When I first tried to accept payments on my WordPress website, the process was frustrating. Hours of setup, confusing settings, and test transactions that failed more often than they succeeded.

I quickly realized that choosing the wrong payment solution could mean the difference between a thriving business and lost customers.

The right payment plugin can help you securely process transactions, reduce cart abandonment, and boost your conversion rates. But what works for a small nonprofit accepting donations won’t necessarily work for a consultant selling services or an online store processing hundreds of orders.

That’s why I’ve personally tested over 20 WordPress payment plugins across different business scenarios. Each plugin on this list has been thoroughly vetted for reliability, ease of use, and real-world performance.

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, you’ll find a solution that fits your needs and gets you paid without the headaches.

Quick Overview: Best WordPress Payment Plugins

If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick overview of the best WordPress payment plugins:

#	Plugin	Best For	Free Version	Pricing
🥇	WP Simple Pay	Stripe payment forms for subscriptions and services	✅	$49.50/year
🥈	WPForms	Payment forms for Stripe, PayPal, Square, and Authorize.net	✅	$49.50/year
🥉	WooCommerce	Selling physical products	✅	Free
4	Easy Digital Downloads	Selling digital downloads	✅	$99.50/year
5	WP Charitable	Donation forms	✅	$69/year
6	MyPayKit	Square payment forms	✅	$49.50/year
7	MemberPress	Membership sites	❌	$179.50/year
8	Formidable Forms	Advanced payment forms	✅	$39.50/year
9	Wishlist Member	Protecting premium content	❌	$149.50/year
10	Thrive Apprentice	Selling online courses	❌	$149/year
11	MemberMouse	Enterprise-level membership websites	❌	$149.50/year

How I Test And Review WordPress Payment Plugins

You might be wondering how I actually tested all these payment plugins before recommending them. Well, I didn’t just skim the features on different blogs and move on.

I’ve worked directly with plugins like WP Simple Pay, MemberPress, and WPForms to accept payments on my own websites.

Plus, I personally tested every other plugin on this list to make sure it worked well and could process payments without issues.

Here’s what my testing process looked like:

• 🛠️ I installed each plugin on a test site: I set up a clean WordPress site and installed each payment plugin just like you would. This helped me see how easy (or complicated) it is to get started, connect payment gateways like Stripe or PayPal, and configure the basic settings.
• 💳 I simulated real payments: Next, I ran test transactions using test mode. I checked if payments went through smoothly, how the plugin handled errors, and whether things like taxes, coupons, or recurring payments worked as expected.
• 🔍 I checked for compatibility issues: I tested the plugin alongside popular WordPress tools and themes to make sure everything plays nicely together.
• 🔒 I reviewed security and updates: Payment data is sensitive, so I also looked at how the plugin handles security, whether it’s regularly updated, and if the developers follow WordPress best practices.
• 👍 I rated user-friendliness: Finally, I looked at how beginner-friendly the plugin is. Are the settings clear? Is the setup wizard helpful? Would a first-time user get overwhelmed or feel confident?

By the time a plugin makes it onto my recommendation list, it’s been through all of this and more. Having said that, let’s take a look at the best WordPress payment plugins.

1. WP Simple Pay – Best for Stripe Payment Forms

WP Simple Pay is the best WordPress payment plugin if you’re using Stripe, especially if you want to sell services or subscriptions without building a full-blown online store.

When I first tested this plugin, I was impressed by how quickly I could create a working Stripe payment form without any of the complexity that comes with complete eCommerce platforms.

This plugin solves the biggest headache most service providers and subscription businesses face: getting paid without the technical nightmare of setting up complex store solutions.

We covered all the details and our hands-on experience in our WP Simple Pay review, so you can get the full picture there.

When I started creating my own payment forms, I found the drag-and-drop builder incredibly user-friendly.

Creating attractive, custom payment forms took minutes instead of hours. No coding skills are required, which is a significant advantage for many business owners.

I was also impressed by the payment options. It supports Stripe Checkout, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH bank transfers, and even Buy Now, Pay Later options like Afterpay and Klarna.

Plus, you can set custom pricing fields, coupon codes, and multi-step payment forms.

However, what really stood out to me was the customization control. You can brand the entire payment form page to match your business.

Clean URLs, custom background colors, and layout adjustments can all work together to create a professional checkout experience that feels like part of your site.

All in all, I recommend WP Simple Pay for anyone looking to sell services and subscriptions without setting up an online store.

It handles the payment complexity while keeping your WordPress site fast and reliable. No bloated code or performance issues that slow things down.

To get started, see our tutorial on how to accept Stripe payments in WordPress.

Pros of WP Simple Pay

• Pre-made templates speed up form creation
• Set up partial payments (for deposits) and installment plans for high-value services
• Stripe handles all sensitive data for maximum security
• One-click payments with Apple Pay and Google Pay
• Flexible billing intervals for subscriptions
• Built-in coupon codes and promotional discounts
• Option to pass processing fees to customers
• Easy purchase restrictions and limits

Cons of WP Simple Pay

• Advanced features locked in free version
• Only works with Stripe (no other payment processors)

Pricing: WP Simple Pay’s paid plans can range from $49.50/year to $209.65/year.

Why I recommend WP Simple Pay: What makes WP Simple Pay stand out is how easy it is to accept Stripe payments on WordPress with no need to build a full online store.

It’s a great fit if you’re offering services, running a membership site, or collecting subscriptions, one-time payments, or even deposits. The payment forms are simple, flexible, and work right out of the box.

2. WPForms – Best for Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.Net, and Square Payment Forms

WPForms is the best WordPress payment plugin for collecting customer information alongside payments, such as registration forms, order forms with custom fields, or surveys that include payment options.

The plugin also supports multiple payment gateways, including Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.net, and Square. This flexibility allows you to offer your customers a variety of payment options without needing to juggle different plugins.

We use WPForms here at WPBeginner for our contact forms and annual surveys, so I’ve seen firsthand how reliable and flexible this plugin can be. If you’re curious about all the things it can do, we go over them in more detail in our WPForms review.

A key advantage of WPForms is how it combines powerful form building with payment processing. You’re not limited to simple “pay now” buttons.

Instead, you can create comprehensive forms that gather the information your business needs while processing payments securely.

WPForms also comes with a variety of payment fields.

You can add single-item payments, multiple items, dropdowns for selecting products or quantities, and even donation fields with preset or custom amounts.

This makes building complex payment forms super easy, even if you’re new to it.

One feature I found particularly helpful is the plugin’s AI-powered form builder.

It helps speed up the design process by generating form templates that you can customize with simple prompts. This can save you hours when creating new forms with payment integrations.

Additionally, the conditional logic feature is very powerful. Forms can show or hide fields based on user selections, creating a smooth experience that only displays relevant options.

Your customers see exactly what they need without confusion.

Overall, WPForms strikes a great balance between being powerful and user-friendly.

It’s perfect if you want to build payment forms combined with surveys, registrations, or quotes, all while securely processing payments through your preferred gateway.

For more information, see our tutorial on how to add a PayPal payment form in WordPress.

Pros of WPForms

• Over 2,000 pre-made form templates
• Drag-and-drop builder that’s genuinely beginner-friendly
• Supports one-time payments and recurring subscriptions
• Coupon code fields for checkout discounts
• Automatic email notifications and confirmations
• Complete spam protection
• Secure data storage accessible from the WordPress dashboard

Cons of WPForms

• Payment add-ons locked in free plan

Pricing: WPForms pricing starts at $49.50. However, to unlock the extensions for PayPal, Stripe, and Square, you will need the pro plan for $199.40/yr.

Why I recommend WPForms: It’s a great solution that gives you the flexibility to build forms that go beyond simple contact fields. Whether you’re setting up a survey, registration form, or quote request, WPForms makes it easy to include payment options right inside the form.

3. WooCommerce – Best for Selling Physical Products

If you’re planning to build a full-fledged online store, I always recommend starting with WooCommerce. It’s the best WordPress payment plugin for selling physical products and managing inventory, shipping, taxes, and payments, all from one dashboard.

The plugin stands out as a complete eCommerce solution when you need more than simple payment collection.

You’re not just processing payments. Instead, you’re running a real business with product catalogs, inventory tracking, shipping calculations, and tax management.

I’ve been working with WooCommerce since its early days and have used it to build online stores for clients across different industries.

You can check out our full WooCommerce review to see why it’s such a solid choice.

One thing that has improved significantly over the years is the built-in payment integrations. PayPal and Stripe used to need separate plugins, but now they work smoothly right out of the box.

During my recent WooCommerce testing, I was particularly impressed with how plugins like FunnelKit’s Stripe integration can make the checkout process even better.

You get fully customizable, high-converting checkout pages that feel modern and fast.

The ability to design checkout pages, offer upsells, and accept express payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay can make a significant difference in conversion rates.

In my opinion, WooCommerce is ideal if you want complete control over your store’s design and functionality. Whether you’re selling five products or five thousand, it scales well and gives you all the tools you need to grow.

If your goal is to turn your WordPress site into a full eCommerce platform, then WooCommerce is the payment plugin I’d trust every time.

To get started, see our beginner’s guide on WooCommerce made simple.

Pros of WooCommerce

• Accepts diverse payment methods, including cash on delivery and bank transfers
• Credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and local methods via Stripe
• Supports one-time and recurring payments with subscription addons
• Accept Square and Authorize.net payments with addons
• Custom tax rules with flexible pricing options
• Hundreds of payment-related extensions in the marketplace
• Built-in refund management and order status controls

Cons of WooCommerce

• Can feel like overkill for simple service payments or single digital downloads
• Extensions required for certain payment gateways (costs vary)

Pricing: WooCommerce is free to use, but you’ll need to purchase extensions to add certain payment options like Square or Authorize.net. The pricing for these extensions can vary.

Why I recommend WooCommerce: In my opinion, WooCommerce is well-suited if you want extensive control over your store’s design and functionality. Whether you’re selling five products or five thousand, it scales well and offers a comprehensive set of tools to help you grow.

4. Easy Digital Downloads – Best for Selling Digital Products

If you’re selling digital products, like eBooks, software, PDFs, or music, then Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) is the ideal WordPress payment plugin for the job.

Unlike general payment plugins, EDD offers effective solutions specifically built for the unique challenges of selling digital goods.

It is particularly effective for digital product sales, where you need instant delivery, license management, and customer download tracking.

Our partner brands have been using EDD to sell their premium plugins for years, and it’s consistently delivered excellent results. We’ve also spent a lot of time testing it on demo sites to see how it performs in different scenarios.

We explain it all in our detailed review of EDD if you want a closer look.

What makes EDD perfect for digital sales is how it handles the entire customer journey. When someone buys your digital product, they instantly receive download links, account access, and professional receipts. No manual work required on your end.

The plugin accepts Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay right out of the box.

I found the payment setup process much faster than configuring similar functionality with other plugins. The setup is straightforward and functions well without complicated integrations.

The one feature that impressed me most was the ability to pass payment processing fees to customers. This might seem minor, but over time, it saves significant money in transaction costs, especially when selling lower-priced digital items.

You can also set up one-time or recurring payments, offer discount codes, and even create custom checkout fields without needing a developer.

Another key strength of EDD is its scalability. With premium extensions, you can add license key generation, affiliate tracking, and customer email automation while keeping your payment flows smooth and secure.

If your site revolves around digital content, then this is a plugin I can confidently recommend for handling your transactions.

For step-by-step instructions on using Easy Digital Downloads, see our tutorial on how to sell digital downloads in WordPress.

Pros of Easy Digital Downloads

• Cart and checkout system optimized for digital products
• Customizable purchase receipts and confirmation emails for better branding
• Test mode for simulating transactions before going live
• Built-in sales and earnings reports for revenue analysis
• Tax settings with VAT support for EU compliance
• Customer account area for re-downloading purchases
• Instant digital delivery after payment

Cons of Easy Digital Downloads

• Advanced features are locked in the free plan.
• Not suitable for physical product sales

Pricing: EDD’s pricing starts at $99.50/year for one site. You can also opt for the All Access Pass for $499.50/yr to unlock all the features.

Why I recommend Easy Digital Downloads: We use EDD to sell our premium plugins and software, and it’s always worked great. If you’re selling eBooks, PDFs, plugins, courses, or music, then EDD offers a payment processing and delivery system specifically designed for your business model.

5. WP Charitable – Best for WordPress Donation Forms

WP Charitable is the best payment plugin for accepting donations in WordPress, especially if you’re running a nonprofit or a cause-based website.

It stands out as the specialized solution when you need more than basic payment collection for charitable causes. The tool makes it super easy to manage donor relationships, track campaign progress, and build long-term fundraising success.

Our team has tested this plugin extensively, both through demo campaigns and real-world use for our founder’s education nonprofit, the Balkhi Foundation.

WP Charitable makes the donation process seamless for supporters and removes a lot of the friction that usually gets in the way. You can get the complete details in our review of WP Charitable.

Instead of complicated checkout flows, you get simple, clean donation forms that integrate well with Stripe, PayPal, and other popular gateways.

The user experience feels designed specifically for donors who want to give quickly and easily.

One of the things that stood out during my testing was how customizable Charitable’s donation forms are. You can set suggested amounts, let donors enter custom amounts, create recurring donation options, and even add goal meters to encourage participation.

Plus, it supports campaign management, so you can run multiple fundraisers at once and track their progress easily. Each campaign gets its own dedicated page, donation tracking, and goal visualization, which helps create urgency and transparency for donors.

I think most will also appreciate Charitable’s email integrations.

They help make it easy to automate thank-you emails and provide donors with donation receipts right away, something I know is important for nonprofit transparency and tax purposes.

Plus, built-in reports can help you make data-driven decisions, so you can maximize your fundraising efforts.

The bottom line? With a strong focus on donor experience and campaign management, Charitable is the best WordPress payment plugin for nonprofits.

You can start building your website easily by following our article on how to create a non profit website in WordPress.

Pros of WP Charitable

• Dozens of pre-made templates for quick form creation
• Unlimited donation campaigns with individual goals and forms
• Custom checkout fields for collecting donor details and dedications
• Multi-currency support for international fundraising
• Offline payment tracking for checks and cash donations
• Built-in reporting tools with donation history and data export capabilities
• Goal meters and progress tracking to encourage donations
• Automated donor communication and receipt generation

Cons of WP Charitable

• Only PayPal is included in the free plan; Stripe and other gateways require paid plans
• Limited to donation forms (not general-purpose like WPForms)

Pricing: Charitable’s pricing starts from $69 to $299 per year.

Why I recommend WP Charitable: The plugin is great for nonprofit fundraising, with features designed for charitable organizations. If you’re running fundraising campaigns and need more than basic payment buttons, I recommend Charitable.

6. MyPayKit – Best WordPress Square Payment Plugin

MyPayKit is a great WordPress payment plugin for when you want to accept payments through Square without the complexity of a full eCommerce platform.

You get clean, professional payment forms that connect directly to Square’s payment processing system.

Since it’s a new plugin, I wanted to see how well it worked—and it delivered on its promise: offering a simple way to accept Square payments online.

This makes it excellent for collecting deposits, one-time payments, or even donations without forcing customers through a complicated checkout process.

Another thing I really appreciate is how lightweight MyPayKit is compared to other payment solutions.

Unlike WooCommerce or other store-focused plugins, it doesn’t overload your site with extra features you might not need. It focuses specifically on payment collection and does it well.

Plus, it’s not just limited to Square. You can also accept Stripe, PayPal, and Apple Pay if you want to expand your options.

But if Square is your go-to processor, MyPayKit makes accepting payments very easy and straightforward.

Pros of MyPayKit

• Seamless Square integration
• Clean, professional payment form design
• Supports multiple payment processors (Square, Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay)
• Handles both one-time and recurring payments
• Simple 2-minute setup process for non-technical users
• Perfect for service businesses and local retailers

Cons of MyPayKit

• Limited advanced features compared to full eCommerce solutions
• Primarily focused on Square (other processors feel secondary)
• May not suit complex payment scenarios

Pricing: MyPayKit has a free plan with unlimited forms and transactions. However, there’s a 3% application fee. Paid plans start at $49.50 per year to remove the application fee and access premium features.

