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GoDaddy vs WP Engine
GoDaddy
WP Engine
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and performance to help you choose the right hosting provider.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | GoDaddy | WP Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Price | Not offered | Not offered |
| Storage | N/A | 10-50 GB |
| Bandwidth | N/A | 75 GB |
| Websites | N/A | 1-30 |
| Free Domain | ||
| Free SSL | ||
| Server Locations | ||
| Regions | 4 | 7 ★ |
| Locations | US East, Ashburn Western Europe, Amsterdam Southeast Asia, Singapore US West, Phoenix, Arizona | US East, Virginia, Iowa US West, Oregon Western Europe, London, Belgium East Asia, Tokyo, Taiwan Australia & Oceania, Sydney Central Europe, Frankfurt Southeast Asia, Singapore |
| Plan Details | ||
| Limited plan details available | ||
| Backups | Included | |
| CDN | Included | |
| Monthly Visitors | 25,000-400,000 | |
Features | ||
CMS & Platforms (7) | ||
Languages & Frameworks (9) | ||
Databases (4) | ||
Developer Tools (8) | ||
Performance & CDN (4) | ||
| Caching | ||
| CDN | ||
| LiteSpeed | ||
| SSD Storage | ||
Security (6) | ||
| 2FA | ||
| Backups | ||
| DDoS Protection | ||
| Malware Scan | ||
| SSL | ||
| WAF | ||
Support (4) | ||
Extras & Guarantees (5) | ||
| Slight discrepancies are possible. We recommend verifying details on the provider's website. | ||
| Visit GoDaddy | Visit WP Engine | |
Pricing & Plans
GoDaddy Plans
WP Engine Plans
Pros & Cons
GoDaddy
Pros
- World largest domain registrar with 20+ million customers
- Free domain on annual plans
- Free SSL certificate on all plans
- Wide range of plans: shared, VPS, WordPress, website builder
- Up to 400 GB NVMe storage on Plus plans with dedicated CPU/RAM
- AI-powered tools for site building
- Global data center network
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Renewal prices are not publicly shown on pricing pages
- Aggressive upselling of add-ons during checkout
- Starter plans have limited storage (10 GB)
- No DDoS protection or WAF on shared plans
- Dedicated servers retired — VPS only
- All pricing requires a 3-year commitment for best rates
WP Engine
Pros
- Proprietary EverCache technology for superior WordPress performance
- 24/7 expert WordPress support (chat on all plans, phone on Professional+)
- Automated WordPress and PHP updates with rollback
- Daily and on-demand backups included on all plans
- Global CDN with Layer 3+4 DDoS protection
- 1-click staging and dev environments
- 10 premium WordPress themes included
- Dedicated eCommerce plans with WooCommerce optimization
- GitHub Actions CI/CD integration
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Premium pricing starting at $30/month (annual)
- WordPress-only hosting -- no general-purpose hosting
- No free domain included with any plan
- Storage is limited (10-50 GB on Essential plans)
- Many features are paid add-ons ($3-$31/month each)
- First-year promotional pricing -- renewal prices increase
- No email hosting included
- Shared environment on all Essential plans (Isolated only on Core+)
Frequently Asked Questions
GoDaddy
What is web hosting and how does it work?
Web hosting is the storage space you need to save the files of your website (photos, videos, text, code, etc.), so they can be accessible on the Internet. Some compare web hosting to the land that a house is built on; with shared hosting, your service provider (i.e., the web host) sells or leases you space (land) on a server, where your web files (home/website) will be stored. Web hosts will expect you to own a domain that can be associated with your hosting services, and, if needed, they may he
Is shared hosting the right type of web hosting for my site?
Shared hosting is a popular hosting option where a provider hosts multiple websites on one physical web server. And because you're sharing resources — like neighbors in an apartment building — you spend less but have fewer options and less control. Shared hosting is typically for websites which require low resources (e.g., blogs, informational websites or smaller online stores). If your site is more resource intensive, or you need more control of your server, options like may be best for your ho
What content management systems are compatible with GoDaddy web hosting?
GoDaddy hosting can be used for self-installation of popular CMS, including WordPress, Joomla, Magento and Drupal. For more information on CMS read this help
When do you choose shared or dedicated vCPU and RAM resources?
Web Hosting plans provide shared processing and memory resources across all tenants. For sites that are complex, run on a content management system or receive high traffic, our Web Hosting Plus plans offer guaranteed processing and memory resources.
