WordPress.com and WordPress.org are two popular website builders. With their similar names, the two are often confused with one another. However, there are some notable WordPress.com vs WordPress.org differences that may impact which is the better fit for your business’s needs.

“While both platforms help you build websites, their core functions are quite different.”

WordPress.org is software and an open-source community that helps you build a website you then host yourself, while WordPress.com is a managed hosting service that you can build a website within. Your level of experience and the specific features and functionalities you’re looking for in a website builder can help guide your decision about which platform is right for your business.

COST - WordPress.com - Free plan with basic features. Hosting is provided. Designed for use by those with limited technical knowledge. Support - Varies by plan (email support available for all paid plans).

COST - WordPress.org - Free (but will need to pay for hosting) Separate hosting provider is required. Requires more technical knowledge. Plugins are very useful but can be complex. Support - Thru forums or hosting providers.

WordPress.org is completely free to download. However, you must pay for a third-party hosting provider and the domain name for your website. The web editors is MUCH better on WordPress.org. That greater flexibility comes down to the ability to add custom code and plugins to a WordPress.org website. 

E-commerce, SEO and Blogging functionality is capable in both versions but you have more control in WordPress.org.

Final verdict - Winner: WordPress.org - WordPress.org puts all the design power in your hands when it comes to building your website. With the ability to install a seemingly limitless number of plugins, you have the capability to craft your site to your specific needs and vision.