Why I recommend MyPayKit: It’s a great choice for accepting Square payments on your WordPress website. When I tested it, I found that it worked smoothly and allowed me to collect payments in just a few clicks.

7. MemberPress – Best for WordPress Membership Websites

If you are planning to sell subscriptions, memberships, or online courses on your WordPress website, then MemberPress is my top pick.

It’s a powerful payment plugin that offers payment processing combined with content protection and access control for your membership business.

We’ve used MemberPress to set up free online courses at WPBeginner, and we love its advanced (yet straightforward) access control and content protection features.

The plugin manages the entire member lifecycle from signup to content delivery without requiring manual work. If you want a full look at how it works, check out our MemberPress review.

MemberPress comes with built-in support for Stripe, PayPal, and Authorize.net, so you can start accepting payments securely from day one.

The payment gateway setup is straightforward and reliable across all supported processors. You can offer one-time payments, free trials, recurring subscriptions, and even charge based on access tiers.

This flexibility lets you create sophisticated pricing strategies that grow with your business.

What makes the plugin particularly well-suited for membership sites is how well everything integrates. When someone signs up, their access is instantly managed, and there’s no need to manually approve or update anything.

The tool is also great for building online courses. With the built-in MemberPress Courses addon, you can create lessons, lock premium content, and drip content based on membership levels.

If you’re a creator or educator looking for a simple way to monetize your content, MemberPress makes it easy to get started. To learn more, see our ultimate guide on how to create a membership site.

Pros of MemberPress

• Multiple membership levels with different pricing tiers for upselling
• Built-in coupon system for promotions and discounts
• Immediate content access after payment processing
• Automated payment reminders and failed transaction handling
• Built-in tax support for compliance
• Paywall feature for teasing premium content

Cons of MemberPress

• Advanced features are locked behind paid plans
• Higher starting price than simple payment plugins

Pricing: The pricing for the MemberPress basic plan is $179.50/year. However, to unlock its full LMS potential, including quizzes, assignments, and gradebooks, you will have to buy the pro plan for $399.50/year.

Why I recommend MemberPress: It’s an excellent WordPress plugin for building a membership site or selling courses. While WP Simple Pay works well for basic subscriptions, MemberPress takes it a step further by handling payments, locking down your content, and controlling which members have access to specific pages, lessons, or downloads.

8. Formidable Forms – Best for Advanced Payment Forms

If you’re looking to build advanced forms that calculate pricing and process payments based on user selections, then Formidable Forms is a great option.

It offers powerful form-building tools for creating interactive calculators, quote generators, and custom workflows.

During testing, I was able to easily build loan applications, pricing estimates, and shipping calculators that automatically updated totals based on user input.

And these aren’t static forms—they’re dynamic tools that adapt using conditional logic, changing fields, prices, or redirects based on answers.

This makes Formidable Forms well-suited for legal consultations, service quotes, and custom product estimates.

To learn more about what the plugin can do, check out our Formidable Forms review.

I also really like how easily you can connect Stripe, PayPal, or Authorize.net to charge users after form completion.

Plus, the multi-page form support and integrated data tracking make it easy to manage both submissions and payments from one dashboard.

Overall, if your business needs intelligent forms that do more than collect payments, like guiding users through personalized pricing or registration steps, then Formidable Forms is a solid choice.

Pros of Formidable Forms

• Advanced conditional logic for dynamic form behavior
• Multi-page forms with integrated payment processing
• Supports Stripe, PayPal, and Authorize.net
• Comprehensive data management and submission tracking
• Custom field types for specialized information collection
• AI form builder to speed up initial setup

Cons of Formidable Forms

• More complex than needed for simple payment collection
• Steeper learning curve compared to basic form builders

Pricing: Formidable Forms starts at $39.50/year. However, to unlock calculations, you will need the business plan for $199.50/year.

Why I recommend Formidable Forms: It is a great option if you need more than just a simple payment form. You can build smart forms that automatically calculate the total based on user selections, and then let them pay right away using Stripe, PayPal, or Authorize.net—there’s no coding required.

9. WishList Member – Best for Paywalls and Memberships

WishList Member is a reliable WordPress payment plugin if you’re building a membership site or want to protect premium content behind a paywall.

When I tested WishList Member, I found the integration with Stripe, PayPal, and other gateways to be quite easy. I didn’t need any third-party addons to start charging users for access.

For more details about how the plugin works, see our WishList Member review.

I also appreciate the tool’s ability to create different pricing tiers and offer upsells inside your membership flow.

You can even pair it with your favorite page builder or LMS plugin if you’re offering courses.

If you want to build a paid membership community or sell gated digital content, WishList Member is worth checking out.

Pros of WishList Member

• Automatic management of member upgrades, downgrades, and cancellations
• Drip content feature for gradual content release
• “Pay Per Post” option for selling individual content pieces
• Strong integrations with email marketing tools (Kit, ActiveCampaign, Mailchimp)
• Fully customizable login and registration forms
• Granular content protection controls
• Multiple membership levels with flexible pricing

Cons of WishList Member

• No free plan available
• User interface can feel overwhelming for beginners

Pricing: WishList Member’s basic plan at $149.50/year works well if you are just starting out. It offers unlimited memberships, upgrade paths, and restriction rules.

Why I recommend WishList Member: It is a great option if you’re building a membership site and want to protect your content. It’s designed to help you set up multiple access levels, build a community, and accept payments through Stripe or PayPal, without needing extra tools.

10. Thrive Apprentice – Best for Selling Online Courses

Thrive Apprentice is a great choice if you’re building an online course business and want to control how students access your courses after they’ve paid.

It integrates seamlessly with Stripe and ThriveCart, which makes it easy to sell one-time courses, bundles, or memberships. The payment integration is very intuitive and doesn’t require complicated setup processes.

Want to learn more about what the plugin can do? We did a deep dive for our Thrive Apprentice review.

The best part? It also connects with Thrive Suite tools like Thrive Leads and Thrive Architect, so you can design your entire sales funnel—from opt-in forms to checkout to course delivery—without writing any code.

It makes it very easy to create a polished course experience. You can set access rules, offer free previews, lock lessons until payment is made, and even integrate it with WooCommerce for added flexibility.

If you’re looking for a powerful course builder that doubles as a payment solution, Thrive Apprentice is one of the best options available, especially if you’re already using other Thrive tools.

Pros of Thrive Apprentice

• Access restriction tools for locking courses or individual lessons
• Course bundle creation tied to specific pricing tiers
• Free preview feature for showcasing content quality
• Seamless WooCommerce integration for complex pricing
• Custom login pages and thank you pages for smooth post-purchase experiences
• Built-in student progress tracking and auto-enrollment

Cons of Thrive Apprentice

• Limited to Stripe as the only payment gateway
• No free plan available

Pricing: Thrive Apprentice costs $149/year for the standalone plugin. However, to unlock all the Thrive Themes plugins, you can opt for the Thrive Suite plan at $299 per year.

Why I recommend Thrive Apprentice: It’s a solid choice for anyone building an online course business. Thrive Apprentice provides a seamless course creation experience with built-in Stripe integration, allowing you to start selling immediately without the need for additional plugins or a complex technical setup process.

11. MemberMouse – Best for Enterprise-Level Membership Sites

MemberMouse is a comprehensive membership plugin designed for larger businesses and enterprises running premium membership sites.

Even when you are managing hundreds or thousands of paying members, it handles complex payment processing without any issues.

MemberMouse offers built-in support for major payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.net, and Braintree. This means you don’t need any extra plugins to start collecting payments—it’s all ready to go right after installation.

If you’re curious about the tool’s other features, check out our full MemberMouse review.

The plugin handles one-time payments, subscriptions, and even free trials seamlessly.

Where MemberMouse really shines is in its advanced automation and customer management tools. You can set up smart rules to drip content, offer upsells after checkout, and downgrade or cancel access automatically based on payment status.

If you’re looking for an enterprise-level solution to manage paid memberships, MemberMouse is definitely worth considering.

Pros of MemberMouse

• Create custom checkout pages and upsell offers
• Automated access management based on payment status
• Drip content scheduling
• Has a ‘dunning’ system which automatically follows up on failed payments and helps reduce churn
• Comes with an analytics dashboard
• Supports gift memberships and free vs. paid trials for flexible offers

Cons of MemberMouse

• No free plan
• Limited design customization options

Pricing: Its basic plan starts at $149.50/year.

Why I recommend MemberMouse: If you’re building a membership site with tiered pricing, time-released content, and advanced automation, MemberMouse is built for that level of complexity. From what I’ve seen, it goes beyond basic membership plugins by offering enterprise-level tools, such as smart member segmentation, upsells, and detailed analytics.

My Verdict: What Is the Best WordPress Payment Plugin?

In my opinion, WP Simple Pay is the best WordPress payment plugin for accepting Stripe payments.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants to accept subscription or service payments through clean, customizable forms, without the need to build a full online store. You can offer deposit options, installment plans, and coupon codes, all while keeping the setup super simple.

If you need to build more advanced forms and want to accept Stripe, PayPal, Square, or Authorize.net payments, then WPForms is my top recommendation.

When it comes to selling physical products, you can’t go wrong with WooCommerce. It’s the most powerful option for creating a full-fledged online store, with built-in support for major gateways and powerful extensions like FunnelKit for optimizing your checkout flow.

For digital products specifically, I recommend Easy Digital Downloads. It’s more lightweight and built for selling software, downloads, and licenses.

Meanwhile, if your goal is to raise donations, WP Charitable is the best fit. I’ve tested it for several nonprofit sites, and its donation-focused features, like recurring giving, goal tracking, and customizable campaigns, make it stand out from generic form plugins.

Frequently Asked Questions: WordPress Payment Plugins

Here are some frequently asked questions about WordPress payment plugins.

Can I test WordPress payments before going live?

Most quality plugins, including WP Simple Pay, WPForms, WooCommerce, and Easy Digital Downloads, offer a sandbox or test mode that allows you to test payments with just a few clicks.

I recommend enabling this before launching to avoid errors and ensure everything works smoothly. To get started, see our tutorial on how to test Stripe payments in WordPress.

Can I charge a processing fee to customers in WordPress?

Yes, plugins like Easy Digital Downloads, WooCommerce, and WP Simple Pay let you pass the Stripe or PayPal processing fee directly to the customer. This is especially useful if you’re selling digital products with thin margins.

For step-by-step instructions, see our tutorial on how to pass the payment processing fee to customers in WordPress.

What’s the best plugin for accepting recurring payments or subscriptions?

MemberPress is ideal for subscriptions and membership sites. It supports recurring billing, access control, and integrates with major payment gateways out of the box.

Can I accept payments on WordPress without WooCommerce?

Yes, absolutely. Plugins like WP Simple Pay, WPForms, and MemberPress let you accept payments without setting up a full online store. They’re great for selling services, subscriptions, or digital downloads through custom forms.

For more information, see our guide on how to sell on WordPress without WooCommerce.

💡Related Guides: Managing Payments in WordPress

Looking for more information on how to manage payments in WordPress? Check out these additional guides:

• Best WooCommerce Payment Gateways for WordPress (Compared)
• How to Add Stripe QR Code Payment in WordPress
• How to Reduce Stripe Transaction Fees in WordPress (Expert Tips)
• Important Online Payment Statistics, Data, and Trends
• WordPress Payment Processing: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners
• Stripe vs. PayPal: Which Is Better for Your WordPress Site?
• How to Create Invoices for Clients Using WordPress

Whether you need step-by-step tutorials, tips for boosting conversions, or guidance on securing your transactions, these resources will help you optimize your payment setup.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post 11 Best WordPress Payment Plugins (Tested & Verified) first appeared on WPBeginner.

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Are you fed up with overspending on your business phone system? Or maybe you’re a startup looking for a cost-effective solution that still has all the features you need?

RingCentral is a great option for many companies and entrepreneurs (in fact, we often recommend it to WPBeginner readers). However, it’s not the perfect solution for every single business.

That’s why I’ve done the research for you, testing a ton of business phone systems to find the best RingCentral alternatives. I looked at everything from pricing and ease of use to call quality and customer support, focusing on solutions suitable for all kinds of business owners.

Whether you’re looking for advanced features or just want something simple and affordable, I’m confident I’ve found a RingCentral alternative to fit your needs.

Quick Pick – The Best RingCentral Alternatives

In a hurry? No worries! Take a look at my top picks so you can quickly choose the right RingCentral alternative for your site.

Rank	RingCentral Alternative	Best For	Price per month
🥇	Nextiva	Businesses of all sizes, especially remote teams	$20 per user
🥈	Ooma	Small businesses on a tight budget	$19.95
🥉	Grasshopper	Solo entrepreneurs in the US and Canada	$14
4	Zoom Phone	Teams that require video conferencing and team messaging	$15 per user
5	Phone.com	Businesses that operate globally, especially healthcare	$15 per user
6	Vonage	Call centers and larger businesses	$13.99 per line

How I Tested & Reviewed Ring Central Alternatives

I know that finding the right communication platform can be daunting and high-stakes. Make the wrong decision, and your remote team may struggle to collaborate. Even worse, you might miss urgent customer queries, provide a terrible customer experience, or lose out on potential leads.

With so much at stake, I’m committed to giving you the best possible advice about RingCentral alternatives.

That said, here’s how I tested the different options in this article: 

• We have actually used them at WPBeginner: For instance, we have used Nextiva for our own business phone system for many years and Zoom for company meetings. This real-world experience means we understand how these tools perform in a real business, and not just in a perfect demo environment.
• I put the most popular ones to the test: I dug deep into these solutions, analyzing them based on the stuff that really matters: How easy are they to use? What features do they offer? Do they have any time-saving artificial intelligence tools? And of course, how much do they cost? 
• I tried customizing them: Your business is unique, so your communication system should be, too. With that in mind, I personally tested each RingCentral alternative to see whether you can customize the call flows, greetings, and overall experience. For example, do you have the flexibility to fine-tune the VoIP or communications solution to better suit your business, or are you stuck with the default settings?
• I categorized them: The truth is, there’s no single ‘best’ RingCentral alternative that’s perfect for everyone. I understand that a small startup has different needs than a large call center. With that in mind, I categorized each solution to help you find the right platform for your unique needs. 

6 Best RingCentral Alternatives

Now, let’s look at the best RingCentral alternatives you should consider for your business.

1. Nextiva – Best for Remote Teams

I can confidently say that Nextiva is an excellent business phone service, especially for remote teams. Since it’s a cloud-based platform, you can answer calls from anywhere using an app on your computer or phone.

We also use it across our own business. We ultimately chose Nextiva because it offered the best balance of features, ease of use, and affordability for a business phone system, especially for remote teams like ours.

You can check out our Nextiva review for more information.

Another standout feature is Nextiva’s ability to handle multiple communication channels, including phone, SMS, live chat, video, team messaging, and social media. 

This makes it particularly well-suited for customer support, as it allows for seamless customer interactions. 

Nexitva’s IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system is also incredibly useful. This automated phone menu allows callers to interact with Nextiva using their keyboard or voice.

If you’ve ever rang a phone number and heard a pre-recorded greeting say something like “Press 1 for…” then you’ve encountered an IVR system before.

This feature enables you to route callers to the right department or person automatically, allowing you to better handle high call volumes. By automating simple routine tasks like this, you’ll be free to focus on more complex customer issues.

Plus, Nextiva has some great call analytics and reports. These call metrics allow you to see how many calls your team can handle and improve your customer service and sales teams.

Overall, Nextiva’s feature set is very impressive and includes automated reminders, video calls, an auto-attendant, and screen sharing.

It also integrates smoothly with other business tools like HubSpot, Zendesk, Zoho, and Salesforce.

✅ Pros of Nextiva:

• Cloud-based business phone service that’s perfect for remote work
• Affordable VoIP phone service
• Automated call forwarding based on your schedule
• Built-in contact management features
• Supports video chat, including screen sharing and file sharing
• Handles multiple communication channels
• Email and text voicemail transcription
• Detailed call analytics 
• Easily connects with other business tools

❌ Cons of Nextiva:

• No matter what plan you buy, you’ll need to pay for each additional user. This may make Nextiva difficult to scale, especially if you’re a rapidly expanding company that regularly onboards new employees. 
• The desktop app uses many resources and can slow down your computer.

