Blogger vs. WordPress: Which is Right for You?

Blogging is one of the most popular forms of self-employment to sweep across the world. Of course, with the increase of bloggers comes the influx of blogging websites. Needless to say, the difficulty for many bloggers today is selecting a blogging site that fits their needs. Quite a few find a home on Blogger, perhaps just as many turning to WordPress. Without a doubt, each has their advantages and disadvantages, but which blogging site is right for you?

Blogger

Blogger, owned by Google, holds the prestige of being one of the oldest publishing tools. Like others, this blogging site has a number of features, but one of the greatest benefits is Blogger is free. This makes Blogger the perfect place for anyone who is testing the waters or is strapped for cash.

Advantages of Blogger

1. Free Subscription with Benefits

• No need for a domain name or hosting.
• Provides wide selection of templates.
• Available in more than 50 languages.
• Mobile device applications available.

2. Google Support

• Security breaches are unlikely.
• Google servers ensure little to no downtime.
• Time proven, reliable service.

3. User-friendly

• Easy-to-use format perfect for beginners.
• Simple drag-and-drop interface.
• Support page available.

Disadvantages of Choosing Blogger

1. No Room for Growth

• Limited design capabilities.
• Few plugins available to improve site functionality.
• Limited features.

2. No Ownership Rights

• Google can use and distribute content.
• Google will remove blogs for infractions.

WordPress

WordPress, released in 2003, is more of an Open Source Content Management System than a publishing tool. What is most noteworthy about this site is users can choose between WordPress.com, free membership, and WordPress.org, paid subscription. However, as WordPress.com is Blogger’s equivalent, we will primarily look at this version. In that sense, WordPress.com is just as welcoming to people just starting out and those unsure of blogging.

Advantages of WordPress.com

1. Free Hosting

• Receive a domain name in the form of “yourdomain.wordpress.com”
• Able to customize.
• Automatic backups.
• Wide range of plugins available.
• Available in 70 languages.

2. User-Friendly Format

• Free support through support forum.
• No coding knowledge required.
• Fast and simple set-up.

3. Room for Growth

• Easily upgrade to WordPress.org
• WordPress.org offers the same features as WordPress.com and far more.

Disadvantages of Choosing WordPress.com

1. WordPress.com Limitations

• Strict about monetization.
• Revenue strategies allowed elsewhere not permitted.
• Not an ad-free zone
• Restricts plugins for WordPress.com

2. Site Growth Requires Paid Subscription

• Business growth means subscribing to WordPress.org
• Limits on traffic and branding require successful businesses upgrade or move.

Comparing Blogger and WordPress.com comes down to a tit-for-tat argument. Each site
has its pros and cons, both serving their intended purpose. However, in the end, you must decide for yourself whether Blogger or WordPress is right for you.