Two popular free blogging platforms are WordPress and Blogger. Both offer similar structures, allow you to publish content immediately, and provide you with premium upgrade options to consider.
Despite the similarities, there are also some key differences between WordPress vs Blogger worth considering before you decide to post your first blog.
1. Customization
Blogger is designed to give you the tools required to complete specific tasks. You are able to edit your HTML on some themes for a personalized experience. Some themes block you from doing this.
WordPress is open source, so you’re allow to customize some of your content, especially if you use the panel instead of the blogging platform. As an actual blog, your limitations are fairly similar to what you’ll find with Blogger.
The key here is from a business standpoint. A basic Blogger site allows you to monetize your brand. A basic WordPress blog does not.
2. Appearance
Blogger uses a basic set of templates and color options to use. From the customization screens, you can then adjust layout preferences, modify how your content is displayed, and make changes to your fonts or subheadings. There are a few third-party Blogger templates you can install as well.
WordPress provides a look that is consistent and clean. Although your customization options are somewhat limited, you’ll find more free third-party themes available for your site. Some themes are easier to modify than others, but it does give you an advantage over Blogger if you have a specific vision you’re trying to create.
3. Ownership
Blogger and WordPress do not allow you to have a custom domain name if you are using the absolutely free blogging option. You get to name your blog, then a .blogger or .wordpress addition is placed within your URL. You must purchase your own domain name to remove this.
That also means you must backup your blogs frequently to prevent the content from being lost. When published, you are not in full control. Blogger and WordPress can shut down your site or close your access to it.
The exception here is if you’re using a WordPress panel for your site to host your own. In this circumstance, you would own all your data, control the information you share, and how long you want the site to be operational.
4. Portability
Moving a Blogger site or WordPress blog anywhere is complicated. You will likely lose any SEO equity you have earned. You’ll lose followers during the move. You may even lose access to your subscriber matrix.
Both options give you the ability to export your content. WordPress is slightly easier here because you can move the data to other content management systems. If you purchase an upgraded WordPress blogging experience, you can also monetize your site or customize it further.
Blogger tends to be cheaper, but it also tends to be more complex. That is why WordPress, despite its overall costs as a blogging platform, tends to be worth the investment for many bloggers.
5. Security
Blogger holds an advantage in this category. It utilizes the platforms that are secured by Google, which means you don’t need to worry about the availability of server resources. Creating a backup is always a good idea, but it isn’t required on this platform. This keeps your blog secure.
WordPress, because of its open source nature, is more vulnerable to data loss. If you are using a self-hosted solution, then you are 100% responsible for securing your website and data. From a blogging standpoint, the situation is similar to Blogger, except that there is a history of breaches that may have some users concerned about their data security.
6. Customer Support
Blogger and WordPress offer very little in the way of formal customer support. You will find basic documentation, a FAQ section, and user forums that may answer the questions you have about your blog setup or troubleshooting issues you discover.
Both platforms have active communities. If a slight advantage were to be given, it would be to WordPress, as the size and scope of the various forums and chatrooms is greater than what Blogger offers.
Proceed with caution, however, as not every piece of advice given on a forum by someone is valid or helpful. You may find it easier to purchase premium WordPress support from a third-party, which negates any advantage in this category.
In the WordPress vs Blogger debate, there are key pros and cons to consider on both sides. The ultimate decision is up to you. Review this comparison, then decide on the platform which will best meet your needs today.
