Bluehost vs Cloudways

Comparing Bluehost vs Cloudways? Discover which host gives you faster setup, transparent pricing and more value for growing your business online.

  • Starting at $x.xx/mo
  • Save xx%

Bluehost or Cloudways: Why Choose Us?

Bluehost gives you powerful WordPress hosting without any complexity. Get transparent pricing, built-in tools and expert support without needing developer-level knowledge.


performance

Faster performance

NVMe SSDs, Oracle Cloud infrastructure and Cloudflare CDN with a 99.99% uptime.

AI site creation 

AI-powered site creation

Launch WordPress sites quickly with built-in AI tool; no cloud configuration required.

Built for WordPress

Built for WordPress

Officially recommended by WordPress.org with 24/7 available WordPress-trained experts.

Up to 60% off*

Up To
60% off*

Plans start at $6.99/month as compared to Cloudways’ $28/month starting price.

Excellent value 

Excellent value

Free domain, SSL, backups, security, migrations and staging included; no multi-part billing.

Feature Comparison:
Bluehost vs Cloudways

Compare Bluehost and Cloudways based on pricing, performance, scalability and ease of use. Discover how Bluehost offers enterprise performance without enterprise complexity.


Feature Bluehost Business
(Web/WordPress Hosting)
Cloudways
Small
Intro / renewal price

$X.XX mo / $X.XX mo

$28 mo + Additional cloud costs based on the provider you choose
Number of websites Up to 50 websites Unlimited websites
Storage & traffic 50 GB NVMe storage with up to 200k visits/month; more headroom for growing traffic Flexible; varies by underlying cloud provider (DigitalOcean, AWS, GCP, etc.)
Uptime guarantee 99.99% 99.9% (depends on chosen cloud provider)
Infrastructure & performance Oracle Cloud infrastructure with Cloudflare CDN and integrated caching; includes NVMe SSDs and a free CDN for global distribution Strong managed cloud with optimized stacks and scaling.
Support availability 24/7 live chat, phone, and email, plus WordPress‑trained experts and optional priority support 24/7 platform support; paid higher support tiers available.
Free domain & SSL Yes (1 year) Only SSL included, no free domain
AI site builder Bluehost AI builder No AI builder (third-party solutions required)
Backups Weekly backups (daily on higher tiers) Managed layer includes backup tools
Site migration Free WordPress migration Manual migration or paid services
Data-center regions North America plus global CDN 50+ Global Data Centers
Money-back guarantee 30‑day guarantee No moneyback guarantee
Email Free email (up to 10 accounts) $1 per mailbox per month
Included for free Malware detection and removal, DDoS Protection, NVMe Servers, Free SSL, Free Domain, Yoast SEO, automated backups, free migration tool, staging sites, domain privacy, AI website builder, live expert support Managed layer, caching tools, staging environments; underlying infrastructure billed separately
Who is it for? Growing SMBs, creators, agencies, and eCommerce sites that need enterprise-grade WordPress hosting with flexibility, scalability, and built-in tools Developers and agencies wanting cloud performance without managing servers but comfortable with multi-part pricing
WordPress recommendation Officially recommended by WordPress.org Not officially recommended
Market presence Powering over 5M+ WordPress sites worldwide Trusted by 840K+ global businesses

Promotional prices apply to your first term. Renewal rates vary by provider and are shown at checkout. Data as of February 2025.


Bluehost delivers speed

COMPARISON WITH KEY COMPETITORS

Bluehost delivers speed

We believe in speed, and we have the data to prove it. WPShout’s November 2025 hosting comparison shows Bluehost delivering faster load times than most hosts tested — clocking in at just 0.35s in the US.

US load time comparison (Lower is better)


US load time comparison (Lower is better)

In-depth comparison:Bluehost vs Cloudways


Choosing between Bluehost and Cloudways goes beyond price. The real differences show when you compare how each host performs for small businesses, how they handle WordPress setup and what you get as your site grows. The sections below break down every major hosting factor, so you can see where each provider stands and why Bluehost is often the stronger choice for simplicity, value and long-term growth..


1. Pricing transparency and value

Bluehost pricing starts at $6.99/month with renewal at $13.99/month. You see exactly what you're paying from the start, with everything included: domain, SSL certificate, backups, security tools and AI website builder. No hidden costs or complex calculations required.

 

Cloudways employs multi-tier pricing starting at $28/month for their managed layer, requiring separate costs for your cloud provider choice (DigitalOcean, AWS or Google Cloud). This complexity often confuses small business owners seeking transparent monthly expenses. Understanding Cloudways pros and cons reveals that while performance is solid, the pricing structure demands technical knowledge to estimate true costs accurately.