What is cPanel Hosting and what are its benefits?
cPanel is a web hosting control panel that provides a web hosting customer/owner a user interface intended to help them easily manage their website and shared server. It allows users to create websites using a variety of content management systems (CMS) including WordPress, Drupal, Magento and Joomla.With cPanel hosting, you can benefit from accessing all the hosting features and settings you need with this industry-standard control panel, including:CloudLinuxKeep your site online with truly bal
Can I migrate my existing website to GoDaddy’s shared web hosting?
Yes, and it's free to do so. Moving your current website to GoDaddy Web Hosting is a simple process. As part of the new account onboarding process, you can choose to migrate your existing site to your GoDaddy Web Hosting account using our free Site Auto Migration Tool. Just answer a few simple questions and we'll move your site. You can also follow step-by-step instructions mentioned in this If you have any questions, our 24/7 support team is here to assist you. We can help determine the best me
Can I change my web hosting plan if my website grows, and I need more space?
Yes. You can easily upgrade to a new web hosting plan when you require more processing power or storage space. Upgrading your plan can make your website faster and more resilient as your traffic increases.You can find more information in our Help article on
How do I get the domain and SSL that’s included with my shared hosting plan?
When you select your Web Hosting plan of choice, your free SSL certificate is automatically added to your cart. Once you continue to cart, you will have the option to search for a domain to include in your purchase. You can also on our domains page and add it to the cart from there.IMPORTANT: Be sure to include the domain in your cart before you complete the purchase of your Web Hosting plan.
What is AutoSSL and how does it work?
AutoSSL is free and included in your hosting plan as an alternative to paid SSL certificates. Once you purchase a GoDaddy Web Hosting plan, AutoSSL automatically assigns a DV SSL Certificate by Sectigo to websites created or managed within your cPanel hosting account. Your SSL certificate stays up-to-date, and will auto-renew on your behalf, so you don't have to worry about it expiring as long as you keep your GoDaddy Web Hosting current.
What is VPS hosting and what are its benefits?
Virtual Private Server hosting (VPS hosting) utilizes server virtualization to create a unique, isolated server space on a physical server that is managed by your hosting provider. VPS hosting offers users high performance, an isolated environment and CPU, RAM and 100% dedicated storage that's not shared with any other websites or apps. Since VPS hosting provides users with dedicated resources, it results in higher performance and security, as well as more flexibility and control over the server
What is the difference between managed vs. unmanaged (self-managed) VPS? And how do I determine which is best for me?
Unmanaged VPS Hosting (also known as “Self-Managed VPS Hosting”) requires advanced technical know-how and basic understanding of Linux and the command line. An Unmanaged VPS hosting plan allows you to configure and update VPS hosting to your exact preference. Managed VPS Hosting gives you access to a expert who will handle all the tech stuff, freeing up more time for you to focus on your business. It's a good fit for those who don't have the time or know-how to manage their own hosting but requi
Does GoDaddy offer both Linux and Windows VPS Hosting?
Yes, VPS Hosting offers both operating systems. You can choose either a Linux (AlmaLinux) or Windows Server (Plesk Web Pro or Plesk Web Host Edition). Both operating systems offer resources starting at 2 GB RAM up to 32 GB RAM.
What are the most common Dedicated IP use cases and how many IPs are included with each plan?
Dedicated IP addresses can be used use for custom applications, staging sites, email, and other administration tasks.Custom software & applications: If you’re running any custom software on your server then you might require a dedicated IP address. Some types of server software will require a dedicated IP to function properly.Email deliverability: If you are using domain-based email (i.e., [email protected]) then you could potentially run into email delivery issues. Although uncommon, when yo
Where are the servers located?
servers are located around the globe. During setup, choose your server location in North America, Europe, or Asia-Pacific.
Are backups included in VPS hosting plans?
Yes. All VPS hosting includes automated weekly snapshots so you can schedule backup time – or create a backup on demand.
How long does it take to provision my server?
Although the average time for us to provision your account will likely be mere minutes, it may take up to 24 hours or more. But, if you need your hosting right away, please call us and we'll do our best to speed things up.
Why should I choose VPS hosting from GoDaddy?
If you’re looking for credibility and stability in your VPS hosting provider, know that we’re among the top web hosting providers in the world. That means millions of people trust their sites and applications to . We offer high-performance KVM VPS hosting with flexible configurations for every budget, including automated daily backups with scheduling and on-demand, monitoring, alert tools and expert support.You also get to choose from Linux or Windows operating systems with optional control pane
What is a website builder? Do I need to know how to code?
