blog With Squarespace?
Of course you can. They offer unique templates that integrate your online store right into them. They also offer all the the basic things you need to run a store, such as the ability to manage products, handle shipping, set up coupons and take payment.
One fall back would be that they only have three payment processors at the moment ( PayPal, Apple Pay, and Stripe)
What We Think of Squarespace
This platform is an excellent all around choice if you are willing to invest some cash into your blog. It offers great design options, is easy to use and is eCommerce friendly.
However, as far as platforms go it's pricey and we think you can get the same things out of Wix for a bit less.
5. Blogger
Blogger is grandfathered in as one of the most traditional blogging platform services still operating today.
To get started all you'll need is a Google account, software or downloads aren't needed. Simply log in and start building your site with ease. Plus, it’s free!
What You Need to Know About Blogger
Will There Be Costs?
No. Blogger is Google’s free blogging tool.
Is Hosting Included?
Yes. Blogger includes hosting at no extra cost.
Will it Include a Domain Name?
No. You will have a sub domain available for your blog site but you can register a domain name with a registrar and tie it to your blog.
How Easy is it to Use?
Very. It’s simple and easy to use, almost to a fault. It’s not as advanced in the sense that your blog may look a little old-school.
Do They Offer Design Options?
Not really. You’ll get some basic editing options for your layout but not much else.
Do They Offer Plugins and Extensions?
Yes. There isn't a lot of choice though.
Can You Monetize Your Blog With Blogger?
Surprisingly yes! They offer some very basic templates and plugs that will aid in monetizing your blog.
The options may not be as advanced as WordPress.org, but for a hobbyist trying to make a little cash on the side it will do the trick.
What We Think of Blogger
It's free and you don't need to download software. That's a pretty good start!
There are limits to Blogger. Design and function are not the main priority here, it's definitely a content driven platform. We think that it is best suited for all the bloggers out there who want to focus on their writing.
It's Time to Make a Decision
We’ve gone through these top 5 blogging platforms and provided you with a summary of what they offer. Talked about their restrictions and their strengths, but, keep in mind there are tons more out there available at your fingertips.
Stay Focused
It doesn’t take that much effort to do your research and compare the ones that interest you most. Just keep yourself organized and focus on your ‘must haves’ for you blog. Figure out what you’re looking for and determine which platform suits you and your blogging needs most.
An important thing to consider is: Determining whether you are okay with not owning your blog. With free blogging platforms you are at the mercy of the platform you are using meaning they can shut your site down at any time without your consent. Also, they are free to post their own ads and branding all over your blog.
It would be more professional to own your own blog and have the liberty to post your own ads and branding. However, for beginners, it’s not a bad idea to test the waters first with a free blog just so you can start getting a hang of how it all works. Then when you’re comfortable and your blog starts to grow you can start using more advanced packages that work for you. Picking the right platform for your blog will be an investment towards your blogging career and overall success.
Think it over and choose what’s best for your blogging future!
What's Next?
Thanks for reading bloggers and future bloggers. Do you have a question about this article? Maybe your still not sure which platform is best for you? Leave a comment or questions below and we will help you out the best we can.
Want to avoid choosing a from one of the many blogging platforms ? Consider trying our free 30 Day Blog Challenge! Once you join the challenge we will take you through all the steps necessary to set up and start a blog.
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