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Cloudways vs Nexcess – "Best Choice for WordPress!"
Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform offering flexibility with five cloud providers, like AWS and Google Cloud. Known for its user-friendly management and scaling, it suits developers and businesses needing high-speed performance.
Nexcess, part of Liquid Web, specializes in managed hosting for WordPress, WooCommerce, and Magento, with features like automatic scaling and PCI compliance for eCommerce. It offers site migrations and CMS-specific support for easier management of complex sites.
Both Cloudways and Nexcess emphasize performance and security but cater to different niches; Cloudways is cloud-centric with broader CMS support and scalability, whereas Nexcess is tailored for eCommerce and content-heavy websites, offering CMS-specific optimizations.
Cloudways
Performance: |5.0| 
Cloudways focuses on speed with built-in caching, advanced server optimizations, and integration with high-performance cloud providers like AWS and DigitalOcean. Its infrastructure flexibility allows users to scale up resources based on traffic needs, ensuring minimal downtime and quick load times.
Uptime: |4.9|
Cloudways offers excellent uptime by leveraging reliable cloud providers such as AWS, Google Cloud, and DigitalOcean, known for high availability and redundancy. Its infrastructure includes automated backups, load balancing, and server monitoring, which together contribute to a stable and consistent uptime.
Customer Service: |4.8|
Cloudways provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and ticketing, with options to upgrade to phone support and priority service for quicker resolutions. Their knowledge base and community forums also offer additional resources for troubleshooting and learning.
Nexcess
Performance: |4.8|
Nexcess is tailored for eCommerce and CMS-heavy sites, with automatic scaling, caching tools, and a content delivery network (CDN) designed for fast loading and stable performance. Its optimizations are particularly beneficial for online stores with high traffic, ensuring smooth and reliable experiences for end-users.
Uptime: |4.9|
Nexcess prioritizes uptime specifically for eCommerce and content-heavy websites, utilizing features like auto-scaling, instant backups, and managed failover to handle high traffic surges. Their platform’s architecture and 24/7 support team help ensure continuous uptime, especially during peak loads.
Customer Service: |4.7|
Nexcess offers 24/7 support with a team specialized in CMS and eCommerce platforms like Magento and WooCommerce, which is ideal for users with complex needs. Support is accessible via phone, chat, and tickets, and they prioritize quick response times to address critical issues.
Both Cloudways and Nexcess emphasize customer support, but Nexcess’s platform-specific expertise makes it particularly suited for eCommerce users, while Cloudways provides broader, cloud-focused support options.
Overall Comparison Cloudways vs Nexcess
| Aspect | Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|---|
| Service Type | Managed cloud hosting | Managed hosting for CMS and eCommerce |
| Specialization | Flexible cloud providers and general CMS support | eCommerce-focused (WordPress, WooCommerce, Magento) |
| Performance | Built-in caching, scalable cloud infrastructure | Auto-scaling, CDN, caching tailored for eCommerce |
| Uptime | High uptime via reliable cloud providers | High uptime with auto-scaling and managed failover |
| Customer Support | 24/7 support with live chat, tickets, optional phone | 24/7 support with CMS/eCommerce expertise via phone, chat |
| Pricing | Pay-as-you-go with flexible plans | Fixed pricing with various plans |
| Best For | Developers, agencies, businesses needing scalable cloud | eCommerce businesses, content-heavy CMS users |
1. Plans and Pricing
When comparing pricing between Cloudways and Nexcess, Cloudways tends to be the more affordable option, especially with its pay-as-you-go model, which allows you to scale your resources up or down depending on demand. Cloudways partners with multiple cloud providers like DigitalOcean, AWS, and Google Cloud, letting users choose different pricing tiers and storage capacities. This flexibility can be cost-effective, particularly for smaller websites or projects with fluctuating traffic, since you only pay for the resources you use.