A website builder is a tool or a platform that enables users and businesses to create and design their own websites without coding or programming skills. Website builders provide a user-friendly interface, pre-designed template, and multiple customization options. The GoDaddy Website Builder is an AI-powered platform perfect for DIY website creators, entrepreneurs, solopreneurs and developers, helping you easily build and launch a professional website or promote a brand or business in minutes.Go
How long does it take to create a website with GoDaddy Website Builder?
Create your website using AI in a matter of minutes with GoDaddy Website Builder. Describe your idea and your preview is ready. You can either publish as is or customize according to your needs.
Can I connect a custom domain to my free website?
Yes. You can connect your own domain to any published project.
WP Engine
How do I access the error logs for my site?
Error logs are necessary for most WordPress troubleshooting. You can access the most recent 24 hours of PHP/Apache error logs in two different ways: how to access WordPress error logs.
How do I reset my password to login to WordPress?
We’ve outlined two methods for resetting your password, a traditional method and a method directly from the database: two ways to reset a WordPress password.
What platform does WP Engine use?
Here you will find a comprehensive list of WP Engine platform settings. Please reach out to our 24-hour Support team with any questions.
How do I access my site’s database?
This article will cover how to import a database file into your WP Engine environment.
How do I update a WordPress URL?
Follow this link for detailed instructions about how to update WordPress URLs.
How to troubleshoot problems when updating a WordPress website URL?
Follow this link to learn more about how to solve problems when updating WordPress URLs.
How can I understand WP Engine error logs?
Follow this link to learn more about understanding the WP Engine Error Logs.
How do I backup or restore my WordPress website?
Learn more about WordPress Backups and Restoring your website.
How do I copy a website or landing page to staging?
Learn more about copying to staging.
What are some common WordPress errors?
Learn more about common errors that WordPress users face and how to resolve them.
How do I purge my site cache?
Learn how to purge your site cache in this detailed article.
How do I improve cacheability for my WordPress website?
Learn more about Improving Cacheability for WordPress websites.
Does WP Engine support Amazon S3 storage configurations?
Yes, learn more about how WP Engine works with LargeFS: Configuring Unlimited Storage with Amazon S3.
What sort of uptime guarantees does WP Engine provide?
WP Engine will make the services available 99.95% of the time, excluding any excused downtime. The WP Engine SLA amends the agreement between WP Engine and customer and addresses the uptime guarantees in relation to the services we provide to you and your remedies for our failure to meet such guarantees.
What plans does WP Engine offer?
We offer hosting solutions for WordPress websites and businesses of all sizes, from SMB to enterprise. We also offer eCommerce hosting and advanced solutions with customizable packages. See which hosting plan is right for your needs.
If WP Engine is not a good fit, can I cancel my plan?
If you’re experiencing a technical issue on your website, please reach out to our 24-hour Support team and give us the opportunity to help you resolve it. Per our terms of service, account cancellations require a 30 day notice via our cancellation form.
Why is WP Engine better than self-hosting?
WP Engine provides everything a WordPress website needs. Learn more about our award-winning hosting platform.
What plans does WP Engine have for enterprise businesses?
WP Engine is the most trusted enterprise platform for WordPress. Learn more about our enterprise hosting plans.
How much does it cost to migrate my site to WP Engine?
It’s free to migrate a site to WP Engine. Our automated migration plugin makes it simple.
Is it possible to migrate my site manually?
Yes! Here’s the information needed to do a manual site migration.
How can I launch a WordPress site with WP Engine?
It’s easy to launch a site with WP Engine, here’s how.
How can I use a hosts file to emulate a DNS change?
It’s possible to test your site on WP Engine after migrating without changing your DNS, just by editing a file on your computer.
How do I export a WordPress database from another host?
This guide will take you through the process of exporting your database from your previous host, so that you can then migrate it to WP Engine.
How do I upload a wp-content folder to WP Engine?
Once you’ve downloaded your wp-content folder from your previous host, you can easily upload this folder or zip file to our Support Team so we can help you with this step of the manual migration process.
How can I create a transferable site and transfer an environment successfully?
Learn more about transferable sites and environments.
How can I manage User Portal roles?
Learn how to manage user roles on WP Engine.
How can I change billing information?
The billing menu in your User Portal provides access to several plan-related functions, such as invoices, modifying billing info or changing your plan level.
How does WP Engine count site visits?
Our pricing is partially based on the number of monthly visits to your site, we’ve provided as clear of guidelines as possible about which visits are considered billable.
How does WP Engine handle overage pricing?