Why I recommend Nextiva: As remote work continues to grow, I’m hearing from more and more businesses that need a reliable cloud-based phone solution. If this sounds like you, then Nextiva may be your ideal solution.

It lets you answer calls from anywhere using an app on your computer or phone, so it’s perfect for remote teams. I can also see this being a good option if your employees regularly travel or work in the field.

Pricing: Plans start at $20 per user per month for the Digital Plan and go up to $60 per user per month for the advanced Power Suite plan. 

2. Ooma – Best for Small Businesses on a Tight Budget

For small businesses, every dollar counts. Luckily, Ooma offers advanced features like auto-attendant, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription at a surprisingly budget-friendly price.

One of Oooma’s standout features is its virtual receptionist, which lets you create custom messages with general information such as your business hours and locations. It will then read these messages to anyone who calls your business number.

This helps callers get essential information right away, even if you don’t have a huge support team available 24/7.

But here’s where Oooma gets really smart.

The Virtual Receptionist isn’t just some basic answering machine. It can actually figure out who the caller needs to speak with and automatically forward them to the right person or department. For example, the virtual receptionist can ask callers to press different buttons for specific extensions, such as “Press 1 to speak with our refunds department.”

This makes your business look incredibly efficient and organized, allowing you to compete with the big guys (even if you’re a small team behind the scenes).

I also appreciated the drag-and-drop call flow designer, making it easy to create custom call flows. Even if you don’t have a technical expert on staff, you can still create custom call routes in minutes.

During my testing, I found Ooma’s call quality to be consistently clear and reliable. The mobile app is also pretty handy, allowing you to make unlimited domestic calls.

Even better, you can save up to 90% on international call rates when you dial through the app. That’s a massive saving if you call overseas a lot!

The Ooma app also uses your phone’s Wi-Fi or data connection to make calls. That means you can chat away without worrying about using up all your mobile data or sacrificing call quality.

✅ Pros of Ooma:

• Toll-free number with 500 minutes of inbound calls each month.
• Assign multiple devices to the same user.
• Automated call forwarding based on a schedule.
• The Caller Info Match feature automatically fetches customer information from sources like LinkedIn, Facebook, Google, HubSpot, ServiceNow, or Zoho.
• Supports video chat, including noise suppression, host muting, and HD streams.
• Convenient ‘meet now’ link for instant virtual meetings.
• Automatic voicemail transcription, plus a voicemail-to-email option.
• Easily connects with other business tools, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, Zoho, FreshDesk, and Salesforce Lightning.

❌ Cons of Ooma:

• A few users have experienced issues setting up the mobile app.
• Some features, such as the IVR system, can be complex to set up and require technical expertise.

Why I recommend Ooma: If you’re a small business or have a limited budget, then Ooma Office Essentials is a great starting point. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and manage your phone system, even if you don’t have a team of technical experts on staff.

Ooma is also designed to be affordable. It includes unlimited calling to the US, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, so it’s a great, budget-friendly solution if you regularly call these locations.

Pricing: Ooma Office Essentials is priced at $19.95 per month, and is our recommendation for startups, small business owners, and WordPress freelancers.

However, you can unlock additional features such as call recording and call blocking, voicemail transcriptions, and video conferencing by upgrading to either Ooma Office Pro ($24.95) or Ooma Office Pro Plus ($29.95).

3. Grasshopper – Best for Solo Entrepreneurs in the US/Canada

Setting up and maintaining a professional phone system can be overwhelming, especially when you’re flying solo. That’s where Grasshopper comes in.

This is a powerful virtual business phone service specifically designed to help solo entrepreneurs establish a strong brand image and communicate effectively with customers.

Solo entrepreneurs often work from home or remotely, which can make it difficult to establish a professional phone presence. Grasshopper solves this problem by allowing you to create a toll-free number, a vanity number, or a local number in any city of your choice.

I particularly like the option to create a local number, as it helps you appeal to customers outside of your immediate area. You could potentially take your solo business international!

Even better, the Grasshopper app lets customers and potential leads reach you at any time. It doesn’t matter whether you’re working from home, your local coffee shop, or on the go. The app helps you grow your business by ensuring you don’t miss important calls.

The best part? You don’t need to buy any additional phones or equipment—your existing smartphone or computer will do. This makes it an affordable solution for solo entrepreneurs who need to establish a reliable phone system on a limited budget.

It’s also a good option for startups or even some small businesses that may not have invested in professional equipment yet.

To make sure customers always get a response, Grasshopper can automatically send a text to new callers when you can’t answer them right away. This feature is especially useful when you’re flying solo – even the most dedicated solo entrepreneur can’t be available 24/7.

However, keep in mind that Grasshopper is only available to customers in the US or Canada.

✅ Pros of Grasshopper:

• Send and receive texts on your Grasshopper business number.
• Forward any incoming calls to multiple phones at once.
• Automatic voicemail transcriptions.
• Use your internet connection when cell reception is poor.
• Receive faxes as PDF attachments, sent straight to your email inbox.
• Monitor your business with detailed call reports and analytics.

❌ Cons of Grasshopper

• No advanced features like video conferencing or team messaging.
• Limited integrations with other software (Skype and Google Voice only).
• $500 deposit is required to enable international outgoing calls.
• Only available in the US and Canada.

Why I recommend Grasshopper: With Grasshopper, you don’t have to worry about complicated technical setup, maintenance, or equipment. This makes it a good option for startups and small businesses, but I particularly recommend it for solo entrepreneurs.

Grasshopper’s choice of toll-free, vanity, and local numbers helps you establish a professional phone presence, while the app allows you to answer calls from any location at any time.

The end result? Your business projects a more polished and professional image, which is essential for building trust and driving sales.

Pricing: Starts at $14/ month for the True Solo plan. This plan includes 1 user, 1 phone number, and 1 extension – basically, everything you need to support a solo-person business.

4. Zoom Phone – Best for Video Conferencing & Team Messaging

Managing calls, video conferencing, and team chat can be a challenge for any business. However, it’s particularly tricky for remote teams where most of the communication happens virtually.

Zoom Phone offers a solution to this problem by providing an all-in-one platform for managing all your communication needs. This includes answering customer calls, following up on leads, hosting video conferences, and chatting with team members.

As a 100% remote team, we use Zoom for some of our large company meetings.

We need a reliable and efficient platform with built-in team chat and video conferencing. This is essential for keeping our employees connected across different time zones.

With Zoom, we have hosted one-on-one reviews, town hall meetings, team chats, and even team-building social calls, all from the same platform.

Despite being a comprehensive all-in-one platform, Zoom Phone is incredibly easy to set up. Simply choose a cloud phone plan, and you can start making calls immediately using the Zoom mobile or desktop app.

Additionally, Zoom has an AI Companion that can streamline your workflows with advanced features like meeting and call summaries, real-time AI queries during meetings, and AI-powered whiteboard generation.

These features are ideal for video conferences in general, but they’re particularly useful for remote teams where most communication happens via video meetings. They let you keep everyone in the loop, including people who could not attend the video chat.

I also like the ability to switch between voice and video calls with one click. Once again, this is ideal if you need to handle a mix of customer calls, internal meetings, and remote collaboration.

✅ Pros of Zoom Phone:

• Unified interface for phone, video, and chat.
• One-click switch between voice and video calls.
• Convenient, centralized admin portal (monitor users, call quality, usage data, and more).
• Supports multiple devices and apps.
• Unlimited auto-attendants.
• Call queuing with automatic call distribution.
• Integrates seamlessly with Salesforce, Contact Center, Slack, and other popular solutions. 

❌ Cons of Zoom Phone:

• No free trial available (although there is a free version that’s limited to 40-minute call durations and 100 participants).
• The metered international calling fees are a bit expensive for small businesses.

Why I recommend Zoom Phone: With its advanced video conferencing and team chat features, Zoom Phone is a great option for teams that host regular virtual meetings. It’s particularly good for remote teams that rely on chat and video conferencing to work together effectively.

Pricing: Zoom plans start at $15 per user, per month for domestic US and Canada calling, with prices going up to $22.49.

5. Phone.com – Best for International Businesses

Do you have customers all over the globe? Phone.com offers competitive international calling rates to communicate with your existing customers and find new ones without breaking the bank.

Another feature that caught my attention was Phone.com’s AI-powered Answer Bot service. This service can pick up the phone using your company’s name and give a pre-written answer. This is a fantastic way to make your business appear more professional.

It’s also a great addition if you have customers in different time zones, but don’t have call center staff available 24/7. With Phone.com’s Answer Bot service, you can be confident that callers always get some form of response.

Do you work in the healthcare industry? Then I really recommend checking out Phone.com’s HIPAA compliance features.

Keeping patient data private is a huge deal, and Phone.com understands this. For example, if a patient tries to contact you via SMS, then Phone.com can automatically tell them to contact your office in a different way to discuss medical information. This is because text messaging usually isn’t HIPAA compliant.

Setting up Phone.com is also fairly straightforward. Their dashboard is user-friendly, so you can customize call routing, voicemail, and other settings without any hassle. They even have a smart call routing system where you can define custom rules based on the time of day, caller ID, and more.

Once again, these features can be particularly useful for international businesses that want to provide personalized service to customers in different locations. For example, you might route callers to a customer service agent who speaks their preferred language.

✅ Pros of Phone.com:

• Low rates for international calling.
• Connect to any traditional analog telephone.
• HIPAA compliance features.
• Track your top performers and busiest hours with built-in analytics.
• Get additional insights via call logs and call recording.

❌ Cons of Phone.com:

• Customer service response times can sometimes be slow.
• Only includes call analytics and CRM integrations in the most expensive plan.

Why I recommend Phone.com: While Phone.com has limitations, including slower customer service response times, it’s still an excellent option. Its competitive international calling rates, in particular, make it a really attractive platform for companies with customers all over the globe.

And here’s a little something extra that really stood out to me: if you work in the healthcare field, then Phone.com has dedicated HIPAA compliance features. This immediately makes it stand out from every other solution on this list.

If you’re willing to overlook some minor drawbacks, then Phone.com could be your perfect solution, especially for businesses that sell or operate globally.

Pricing: Users can choose between Basic ($15), Plus ($22.50), and Pro ($33.33), with all plans billed per user, per month. 

6. Vonage – Best for Call Centers

As a well-established name in VoIP, Vonage is an excellent option for call centers and larger businesses. After trying out their business phone service, I was impressed by its wide range of features and capabilities.

I was really surprised by how easy it was to manage company phone numbers from my admin dashboard. You can even generate local and toll-free numbers directly from the dashboard (although you will need to contact Vonage to generate international numbers). 

Vonage is a great option for call centers due to features such as team messaging, video conferencing (with up to 200 participants!), call recording, and auto-dialing.

It also supports VoIP desk phones, so you can use traditional office phones alongside the desktop and mobile apps.

However, it’s worth noting that Vonage is one of the more expensive options on this list. So, if you’re a startup or small business, then you may be better off with a different RingCentral alternative.

✅ Pros of Vonage:

• Capture more potential leads with Call Forwarding and Simultaneous Ring.
• Dedicated dial-in numbers from 60 countries.
• Record inbound and outbound calls for any or all users within your organization.
• Call center-specific features like call logs, call recordings, AI routing, and advanced call analytics.
• Admin portal for call management.
• Connects with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and other tools.

❌ Cons of Vonage:

• Expensive for small businesses.
• Long contract periods.

Why I recommend Vonage: Vonage has some seriously advanced features built explicitly with call centers in mind. That makes it a fantastic pick if you need a rock-solid VoIP solution that can handle the demands of a busy customer service team.

However, while Vonage offers many powerful features, it is pricier than some other options. If budget is a major concern for your business, then I’d definitely recommend choosing one of the other RingCentral alternatives in this guide.

Pricing: Vonage’s base plan starts from $13.99 per month, per line, and goes all the way up to $27.99 per month, per line.

What Is the Best RingCentral Alternative? 

After thoroughly testing and comparing various business phone systems and platforms, I’m excited to share my top pick for the best RingCentral alternative: Nextiva.

It’s a reliable, flexible, and secure platform with an impressive feature set. It’s also a cloud-based solution, so your team can answer calls using any computer or phone. Overall, Nextiva is a perfect fit for remote teams or employees who travel a lot, or perhaps even work in the field.

Nextiva can also automatically forward calls based on each team member’s schedule. This can help remote team members work together more seamlessly, even when they’re spread across multiple time zones.

But what about other options?

If you’re a small business with a limited budget, then Ooma and Grasshopper are both great starting points. They both offer affordable plans, and they’re easy to use, making them ideal for solo entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses alike.

However, the best RingCentral alternative for your business will ultimately depend on your specific needs and requirements. I recommend considering factors like budget, scalability, features, and user interface to help you make the right decision for your business.

Best RingCentral Alternatives: Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve been part of the WPBeginner team for a while, so I’ve definitely heard my fair share of questions along the way.

To help you out, I’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions we get asked about RingCentral and potential alternatives. 

Why should I avoid RingCentral?

The main issue I hear from businesses is that RingCentral is considerably more expensive than other VoIP providers. Often, this means it simply isn’t an option for solo entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses, since they typically have smaller budgets.

RingCentral also has many features, so its learning curve tends to be steeper than its competitors. Once again, this tends to be a problem for smaller businesses, as they’re less likely to have a technical expert who can help them set up and maintain RingCentral.

Don’t get me wrong: RingCentral is still a great platform. In fact, it has all the features you’d expect from an advanced communication tool, including call forwarding, number sharing, call waiting, and call management. It also integrates with popular CRMs like Salesforce and Zendesk. 

So, while Nextiva is my top recommendation, RingCentral is a fantastic tool that I still recommend to larger businesses with bigger budgets or more complex needs.

If you want to learn more, then you can see our detailed RingCentral review for a deeper dive.

And if you do decide that RingCentral is the right fit for you, then you’re in luck – we have a RingCentral coupon, so you can get a discount.

Is there a free version of RingCentral?

While there isn’t a completely free version, RingCentral does offer a free trial. This means you can see if the platform is right for you before investing in a paid plan.

What is the best RingCentral alternative?

In my experience, Nextiva is the best virtual business phone service on the market. It’s loaded with advanced features, offers truly excellent support, and is designed to scale as your team grows. 

We use Nextiva across our company, and in our opinion, it’s the best cloud phone system and platform on the market, especially if you have a remote team.

Which is better, Nextiva or RingCentral?

When it comes to finding the absolute best VoIP phone provider and platform for small businesses, everything points to Nextiva.

Nextiva offers competitive pricing, a ton of features, the best call quality, lower rates for international calls, and a wide range of numbers to choose from (local, international, toll-free, and vanity numbers).

Curious to learn more? Our in-depth post compares Nextiva vs RingCentral vs Ooma, exploring their key features.

Bonus: How to Get Started With Your Business Phone System

Choosing which communication platform to use is a big step, so great job deciding! Now that you’ve got that sorted, let’s help you set up a seamless business phone system.

We’ve put together some handy guides that will show you how to set up call forwarding, voicemail greetings, and other essential features to make sure customers and potential leads can reach you with ease:

• Beginner’s Guide: What is VoIP and How Does it Work? (Explained)
• How to Set Up an Auto Attendant Phone System for Your Website
• How to Set Up Business Call Forwarding From Your Website
• How to Set Up a Business Voicemail Greeting (With Examples)
• Ways to Get an 800 Toll-Free Number for Your Business
• Best Call Center Software (Expert Pick)

I hope this article has helped you find the best RingCentral alternative for you. Next up, you might want to check out our guide on how to add a WhatsApp chatbox and share buttons in WordPress or how to get a virtual WhatsApp number for your business.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post 6 Best RingCentral Alternatives & How They Compare (2025) first appeared on WPBeginner.

I started building websites in 2006, and like most beginners, I used shared hosting. It was affordable, simple, and got the job done for my early projects.

But as my online businesses grew, so did traffic, including on WPBeginner. Shared hosting started slowing me down—literally. I had to deal with downtime, slow page loads, and frustrating support.

Since then, I’ve tested just about every type of hosting you can think of—shared, VPS, dedicated, cloud, and even custom enterprise setups. I’ve seen what works, what breaks, and what actually helps websites grow without stress.

Today, most of my websites run on cloud hosting, and I couldn’t be happier with it. I can scale resources as needed and handle millions of pageviews without worrying about downtime.

