When it comes to hosting a WordPress site, two names often come up in serious discussions: Cloudways and WP Engine. Both are premium platforms designed to give you speed, reliability, and security without the headaches of traditional shared hosting. But the way they deliver managed hosting is very different.
Cloudways takes a flexible approach by letting you choose top cloud providers like DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode, AWS, or Google Cloud, while still giving you a managed layer for performance, backups, and security.
WP Engine, on the other hand, focuses solely on managed WordPress hosting, with enterprise-grade infrastructure, built-in caching, and developer-friendly tools.
So which one should you choose?
In this Cloudways vs WP Engine comparison, we’ll break down their features, performance, pricing, pros and cons, and real customer reviews.
Cloudways vs WP Engine 2025: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Cloudways | WP Engine | Winner 👑 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hosting Type | Managed Cloud Hosting (DO, Vultr, Linode, AWS, GCP) | Managed WordPress Hosting | Depends on need |
| Infrastructure | AWS, Google Cloud, DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode | Google Cloud / AWS | Cloudways |
| WordPress.org Recommended | ❌ No | ❌ No | Tie |
| Free Domain | ❌ No | ❌ No | Tie |
| Free SSL | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Tie |
| Free Email | ❌ No (paid add-ons available) | ❌ No | Cloudways (add-ons option) |
| Performance & Speed | Faster TTFB with Vultr HF + NVMe + Redis | Optimized with EverCache, strong but less flexible | Cloudways |
| Uptime Guarantee | 99.9%+ (depends on provider) | 99.99% SLA | WP Engine |
| Server Response Time (TTFB) | ~400 ms global average (faster with Vultr HF) | ~600 ms global average | Cloudways |
| Data Centers | 65+ locations worldwide (via providers) | Multiple global via AWS/Google | Cloudways |
| CDN | Cloudflare CDN (Enterprise add-on available) | Cloudflare CDN included | Cloudways |
| Caching | Breeze plugin + server-level caching | EverCache (advanced, built-in) | WP Engine |
| Staging Environment | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Tie |
| Security | Imunify360 firewall, WAF, DDoS, malware scanning (add-on), 2FA | Enterprise-grade security, managed WAF, automatic malware blocking, 2FA | WP Engine |
| Backups | Automated + on-demand, flexible scheduling | Daily + on-demand backups | Cloudways (more flexibility) |
| Site Migrations | 1 free migration + unlimited via plugin | Free automated migration plugin | Tie |
| Banned Plugins | No major restrictions | Some plugins banned for security/performance | Cloudways |
| Dashboard & UI | Custom Cloudways control panel (more technical) | Custom WP Engine dashboard (WordPress-focused) | WP Engine |
| Ease of Use | More control, but learning curve for beginners | Beginner-friendly and streamlined | WP Engine |
| Support Channels | 24/7 chat & tickets, phone as paid add-on | 24/7 chat & tickets, phone on most plans | WP Engine |
| Support Response Time & Quality | Good support, technical but sometimes slower on escalations | Highly specialized WordPress support, faster resolutions | WP Engine |
| Best For | Developers, agencies, users needing performance + flexibility | Business owners, professionals, and WordPress users who want simplicity | Depends on user |
| Read Detailed Review | Cloudways Review | WP Engine Review | — |
| Starting Price | $11/mo | $23/mo | Cloudways |
| Money-Back Guarantee | No (3 Days Free Trial) | 60 Days | WP Engine |
| Get Hosting => | Get Cloudways | Get WP Engine | — |
About
Cloudways
Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform that acts as a middle layer between you and popular cloud providers like DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode, AWS, and Google Cloud. Instead of directly dealing with complex server management, Cloudways takes care of the technical stuff—like server setup, security hardening, caching, and backups—so you can focus on growing your website.
It’s known for its flexibility: you can host unlimited sites, scale resources as needed, and pay only for what you use. Agencies, developers, and businesses who want cloud-level performance without hiring a sysadmin often pick Cloudways.