Verdict: Bluehost delivers transparent, all-inclusive pricing ideal for small businesses. Cloudways requires technical expertise to navigate multi-part pricing effectively.


2. Ease of setup and management

Bluehost focuses on getting your WordPress site live quickly. Our onboarding includes automatic WordPress installation, AI-powered site creation and guided setup that works perfectly for complete beginners. Everything connects seamlessly from our hosting and domain to email and website tools to work effortlessly.

 

Cloudways targets developers and agencies wanting cloud performance without server management complexity. While it simplifies raw cloud hosting, it still requires more technical knowledge than traditional shared hosting. You'll need to understand cloud providers, server resources and managed services architecture.

Verdict: Bluehost wins for simplicity and beginner-friendliness. Cloudways suits users comfortable with cloud hosting concepts.


3. WordPress optimization and tools

As an official WordPress.org recommended provider, Bluehost includes WordPress-specific tools like one-click installation, automatic updates, Yoast SEO integration and staging environments. Our AI website builder creates WordPress sites optimized for both performance and SEO from day one.

 

Cloudways delivers excellent WordPress performance through managed cloud infrastructure and advanced caching tools. However, it lacks WordPress-specific features like AI site creation, built-in SEO tools or the streamlined WordPress experience beginners need. This makes Cloudways vs Bluehost comparisons favor us for WordPress-focused users.

Verdict: Bluehost provides a complete WordPress ecosystem with integrated tools and support. Cloudways offers performance but requires separate tools for full WordPress functionality.


4. Scalability and resource allocation

Bluehost's WordPress Hosting Business plan supports up to 50 websites with 50GB NVMe storage and capacity for 200k monthly visits. This clear resource allocation helps you plan growth without surprise overage fees or complex calculations.

 

Cloudways provides flexible scaling across multiple cloud providers, allowing granular server resource adjustments as needed. This cloud-native approach offers more control but requires ongoing resource monitoring and management.

Verdict: Cloudways provide advanced scaling flexibility. Bluehost offers simpler, more transparent scaling for most small businesses.


5. Support and expertise

Bluehost provides 24/7 support through chat, phone and email with WordPress-trained specialists. Our support team understands common WordPress issues, plugin conflicts and website growth challenges that small businesses face daily.

 

Cloudways offers 24/7 platform support with paid higher-tier support options available. Their team focuses on managed cloud hosting rather than WordPress-specific guidance, which works well for technical users but may not address beginner WordPress questions comprehensively.

Verdict: Bluehost offers more comprehensive WordPress support for growing businesses. Cloudways provides good technical support for cloud hosting management.


6. Security and maintenance

Bluehost includes automatic malware detection and removal, DDoS protection, free SSL certificates and weekly backups (daily on higher tiers). Our security features work automatically without requiring technical configuration or ongoing management.

 

Cloudways includes managed security through caching tools and staging environments, but security specifics depend on your chosen cloud provider. You may need additional security services or configurations for complete protection, making it a less turnkey Cloudways alternative.

Verdict: Bluehost provides comprehensive, automatic security for non-technical users. Cloudways requires more security management depending on cloud provider choice.


7. Long-term value and growth

Bluehost renewal pricing at $13.99/month remains significantly lower than Cloudways' starting price, making us more cost-effective long-term. The included features like domain, SSL, backups, security and AI tools eliminate additional service costs as your business grows and scales.

 

Cloudways' value increases with technical complexity and high-traffic requirements. For developers managing multiple client sites or businesses with specific cloud preferences, the performance and flexibility justify the higher cost. This represents a key consideration in any Bluehost vs Cloudways evaluation.

Verdict: Bluehost delivers better long-term value for most small businesses. Cloudways provides value for technical users with specific cloud performance needs.


8. Migration and onboarding experience

Bluehost offers free website migration services with expert assistance to transfer your existing sites seamlessly. Our guided onboarding process includes tutorials, setup wizards and dedicated support to ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free, regardless of your technical experience level.

 

Cloudways provides migration plugins and some assisted migration options, but the process often requires more technical knowledge to navigate properly. The cloud infrastructure setup adds complexity to the onboarding experience, which may challenge users unfamiliar with cloud hosting environments.

 

Bluehost excels at hassle-free migration and onboarding for all skill levels. Cloudways migration works best for technically experienced users.

