Compare the whole job, not just the editor. Think about who builds the pages, whether you need a custom domain, and who handles ongoing work.
If you are looking for Wix alternatives, first identify what you want to change. Is it the monthly cost, the work involved in designing a page, the type of website you need, or the amount of control you want?
This is a provider-authored comparison of four different routes, not a hands-on product test or a claim that one platform is best for everyone. Our own service is included and clearly identified. Competitor features were checked against the official pages linked below on 20 October 2026; plans can change.
Start with a fair comparison
A DIY builder and a done-for-you service are not the same product. The first offers software; the second includes someone doing the design. Compare both the money and the work you will be responsible for.
For example, Wix says you need a paid site plan before assigning a custom domain. That matters if your idea of a free website includes your own business address. It does not, by itself, make Wix unsuitable; it simply belongs in your budget.
1. WordPress.com: a hosted route for publishing your own content
WordPress.com offers a free plan, hosted websites and tools for publishing pages and posts. Its official plan guide describes the available features. This makes it a route worth examining if you want to create and maintain content yourself.
The practical question is whether you like the editing workflow and whether the current plan supports your domain and design requirements. Read the plan details rather than assuming everything available in the wider WordPress ecosystem is included in a particular hosted package.
- Consider it when regular articles or updates are a central part of your website.
- Check which plan covers the address and features you want.
- Plan time for writing, arranging and reviewing your pages.
2. Carrd: investigate it for a focused, compact site
Carrd is an option to investigate when your business can be explained in a compact web presence. Its documentation states that using a custom domain requires Pro Standard or higher. A domain also needs to be registered separately.
Before choosing it, list the sections you need and try organising them into one clear journey. If customers need detailed service information in several distinct areas, compare that structure carefully with your intended setup.
- Consider a concise introduction, portfolio or single-offer business page.
- Check current requirements for forms and other paid features.
- Avoid squeezing a complex service catalogue into an unclear layout.
3. Self-hosted WordPress: more responsibility alongside control
Self-hosted WordPress is different from WordPress.com. You arrange a hosting environment and manage a WordPress installation rather than buying a single hosted publishing package.
Treat this as a project with continuing responsibilities: software updates, backups, security, theme or plugin compatibility and support. You can do that work yourself or pay someone to manage it, but it still needs an owner. This route may suit a business with technical support and specific requirements; it may be unnecessary for a very simple first website.
4. A done-for-you website: when your time is the main constraint
Our service at freewebsiteformybusiness.com offers a £0 upfront build and a £24.99 monthly website subscription. Our team designs the website around your business, so you do not have to build it yourself.
There is no minimum contract and you can cancel anytime. You keep the site and domain when you cancel; hosting remains payable. The exact hosting price, update arrangements, billing cut-off and handover process must be confirmed before you subscribe. This is an alternative to doing the design yourself, not a free DIY platform.
See how our done-for-you service worksA quick decision table
Use these starting points to narrow your research, then compare the actual plan and scope you would buy.
| Your main priority | Route to investigate | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Publishing content yourself | WordPress.com | Plan features and editing workflow |
| A compact, focused web presence | Carrd | Custom-domain and form requirements |
| Managing your own installation | Self-hosted WordPress | Hosting, maintenance and technical support |
| Having the design done for you | Our £0-upfront service | Scope and ongoing subscription terms |
Before moving an existing website
Make a list of your current page addresses, domain account, email setup, content and contact forms. A platform change should preserve the useful parts of the customer journey, rather than simply replacing the visual design.
Ask about redirecting old page addresses and test how customers will make enquiries after the move. If you would like to discuss a professionally built alternative, tell us what you currently use and what you want to improve.
Discuss your website requirementsSources & further reading
Official information checked on 20 October 2026. Provider plans and features can change; check the linked pages before making a decision.
This article is published by a website service provider and is not an independent product review. It does not promise rankings, traffic or enquiries. Our £0-upfront offer is a paid £24.99/month subscription; full service arrangements are confirmed before you subscribe.