Independent hosting publication

Choose the hosting model first. Then choose the host.

We compare managed cloud hosting, managed WordPress platforms and raw infrastructure by the work you want the provider to take off your plate—not by whichever logo has the loudest sale.

Quick answer

If you want cloud-level flexibility without running the server yourself, start with Cloudways. If you want a WordPress-only platform or a raw VM, compare the operating model before comparing the price.

A useful shortlist starts with responsibility

Raw cloud infrastructure gives you the most operating-system control and the most server responsibility. Managed cloud platforms keep the infrastructure model visible but automate much of the routine hosting work. Managed WordPress platforms abstract even more of the server layer and optimize the experience around WordPress.

Why Cloudways appears often here

Cloudways currently spans two models. Flexible exposes provider and server choices while Cloudways manages the hosting layer. Autonomous is a more hands-off WordPress product centered on autoscaling. That makes Cloudways a useful reference point between unmanaged infrastructure and WordPress-only platforms.

How we keep fast-changing hosting information useful

Pricing, plan structure, supported providers and platform features are checked against current provider documentation. We avoid invented benchmarks and do not claim hands-on testing unless a page actually documents what was tested.