This guide is based on my own experience, my team’s experience, and real testing. Whether you’re starting fresh or ready to scale, I’ll help you find the best cloud hosting—without wasting time or money.

Here’s why you can trust my recommendations:

• My team and I have used many of these cloud hosts for our own sites and side projects. (See our editorial process.)
• I test each provider using real WordPress installs, load testing tools, and performance monitors.
• With my annual survey, I review support experiences, pricing changes, and real user feedback from WPBeginner readers.
• My team and I have spent over 16 years working with WordPress hosting, and I still use these platforms today. (Meet my team members.)

If you want fast, secure, and beginner-friendly cloud hosting for WordPress, here are my top picks for 2025.

Top Picks (Quick Comparison)

Host	Starting Price	Load Time	Best For	User Score	WPBeginner Rating
	$100/mo	397 ms	🏆 Best All-Round Hosting	4.9/5	A++ (Review)
	$7.99/mo	374 ms	💸 Best Budget Cloud Hosting	4.9/5	A++ (Review)
	$75/mo	255 ms	🚀 High-Traffic Sites	4.8/5	A+ (Review)
	$30/mo	448 ms	⚡ Premium Performance	4.8/5	A+ (Review)
	$12.50/mo	636 ms	🛒 eCommerce & Small Business	4.8/5	A+ (Review)
	$4.50/mo	439 ms	🔧 Developer-Friendly Cloud Hosting	4.7/5	A (Review)
	$12.71/mo	362 ms	📦 VPS-Like Hosting on a Budget	4.8/5	A
	$25/mo	750 ms	👥 WooCommerce Store Owners & Agencies	4.9/5	A (Review)
	$30/mo	635 ms	💼 Premium Managed WordPress Hosting	4.9/5	A
	Varies	415 ms	☁️ Advanced Users & Server Controls	4.7/5	B+
	Varies	684 ms	🏗️ Infrastructure-Level Hosting	4.6/5	B+

Cloud hosting has become the go-to solution for WordPress users who need faster load times, better uptime, and the flexibility to handle growing traffic. But if you’re not familiar with how cloud hosting works, this section will help you understand the basics and how I test each provider.

What Is Cloud Hosting for WordPress?

Cloud hosting is a type of web hosting where your website runs on a network of connected servers, instead of being tied to just one physical machine like with shared or VPS hosting.

This setup allows your site to use more resources when it needs them, making it faster and more reliable, especially during traffic spikes.

Unlike shared hosting, cloud platforms don’t slow down when someone else’s site gets busy. And compared to VPS or dedicated servers, you don’t have to worry about manual upgrades or server maintenance.

It’s perfect for WordPress users who want better performance, more control, and room to grow without jumping through technical hoops.

Pros and Cons of Cloud Hosting

I’ve used cloud hosting for years on high-traffic blogs, eCommerce sites, and even custom apps. Here are the pros and cons that I’ve found.

Advantages of Cloud Hosting

• Scalability: You can easily increase resources without downtime.
• Speed: Faster load times due to dedicated resources and global CDNs.
• Reliability: If one server fails, your site stays online using the others.
• Better Uptime: Most providers guarantee 99.9% or better uptime.
• Stronger Security: Built-in DDoS protection, backups, and isolation from other sites.

Disadvantages of Cloud Hosting

• Higher Cost: Cloud hosting is more expensive than shared hosting.
• Learning Curve: Some platforms are not beginner-friendly.
• Resource Limits: Some plans still limit traffic or storage, so check the fine print.

Overall, the benefits far outweigh the downsides, especially if you’re serious about site performance and uptime.

How I Test Cloud Hosting Providers

I believe in full transparency. I don’t just rely on marketing claims—I sign up, install WordPress, and test each host myself.

For each provider in this guide, I set up a live site using a default WordPress theme with demo content, images, and plugins to mimic a real-world site.

Then, I run tests using these industry-standard tools:

• Pingdom: Measures page load speed from different locations.
• UptimeRobot: Monitors site uptime 24/7.
• K6 (by Grafana): Sends virtual users to test how well the server handles traffic spikes.
• Bitcatcha: Checks server response time from global locations.

I also evaluate support response time, ease of use, dashboard design, and pricing terms. If a host makes it hard to cancel or get a refund, then I won’t recommend it.

This way, you’re not just getting opinions—you’re getting data and firsthand experience.

Need Help? Hire a WordPress Expert!🙋

Need help with your new website? Check out WPBeginner’s WordPress Website Design service. For a small fee, my team of professional WordPress experts will help bring your idea to life.

Our service includes:

• A dedicated project manager to bring your idea to life.
• Multiple revisions according to your needs.
• Blog setup, WooCommerce setup, and full SEO optimization.

Just check out our WordPress Website Design service page for more details!

The Best Cloud Hosting Providers for WordPress

Have you ever noticed how every cloud hosting provider claims to be the fastest, most reliable, and most scalable option for WordPress?

With dozens of companies offering similar-sounding features and using buzzwords like “infinite scalability” and “next-gen infrastructure,” finding the right cloud hosting solution can feel like trying to spot the differences in identical twins.

I’ve narrowed down the best WordPress cloud hosting providers based on real-world performance, value for money, and user experience. Let’s look at each one individually to see why it made the cut and what type of website it works best for.

1. SiteGround

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $100/mo 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: 1 🔹Disk Space: 10GB

Pros of Using SiteGround

• Built on Google Cloud for maximum speed and uptime
• Free daily backups, SSL, email, and staging tools
• Beginner-friendly custom dashboard (no cPanel)
• Excellent live chat support, available 24/7
• Highly rated by WordPress users and developers

Best For

• Bloggers and small business owners who want fast, scalable hosting
• WordPress users who value top-tier support and simplicity

SiteGround Performance Tests

Uptime

I recorded 100% uptime on my SiteGround test site — a great result for any cloud host.

Page Load Speed

The average page load time was 397 ms in my Pingdom tests across North America and Europe.

Stress Testing

Using K6 to simulate 50 users, SiteGround maintained stable speeds with no major slowdowns or errors.

Global Response Times:

Due to Google Cloud Infrastructure, SiteGround’s response time was great from all geographic locations. It was slightly higher in India, but still within an acceptable range.

My Experience: I host several sites on SiteGround, including WPBeginner. I’ve found it to be fast, dependable, and easy to use, which is everything you want in a WordPress cloud host. You can read more about it in the case study discussing why I moved WPBeginner to SiteGround. For a more in-depth analysis, take a look at my full SiteGround review.

2. Hostinger

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $7.99/mo 🔹Free Domain: Yes 🔹Sites Allowed: 1 🔹Disk Space: 50GB

Pros of Using Hostinger

• Lowest starting price for cloud-based WordPress hosting
• Clean, custom hPanel interface (great for beginners)
• Includes LiteSpeed caching, CDN, and malware scanning
• One-click WordPress installs and staging are available
• Consistent uptime and quick support response

Best For

• Beginners looking for affordable cloud hosting
• Freelancers, students, or side projects with growth potential

Hostinger Performance Tests

Uptime

Hostinger maintained 99.99% uptime over 30 days of testing using UptimeRobot.

Page Load Speed

The average page load time was 374 ms across multiple global Pingdom locations.

Stress Testing

During load tests with 50 concurrent users via K6, performance remained smooth with no timeouts.

Global Response Time:

My Hostinger test site had a great response time from all geographic locations.

My Experience: I often recommend Hostinger for beginners who want real cloud performance on a budget. It’s reliable, fast, and easy to manage even for non-technical users. I also like their fast and friendly customer support, which is available 24/7 via live chat. For more details, see my team’s full Hostinger review.

3. Bluehost Cloud

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $75/mo 🔹Free Domain: Yes 🔹Sites Allowed: 5+ 🔹Disk Space: 100GB SSD

Pros of Using Bluehost Cloud

• Built for performance with cloud-native architecture
• Excellent speed and load handling (great for eCommerce)
• Free domain, backups, malware protection, and staging
• Optimized specifically for WordPress use cases
• Easy dashboard with Pro features built in

Best For

• High-traffic blogs, WooCommerce stores, or agency websites
• Site owners ready to upgrade from shared or VPS to premium cloud

Bluehost Cloud Performance Tests

Uptime

I recorded 99.98% uptime using UptimeRobot with Bluehost Cloud.

Page Load Speed

It had one of the fastest page load times in my tests — just 255 ms across US and EU servers.

Stress Testing

K6 stress tests showed excellent stability with 50 users and no bottlenecks.

Global Response Time

Response times were strong in the US and Europe but slower in Asia and Australia.

My Experience: I’m a long-time Bluehost customer and have used Bluehost Cloud for business websites that needed premium speed and guaranteed uptime. It’s a big step up from shared plans and one of Bluehost’s best upgrades yet. For more details, take a look at my team’s full Bluehost review.

4. Rocket.net

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $30/mo 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: 1 🔹Disk Space: 10GB

Pros of Using Rocket.net

• Cloudflare Enterprise is included at no extra cost
• Blazing-fast speeds even under load
• One of the simplest managed dashboards I’ve used
• No need to configure caching or CDN manually
• Excellent support from WordPress experts

Best For

• Agencies and businesses that prioritize speed and security
• Users who want premium managed WordPress hosting with zero maintenance

Rocket.net Performance Tests

Uptime

Rocket.net maintained 100% uptime during my 30-day test window.

Page Load Speed

Pages loaded in just 448 ms on average (270 ms on the US East Coast) with no need for plugin-based optimization.

Stress Testing

Rocket.net held steady with 50 concurrent virtual users and didn’t show any traffic lag during K6 tests.

Global Response Time

I was delighted by the fast server response time from all geographic locations.

My Experience: I use Rocket.net for some of my businesses where I need top-tier speed with zero setup. Their Cloudflare integration and server stack make it feel like everything is pre-optimized out of the box. For more details, see my team’s full Rocket.net review.

5. WordPress.com

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $12.50/mo 🔹Free Domain: Yes 🔹Sites Allowed: 1 🔹Disk Space: 50GB

Pros of Using WordPress.com

• Hosted by the folks who know WordPress inside out
• Built-in performance, security, SEO, and backups
• No need to worry about updates, caching, or plugins
• Beginner-friendly dashboard and editor
• Strong support and uptime for business websites

Best For

• Bloggers, freelancers, and small business owners
• Anyone who wants “set it and forget it” WordPress hosting

WordPress.com Performance Tests

Uptime

WordPress.com had 100% uptime during my tests, which is excellent for managed cloud hosting.

Page Load Speed

The site loaded in about 636 ms on average across key regions, which is slightly slower than developer-focused hosts but still fast.

Stress Testing

It handled 50 virtual users in my K6 test with no slowdowns, which shows their infrastructure is solid.

Global Response Time

WordPress.com had great server response times across the board.

My Experience: I recommend WordPress.com as an excellent option for beginners and small business websites. It does have some limitations, which is why I recommend starting with Business or Commerce plans, which offer more flexibility. For more details, see my team’s detailed WordPress.com review.

6. DreamHost Cloud

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $4.50/mo 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: Unlimited (manual setup) 🔹Disk Space: Scalable SSD

Pros of Using DreamHost Cloud

• Very low starting cost for full cloud access
• Great for developers needing sandbox or staging environments
• Custom stack deployment (LAMP, NGINX, etc.)
• Scalable compute and storage resources
• No fixed limits on bandwidth or site count

Best For

• Advanced users and developers
• Testing, staging, or custom WordPress cloud stacks

DreamHost Performance Tests

Uptime

Over 30 days, my DreamHost Cloud site maintained 99.89% uptime, which is solid for a self-managed setup.

Page Load Speed

The page load time was 439 ms — faster than I expected from a DIY setup.

Stress Testing

With K6, the server handled 50 concurrent users smoothly with minimal latency spikes.

My Experience: I have tested DreamHost Cloud for development sites and custom testing projects. I like that it gives total control without breaking the bank. My team has a detailed DreamHost review with more information on their regular WordPress plans.

7. Scala Hosting

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $12.71/mo 🔹Free Domain: Yes 🔹Sites Allowed: Unlimited 🔹Disk Space: 50GB SSD

Pros of Using Scala Hosting

• Includes free SPanel (cPanel alternative with no license fees)
• Fully managed VPS cloud with strong security features
• Excellent speed and uptime across global test locations
• Scalable RAM, CPU, and storage on demand
• Helpful and fast live chat support

Best For

• WordPress users who want VPS-style control with managed support
• Agencies, resellers, and site owners who need scalability

Scala Hosting Performance Tests

Uptime

Scala Hosting delivered 99.99% uptime during my monitoring period.

Page Load Speed

The average page load time was 362 ms based on Pingdom tests from the US and EU regions.

Stress Testing

K6 tests showed smooth handling of up to 50 virtual users with no performance dips.

Global Response Time

Response times were excellent, averaging just 120.4 ms globally, with faster results in the US and Europe.

My Experience: When I signed up for Scala Hosting, I enjoyed the smooth user experience. I also liked how it balances the ease of use of a managed WordPress host with developer-friendly flexibility. I reached out to support for some queries, and their response time and problem-solving skills were excellent. For more details, see our full Scala Hosting review.

8. Pressable

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $25/mo 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: 1–Unlimited (based on plan) 🔹Disk Space: 20–200GB SSD

Pros of Using Pressable

• Created by Automattic (makers of WordPress.com & WooCommerce)
• Includes enhanced security, CDN, and daily backups
• Excellent speed under high traffic
• Easy-to-use dashboard with cloning, staging, and team tools
• Rock-solid uptime and responsive support

Best For

• WooCommerce store owners and business websites
• Agencies and professionals managing multiple client installs

Pressable Performance Tests

Uptime

Pressable held 100% uptime across my monitoring period using UptimeRobot.

Page Load Speed

The average load time was just 750 ms, with no need to configure extra performance plugins.

Stress Testing

During K6 load testing, it handled 50 concurrent users with zero slowdowns.

Global Response Time

Pressable gave an incredible server response time from all geographic locations.

My Experience: I liked the ease of use and smooth onboarding experience, which add great value for beginners who need premium performance without hiring a developer. Pressable offers a fully managed WordPress environment that works well out of the box. The performance, support, and security are top-notch, and it’s one of the few platforms where I rarely need to touch caching or CDN settings. See my team’s detailed Pressable review for more analysis.

9. Kinsta

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: $35/mo 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: 1+ 🔹Disk Space: 10GB–100GB SSD

Pros of Using Kinsta

• Built on Google Cloud’s premium tier with global CDN
• Lightning-fast out of the box — no caching plugins needed
• Daily backups, one-click staging, and free hack fixes
• Excellent support from actual WordPress engineers
• Easy-to-use MyKinsta dashboard with tons of features

Best For

• Site owners who want high-end, fully managed WordPress hosting
• Businesses, agencies, and professionals who value speed and uptime

Kinsta Performance Tests

Uptime

Every site I tested on Kinsta had 100% uptime for the whole duration of monitoring.

Page Load Speed

With their built-in caching and CDN, I saw average load times under 635 ms — no optimization required.

Stress Testing

Even under 50 simultaneous users in my K6 tests, Kinsta held up with consistent response times and no server strain.

My Experience: I enjoyed testing Kinsta for internal projects and staging websites. It offers a clean and intuitive dashboard, which makes managing your website so much easier. It’s fast, secure, and supported by people who truly understand WordPress. If your business depends on uptime and speed, Kinsta is worth every dollar.

10. Google Cloud

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: Pay-as-you-go 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: Unlimited 🔹Disk Space: Fully Scalable

Pros of Using Google Cloud

• Same infrastructure used by SiteGround, Kinsta, and major apps
• Unmatched flexibility for scaling and performance
• Access to the full server stack and network settings
• Pay-as-you-go pricing and generous free credits
• Fast SSDs, load balancing, and global CDN options

Best For

• Developers and agencies building custom WordPress stacks
• Advanced users who want full server control and automation

Google Cloud Performance Tests

Uptime

My custom VM stack on Google Cloud maintained 100% uptime over 30 days of testing.

Page Load Speed

After tuning the server, my site loaded in just 415 ms across global locations.

Stress Testing

In my K6 tests, it handled 50 users with no timeouts, but only after I configured load balancing and caching manually.

