Best Free Blogging Platforms (Blogger, WordPress, Medium) 2025
1 Blogger (Google’s Platform)
* **Overview**: Free blogging platform powered by Google, launched in 1999 and acquired by Google in 2003. Hosted on `blogspot.com` by default, with the option to use a custom domain via DNS settings ([Wikipedia][1], [WPBeginner][2], [Medium][3]).
* **Pros**:
* Completely free and easy to set up with just a Google account ([WPBeginner][2]).
* Integrated with Google services (Analytics, AdSense) and reliable infrastructure ([Tom's Guide][4]).
* One unique advantage: you can connect a custom domain for free ([Medium][3]).
* **Cons**:
* Limited design customizability and template choices; fewer updates and features over time ([WPBeginner][2], [Medium][3]).
* Scalability is limited, and content is ultimately controlled by Google (which has discontinued services before) ([WPBeginner][2]).
2 WordPress.com
* **Overview**: Hosted version of WordPress operated by Automattic, launched in 2005. Provides blog hosting with free and paid tiers ([Wikipedia][5]).
* **Pros**:
* Beginner-friendly, no technical setup needed.
* Highly customizable with themes and plugins (though many features require paid plans) ([Tom's Guide][4], [Medium][6], [Wikipedia][5]).
* Recently launched a **free AI-powered builder** to simplify site creation for new users as of April 2025 ([Wikipedia][5]).
* **Cons**:
* Free blogs include ads and have limitations—no custom domains, plugins, CSS editing, or ad control unless upgraded ([Wikipedia][5]).
* Ownership remains with Automattic; lacking full control over backend or monetization ([Medium][6], [Wikipedia][5]).
3 Medium
* **Overview**: Writer-centric social publishing platform founded in 2012 by Evan Williams. Aims to simplify writing and discovery while connecting writers to an existing audience ([Wikipedia][7], [TechRadar][8], [Tom's Guide][4]).
* **Pros**:
* Ultra-clean, distraction-free writing environment with no setup required ([TechRadar][8], [Bluehost][9], [Tom's Guide][4]).
* Built-in readership and content discovery via algorithmic feeds and topic recommendations ([TechRadar][8], [Bluehost][9], [Tom's Guide][4]).
* Monetization available through the **Partner Program**, with \$5/month membership unlocking opportunities ([TechRadar][8], [Bluehost][9], [Tom's Guide][4]).
* **Cons**:
* Very limited branding, control, and design customization; content remains within Medium’s ecosystem ([TechRadar][8], [WPBeginner][2], [pickupwp.com][10], [Tom's Guide][4]).
* Monetization and visibility are audience- and algorithm-dependent; not ideal for long-term branding or SEO control ([TechRadar][8], [pickupwp.com][10], [Tom's Guide][4]).
4 Quick Summary Table
| Platform | Strengths | Limitations | Ideal For |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------ | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- |
| **Blogger** | Completely free, easy setup, custom domain | Outdated design, limited scalability | Beginners with existing domains |
| **WordPress.com** | Customizable, AI tools, strong ecosystem | Many features locked behind paywalls | Aspiring bloggers wanting flexibility |
| **Medium** | Clean UI, built-in audience, simple setup | Minimal control, branding, monetization | Writers focused on content & reach |
5 Final Thoughts
* **Choose **Blogger** if** you want a completely free, no-fuss platform, especially if you already own a domain.
* **Choose **WordPress.com** if** you want room to grow and are okay upgrading later for themes, plugins, and customization.
* **Choose **Medium** if** you're a writer primarily seeking effortless publishing and audience exposure without worrying about tech or design.
Each platform serves different needs—from simplicity and ease to flexibility and reach. Let me know if you’d like recommendations based on your specific goals, such as monetization, design, or content control!
[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blogger_%28service%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Blogger (service)"
[2]: https://www.wpbeginner.com/beginners-guide/how-to-choose-the-best-blogging-platform/comment-page-2/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "11 Best Blogging Platforms in 2025 (Expert Picks)"
[3]: https://medium.com/%40rubaab_naseer26/top-5-blogging-platforms-your-path-to-blogging-success-in-2024-911a3dd3c452?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Top 5 Blogging Platforms: Your Path to Blogging Success In 2024 | by Random 26 Blogs | Medium"
[4]: https://www.tomsguide.com/buying-guide/the-best-free-blogging-sites?utm_source=chatgpt.com "The best free blogging sites in 2025"
[5]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WordPress.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com "WordPress
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