Nexcess, on the other hand, offers fixed monthly plans, which are typically more expensive than Cloudways’ entry-level options. However, Nexcess includes several high-value features in its managed WordPress hosting, such as built-in backups, staging environments, automatic scaling, and advanced performance optimizations. These added tools can be beneficial for users running high-traffic sites who need a comprehensive package. While Nexcess’ pricing is higher, it’s an appealing choice for businesses seeking premium features without managing configurations manually.
| Plan Type | Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $12/month | $19/month |
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go (based on cloud provider resources) | Fixed monthly plans |
| Additional Costs | Optional add-ons for premium support, backups | No extra charges for essential features |
| Scaling Costs | Scales with increased resource needs | Automatic scaling included in pricing |
| Value for Niche | Great for cloud flexibility at entry-level prices | Excellent for eCommerce with built-in optimizations |
Cloudways generally offers more budget-friendly, pay-as-you-go pricing, while Nexcess has fixed monthly plans that tend to be slightly higher. Cloudways’ flexibility allows you to scale up or down as needed, whereas Nexcess includes premium features like built-in backups and performance optimization in its plans, which may justify the higher cost for some users.
Hosting Management
| Aspect | Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|---|
| Control Panel | Custom Cloudways dashboard | Custom Nexcess dashboard |
| Server Management | Full server control, including app and server-level settings | Managed server with auto-scaling, minimal manual intervention |
| CMS Management | Supports multiple CMS (WordPress, Joomla, Magento) | Focused on CMS like WordPress, WooCommerce, Magento |
| Backups | Automated and on-demand backups | Daily automated backups with easy restore options |
| Staging Environment | 1-click staging environment for testing | Staging environments for WordPress and other CMS platforms |
| Developer Tools | SSH access, Git integration, API support | SSH access, Git integration, WP-CLI for WordPress |
2. Features
Cloudways is now part of DigitalOcean, and Nexcess operates under Liquid Web. Despite these affiliations, both hosts continue to function independently. Cloudways focuses on Managed Cloud Hosting, providing access to five cloud providers, including DigitalOcean. Nexcess, meanwhile, specializes in Managed WordPress and Managed WooCommerce Hosting.
| Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|
| Choice of five cloud providers | Specializes in WordPress, WooCommerce, Magento |
| Built-in caching and advanced server optimizations | Automatic scaling and PCI compliance |
| User-friendly server management | CMS-specific performance tools |
| Pay-as-you-go pricing | Fixed pricing with various plans |
| 24/7 live chat and ticket support | 24/7 support via phone, chat, and tickets |
| Supports multiple CMS platforms | Tailored for eCommerce and CMS-heavy sites |
Both Cloudways and Nexcess offer feature-rich hosting plans. Cloudways stands out for its enhanced server controls that come with cloud hosting. However, Nexcess takes the lead in managed WordPress hosting features, providing optimized servers for WordPress and WooCommerce, automatic image compression, iThemes Security Pro, and a 100% uptime SLA, making it the winner in this category.
3. Performance
Cloudways vs Nexcess: Speed and Performance
Cloudways and Nexcess both rank among the fastest hosts for WordPress websites, as shown in our testing and my personal experience. Cloudways utilizes optimized web and database servers across three cloud platforms, while Nexcess offers optimized servers with premium image compression and a built-in CDN.
The competition is tight, but based on our tests and firsthand experience, Nexcess edges out as the winner. Here are some sample speed test results:
Performance of Cloudways
Performance of Nexcess
4. Ease of Use
Cloudways
User-Friendly Dashboard: Intuitive interface that simplifies server and application management.
One-Click Setup: Quick installation of popular CMS platforms with minimal configuration required.
Managed Hosting: Automatic updates and backups, reducing the need for technical management.
Flexible Scaling: Easy scaling options allow users to adjust resources without technical intervention.
Extensive Knowledge Base: Comprehensive guides and tutorials available for troubleshooting and setup.
Nexcess
Specialized Dashboard: Tailored for eCommerce and CMS management, making it easy to navigate essential features.