About WP Engine
WP Engine is a specialized managed WordPress hosting provider built exclusively for WordPress sites. Unlike Cloudways, which supports multiple platforms, WP Engine only focuses on WordPress, giving it an edge in optimization, security, and support tailored to this CMS.
With features like EverCache technology, enterprise-grade security, daily backups, and a custom dashboard, WP Engine positions itself as a premium solution for businesses, agencies, and eCommerce stores that demand reliability. It runs on Google Cloud and AWS infrastructure, ensuring top-notch speed and global availability.
Performance
1. Server Infrastructure
Cloudways gives you the flexibility to choose from multiple leading cloud providers like DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode, AWS, and Google Cloud. This allows you to customize performance and pricing based on your exact needs.
WP Engine, on the other hand, runs exclusively on Google Cloud and AWS. While that ensures premium infrastructure, it doesn’t offer the same level of choice or scalability as Cloudways.
2. Uptime
Both Cloudways and WP Engine deliver excellent uptime close to 99.99%. WP Engine offers a 99.99% uptime SLA on its core plans.
Cloudways’ uptime generally depends on the chosen cloud provider, which typically hovers around 99.9% or higher. In practice, both are highly reliable for business-critical sites.
3. Server Response Time (TTFB)
Cloudways generally outperforms WP Engine in terms of TTFB. Thanks to options like Vultr High Frequency servers, NVMe storage, and advanced caching, Cloudways can deliver faster initial server responses.
WP Engine still performs strongly, but Cloudways often takes the edge for raw speed.
4. Data Centers
Cloudways offers access to 65+ data centers worldwide through its multiple providers, giving you the freedom to host your site close to your visitors for reduced latency.
WP Engine also provides global coverage via Google Cloud and AWS, but with a more limited selection compared to Cloudways.
5. CDN
Both platforms integrate Cloudflare CDN. Cloudways goes a step further by offering Cloudflare Enterprise as an affordable add-on, which includes advanced features like Argo Smart Routing, image optimization, and faster global delivery. WP Engine includes Cloudflare CDN in its plans but without the advanced Enterprise-level features.
👑 Performance Verdict
When it comes to performance, Cloudways is the clear winner. Its combination of flexible infrastructure, faster TTFB, broader data center choices, and the option for Cloudflare Enterprise gives it the edge over WP Engine. While WP Engine is still highly reliable and optimized for WordPress, Cloudways provides more raw speed and scalability for growing businesses and demanding websites.
Security and Backups
1. SSL Certificates
Both Cloudways and WP Engine provide free SSL certificates through Let’s Encrypt. Activating SSL on either platform is straightforward, and you can also install custom certificates if needed.
2. Firewall, Malware & DDoS Protection
Cloudways secures its servers with Imunify360, which includes a dedicated firewall, web application firewall (WAF), intrusion detection, and protection against brute force and DDoS attacks. Malware scanning is available as an optional add-on.
WP Engine takes a stricter approach with enterprise-grade security, including managed WAF, real-time threat detection, and automatic blocking of malicious traffic. They also maintain a list of disallowed plugins that could compromise security.
3. Backup Frequency and Retention
Cloudways allows automated daily backups with the flexibility to schedule them as frequently as every hour. Backups are stored offsite, and you can restore your site with a single click.
WP Engine also provides daily automated backups and lets you create on-demand backups before major changes. Both platforms make restoration simple, but Cloudways offers more control over backup frequency.
4. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Cloudways supports Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), adding an extra layer of security to your account. WP Engine also includes 2FA for account access, ensuring both platforms protect against unauthorized logins.
👑 Security and Backup Verdict
Both hosts deliver strong security and backup features. However, WP Engine takes the crown in this category with its enterprise-grade protections, proactive security measures, and malware blocking built into the platform. Cloudways is still highly secure, especially with Imunify360 and flexible backups, but WP Engine offers a more comprehensive, hands-off security environment for WordPress users.