When your number of visits exceeds your plan limit (here’s how we count visits), we charge you a small overage for each 1,000 visitors over your limit. If you are on a Startup, Professional, Growth, or Scale plan, the overage is $2 per 1,000 extra monthly visitors.
How do I upgrade my hosting plan with WP Engine?
The WP Engine User Portal enables users to make many adjustments to their plans through upgrades, downgrades, and add-on features.
What is the best plugin to migrate my WordPress website?
Follow this link to learn more about WP Engine’s Automated Migration plugin.
Is there a plugin that will update my plugins automatically?
Yes, we recommend following this link to update plugins automatically with Smart Plugin Manager.
What WordPress plugins should I use on my WordPress eCommerce site?
Follow this link to see our list of essential WordPress eCommerce plugins.
What are the best WordPress plugins?
Follow this link to see the top 10 WordPress plugins on WP Engine.
Is it possible to create a site that’s customized for specific locations?
Yes, follow this link to learn more about creating geographically customized content.
What is WP Engine’s file transfer protocol?
When hosting your WordPress site on WP Engine, you may need to connect directly to your website’s file system. On other platforms you may already be used to using FTP. At WP Engine we use SFTP which works the same, except it uses a layer of encryption for security and is restricted to a secured port. Read more about using SFTP on WP Engine.
How do I transfer the wp-content folder?
Once you’ve downloaded your wp-content folder from your previous host, you can easily upload this folder or zip file to our Support Team so we can help you with this step of the manual migration process.
How can I use Git Push on WP Engine?
Git is a powerful development tool which enables developers or a development team to securely push code changes from their local machine to their site on WP Engine with the benefit of version control. Read more about using Git Push on WP Engine.
How do I get started with SSH Gateway?
Here’s how to setup and connect to SSH Gateway. SSH, also known as Secure Shell, is the method of connecting from your computer to the web server where your site is hosted.
What are SSL certificates?
SSL/TLS certificates enable visitors to connect to your site with HTTPS, a secure protocol for exchanging information on the Internet. See more information on SSL (secure sockets layer) certificates.
How do I add SSL to my WP Engine website?
Click here to learn more about adding SSL to your WP Engine site.
Is it possible to upload 3rd party SSL certificates to my WordPress site?
Yes, learn more about how to upload 3rd Party SSL Certificates.
How do I secure my URLs with SSL?
Learn more about securing all URLs with SSL.
How do I get a free SSL certificate with Let’s Encrypt?
Learn more about obtaining free SSL Certificates with Lets Encrypt.
Does WP Engine provide email services?
While we manage many parts of your website hosting, default email functionality on WP Engine is limited. Normal emails, such as password resets, will not typically have any issues sending. However, for robust email functionality, monitoring and scalability, we highly suggest utilizing a 3rd party email host.
What 3rd party email providers does WP Engine recommend?
We typically recommend using a 3rd party transactional mail provider such as Mailgun, Gmail, or Sendinblue. These services allow you to send emails from a specialized mail IP and will include a higher level of customization, such as more robust logging. See our full list of recommended email providers.
What do I need to know about DMARC policies for email deliverability?
Learn more about DMARC Policies for Email Deliverability.
Is it possible to send email blasts on WP Engine hosted websites?
Learn more about sending Email Blasts on WP Engine.
Is WP Engine website hosting secure?
Yes! With a dedicated security team specializing in WordPress behind it, our platform’s enterprise-grade technology automates threat detection to block 72M attacks daily while keeping your website vulnerabilities up to date. See more about WP Engine security protocols.
Does WP Engine offer enterprise-level security?
Yes, learn more about WP Engine’s enterprise-grade security.
What is the process for updating my WordPress website?
Learn more about how to handle the WordPress update process.
What is WordPress multisite?
Multisite for WordPress is a feature that allows you to create a “network” of subsites within a single instance of WordPress. Learn more about multisite for WordPress.
How do I add a new website and map to a custom domain?
/support/what-is-wordpress-multisite/#Custom_Main_Site_DomainFollow this link to learn more about how to Add New Sites and Map a Custom Domain.
How do I change a multisite primary domain?
Follow this link to learn more about changing your Multisite Primary Domain.
How do I enable multisite on my WordPress website?
Follow this link to learn more about Enabling Multisite on your WordPress website.
Ready to Choose?
Both providers offer great features. Visit their websites to see the latest deals and pricing.
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US East, Ashburn
Western Europe, Amsterdam
Southeast Asia, Singapore
Western Europe, London, Belgium
East Asia, Tokyo, Taiwan
Australia & Oceania, Sydney
Central Europe, Frankfurt