Overall
BlueHost and Hostinger are popular choices in the web hosting market. Both offer similar hosting solution (shared, VPS, cloud, managed WordPress) and cater to the same market segments (newbies, SME owners smaller eCommerce). However when comparing the two, we find Hostinger outperforms BlueHost with a much higher HostScore of 79.9% (vs BlueHost’s 53.3%).
We will look at their specific strengths and weaknesses and guide your decision in this article.
BlueHost vs Hostinger: Key Differences
Hostinger: Cost-Effective and Easy Hosting for Beginners
Key Differentiators:
- Affordability: Hostinger is highly favored for its budget-friendly hosting plans, making it an attractive option for individuals or startups looking to minimize initial costs.
- User-Friendly Interface: The custom hPanel is designed for simplicity and ease of use, which is ideal for newcomers to web hosting who prefer a more streamlined user experience.
- Global Coverage: With a range of data centers located across four continents, Hostinger ensures good regional performance and accessibility for a global audience.
- Innovative Discounts: Additional savings can be secured with promo codes such as “HOSTSCORE,” enhancing its appeal to cost-conscious users.
Drawbacks:
- Renewal Price Hike: The substantial increase in prices at the time of renewal is a significant consideration for long-term budget planning.
- Limited Technical Capabilities: The lack of Windows hosting and advanced server configurations could be limiting for some businesses or advanced users.
BlueHost: Reputable Hosting Solution for Bloggers & SMEs
Key Differentiators:
- Wide Range of Features: BlueHost offers a comprehensive suite of features, including free domain registration for the first year, free SSL certificate, free Google Ads credits, and a variety of storage options, catering to a broad spectrum of hosting needs.
- Optimized for WordPress: BlueHost is one of the few hosting providers recommended by WordPress.org, making it an excellent choice for users looking to build or maintain a WordPress site.
Drawbacks:
- Higher Pricing: Compared to Hostinger, BlueHost’s plans are generally more expensive, which might not be ideal for those on a tight budget.
- Performance Variability: While generally reliable, some users report variability in site performance and speed, which could affect user experience and SEO.
Service Offering
| Feature | BlueHost | Hostinger |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting Services | Shared, VPS, and Dedicated Hosting | Shared, VPS, and Cloud Hosting |
| Specialized Services | Managed WordPress, Email, and Minecraft Hosting | Managed WordPress, Adult Websites, Email, and Minecraft Hosting |
| Server Locations | USA, UK, Hong Kong, China | France, Lithuania, Netherlands, United Kingdom, India, Indonesia, Singapore, USA, Brazil |
| Control Panel | cPanel | In-House |
| Uptime Guarantee | 99.9% | 99.9% |
| Money Back (Days) | 30 | 30 |
| Free Migration | Yes | Yes |
| Support Channels | Phone, live chat, and email | Live chat and email |
Plans & Pricing
| Hosting Type | BlueHost | Hostinger |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Hosting | $2.95 - 13.95/mo | $2.99 - 9.99/mo |
| VPS Hosting | $29.99 - 69.99/mo | $4.49 - 19.99/mo |
| Dedicated Hosting | $89.98 - 139.99/mo | $ - /mo |
| Cloud Hosting | $ - /mo | $9.99 - 29.99/mo |
| WordPress Hosting | $2.95 - 13.95/mo | $2.49 - 8.99/mo |
| Windows Hosting | $ - /mo | $ - /mo |
| Coupon | - | HOSTSCORE |
| Coupon Details | - | Additional 7% discount |
Development Features & Others
| Feature | BlueHost | Hostinger |
|---|---|---|
| Language Support | PHP, Python, Node.js, Django, Perl, and Ruby on Rails | PHP, Java, Python, Node.js, Django, Perl, Ruby on Rails, and ASP.NET |
| Dev Features | GIT access, WP-CLI, cron jobs, Multiple PHP versions, and SSH access | GIT access, WP-CLI, cron jobs, Multiple PHP versions, and SSH access |
| Staging Tool | Built-in | Built-in |
| Free SSL | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Cache | No | Yes |
| Global CDN | Yes | Higher plans |
| Free Malware Scan | Higher plans | Yes |
| DDoS Protection | Yes | Higher plans |
| Web Application Firewall (WAF) | Yes | Yes |
Our Recommendation
Hostinger is recommended for users seeking affordable, comprehensive hosting solutions with a strong global presence. Its diverse server locations and support for a wide range of applications, including Minecraft and adult websites, make it suitable for a variety of web hosting needs.
While we do not strongly recommend BlueHost – the web host may be preferred by users looking for specific managed services like WordPress hosting. Also, its emphasis on the US market might also appeal to users targeting this demographic.
About BlueHost
Founded by Matt Heaton and Danny Ashworth in 2003 and acquired by Endurance International Group (EIG) in 2010, Bluehost is one of the largest hosting providers globally. The company offers a range of services including shared hosting, VPS hosting, dedicated servers, and WordPress hosting. They are one of the few who is officially recommended by WordPress.org.
BlueHost Pros
- Free domain name with all shared hosting plans
- $100 free ad credits with all plans
- Comprehensive and easy-to-navigate knowledgebase
BlueHost Cons
- Renewal fees can be significantly higher
- Many upsells on additional features
- Add-ons can get expensive
- Only US-based servers
- Customer support can be better
About Hostinger
Hostinger traces its origins back to 2004 when it began as Hosting Media, a brainchild of enterprising youth in Kaunas, Lithuania. Their journey of innovation commenced with the launch of 000webhost.com in 2007, followed by the establishment of the esteemed cPanel brand Hosting24.com in 2008.
The pivotal year of 2011 heralded the rise of Hostinger, accompanied by its bespoke hPanel interface. In 2016, Hostinger unveiled its cutting-edge cloud hosting service, marking another milestone in its remarkable evolution. In 2021, the company celebrated a significant milestone with the addition of its 1,000th employee, reinforcing its status as a premier provider of web hosting solutions.
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Hostinger Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Nine different data centers in four continents
- Good spread of hosting plans
- User-friendly control panel (hPanel)
- Wide range of payment options accepted
- Git environment available on shared hosting
- Additional 7% discount with coupon code "HOSTSCORE"
Hostinger Cons
- Price increase during the renewal
- Does not support Windows hosting