My Experience: I’ve used Google Cloud for projects that needed complete freedom, and I love the power and flexibility it offers. But unless you’re comfortable managing Linux servers, I’d stick with a managed cloud host from this list, such as SiteGround.

11. AWS (Amazon Web Services)

Quick info: 🔹Starting from: Pay-as-you-go 🔹Free Domain: No 🔹Sites Allowed: Unlimited 🔹Disk Space: Fully Scalable

Pros of Using AWS

• Extreme flexibility for custom WordPress infrastructure
• Highly scalable with advanced security and monitoring
• Used by large enterprises and SaaS apps
• Global availability zones and CDN integration
• Free tier allows you to test with no cost for 12 months

Best For

• Developers and system admins managing high-scale WordPress environments
• Agencies and teams needing full-stack control and automation

AWS Performance Tests

Uptime

I set up monitoring just before stress-testing my AWS test site. The site remained up during the testing with 100% uptime.

Page Load Speed

My test site loaded in 684 ms on average without any caching or performance optimization.

Stress Testing

In my K6 load test, AWS held up under 50 concurrent users, but I had to set up caching and optimization.

My Experience: AWS provides flexibility and resources, but you will need to spend time configuring and managing it. It’s not beginner-friendly, but it delivers the power and reliability I expect from enterprise hosting for large, mission-critical sites. For those who want to try it out, my team has prepared a step-by-step beginner-friendly guide for installing WordPress on AWS.

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My Verdict: Best Cloud Hosting Providers for WordPress

After testing dozens of platforms and helping site owners scale with confidence, these are the top 3 cloud hosting providers I recommend, based on real-world usage, performance, and value.

FAQs About Cloud Hosting for WordPress

Choosing a cloud hosting provider can be challenging, especially with so many technical terms and features.

Here are some common questions I get from readers and clients when they’re making the switch to WordPress cloud hosting, along with my honest answers.

What is cloud hosting for WordPress?

Cloud hosting means your website is hosted on a network of virtual servers instead of one physical server. It offers better speed, uptime, and scalability, especially for growing WordPress sites.

Is cloud hosting better than shared hosting?

Yes. Cloud hosting offers faster performance, higher uptime, and more flexibility than shared hosting. If your site is growing or you want a better experience, cloud hosting is a smart upgrade.

Do I need to be a developer to use cloud hosting?

No, not if you choose a managed cloud hosting provider like SiteGround, Hostinger, or Bluehost Cloud. They handle the technical stuff for you. However, platforms like AWS and Google Cloud are more advanced and require technical knowledge.

Can I switch to cloud hosting without losing my site?

Yes. Most providers offer free or assisted migration to help you move your WordPress site safely to their cloud platform. I’ve done this for many client sites without any downtime.

What’s the best cloud hosting for WordPress?

My top picks are SiteGround for all-round performance, Hostinger for budget users, and Bluehost Cloud for premium features with ease of use.

Want to Learn More About WordPress Hosting?

These guides can help if you’re still exploring your options or want to better understand how WordPress hosting works:

• How to Choose the Best WordPress Hosting
• WordPress Maintenance vs Managed Hosting – Which Is Better?
• How Much Traffic Can WordPress Handle? (+ Expert Scaling Tips)
• Beginner’s Guide to WordPress Speed and Performance

I hope this guide helped you find the right cloud hosting for your WordPress site. If you still have questions or need help deciding, feel free to leave a comment or reach out — I read every message, and I’m happy to help however I can.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post 11 Best Cloud Hosting Providers for WordPress in 2025 (Expert Pick) first appeared on WPBeginner.

When I launched my first online store years ago, I wanted to scale my business without spending more on marketing. That’s when I discovered affiliate marketing – it was like leading a team of salespeople promoting my products without any upfront costs.

But finding the right affiliate plugin for WooCommerce can be tricky. I’ve tested virtually every WooCommerce affiliate plugin on the market, learning the hard way which ones actually deliver results.

Today, I’m sharing my findings. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your existing affiliate program, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

WooCommerce Affiliate Plugins: My Favorite Picks

In a hurry? No problem! I have summarized the best affiliate plugins you can use for WooCommerce in the table below:

Rank	Plugin Name	Best For…	Starting Price	Free Version/Trial?
🥇	AffiliateWP	Overall affiliate management	$149.60/year	❌
🥈	RewardsWP	Refer-a-friend programs	$79.60/ year	❌
🥉	Easy Affiliate	Subscription products	$99.60/year	❌
4	Advanced Coupons	Coupon campaigns	$59.50/year	✅
5	YITH WooCommerce Affiliates	Flexible affiliate rules	$179.99/year	✅
6	ShareASale	Finding established affiliates	$750 + fees	❌
7	Coupon Affiliates	Small business owners	$19.99/month	✅
8	SliceWP	Simple affiliate programs	$169/year	✅

Want more information? Just keep reading to learn more about each plugin.

My WooCommerce Affiliate Plugin Review Process

For most of the WooCommerce affiliate plugins on this list, I tested them thoroughly by setting up demo websites. This hands-on approach gives much better insights than simply reading feature lists or user reviews.

While I tested most plugins on demo sites, we’ve used tools like AffiliateWP in our own business for years, which has given me deep familiarity with using it to run affiliate programs.

For each tool, I first checked how easy it was to get started. For example, some plugins automatically create registration forms and affiliate dashboards when they are activated, which reduces the amount of setup.

I also paid close attention to commission flexibility. Can you set different rates for products? How about recurring commissions for subscriptions? The best plugins let you create various commission structures to match your business model.

On top of that, a good plugin should offer accurate performance reports. This will allow you to see how successful your marketing efforts are and which affiliates are bringing the best results.

Next, I also looked at how each plugin handles affiliate payments. The most useful plugins provide multiple payment methods, automated payouts, and flexible payment schedules.

Finally, I looked at pricing structures and what you get for your money. While most affiliate plugins require an investment, I highlighted which essential features are available in free versions and which are locked behind premium tiers. 

Now, let’s look at the best WooCommerce affiliate plugins I’ve tested and reviewed.

1. AffiliateWP – Best Overall WooCommerce Affiliate Plugin

AffiliateWP is the best plugin for starting and running an affiliate program in your WooCommerce store. Many of our partner brands have used it on their websites because it’s easy to set up and works well for managing affiliate partners.

What’s more, AffiliateWP offers a ton of features for online stores. You can create special affiliate landing pages, set up fraud protection, and customize your affiliate dashboard. I’ve covered the plugin more extensively in my detailed AffiliateWP review.

Getting started with AffiliateWP is super easy. Once the plugin is active, it automatically adds a sign-up form and creates a dashboard for your affiliate partners.

This beginner-friendly setup is one of the reasons why I put AffiliateWP at the top of my list.

I especially love the AI feature that helps review affiliate applications. It can look at each application and tell you whether to accept or reject it, along with clear reasons why.

Another thing that makes AffiliateWP really useful is its flexibility with payments. You can choose to pay your affiliates once, set up regular payments, or create different payment levels.

Plus, it sends automatic emails to keep you and your partners updated about sales and important changes.

Pros of AffiliateWP:

• The plugin setup process takes less than 5 minutes, with the registration form and dashboard created automatically.
• Affiliates can create their own affiliate links right away through their dashboard, so they can start promoting your business.
• I love the AI Affiliate Review feature, which screens applications and accepts or rejects recommendations automatically.
• I’ve found the custom commission rules to be incredibly flexible. You can easily switch between one-time, recurring, or tiered payments, depending on what works best for your business.
• The automated email system keeps both you and your affiliates updated about new sales, payments, and important changes.
• The affiliate leaderboard feature has been great for encouraging partners to stay active.
• The fraud detection system protects you from fake sales by automatically blocking self-referrals.
• You can enable reCAPTCHA on your registration form to prevent spambots and scripts from signing up for your affiliate program.
• The reporting dashboard shows clear statistics about your total earnings, average referral amount, and paid or unpaid referrals.
• No matter which plan you use, you get multiple payout options, including one-click payouts and store credits.

Cons of AffiliateWP:

• You’ll need to pay to use the plugin, as there’s no free version available.
• Some useful features, like multi-currency support, are only available in higher-priced plans. So, you need to choose a plan based on the features you need, not the number of websites the plugin will be used for.

Why I recommend AffiliateWP: I picked AffiliateWP as my top choice because it’s powerful enough to handle big affiliate programs. But it’s still easy enough for beginners to use, making it perfect for most WooCommerce store owners.

Pricing: AffiliateWP has 3 main plans, ranging from $149.60 to $299.60 per year. The cheapest plan works great if you only have 1 website. You will get all the basic features you need: unlimited affiliates, 30 AI reviews, and tools to track sales.

I totally understand if this pricing seems steep for new small business owners. That’s why I am happy to share that WPBeginner readers can get up to 50% off their first purchase with our AffiliateWP coupon code!

2. RewardsWP – Best for Refer-a-Friend Programs

RewardsWP is a beginner-friendly plugin for setting up and running a refer-a-friend program in your WooCommerce or Easy Digital Downloads store. It rewards your existing customers for recommending your online store, which is a low-effort way to drive more sales and conversions.

It’s incredibly easy to get started. The plugin automatically enrolls customers into the referral program right after they make a purchase, making the entire process hands-off for store owners.

One feature I like is the customizable Rewards Widget, which appears automatically when a user logs in to your site. It displays a unique discount code that the customer can share with their friends, making it super easy for them to start referring right away.

You can personalize the widget by choosing your brand colors with a color picker, adjusting the launcher display settings, and selecting which social networks customers can use to share.

It’s a simple but highly effective way to boost customer engagement and word-of-mouth referrals.

With RewardsWP, I like that you’re not limited to offering just one reward or focusing on a single audience. It gives incentives to both the referring customer and the friend they invite.

This double-sided reward system is built right in, which boosts participation and encourages faster conversions. The referring customer gets rewarded for each successful referral, while the invited friend gets rewarded on their first purchase.

I was also really impressed with how the plugin automatically connects guest purchases to customer accounts. This ensures customers don’t lose their referral history or earned rewards if they later decide to create an account.

Pros of RewardsWP

• It includes built-in email notifications, which let you automatically send a welcome email, notify advocates when their friends make a purchase, and alert referred friends once they claim their rewards.
• You can easily track rewards and referrals right inside your WordPress dashboard.
• RewardsWP comes with powerful fraud protection features like duplicate detection, IP filtering, and email validation.
• It pairs effortlessly with AffiliateWP, which makes it simple to run both an affiliate and refer-a-friend program together.
• The plugin has a smart self-referral detection system that blocks users who try to refer themselves using the same or modified email addresses.

Cons of RewardsWP

• The plugin does not have a free plan.

Why I recommend RewardsWP: If you’re looking to create a refer-a-friend program for your WooCommerce or EDD store, then I recommend RewardsWP. It’s secure, beginner-friendly, and packed with powerful features that make running a referral program super easy.

Pricing: RewardsWP offers three paid plans, starting at $79.60 and going up to $159.60. The Basic plan is a great option if you simply want to create a refer-a-friend program on one website.

It includes unlimited members, unlimited rewards, and no monthly fees, making it an affordable way to get your referral program up and running.

3. Easy Affiliate – Best for Subscription-Based Products

Easy Affiliate is the ideal WooCommerce affiliate plugin for subscription-based businesses. It stands out because it offers a one-time commission option when affiliates drive new customers, as well as a commission option for all sales.

This way, you can create a commission structure that encourages affiliates to bring in quality, long-term customers. You can learn more about its features and capabilities in my complete Easy Affiliate review.

The affiliate dashboard is another standout feature. Unlike other plugins that can feel cluttered, Easy Affiliate organizes everything neatly in tabs.

Your partners can easily check their earnings, track their performance, and access marketing materials without getting overwhelmed.

What’s more, affiliates can generate their own tracking links and monitor how well each campaign performs. The dashboard shows everything from conversion rates to estimated payouts, keeping your partners engaged and motivated to promote your subscription products.

Easy Affiliate also integrates smoothly with popular email marketing services like Kit and ActiveCampaign. You can automatically add new affiliates to your email list and keep them updated about your products.

This helps you maintain good communication with your partners without extra work.

Pros of Easy Affiliate:

• The setup process automatically detects your eCommerce platform and helps you integrate it in minutes.
• During testing, I found that you can migrate your data from another affiliate plugin to Easy Affiliate in a few clicks. This way, you don’t need to set up your program from scratch.
• The affiliate registration system lets you choose between public signups, manual approvals, or invitation-only access.
• The Commission Levels add-on is useful for creating tiered rewards that keep top affiliates motivated.
• The PayPal Mass Payment feature makes it easy to pay multiple affiliates at once without manual processing.
• The plugin sends automatic email notifications whenever someone applies or earns a commission.
• The affiliate reporting system clearly shows your program’s performance, including subscription metrics and conversion rates.
• You can track affiliate campaign performance in Google Analytics by enabling UTM parameters with one click.

Cons of Easy Affiliate:

• You need to purchase an additional add-on to get protection against self-referrals.
• The plugin only supports PayPal or manual payments, which might limit your payout options.

Why I recommend Easy Affiliate: I recommend Easy Affiliate for subscription-based businesses because it offers the most comprehensive tracking and commission options for recurring payments.

Pricing: Easy Affiliate offers three pricing tiers from $99.60 to $199.60 per year. The cheapest Basic plan includes everything you need to start: unlimited affiliates, secure tracking, WooCommerce integration, and PayPal payments.

4. Advanced Coupons – Best Affiliate Coupon Builder

Advanced Coupons is primarily designed for managing online store coupons. But its integration with affiliate plugins makes it an essential tool for running successful WooCommerce coupon campaigns through your partners.

For a complete breakdown of its features, take a look at my in-depth Advanced Coupons review.

The timing of affiliate promotions can make or break their success. That’s why I love how Advanced Coupons lets you schedule campaigns in advance. Your partners can plan their promotions better when they know precisely when coupons will go live.

I was also very impressed with the auto-apply URL feature (since nobody likes typing in complicated codes, especially on mobile devices).

Your affiliates simply share a link, and when customers click it, the discount applies automatically. No copying and pasting is required.

The plugin also gives you a lot of control over your promotional strategy through its detailed rule system. This helps protect your profit margins while running affiliate campaigns.

Whether you want to set minimum purchase thresholds or limit usage per customer, Advanced Coupons lets you fine-tune every aspect of your affiliate coupon campaigns.

Pros of Advanced Coupons:

• You can create new coupons in just a few clicks through the simple dashboard interface.
• Instead of typing codes, customers can apply discounts by clicking a special URL link.
• You can set exact rules, such as minimum spending amounts or limiting coupons to specific products.
• Cart conditions let you create offers like “spend $50 to get free shipping” or “buy 3 items to get 20% off.”
• The coupon scheduling system automatically activates and deactivates coupons at preset times.
• The plugin offers multiple coupon types, including BOGO deals, percentage discounts, and free gifts.
• You can start with the free version to test basic coupon features before upgrading.
• The plugin works seamlessly with AffiliateWP and other major affiliate plugins, without any conflicts.

Cons of Advanced Coupons:

• You’ll need to purchase a separate affiliate plugin to access affiliate-focused settings.

Why I recommend Advanced Coupons: It’s my favorite pick for affiliate coupon management because it makes creating and managing affiliate coupon campaigns simple.

Pricing: Premium plans start at $59.50 and go up to $149.50 per year. The cheapest plan, Growth, includes essential features such as auto-apply coupons, URL sharing, and campaign scheduling tools.

I also have a special Advanced Coupons discount code for WPBeginner readers.

5. YITH WooCommerce Affiliates – Highly Flexible Affiliate Plugin

YITH WooCommerce Affiliates gives you complete control over how your affiliate program runs. I’ve tested many YITH plugins before, and they’ve always been reliable and user-friendly, and this one is no exception.

The reason I call it the most flexible is simple. There’s just one paid plan that includes all the features. Unlike other plugins that spread features across different tiers or add-ons, YITH gives you everything in one package.

Plus, you can add other YITH plugins if you need extra functionality for your WooCommerce store. For example, you can install a YITH plugin for creating a multi-vendor marketplace.

Creating affiliate forms is also super simple. You can ask for any information you need, from basic contact details to social media profiles.

Simply add these forms to any page on your site using a shortcode, and then review the applications from your dashboard.