Pros & Cons Summary

A quick look at where each host stands, so you can compare Bluehost and Cloudways pros and cons at a glance.


Feature

Bluehost Business

(Web/WordPress Hosting)

Cloudways 

Small

Pros  
  • High performance with NVMe storage and 99.99% uptime
  • Supports up to 50 websites
  • Integrated AI website builder
  • Free WordPress migration
  • 24/7 WordPress-trained support
  • Officially recommended by WordPress.org
  • Includes CDN and security tools without extra cost
  • Predictable, transparent pricing
  • Very strong managed cloud performance
  • Flexible cloud provider selection
  • Advanced scaling capabilities
Cons
  • Renewal pricing follows standard industry structure
  • Advanced users may prefer more granular cloud control
  • Multi-part pricing can be confusing for SMBs
  • Domain name not included
  • Requires technical knowledge for setup
  • No AI site builder included
  • Higher starting costs at $28/month plus provider fees
  • Manual migration required
`

Ready to find the right WordPress hosting plan?

Whether you’re starting a blog, starting a portfolio, or launching an online store, our WordPress hosting plans have the flexibility and power you need to get started.


Included in all our hosting plans


NVME

NVMe SSD storage

High-throughput storage accelerates logs, queues, and databases for snappy virtual servers.

SSL certificate & malware scanning

SSL certificate
& malware scanning

Enterprise-level security to safeguard your site against cyberattacks.

CDN and caching

Automatic backups

Your site is backed up regularly, so you can quickly restore your content if something goes wrong.


24/7 expert support

Unmetered
bandwidth

Move data freely without surprise overage fees.

CDN and caching

AI-powered
site creation tools

Zero coding knowledge required to launch your own website in minutes.

Built for WordPress

Automatic WordPress updates

We keep WordPress updated for you, helping your site stay secure, stable, and running smoothly.


Excellent value 

Domain Name (1st year)

A uniquely branded web address for greater credibility and memorability

CDN and caching

CDN and
caching

Lightning-fast load times for prospects and customers, anywhere in the world.

24/7 expert support

24/7 Expert
Support

Real humans, real help, whenever you need it


join

Risk‑free hosting:
30‑day money‑back guarantee


Experience Bluehost with confidence. If you decide we’re not the right fit within 30 days, cancel and we’ll refund your hosting fees - no questions asked. You’ll still keep your domain name, although the registration fee itself isn’t refundable. 


Trusted by more than 5 million customers across the world 

 


Patient and knowledgeable

Patient and knowledgeable. Walked me through each step to solve my issue

Full effort and attention!

The agent spent an extensive amount of time to resolve all of my issues in one session. I have always been impressed with the quality of care at Blue Host. They continue to go the extra mile in every interaction. Thank you guys and gals!

With you until all ?’s answered.

Staff is attentive, competent, and tenacious.

Super problem detection

My issues were solved with me understanding what is going on as am not tech savvy. Issues were detected quickly

Easy

Easy, quick, comprehensive

Quick response through a VPS server…

Quick response through a VPS server upgrade. Mike walked us through the entire process. Brandon sold us the upgrade and may the process extremely easy to understand. No downtime! Very easy process. Thank you.

Great experience

Great experience! Hw helped me problem solve for my issue and I was up and running

Customer Service

The customer service agent was amazing, patient, helpful, kind and understanding. I was so stressed and anxious and the service I received was fantastic. Thank you so much!

Great Service

fast and great

Talked with 2 guys in 3 calls and got…

Talked with 2 guys in 3 calls and got so much accomplished on my website. I had uploaded too many pics by accident, caused a problem, a solution was given that worked beautifully and all pictures got into their place just right. So happy. Both gentlemen were kind, worked hard and were so helpful. Thankful!

Very good customer support

Very good customer support

Blue Host provides inexpensive hosting plans that still give you the freedom to add powerful features to your sites and platforms...,

Blue Host is a great hosting platform especially for static sites, as they are competitively priced and even on the lower tiers of the hosting plan - I had the freedom to do whatever I wanted on my webserver. I built out my own WordPress plug-in that was a custom API to exchange data from some web apps I built directly with my sites MySQL database on Blue Host. Used Cron jobs extensively - consistently wrote PHP Code directly on the fileserver - and could get on the root folder and add, do anything I needed - like edit the .htaccess file or .robots file - to complex systems and integrated platforms work. And having cPanel access is fantastic, which Blue Host has even on their introductory plans.

