Difference between
Wordpress.Com Vs WordPress.Org
Free Vs Paid
Using the wordpress.com hosted service – FREE (e-mail)
WordPress.com is what’s known as a “hosted” solution, meaning a lot of the heavy lifting of installing and configuring the software has been taken care of for you. You don’t need to worry about paying for hosting, running a web server, or downloading software updates. You cannot install themes and plug-ins, run ads, or edit the database.
Self-hosting with wodpress.org – PAID (Web Server & Domain)
Download and install the WordPress Software yourself from WordPress.org. The advantage is that you have more control over the appearance and functionality of the way your site is run.
WordPress.org and WordPress.com Features Comparison
Features WORDPRESS.ORG WORDPRESS.COM
Cost Paid Free
Requires hosting Yes No
Requires download Yes No
Requires setup/installation Yes No
Ability to install your own templates Yes No
Ability to use sidebar widgets Yes Yes
Ability to install plug-ins Yes No
Ability to set up multiple blogs No Yes
with one account Customizable style sheets Yes $15/year