Ease of Use
1. Dashboard and User Interface
Cloudways uses a custom control panel instead of cPanel or Plesk. It’s designed for managing servers, applications, and add-ons in one place. While it gives you a lot of control, beginners may find it slightly technical compared to traditional hosting dashboards.
WP Engine also has a custom dashboard, but it’s streamlined specifically for WordPress. From backups to staging and caching, everything is pre-integrated and easy to navigate, making it more beginner-friendly than Cloudways.
2. Site Migrations
Cloudways offers one free site migration handled by their support team. They also provide a Cloudways WordPress Migrator plugin for unlimited manual migrations.
WP Engine provides a free automated migration plugin that works well for most WordPress sites. It’s quick and user-friendly, though advanced setups may require support assistance.
3. File and Database Access
On Cloudways, you get full access to your files via SFTP/SSH and manage databases with phpMyAdmin. It’s flexible and developer-friendly.
WP Engine also provides SFTP access and database management through phpMyAdmin, but some server-level controls are restricted for security reasons. Developers who want maximum customization may feel more at home with Cloudways.
👑 Ease of Use Verdict
For ease of use, WP Engine comes out ahead. Its simplified WordPress-focused dashboard and automated migration process make it more beginner-friendly. Cloudways is better suited for power users and developers who want granular control, but it does have a steeper learning curve for newcomers.
Email Hosting
Neither Cloudways nor WP Engine includes free email hosting with their plans. This is an area where both providers differ from traditional web hosts.
- Cloudways: Email is available through add-ons. You can integrate Rackspace Email or the Elastic Email add-on directly from the Cloudways platform. These are paid services but give you flexibility to manage professional email alongside your hosting.
- WP Engine: Does not provide any email hosting service. If you want branded email, you’ll need to use a third-party provider like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365.
👑 Email Hosting Verdict
In terms of email hosting, Cloudways has the advantage since it offers optional email add-ons that integrate smoothly with your hosting environment. WP Engine doesn’t provide any built-in solution, which means you’ll have to manage email entirely from any email hosting service.
Customer Support
Support Channels
Cloudways provides 24/7 live chat and ticket support for all plans. Phone support is not included by default but can be added as a paid premium option.
WP Engine also offers 24/7 live chat and ticket support. Phone support is available on all plans except the entry-level Startup plan, where only chat is included.
Response Time and Effectiveness
Cloudways’ support team is generally responsive, but advanced issues sometimes require escalation, especially for server-level troubleshooting. Their knowledge base is helpful, but less extensive than WP Engine’s.
WP Engine is known for its WordPress-specialized support team. Since their platform is dedicated solely to WordPress, agents tend to resolve issues faster, especially with plugin conflicts, site speed, and security-related problems.
👑 Customer Support Verdict
WP Engine wins this round. While both companies provide 24/7 chat and ticket support, WP Engine’s team is more specialized in WordPress, and phone support is more accessible. Cloudways is reliable, but WP Engine’s expertise and faster resolutions make it the stronger option for WordPress site owners.
Customer Reviews & Ratings
G2 Ratings
Cloudways
Cloudways earns 4.7 out of 5 stars. Users frequently highlight its speed and friendly support. Many reviews mention how fast deployments and reliable hosting make it a solid choice.
WP Engine
WP Engine also receives 4.5 out of 5 stars, especially for its performance, reliability, and peace of mind—many say it takes the stress out of WordPress management.
TrustPilot Ratings
Cloudways
Cloudways holds a rating around 4.5 out of 5 on TrustPilot, backed by thousands of user reviews. Many users emphasize the professionalism and quick response of the support team.
WP Engine
WP Engine scores 4.4 out of 5 stars and appears highly trusted as well, with positive mentions of their enterprise-level support and overall reliability.