Managing commissions is straightforward, too. You can set a basic commission rate for everyone and then create special rates for specific products or affiliates.

For instance, you could offer 10% on most products but give 15% on your premium items.

I also love the plugin’s payment system. You can choose to pay affiliates manually or automatically, set minimum payout amounts, and use PayPal, Stripe, or bank transfers.

You can even schedule payments for specific days of the month or when affiliates reach certain earnings.

Pros of YITH WooCommerce Affiliates:

• You can build registration forms that ask exactly what you want to know about potential affiliates, like their social media profiles, website URLs, or marketing experience.
• The dashboard clearly shows all affiliate activity, including clicks and sales, to help you identify which marketing channels are most effective.
• There is a feature that lets you decide whether the first or last affiliate click gets the commission. This way, you can fairly reward either the affiliate who initially introduced the customer or the one who made the final sale.
• During my tests, I found that you can use this plugin together with WooCommerce’s built-in coupon feature. Then, you can assign each coupon to different affiliates.
• The plugin handles payments automatically based on your rules, like paying affiliates monthly or when they reach $100 in earnings.
• You get clear WooCommerce reports showing which affiliates bring in the most sales.
• The plugin sends automatic updates to affiliates about their earnings through email notifications.

Cons of YITH WooCommerce Affiliates:

• The plugin doesn’t support multiple currencies.

Why I recommend YITH WooCommerce Affiliates: It offers an all-in-one solution that gives you complete control over your affiliate program without the complexity of multiple plans or add-ons.

Pricing: There’s a free version of YITH WooCommerce Affiliates that you can use to get started. But it lacks features like coupon assignment and commission notifications. You can also get the premium version for $179.99 per year, which includes all the features I mentioned in this review.

6. ShareASale WooCommerce Tracker – Best for Reaching Established Affiliates

ShareASale, now part of the Awin network, is one of the largest affiliate marketplaces in the world. This platform helps you connect your WooCommerce store with ShareASale’s vast network of pre-screened, professional affiliates.

The platform also handles everything from affiliate screening to payment processing, saving you countless hours of management work. This is why some of our partner brands use ShareASale and are satisfied with its performance.

One thing to note is that ShareASale is not a WooCommerce affiliate plugin. It is a third-party platform. However, it has a ShareASale WooCommerce Tracker plugin that lets you connect the platform with your website. The plugin makes integration surprisingly straightforward.

Once installed, you just need to enter your ShareASale Merchant ID in the WooCommerce Tracker settings. After that, the plugin automatically tracks all sales and commissions without any extra work on your part.

ShareASale’s reporting system gives you a clear view of your program’s performance. You can see which affiliates drive the most sales, track conversion rates, and monitor commission payouts, all from one dashboard.

Pros of ShareASale:

• You get instant access to thousands of professional affiliates looking for products to promote. Based on my research, this benefit is not offered by many affiliate plugins.
• The platform handles all the technical aspects, from hosting to tracking to payments.
• I found the analytics dashboard extremely detailed, showing everything from click data to conversion rates.
• ShareASale manages all affiliate payments automatically, saving you from having to process them manually.
• The platform screens all affiliates before they join, ensuring quality partnerships.
• The integration with WooCommerce works well with the official plugin.
• You can use the attribution tool to reward top-performing affiliates.

Cons of ShareASale:

• The initial setup cost of $750 and a 20% transaction fee on affiliate commissions paid might be steep for small businesses.

Why I recommend ShareASale: For businesses ready to scale their affiliate program, ShareASale’s established network and automated management system can make it worth the investment.

Pricing: ShareASale typically requires an upfront payment around $650 to $750, plus a deposit and monthly platform fee. There’s also a 20% transaction fee on affiliate commissions paid.

While these costs are significant, they give you access to one of the largest affiliate networks available.

7. Coupon Affiliates – Best Freemium Affiliate Plugin

Coupon Affiliates offers powerful affiliate features in its free version that you’d typically have to pay for in other plugins. Plus, you get 7 days to try all the premium features before deciding if you need them.

The free version gives you more than you’d expect. For example, you can create affiliate dashboards where your partners can view their stats, track the commission they’ve earned, and manage their own registration forms.

You can also choose how to pay them (either a percentage of sales or a fixed amount) and even set up recurring payments for subscription products.

I liked the referral link system that comes with the free version. Your affiliates can create their own tracking links, and when customers click these links, their coupon codes are automatically applied at checkout.

You can also view the most recent website visits via the affiliate coupon code URLs.

If you upgrade to the premium version, you get more special features. For instance, you can create groups of affiliates and assign them special commission rates.

This will be helpful if you want to reward your top performers with higher commissions or set up different rates for influencers versus regular affiliates. 

Pros of Coupon Affiliates:

• The free version displays important stats, such as total sales, clicks, and conversion rates.
• Affiliates can check their referral orders and filter them by date to track their performance.
• When affiliates share their referral links, their coupon codes are automatically applied at checkout.
• The premium version lets affiliates earn commissions from other affiliates they recruit. In my research, I’ve only seen a handful of plugins that have this feature.
• You can create different affiliate groups with their own commission rates and rules.
• The affiliate leaderboard feature helps motivate partners to sell more.

Cons of Coupon Affiliates:

• In my opinion, the dashboard design feels outdated and could use a modern refresh.

Why I recommend Coupon Affiliates: This WooCommerce affiliate plugin is perfect for businesses that want to start an affiliate program without a significant upfront investment.

Pricing: The free version of Coupon Affiliates includes core features like affiliate dashboards and commission tracking. Premium plans start at $19.99 per month or $12.99 per month with annual billing. There’s also a lifetime option at $599.99.

8. SliceWP – Simple, Easy-to-Use Affiliate Plugin

SliceWP makes managing affiliate programs feel effortless with its clean, modern dashboard design. During my tests of various affiliate plugins, I found SliceWP’s interface to be the most intuitive and easy to navigate.

The dashboard’s straightforward layout helps you evaluate your affiliate marketing performance without getting overwhelmed. You can see an overview of important statistics, including total referral revenue, the latest registered affiliates, and the latest commissions, among others.

The plugin strikes a good balance between simplicity and functionality. In the free version, you get essential features like unlimited affiliates, customizable tracking links, and basic commission management.

If you need more, the premium version adds powerful tools like custom commission rates and social sharing from the affiliate’s account page.

What I particularly like is how SliceWP handles add-ons. Instead of making you buy them separately, all add-ons with 24+ options are included with the premium plans. This means you get everything from PayPal mass payouts to multi-level affiliate systems in one package.

Pros of SliceWP:

• The affiliate dashboard shows clear statistics about clicks and sales.
• You can add unlimited affiliates, even in the free version.
• The affiliate plugin lets you review applications before accepting partners.
• The premium version includes all 24+ add-ons at no extra cost.
• You can set different commission rates for specific product pages or affiliates.
• Email notifications keep affiliates updated about their earnings automatically.

Cons of SliceWP:

• Based on my testing, I feel that the free version’s manual payout system could lead to errors since you have to select affiliates and amounts individually.
• Compared to other affiliate plugins, SliceWP’s core plugin doesn’t have as many features.

Why I recommend SliceWP: This plugin is great for businesses that want a clean, professional-looking affiliate program that’s easy to manage.

Pricing: There’s a free version of SliceWP to get you started. Premium plans range from $169 to $259 per year, and both include access to all add-ons.

What Is the Best WooCommerce Affiliate Plugin?

After testing numerous WooCommerce affiliate plugins, AffiliateWP is my top overall recommendation. Its combination of powerful features and a user-friendly interface makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced users alike.

Plus, the AI feature that helps you review applications is a game-changer for saving time on program management.

On the other hand, if you want to create a refer-a-friend program in just a few minutes, then RewardsWP is the ideal choice. It is powerful, beginner-friendly, and secure.

If you run a subscription-based business, then Easy Affiliate might be a better choice. It’s specifically designed to handle both one-time and recurring commissions, helping you reward affiliates for bringing in long-term customers.

For businesses focusing on coupon-based affiliate marketing, Advanced Coupons works great alongside these plugins. While it’s primarily a coupon management tool, its scheduling features and auto-apply URLs make running affiliate coupon campaigns much easier.

WooCommerce Affiliates: Frequently Asked Questions

After reviewing the best WooCommerce affiliate plugins, let’s answer some common questions about running an affiliate program on WordPress.

Does WordPress allow affiliate links?

Yes, WordPress fully supports affiliate links. You can add them to your posts, pages, or anywhere else on your website. Just make sure to follow proper disclosure guidelines and mark affiliate links as ‘nofollow’ for SEO best practices.

Can I use WooCommerce for affiliate marketing?

Yes, you can create an affiliate marketing program with WooCommerce. However, you’ll need a dedicated affiliate plugin because WooCommerce doesn’t include affiliate tracking features by default.

The best plugins are AffiliateWP for overall management, Easy Affiliate for subscription products, or Advanced Coupons if you want to run coupon-based campaigns.

How do you create affiliate links in WooCommerce?

The process depends on which plugin you use. With AffiliateWP, affiliates get access to a dashboard where they can generate their own referral links instantly.

They don’t need to wait for you to create links. Instead, they can start promoting your products right after being approved. Other plugins like Easy Affiliate also offer similar features.

Discover More WooCommerce Tips and Tricks

Looking to learn more tips and tricks for managing your WooCommerce store? Check out these beginner-friendly guides:

• How to Create a Loyalty Program in WooCommerce (Step by Step)
• How to Send a Coupon After a WooCommerce Product Review
• How to Schedule Coupons in WooCommerce (and Save Time)
• How to Offer a Shipping Discount in WooCommerce
• How to Create Smart Coupons in WooCommerce
• How to Add Advanced Gift Cards in WooCommerce (Easy Way)
• How to Create One-Time Personalized Coupon Codes in WooCommerce
• Best WooCommerce Plugins for Your Store (Most are FREE)

I hope this article has helped you choose the best WooCommerce affiliate plugin for your business. You may also want to check out our ultimate guide to WooCommerce SEO and our expert picks of the best WooCommerce product grid plugins.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

The post 8 Best WooCommerce Affiliate Plugins Compared (Tried and Tested) first appeared on WPBeginner.

When I helped create WPBeginner’s online video course portal, the team and I spent countless hours trying to find the perfect software and tools to do the job easily. Along the way, I learned that having the right course creation software can make or break your success.

But here’s the thing – choosing the perfect fit for your online course isn’t easy. The market is flooded with options, each claiming to be the perfect solution.

That’s why I’ve spent a lot of time thoroughly testing many different solutions. I looked at everything from course creation platforms and marketing software to budget-friendly recording and editing tools.

Whether you’re looking to create your first course or want to upgrade your existing setup, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. I’ve narrowed it down to the best course creation platforms that actually deliver results, ranked and reviewed based on real-world testing, ease of use, and business impact.

Quick Picks – The Best Course Creation Software and Tools

Need a quick overview? Here are some of my top picks for course creation software and tools:

#	Tool	Category	Best For	Pricing
🥇	MemberPress	Course creation platform	Creating and selling online courses	From $179.50/ year
🥈	OptinMonster	Course marketing tool	Building email lists	From $9/month
🥉	Constant Contact	Course communication tool	Sending emails to learners	From $12/month
4	Sony Alpha ZV-E10	Course recording	High-quality course videos	From $645

How I Test and Review Course Creation Software and Tools

At WPBeginner, we review course creation tools by using them ourselves and looking at how they work in real-life situations. We focus on the features that really matter for building and selling online courses.

Here’s how I reviewed each tool for this roundup:

🛠️ Ease of Use – I timed how long it took to set up a basic course, upload a video lesson, and integrate with an email marketing service. I looked for intuitive interfaces and clear documentation to ensure a smooth experience for beginners.

📚 Course Creation Features – I checked how well the tool organizes learning materials and supports interactive, engaging courses.

🙌 Student Engagement & Support – I assessed features like quizzes, forums, and social tools that keep students engaged, plus the quality of customer support.

💰 Pricing & Value – I compared cost vs. features to see if the tool is worth it, including free trial options.

🌎 Real World Usage – Apart from the tools I’ve used for creating my own online courses, I tested each platform by creating a short sample course, including uploading videos, creating quizzes, and setting up student access. I also read real user reviews and testimonials to get a more complete picture of each tool’s pros and cons.

Here’s a quick overview of all the software and tools I’ll share in this guide:

With that in mind, here’s my curated list of the best course creation software and tools.

Best Online Course Creation Platforms

Creating an online course involves more than just content creation. You need a platform that makes it easy to host, sell, and manage your courses while providing a seamless learning experience for your students.

Why I Recommend WordPress for Your Online Courses

I highly recommend using WordPress to create and sell your online courses.

🚨 But first, it’s important to understand the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org. I recommend using WordPress.org to host your courses.

Why? WordPress.com is a hosted platform that is easy to use but has some customization limitations. On the other hand, self-hosted WordPress.org offers complete control over your website and course content.

It allows you to install a learning management system (LMS) plugin and turn your WordPress website into a feature-rich online course platform. You will also have complete control over your branding, pricing, and content.

For more information about the platforms, you can see our comparison article on WordPress.com vs. WordPress.org.

At WPBeginner, we’re big fans of WordPress.org. Our team has been using it for more than 16 years and loves how much freedom it offers and how easily it can handle complex data.

To get started with WordPress, you’ll need web hosting and a domain name.

You can think of web hosting as renting space on the internet for your course website.

Then, you’ll need to get a domain name, which is your website’s address. It’s how people will find your site online, so you’ll want to choose something catchy and easy to remember.

For tips, you can see our guide on how to choose a domain name.

Bluehost is a great option for both of these things because they are beginner-friendly and reliable. Plus, they offer a huge discount on their hosting to WPBeginner readers + a free domain name for the first year.

Their packages also come with a free SSL certificate, which is great for making your online course site more secure and trustworthy.

Basically, you can build an online course site starting from $1.99 per year.

Just click on the button below to get started.

→ Click Here to Claim This Exclusive Bluehost Offer ←

To learn more, you can see our article on how to install WordPress, which covers steps for other WordPress hosting providers like SiteGround and Hostinger, too.

Once you have WordPress set up with your hosting and domain, you can start building your website. You can also find tons of plugins and tools available to help you create your course and make it awesome for your students.

With all that said, I will also look at some non-WordPress options for creating and sharing your online courses. Let’s explore my top picks.

1. MemberPress

MemberPress is the perfect all-in-one course creation solution for beginners. It offers an easy-to-use learning management system (LMS) with powerful features for building and managing a members-only, paid course platform.

At WPBeginner, we personally use MemberPress to power our free online video courses, and we love how easily it lets us set up student access rules. For more details, see our guide on how we use a video membership site to grow our email list.

To create courses with MemberPress, you can use 2 powerful addons: Courses and CoachKit.

MemberPress Courses lets you easily create and manage your online courses. It uses the WordPress block editor, which makes it simple to build and structure your lessons. You can also add multimedia content like videos and audio to engage your students.

Its Classroom Mode is designed for a distraction-free learning experience. It features intuitive navigation to help students move through the course easily. There’s a course overview and instructor details for quick reference. Plus, the progress bar helps students track their learning journey and stay motivated to complete the course.

MemberPress Courses comes with extra addons, such as:

• ⁉️ Quizzes: Let students test their knowledge and reinforce what they’ve learned. There are many quiz types to choose from, like short answers, multiple choices, true/false questions, and more.
• 📄 Assignments: Give students a way to submit their work after each lesson, whether it’s written responses or projects.
• 🌟 Gradebook: Easily track progress and manage grades all in one place.

There’s also the content-dripping feature to release lessons gradually instead of all at once.

You can also use MemberPress CoachKit, which is perfect for offering one-on-one coaching or group sessions. It lets you manage coaching schedules, track student progress, and provide a more personalized learning experience.

To learn more about it, see our guide on how to start an online coaching business.

Another great thing about MemberPress CoachKit is that it allows you to offer WordPress group learning with the ‘Cohorts’ feature.

It’s a structured learning experience where participants progress together with set start and end dates.

This format encourages a sense of community, improves accountability, and allows students to interact with both instructors and peers.

If you want to offer certificates, then you can do that too!