Judging Bluehost entirely by their…

Judging Bluehost entirely by their cloud support team member, Jess, I give them five stars. Hyper competent, communicative, efficient and thoughtful, Jess resolved our major malware issue on the spot. A+ 100% excellent service.

Aarya's support was fantastic!

Aarya, my support agent, was patient with me and stayed with me until every step of the process was accomplished. Aarya also told me what to expect next. And all of this great support occurred at 10:30PM my time.

Updating my business domain to meet…

Updating my business domain to meet modern email security standards Bluehost Live Chat was convenient and completely helpful in resolving my issue that I was attempting to resolve with ChatGPT. Because I am a novice, I was not comfortable doing to GPT modifications myself and the Chat person handled it for me. Simple and easy.

Awesome Bluehost Team

From the very beginning, my first call was with my project manager, Jea! She reviewed all the material I provided and went through it with me, and I felt confident she understood all the aspects I wanted to see in a new website. She did not disappoint me! When the first draft was made available to me to review I came away feeling very positive that I had chosen the right service providers. The layout team displayed my information so that my messages were presented in a positive and informative manner. The design team also gave me EXACTLY what I wanted in a design, the look and feel is awesome. The entire team hit a homerun.

Migrating domains and website…

I've been migrating domains and website information from my IT guy for 20 years after his retirement. The Bluehost technician was exceptionally patient and informative. I'm more than satisfied with his assistance.

"Outstanding Customer Service and Peace of Mind"

What earned Bluehost a 5 out of 5 rating from me is the level of security they provide and the genuine concern they show for their customers' best interests. The representative took the time to listen carefully to my concerns, ensured she fully understood my situation, and resolved the issue quickly and professionally. She also reviewed my financial situation and made sure I wasn't charged any unnecessary fees. I truly appreciate the outstanding customer service, professionalism, and care the Bluehost representative provided. Thank you for making what could have been a stressful experience so easy to resolve!

agent was very helpful and knowledgeable

agent was very helpful and knowledgeable

very helpfull

nice job and thanks

Already have a website on Cloudways?


backbone

We’ll make your Bluehost transition easy.


Migration is free when you transition to Bluehost. Speak to our experts today to find out how you can switch with zero downtime.

FAQs: Bluehost vs Cloudways


Which offers high value at good price - Bluehost or Cloudways?

Bluehost WordPress Hosting Business plan starts at $6.99/month with all-inclusive features, while Cloudways Small plan costs $28/month plus you have to pay cloud infrastructure costs. Bluehost offers better value for small businesses with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.


Is Cloudways or Bluehost better for beginners?

Bluehost is ideal for beginners with one-click WordPress installation, intuitive control panel and 24/7 support. Cloudways requires technical knowledge for server management, making it less beginner-friendly despite its flexibility.


Does Cloudways include a free domain like Bluehost?

No, Cloudways doesn't include a free domain name. Bluehost provides a free domain for the first year with hosting plans, plus free SSL certificates and email accounts, offering more complete value.


What are the main disadvantages of Cloudways?

Cloudways cons include higher total costs, no domain registration, complex server management, separate email hosting and steeper learning curve. These factors make it less suitable for beginners seeking simple, all-in-one hosting solutions.


Can I migrate from Cloudways to Bluehost?

Yes, Bluehost offers free WordPress migration services with expert assistance. Our team handles the complete transfer process, ensuring zero downtime and seamless transition from Cloudways to Bluehost's managed hosting environment.


Which offers better performance - Bluehost or Cloudways?

Both platforms deliver excellent performance. Bluehost provides enterprise-grade Oracle Cloud infrastructure with Cloudflare CDN and resource protection, delivering fast load times at a fraction of Cloudways' cost with simpler management.


Does Cloudways provide 24/7 support like Bluehost?

Cloudways offers live chat support but lacks phone support. Bluehost provides comprehensive 24/7 customer support through phone, chat and email with WordPress-trained specialists, ensuring immediate assistance whenever you need it.


Is Bluehost a good alternative to Cloudways?

Bluehost is an excellent Cloudways alternative for users seeking simplicity, affordability and comprehensive features. With WordPress.org recommendation, managed hosting and lower costs, Bluehost delivers enterprise performance without complexity.

$2.99/mo $9.99/mo 70% off
$5.99/mo $13.99/mo 57% off
$6.99/mo $21.99/mo 68% off
$21.99/mo $30.99/mo 29% off
$8.99/mo $16.99/mo 47% off
$220.19/mo $20.99/mo 33% off
$20.00/mo
$2.09/mo $4.68/mo 55% off
$65.00/mo
$140.00/mo