👑 Customer Review & Ratings Verdict
Both Cloudways and WP Engine score highly with users, but their strengths differ slightly:
- Cloudways shines with high ratings for speed, flexibility, and responsive support. Users love how fast they can move, the granular control it allows, and that help is often just a message away.
- WP Engine stands out for its worry-free, polished experience. Users trust it to manage everything—from uptime to security—so they can focus on their content, not the server.
If quick performance and flexibility with support are your top priorities, Cloudways pulls slightly ahead. If you prefer a seamless, managed experience that just works, WP Engine may be the more comfortable fit.
Pros & Cons
Cloudways Pros ✅
- Flexible hosting across multiple providers (DigitalOcean, Vultr, Linode, AWS, Google Cloud)
- Pay-as-you-go pricing with no long-term contracts
- Strong performance with options like Vultr High Frequency and NVMe SSDs
- Unlimited site hosting on a single plan
- Automated and on-demand backups with flexible scheduling
- Cloudflare Enterprise add-on for advanced CDN features
- Developer-friendly with full SFTP/SSH access and Git integration
Cloudways Cons ❌
- No free email hosting included (requires paid add-ons)
- Learning curve for beginners due to technical dashboard
- Phone support only available as a paid add-on
- No direct domain registration service
WP Engine Pros ✅
- Specialized managed WordPress hosting with enterprise-grade security
- EverCache technology for advanced speed and caching
- Automatic daily backups plus on-demand restore points
- WordPress-focused support team with fast issue resolution
- Easy-to-use dashboard tailored for WordPress users
- Staging environments included on all plans
- 60-day money-back guarantee (much longer than most hosts)
WP Engine Cons ❌
- Higher starting price compared to Cloudways
- Limited storage and site allowances on entry plans
- No built-in email hosting
- Some plugins are restricted for compatibility or security reasons
- Less flexible infrastructure (limited to Google Cloud and AWS)
Pricing
Cloudways Pricing
| Plan | RAM | Processor | Storage | Bandwidth | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DigitalOcean | |||||
| Micro | 1 GB | 1 Core | 25 GB | 1 TB | $11 /mo |
| Small | 2 GB | 1 Core | 50 GB | 2 TB | $24 /mo |
| Medium | 4 GB | 2 Core | 80 GB | 4 TB | $46 /mo |
| Large | 8 GB | 4 Core | 160 GB | 5 TB | $88 /mo |
| VULTR | |||||
| Micro | 1 GB | 1 Core | 25 GB | 1 TB | $14 /mo |
| Small | 2 GB | 1 Core | 55 GB | 2 TB | $28 /mo |
| Medium | 4 GB | 2 Core | 80 GB | 3 TB | $54 /mo |
| Large | 8 GB | 4 Core | 160 GB | 4 TB | $99 /mo |
| Linode | |||||
| Micro | 1 GB | 1 Core | 25 GB | 1 TB | $14 /mo |
| Small | 2 GB | 1 Core | 50 GB | 2 TB | $28 /mo |
| Medium | 4 GB | 2 Core | 80 GB | 4 TB | $59 /mo |
| Large | 8 GB | 4 Core | 160 GB | 5 TB | $105 /mo |
| AWS | |||||
| Micro | 1 GB | 2 Core | 20 GB | 2 GB | $20.56/mo |
| Small | 2 GB | 2 Core | 20 GB | 2 GB | $38.56 /mo |
| Medium | 4 GB | 2 Core | 20 GB | 2 GB | $91.84 /mo |
| Large | 8 GB | 2 Core | 20 GB | 2 GB | $183.22 /mo |
| Google Cloud | |||||
| Small | 1.7 GB | Shared CPU | 20 GB | 1 GB | $37.33 /mo |
| Medium | 3.75 GB | 1 Core | 20 GB | 1 GB | $84 /mo |
| Large | 7.5 GB | 2 Core | 20 GB | 1 GB | $152.02 /mo |
| XL | 15 GB | 4 Core | 20 GB | 1 GB | $241.5 /mo |
WP Engine Pricing
| Startup | Professional | Growth | Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| $23 /mo | $45 /mo | $87 /mo | $218 /mo |
| 1 Site 25k Visits 10 GB Storage 75 GB Bandwidth | 3 Sites 75k Visits 15 GB Storage 150 GB Bandwidth | 10 Sites 100k Visits 20 GB Storage 240 GB Bandwidth | 30 Sites 400k Visits 50 GB Storage 550 GB Bandwidth |
Check this: 7 Best WP Engine Alternatives in 2025
Alternatives with Comparison
| Hosting | Sites | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudways | Unlimited | 25 GB | $11/mo |
| WP Engine | 1 Site | 10 GB | $23/mo |
| Pressable (Best Alternative for Both) | 1 Site | 20 GB | $20.83/mo |
Also check the following comparisons:
Discounts & Offers
When it comes to saving money, both Cloudways and WP Engine regularly provide special promotions.