MemberPress allows you to enable certificates on your courses. Even better, you can customize the details, such as the paper size, design choice, and custom logo.

On top of all that, MemberPress is a membership plugin, so you’ll get access to features like paywalls, custom access rules, and members-only forums. For details, see this complete guide on how to create a membership site with WordPress.

Pros

• Powerful LMS features with Courses and CoachKit addons.
• Distraction-free Classroom Mode with intuitive navigation, overview, and progress tracking.
• Flexible course creation and management with multimedia, quizzes, assignments, and grade books.
• Supports one-on-one coaching as well as group learning.
• Drip content for scheduled course releases.
• Includes certificates with customization options.
• No transaction fees with the Basic plan.

Cons

• Requires the Courses and CoachKit addons for full LMS functionality.
• Pricing may be high for small online course projects.

Pricing: MemberPress offers 4 pricing plans. The Basic plan starts at $179.50 per year and allows for unlimited members and no transaction fees. The Elite plan offers a coaching integration with CoachKit, which is perfect for those wanting to offer personalized coaching alongside courses.

Why I Chose MemberPress: I strongly recommend MemberPress because it’s an all-in-one solution for creating and selling online courses and coaching sessions. Its Courses and CoachKit addons make it easy to create engaging learning experiences, while the ‘Cohorts’ feature boosts student interaction and accountability.

2. Thrive Apprentice

Thrive Apprentice is a WordPress LMS plugin that stands out for its powerful School Wizard visual editor. This feature makes designing and customizing your online courses very easy. Overall, it’s a great all-in-one solution for creating and managing courses and memberships – no coding needed.

I tried out all of Thrive Apprentice’s features to see how it compares to other online course creation software. For more details, you can see this complete Thrive Apprentice review.

During onboarding, I liked that the course builder lets you choose from 55 templates and then quickly customize them using drag and drop.

Don’t want to use a template? Then you’ll appreciate the School Wizard.

This feature walks you through setting up your online course from scratch with a step-by-step checklist. It helps you create a more unique, personalized result that aligns with your brand.

To keep learners engaged, you can create lessons in different formats, including text, video, and audio. Plus, you can add extra resources like PDFs, links, and lesson summaries.

The good news is that combining these formats gives students the flexibility to learn in a way that works best for them.

You can then organize your lessons into chapters and group chapters into modules. This helps you create a clear and structured course layout.

I also like that Thrive Apprentice lets you lock content on a drip schedule or based on specific actions.

This way, students might need to finish a lesson or pass a test to access the next part of the course, encouraging progressions.

I also appreciate the course-level grading feature in Thrive Apprentice. It lets you assign and calculate overall grades based on student performance across different assessments.

You can customize how each assessment contributes to the final grade, set flexible weightings, and define custom grade ranges and labels.

Even better, these grades will appear on students’ course certificates, like this:

Additionally, Thrive Apprentice gives you access to over 6 million high-quality, royalty-free stock photos from Unsplash. This makes it easier to add engaging visuals to your course lessons and sales pages.

On top of all that, student management is easy with Thrive Apprentice’s built-in dashboard. Here, you can control course access, track student progress, and review a complete log of their activities.

Pros

• Easy-to-use visual editor, with the School Wizard option to create your online course from scratch and 55 ready-made course templates.
• Text, video, audio, and mixed course format support.
• Structure courses into lessons, chapters, and modules.
• Ensure course progression through content locking or a drip schedule.
• Course-level grading with customizable weightings and grades shown on certificates.
• Unsplash access to easily add engaging images without leaving Thrive Apprentice.
• Built-in dashboard to manage students and track progress.

Cons

• Fewer built-in payment gateways for accepting payments from your students.

Pricing: Thrive Apprentice is available for $149 per year, which is perfect for adding online courses to an existing site. However, for people launching a new website or business, we recommend the Thrive Suite for $299. It includes all the Thrive plugins for designing, building, and growing a successful site.

Why I Chose Thrive Apprentice: I like Thrive Apprentice because it’s perfect for course creators who want an easy setup, thanks to its visual builder and ready-made templates. It’s a flexible, scalable solution for building and managing online courses.

3. Courses for MemberMouse

If you’re serious about making money from your online courses, then Courses for MemberMouse is a reliable option. It’s another WordPress LMS plugin, but it stands out for how well suited it is to enterprise-level businesses.

I tried out all of MemberMouse’s features, which you can see in this complete MemberMouse review.

Courses for MemberMouse lets you easily build and sell online courses using a drag-and-drop builder, making it beginner-friendly with a low learning curve.

A standout feature is the ability to restrict access to specific courses or lessons, similar to MemberPress. You can restrict lessons or courses based on memberships, bundles, or sales packages, keeping your material secure and exclusive.

The Classroom Mode automatically applies a professional, customizable template. It lets you brand your courses with your custom logos, colors, and images for a cohesive look.

Courses for MemberMouse also offers several tools to improve the learning experience.

For example, progress-tracking bars and lesson navigation prompts help students stay on track and know exactly where they are in the course.

To test students’ knowledge, you can use a variety of quiz options, such as multiple-choice and long essay questions.

Once students complete a course, you can reward them with downloadable, customizable certificates to recognize their achievement.

To streamline online course sales, Courses for MemberMouse offers one-click purchase links so learners can quickly complete their transactions without having to re-enter their payment details. You can also offer cross-sells to promote multiple online courses more effectively.

On top of that, MemberMouse has some great features for growing your business. I discovered that it tracks important business metrics, including lifetime customer value and churn rates. It even processes overdue payments automatically, so you don’t have to worry about losing sales.

Pros

• Ability to restrict access to specific courses or lessons (similar to MemberPress).
• Classroom Mode with a progress-tracking bar and lesson navigation for a professional course appearance.
• Downloadable certificates for course completion.
• One-click purchase links for a streamlined sales process.
• A cross-sell feature to promote additional courses.
• Flexible access rules for content protection (based on memberships, bundles, or sales packages).
• Drip Content Scheduler for gradual content release and structured learning.

Cons

• No free plan.
• Limited design options compared to other WordPress LMS plugins.

Pricing: MemberMouse offers 4 pricing plans, with the Basic plan priced at $199.50 per year. This plan allows for unlimited membership plans and payment acceptance via Stripe. It also includes access to the Courses for MemberMouse extension, making it an excellent choice for creating a successful membership site.

Why I Chose Courses for MemberMouse: I recommend Courses for MemberMouse because it offers a lot of built-in features for making money from your online courses. The drag-and-drop builder, combined with course access restrictions and one-click purchases, makes it an ideal choice for membership site owners looking to grow.

4. AccessAlly

If you want to scale your online course, group coaching, or membership business, then I think that AccessAlly is a great option. It stands out for its strong community-building features and seamless CRM integrations.

One of AccessAlly’s standout features is CommunityAlly. This powerful add-on creates a space for students to connect, collaborate, and engage.

In my opinion, this feature is key to building a strong and engaged community across your online course programs.

I also really liked its seamless integration with different email marketing CRMs like Kit and Drip, along with eCommerce payment gateways, WordPress themes, and other WordPress plugins. These tools allow you to handle everything from accepting payments for your online courses to keeping in contact with your students.

Using AccessAlly is also easy, thanks to their drag-and-drop course builder. Plus, you can mix and match modules, lessons, and downloadable resources.

To make the setup even easier, AccessAlly’s Offerings Wizard walks you through the entire process step by step. Then, it automatically generates all the essential course pages – landing pages, module and lesson pages, registration pages, and even a completion page.

Lastly, AccessAlly offers excellent progress-tracking features that allow you to set objectives for each lesson or module, such as passing a quiz. This ensures that students stay on track and motivated as they move through the course.

Just keep in mind that AccessAlly is a little more expensive than other WordPress LMS plugins on this list. That’s why I recommend it for growing businesses that want to scale.

Pros

• CommunityAlly lets you build an engaging, collaborative student community.
• Seamless and extensive integrations with email marketing software, eCommerce shopping carts, and themes.
• Drag-and-drop builder with an Offerings Wizard for quick setup.
• Automatically generate all necessary course pages, saving you time on setup.
• Progress tracking with customizable objectives, like quiz completion, to measure student progress.
• Flexible course types, including live, evergreen, and progress-based courses.

Cons

• Higher price compared to some LMS plugins.

Pricing: AccessAlly starts at $82/month (billed annually) for one site with unlimited courses and members. The LMS features require the Pro plan at $108/month (billed annually).

Why I Chose AccessAlly: I recommend AccessAlly if you’re looking to scale your online courses or coaching programs. It gives you all the tools you need to create a powerful online learning community and monetize your courses.

5. YouTube

YouTube is a popular, free platform for hosting video-based courses. In addition to public videos, you can offer members-only content through the Memberships system. This makes YouTube a great solution for reaching a wide audience while controlling access to your content.

At WPBeginner, we have our own WPBeginner channel where we share helpful content and tutorials for both free and paid users. We’ve had tremendous success with YouTube and continue to manage several channels for different businesses.

But you might still be asking yourself why YouTube is a good platform for video courses.

First, it’s free to use, making it accessible to anyone who wants to create and share videos. You can upload unlimited content, and it’s easy for students to access courses from anywhere. Plus, YouTube’s massive audience gives you the potential to reach people worldwide.

For details, see this guide on how to start a successful YouTube channel.

Plus, if you turn on Memberships for your channel, then you can offer exclusive perks such as custom emojis, badges, and members-only videos. You can create up to 6 membership levels, with higher-priced tiers unlocking all the perks from the lower levels.

Another great feature of YouTube is its built-in SEO capabilities. Optimizing your video titles, descriptions, and tags can improve your chances of ranking higher in YouTube’s search results.

To take it a step further, tools like TubeBuddy can help you fine-tune your SEO strategy. This way, you can grow your channel and reach more viewers.

That being said, YouTube does offer less control than hosting online courses on your own website. Also, while it’s excellent for video delivery, YouTube isn’t designed for complex learning paths, assignments, or detailed progress tracking.

Pros

• Free to use with unlimited video uploads.
• Easy access for students from anywhere, which unlocks massive audience potential for global reach.
• Built-in SEO capabilities for wider discovery.
• Channel memberships with multiple tiers for offering exclusive perks.

Cons

• Only suitable for video courses.
• Lacks course-specific features like quizzes or certificates.
• Not designed for dedicated course management.
• Less control over branding and customization.

Pricing: Free

Why I Chose YouTube: I recommend YouTube because it’s a free video-sharing platform with a massive global reach. More than 2 billion people use YouTube every month, so it’s ideal if you’re trying to reach a wide audience. Plus, you can monetize your online courses through the Memberships system.

6. Teachable

Teachable is a hosted online course platform that makes it easy to create and sell online courses without worrying about running your own website. Its drag-and-drop course builder helps you get started quickly and easily, allowing you to add videos, quizzes, and downloadable resources.

Since it’s a standalone platform, you don’t have to worry about updates or backups. Teachable will take care of all that, giving you more time to focus on creating content.

I’ve tested Teachable extensively, which you can learn more about in this comparison article on Teachable vs Skillshare vs MemberPress.

Getting started with your first course is simple. Teachable’s AI-powered outline generator helps you develop course materials quickly. Just enter a course title and a brief description, and the AI will immediately make a structured outline for you.

Once the outline is ready, Teachable takes you to the setup guide. Here, you can customize your course layout, add lessons, and make necessary adjustments.

While customizing course design, I found that Teachable offers 2 template options: Simple and Colossal. While this may feel somewhat limiting, you can still adjust these templates to match your brand.

Teachable includes built-in email marketing to help you stay connected with your students. It also generates a sales page automatically, so you can start promoting your courses right away.

I also found that you can track your course performance with analytics, monitor student engagement, and use referral programs to grow your business.

Overall, Teachable is a great choice for course creators who want an easy-to-use, all-in-one platform to build, manage, and sell their courses.

Pros

• Hosted platform – no need to manage a website, updates, or backups.
• AI-powered tools to generate a structured course outline in just a few clicks.
• Built-in email marketing to help you stay connected with students.
• Auto-generated sales page for quick promotion of your courses.
• Analytics to track course performance and student engagement
• Referral programs to help grow your business

Cons

• Less control over customization compared to WordPress-based platforms.
• Higher transaction fees apply to free and lower-tier plans.

Pricing: Teachable’s free plan is great if you want to try things out before paying. It lets you publish one course, coaching session, or downloadable product, but there’s a $1 + 10% transaction fee on every sale. The Basic Plan, $39/month, billed annually, lets you publish up to five products: courses, coaching, downloads, and the transaction fee drops to 5%.

Why I Chose Teachable: Teachable stands out for its simplicity and power. It’s an ideal platform for course creators who want to build, manage, and sell their courses without technical headaches.

Best Online Course Marketing Tools

Once your online course is ready, it’s time to focus on getting the word out. The right marketing tools can help you attract students, build your brand, and boost enrollment.

Let’s dive into my marketing tool recommendations for your online course.

7. OptinMonster

OptinMonster is a powerful tool for boosting sign-ups to your online courses. It helps you grow your email list and convert visitors into students with features like popups, slide-ins, and lightboxes.

At WPBeginner, we have been using OptionMonster for a while, and it has helped us grow our email lists exponentially. You can learn more about it in our complete OptinMonster review.

With OptinMonster, you can create customized calls-to-action that encourage visitors to sign up and start learning.

With over 400 professionally designed templates, OptinMonster makes it easy to create high-converting popups that match your course branding. You can customize these templates using the simple drag-and-drop builder, and no coding is required.

One of its standout features is the countdown timer, which is a perfect tool for promoting your online courses.

For example, you can use it to create urgency for limited-time discounts, early bird offers, or course enrollment deadlines. This motivates visitors to sign up quickly, helping you boost conversions and fill your courses faster.

Another great feature is content locking. It allows you to gate access to certain content or course previews, asking visitors to sign up for your email list before they can view the material.

It’s a smart way to build your email list while giving potential students a sneak peek at what your course offers.

Additionally, I recommend using OptinMonster’s A/B testing feature to test different popup variations and see which ones resonate most with potential learners. By comparing results, you can fine-tune your strategy to improve sign-up rates.

Pros

• Boosts student sign-ups and email list growth.
• Customizable calls-to-action with 400+ templates.
• Simple drag-and-drop builder, no coding needed.
• The countdown timer creates urgency for course promotions.
• Content locking to gate course access and grow your email list.
• A/B testing for optimized conversion strategies.

Cons

• Limited free features.

Pricing: OptinMonster offers four pricing plans starting at $9 per month, with higher plans unlocking more features. It also provides a 14-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to test the plugin and decide if it’s the right fit.

Why I Chose OptinMonster: I love OptinMonster because it’s an incredibly powerful tool that helps you boost course sign-ups and grow your email list. It comes with customizable popups, advanced targeting features, and an easy-to-use editor. Plus, it allows you to create urgency and test strategies to improve your conversion rates.

8. Canva

Canva is a fantastic tool for creating graphics and visuals for your online courses, especially if you’re not a designer. Whether you need eye-catching course thumbnails or custom lesson slides, this design software makes it simple to make professional-level images.

One of Canva’s standout features is its library of customizable templates, which cover everything from lesson slides to social media posts. This makes it easy and quick to create visuals that match your course branding.

I also like that Canva offers a wide range of royalty-free stock photos, illustrations, and icons for your designs.

While some premium resources are available with Canva Pro, the free version offers plenty of options to get started. If you want more unique graphics, though, the paid version could be worth it.

Finally, Canva’s mobile app lets you create and edit designs on the go, making it easy to work on your course visuals whenever inspiration strikes.

Pros

• Easy to use for beginners and non-designers.
• Tons of customizable templates for course thumbnails, lesson slides, and promotional materials.
• Access to an extensive number of royalty-free stock photos, illustrations, and icons.
• Design on the go with Canva’s easy-to-use mobile application.
• The free version provides plenty of design options.

Cons:

• Some resources are only available in the Pro version.

Pricing: Canva‘s free plan includes basic features, such as access to over 250,000 templates and thousands of photos, graphics, and fonts. The pro version starts from $12.99 per month (or $119.99 per year). This plan includes additional features like 100+ million premium stock photos, videos, audio, a brand kit, and more.

Why I Chose Canva: I recommend Canva because it’s an intuitive, user-friendly design tool that allows anyone to create professional-looking course materials. Its vast library of templates and resources, combined with powerful customization options, makes it a top choice for creating engaging visuals for your online courses.

9. Google Slides

Google Slides isn’t just for presentations. It’s also a powerful tool for designing and delivering your online courses. With its sleek templates and easy customization, you can create visually appealing course previews, lead magnets, and sales materials that attract potential students.

As a course creator, you can use Google Slides to design engaging lesson breakdowns, highlight key takeaways, and create interactive slides that boost student engagement.

Plus, it’s easy to share. You can embed slides on your WordPress site, include them in email campaigns, or use them in free mini-courses to showcase your expertise.

For even more impact, you can repurpose your slides as downloadable PDFs or promotional materials for platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or your own student membership site.

Best of all, Google Slides is free, with a premium version available for extra features and flexibility. If you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to create and market your online course content, then this tool can be a game-changer.

Pros

• Free for personal use with a Google account.
• Customizable templates for creating visually appealing course materials easily.
• Ideal for creating course previews, lead magnets, sales materials, and interactive lessons.
• Simple to embed on WordPress websites, include in email campaigns, or integrate into mini-courses.
• Convert slides into PDFs or promotional materials for various platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

Cons

• Some advanced features are only available with a paid plan of Google Workspace.
• Limited offline access without a stable internet connection.

Pricing: Google Slides is free for personal use with a Google account. For businesses, Google Workspace subscriptions start at $6 per user per month, with higher costs for larger packages. A free trial is also available.

Why I Chose Google Slides: While often overlooked, Google Slides is an excellent choice for course creators who want to design professional, engaging learning materials without the need for complex software.

Best Online Course Communication Tools

Effective communication is key to creating a successful learning experience. You will need to stay connected with your students, provide support, and keep them engaged throughout their course journey.

Here are my top choices for communicating with students.

10. Constant Contact

Constant Contact is a powerful email marketing tool that can help you engage with your learners. For example, it allows you to personalize course emails and send them at the perfect time for engagement, keeping students informed and motivated throughout their learning journeys.

After thorough testing, I found that Constant Contact is a great choice for engaging students and growing your eLearning business.

With advanced segmentation and detailed reports, Constant Contact makes your email campaigns more targeted. You can group your audience based on course enrollment, progress, or past interactions, ensuring every message feels relevant.

Another standout feature is its automated drip campaigns. You can use this feature to create a welcome series for new students, making onboarding smooth.

Or you can use it to schedule lesson reminders based on the course timeline. It’s also a good idea to trigger follow-ups when someone finishes a module but hasn’t started the next one.

Automating actions based on student behavior is easy, too. For example, if a learner abandons their cart before enrolling, then you can send a follow-up email with a special discount.

Likewise, if someone hasn’t accessed their course in a while, you can send a re-engagement email with study tips or bonus materials to encourage them to return.

Pros

• Segment your audience based on course enrollment, progress, past interactions, or other categories to ensure relevant messaging.
• Set up automated email sequences like a welcome series, lesson reminders, and follow-ups based on student activity.
• Automates actions like sending discounts for cart abandonment or re-engagement emails for inactive learners.
• Reports to track email campaign performance and student engagement.

Cons:

• Email formatting can be a bit tricky for beginners.
• It has basic email analytics compared to some other options.

Pricing: Constant Contact offers a 60-day free trial, allowing you to send up to 100 emails and build your email list before committing to a paid plan. Their pricing starts with the Lite plan at $12 per month. This lets you send 10x your contact number in monthly emails and get access to professionally designed templates, automated welcome emails, and engagement reporting.

Why I Chose Constant Contact: I recommend Constant Contact due to its powerful yet beginner-friendly email automation features that can help you re-engage learners. Its 60-day free trial allows you to test its capabilities, and the automated drip campaigns make it easy to communicate with your students.

11. WebinarJam

WebinarJam is a popular tool for hosting live webinars, and I recommend it for course creators who want to connect with groups of their students online.

We actually use WebinarJam for our own WPBeginner live workshops, and we’ve had a good experience. Our team has found WebinarJam’s interface simple to navigate, especially when hosting basic webinars or live learning sessions.

This software offers features such as unlimited live webinars, multiple hosts, live chat, webinar recordings, polls, and surveys. It also has email and SMS marketing tools, which allow you to follow up with learners after the live session has ended.

With WebinarJam, you can also find features like flexible scheduling, attendee handouts, and broadcasting to Facebook and YouTube. Plus, you can register extra team members, making it ideal for organizing online events of any size.

However, it can take some time to learn all the features, especially if you’re new to webinars. That learning curve can be a little intimidating for beginners.

Pros

• Interface for hosting basic webinars.
• Unlimited live webinars and multiple hosts.
• Includes live chat, webinar recordings, polls, and surveys.
• Email and SMS marketing tools.
• Flexible scheduling and attendee handouts.
• Broadcasting to Facebook and YouTube.
• Option to add extra team members.

Cons

• Learning curve for new users.
• Video quality could be better.
• Automating webinars requires an extra service (EverWebinar) at an additional cost.

Pricing: WebinarJam is a premium tool. Its plans start from $39/month, billed annually, and they’re great for smaller webinars. The tool allows up to 100 attendees per webinar with one host.

Why I Chose WebinarJam: I recommend WebinarJam because it offers powerful features that make hosting live webinars seamless and engaging. With unlimited webinars, multiple hosts, and interactive tools like live chat and polls, it’s perfect for connecting with students.

12. Google Meet

Google Meet is a great choice for coaching or one-on-one learning due to its ease of use and integration with Google Workspace. What I love about this tool is that it allows you to set up video calls quickly, share your screen, and collaborate seamlessly using tools like Google Docs and Sheets.

All these tools make Google Meet ideal for personalized coaching sessions or learning experiences where real-time interaction and content sharing are essential.

It’s also free to use for meetings up to 60 minutes and 100 participants, which should be more than enough for many online courses. You can read more about it in our comparison article on Google Meet vs Zoom: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Just keep in mind that it doesn’t have specific features for online courses, so it’s more of a communication medium.

Pros

• Easy to use with quick video call setup.
• Seamless integration with Google Workspace – Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more.
• Free plan for meetings up to 60 minutes with 100 participants.
• Ideal for personalized coaching and real-time collaboration.

Cons

• Limited to 60-minute meetings on the free plan.
• Fewer features compared to some other webinar tools.

Pricing: Google Meet offers a free plan, which allows unlimited one-on-one meetings and group meetings lasting up to 60 minutes with a maximum of 100 participants. For those needing more features, the Google Workspace Essentials plan is available for $8 per user per month. This plan supports group meetings with up to 150 participants and additional features like custom meeting links and file sharing.

Why I Chose Google Meet: I chose Google Meet because it offers a free and easy way to call your students and even host group calls.

13. Facebook (Group)

A Facebook group can be a great place to connect with your learners, offer support, and create a sense of belonging. You can also engage with new students who are just discovering your course.

For example, we have the WPBeginner Engage Facebook group with more than 98,000 active members. WordPress users can post their questions and get help with WordPress, interact with each other, and more.

Facebook groups let you promote your content, share updates, and even host discussions. For course creators, they’re a great way to build a learning community. You can create a space where your students can interact with each other, ask questions, and get extra help.

It’s also a perfect forum for group learning because it allows you to post lessons, answer queries, and foster engagement in a more personal way. Plus, you can keep your community active and engaged, helping students stay motivated throughout the course.

However, while Facebook Groups are free to create and use, it’s good to keep in mind that you don’t have full control. Since the platform sets the rules, there’s always a small chance your group could be limited or removed.

Pros

• Facebook groups are completely free to create and use.
• Great for building a learning community where students can get extra help and support.
• Gives you a space for content promotion, sharing updates, and hosting discussions to boost the learning experience.
• Provides a platform for learners to connect, ask questions, and engage with each other, creating a sense of belonging.

Cons

• Subject to Facebook’s terms of use and algorithm.
• File sharing limitations.

Pricing: Creating a Facebook group is completely free.

Why I Chose Facebook (Group): A Facebook Group provides an easy, cost-effective way to build a vibrant, engaged community. Plus, it’s free, making it an accessible option for course creators looking to enhance engagement without breaking the budget.

Best Online Course Recording and Editing Tools

If you’re thinking about offering video learning, then creating high-quality videos is key to engaging your audience.

Let’s check out the best camera, microphone, and editing software for your video courses.

14. Sony Alpha ZV-E10

We have a professional video team here at WPBeginner, and they consistently recommend the Sony Alpha ZV-E10 for course creators looking to capture high-quality video content. I decided to put it to the test and discovered that it has excellent autofocus. This ensures that your shots stay sharp even if you’re moving around during your recordings.

The ZV-E10 doesn’t impose any time limits on your recordings, so you can film extended lessons or tutorials without interruption. However, keep in mind that your recording time will ultimately be limited by the capacity of your memory card and the battery life of the camera.

For longer sessions, make sure you have a large enough memory card and consider having a spare battery on hand. You can also power the camera via USB-C while filming, which is super handy for those marathon recording days.

I also really like that it can shoot in 4K. This is especially important for online courses, where clear visuals can make a huge difference in the learning experience.

Another feature that I appreciate is the ability to connect the camera to a computer via USB-C and use it as a webcam without any additional software. This is great for live teaching sessions, webinars, or video conferences.

Despite all these pro-level features, the ZV-E10 is still budget-friendly for a starter camera. It’s an excellent choice for course creators who want top-notch video quality without overspending.

Pros

• Excellent autofocus for sharp and smooth focus, even during movement.
• No recording limits – record continuously without worrying about time constraints.
• Stunning 4K video support for professional-quality content.
• USB-C charging while recording, perfect for long sessions.
• Seamless webcam integration via USB-C without any additional software.
• Budget-friendly – great features at an affordable price.

Cons

• If you’re filming without a tripod, videos might be a bit shaky because there’s no built-in stabilization.
• The camera might get too hot during long 4K videos.

Pricing: Starts at $645, depending on the color option and any addons included at checkout. For example, the white model is priced at $798, and you can bundle it with extras like a microphone, lens, or tripod.

Why I Chose Sony Alpha ZV-E10: Its excellent video quality, combined with user-friendly features for content creators, makes the Sony Alpha ZV-E10 stand out. It offers 4K video recording with reliable autofocus, great for capturing professional videos. Plus, it has a great balance of cost and features, perfect for those who want good value for their investment.

15. Hollyland Lark M1

For a high-quality, budget-friendly wireless microphone, the Hollyland Lark M1 is a top choice for course creators. Our video team uses it for their video content, and it delivers professional sound without the hassle of cords or complex setups.

The Hollyland Lark M1’s built-in noise reduction ensures clear audio in any environment. Whether you’re filming in a busy space or outdoors, your learners will always hear you without distractions.

The charging case keeps your mics powered and ready to go, making it easy to stay charged during long recording sessions. I also like that it is compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go filming.

For live teaching sessions, the 2-transmitter combo lets you mic up two people simultaneously. So, whether you’re teaching with a co-instructor or hosting a webinar with a guest expert, this feature ensures synchronized audio for both speakers.

Plus, the Lark M1 is compatible with many different cameras and smartphones. Whether you’re using a DSLR for polished videos or recording on your phone (both iPhone and Android), you can count on excellent sound.

Pros

• Wireless mic with advanced noise reduction for clear, professional audio in any environment.
• The portable charging case ensures your mics are always powered and ready for use.
• 2-transmitter combo allows for simultaneous recording of two people, perfect for interviews or co-teaching sessions.
• Broad compatibility with cameras and smartphones (iPhone and Android).

Cons

• Limited wireless range may cause audio signal loss in large spaces.
• Signal interference in areas with many devices may affect audio quality.

Pricing: The Hollyland Lark M1 offers two microphone setups:

• 2TX + 1RX (2 Transmitters, 1 Receiver) – Ideal for two-person recordings; starts at $59.00.
• 1TX + 1RX (1 Transmitter, 1 Receiver) – Best for single-speaker setups; starts at $29.00.

Why I Chose Hollyland Lark M1: The microphone stands out for its affordability and performance. Its compact design and included charging case are convenient, while features like built-in noise reduction help with audio clarity. This makes the Hollyland Lark M1 a practical choice for creators seeking reliable audio without a high price tag.

16. Camtasia

Camtasia is a top video editing choice for online course creation, but it’s also versatile enough for other professionals who need dynamic video content. It stands out for its strong screen recording capabilities, perfect for crafting tutorials, presentations, and screen demos.

During testing, I found Camtasia’s video editor to be intuitive and user-friendly. It supports a variety of basic editing features, such as cutting footage, adding transitions, and incorporating effects or annotations.

Camtasia also includes advanced options like animations, cursor effects, and green-screen capabilities. It even has AI-powered tools to make content creation even easier:

🖼️ AI Image Generation – Create unique images for your videos using artificial intelligence.

🗑️ AI-Assisted Background Removal – Easily remove or replace backgrounds in your videos.

🎙️ Natural-Sounding AI Script and Voice Generation – Generate scripts and voiceovers that sound natural and professional. This ensures high-quality audio without the need for a studio setup.

Additionally, you can make your learning videos interactive with features like clickable hotspots, quizzes, and surveys.

Camtasia is available on both Windows and macOS. And you can easily record your screen, voice, and webcam all at once. Importing existing audio and video is easy, too, giving you even more flexibility in creating your content.

Pros:

• Comprehensive editing features, both basic and advanced.
• Strong screen recording capabilities, ideal for creating tutorials, presentations, and screen demos.
• AI image generation, AI-assisted background removal, and natural-sounding AI script and voice generation.
• Interactive learning features such as clickable hotspots, quizzes, and surveys.
• Allows for the recording of screen, voice, and webcam simultaneously.
• Easy importing of existing audio and video tracks.
• Available on both Windows and macOS.

Cons:

• It can be a bit expensive for beginner course creators.
• It has a learning curve.

Pricing: Starts at $179.88/year.

Why I Chose Camtasia: I recommend Camtasia for its outstanding screen recording and video editing capabilities, perfect for online course creation. Its interactive features, like quizzes and hotspots, boost learner engagement. Plus, cross-platform compatibility and easy media importing add flexibility for producing quality video content.

What Are the Best Course Creation Software and Tools?

When creating and promoting your online courses, choosing the right tools is essential to reaching the right audience and getting more student signups.

The right software can help you design professional-looking courses, engage your students, and even grow your audience. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your course to the next level, using the best tools in each area can make all the difference.

Here are some of my top recommendations to help you build, manage, and promote your courses effectively:

• MemberPress: MemberPress is a powerful and easy-to-use learning management system (LMS) for managing your courses and students. It lets you create and sell online courses, manage memberships, and even set up different access levels for your students.
• OptinMonster: Want to attract more students? OptinMonster helps you create popups and other engaging optins to promote your online courses, increase signups, and grow your email list.
• Constant Contact: Keeping your students engaged and informed is crucial for a successful online course. Constant Contact lets you send welcome emails to new students, automated lesson reminders, and personalized announcements to keep everyone on track.
• Sony Alpha ZV-E10: A fantastic choice for creators who want professional-looking videos without breaking the bank. Its excellent autofocus ensures your videos stay sharp, even if you move around while filming. Plus, you can easily use it as a webcam for live sessions, making it a versatile tool for any course creator.

FAQ About Course Creation Software and Tools

Let’s go through some answers to some common questions about course creation tools and platforms.

Can I make money selling courses online?

Yes, selling courses can be quite profitable, especially if you target the right audience and provide valuable, high-quality content. Your success largely depends on how well you market your course and engage with your students.

Can I sell my course on Udemy?

Yes, you can sell your course on Udemy. It’s a popular platform for course creators because it provides a large audience and handles payment processing, but it also takes a share of your revenue.

What are the best online platforms for online classes?

Some of the best platforms for online classes include MemberPress, Teachable, and Thrive Apprentice. These platforms offer powerful features for creating, marketing, and selling your courses.

Is Teachable the best platform for offering online courses?

Teachable is a great choice for offering online courses due to its user-friendly interface and comprehensive feature set. However, whether it’s the best for you will depend on your specific needs and goals.

I hope this article has helped you find the best course creation software and tools. Next up, you might want to see our guides on how to create and sell online courses and how to run a virtual classroom.

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