- Cloudways: New customers can often grab discounts by applying a Cloudways coupon code during checkout. The company is also well known for offering a Cloudways Black Friday deal, where you can lock in some of the lowest rates of the year.
- WP Engine: Discounts are available through seasonal promotions and a WP Engine coupon code, which usually applies to the first term. Like Cloudways, they also run a WP Engine Black Friday deal, which is one of the best times to sign up if you’re looking for maximum savings on premium WordPress hosting.
FAQs about Cloudways vs WP Engine
WP Engine is generally better for beginners because its dashboard is designed specifically for WordPress users and requires very little technical knowledge. Cloudways is more flexible but has a steeper learning curve.
Neither includes free email hosting. Cloudways offers paid add-ons like Rackspace Email or Elastic Email, while WP Engine requires you to use third-party providers such as Google Workspace or Microsoft 365.
Yes, Cloudways allows unlimited websites on a single plan (as long as your server resources can handle it). WP Engine, however, limits the number of sites based on your plan, with the entry-level Startup plan supporting only one site.
Yes, both Cloudways and WP Engine include staging environments. This makes it easy to test changes, plugins, or design updates before pushing them live.
Cloudways is more cost-effective, starting at just $11/month with scalable resources. WP Engine starts at $23/month and positions itself as a premium managed WordPress solution. Your choice depends on whether you value flexibility and pricing (Cloudways) or a fully managed, WordPress-optimized experience (WP Engine).
Final Verdict
Both Cloudways and WP Engine are excellent hosting providers, but they serve slightly different audiences.
- Cloudways is best if you want flexibility, raw performance, and scalability at a lower price point. With multiple cloud providers to choose from, unlimited site hosting, and add-ons like Cloudflare Enterprise, it’s a great choice for developers, agencies, and businesses that want control without managing servers from scratch.
- WP Engine is the better fit if you want a hands-off, fully managed WordPress experience. Its enterprise-grade security, WordPress-focused support, and streamlined dashboard make it ideal for business owners, eCommerce sites, and professionals who prefer simplicity and reliability over customization.
👑 The Winner
If performance, pricing, and flexibility are your top priorities, Cloudways takes the crown.
If you’d rather have a polished, worry-free hosting experience with premium WordPress support, WP Engine is the way to go.
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As someone planning to host a website, this comparison between Cloudways and WP Engine Hosting is incredibly helpful. The blog’s insights on their features, performance, and support in 2023 will guide me in making an informed decision. I appreciate having all the relevant information in one place to choose the better-suited hosting option for my website. Thanks for this informative article!
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I am currently using Cloudways, and I am thoroughly impressed with their 24/7 customer support. They have been able to swiftly address any issues I encounter.
It’s great that you found this comparison between Cloudways and WP Engine informative. Understanding the key features and pricing differences between these hosting providers is essential for making an informed decision for your website. If you have any questions or need further assistance in making a choice, feel free to ask, and I’d be happy to help.