One-Click Installations: Quick setup for WordPress, WooCommerce, and Magento, streamlining the initial setup process.
Managed Services: Automated updates, security patches, and backups simplify ongoing maintenance.
Performance Optimizations: Built-in features like caching and CDN are automatically configured for optimal performance.
Expert Support: 24/7 support with CMS-specific expertise ensures users receive relevant help when needed.
Hosting Provided by Cloudways vs Nexcess
What Our Customers Have to Say?
Cloudways
“Cloudways has transformed our website management. The ease of scaling resources has been a game-changer for our business!”
” Their support staff is very knowledgeable and quick to respond. They helped us resolve issues quickly, allowing us to focus on growth.”
” The freedom to select my cloud provider is something I adore. It gives me peace of mind knowing I can switch if needed.”
Nexcess
” Our online store has benefited greatly from Nexcess. The automatic scaling during peak times ensures we never lose sales.”
“The customer support is top-notch; they understand eCommerce needs and provide tailored solutions.”
“The managed WordPress hosting is seamless. I don’t have to worry about updates or security—Nexcess handles it all!”.
Advantage of Cloudways and Nexcess
| Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|
| Flexible choice of cloud providers | ECommerce-focused optimizations |
| Pay-as-you-go pricing model | Fixed pricing with predictable costs |
| User-friendly dashboard for easy management | Specialized support for WordPress and Magento users |
| One-click installations for various CMS platforms | Automatic scaling for handling traffic spikes |
| Built-in caching and performance enhancements | Daily automated backups and easy restore options |
| Extensive documentation and community support | Strong focus on security and compliance features |
Disadvantage of Cloudways and Nexcess
| Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|
| Requires some technical knowledge for optimal setup | Higher starting prices compared to entry-level hosts |
| Limited customer support options without upgrade | Focused primarily on WordPress and eCommerce, less versatility for other CMSs |
| Additional costs can accumulate based on usage | Automatic scaling may lead to unexpected costs during high traffic |
| No native email hosting included | Some users claim that during busy hours, response times are slower. |
| Complexity in managing multiple cloud providers | Less flexibility in choosing underlying infrastructure compared to cloud options |
5. Support
Both Cloudways and Nexcess provide 24/7 expert support with teams that are responsive, courteous, and genuinely helpful. In this area, both hosts excel, making it a tie.
Cloudways
24/7 Availability: Provides round-the-clock support through live chat and ticketing.
Knowledge Base: Vast collection of self-help articles, guides, and frequently asked questions.
Community Forums: Active community where users can ask questions and share solutions.
Response Time: Generally quick response times, especially for live chat inquiries.
Premium Support: Optional upgrade for priority support and phone assistance.
Nexcess
24/7 Expert Support: Available via phone, chat, and tickets with a focus on CMS and eCommerce.
CMS-Specific Expertise: Support staff are trained in WordPress, WooCommerce, and Magento for tailored assistance.
Quick Response Times: Generally prompt replies to support tickets and inquiries.
Knowledge Base and Documentation: Comprehensive resources for troubleshooting and guides.
Personalized Assistance: Dedicated account managers for higher-tier plans to provide tailored support.
6. Security
Cloudways and Nexcess both prioritize security, but they approach it differently. Cloudways offers built-in firewalls, two-factor authentication, IP whitelisting, and automated backups for comprehensive protection across its cloud servers. In contrast, Nexcess provides robust security features tailored for WordPress and WooCommerce, including iThemes Security Pro, proactive malware monitoring, and daily backups. Both hosts provide effective safeguards, but Nexcess adds more WordPress-specific tools, giving it a slight edge for WordPress-focused sites.
| Security Feature | Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|---|
| SSL Certificates | Free SSL installation available | Free SSL installation included |
| Firewall Protection | Built-in server-level firewalls | Web Application Firewall (WAF) included |
| DDoS Protection | Basic DDoS protection through cloud providers | Advanced DDoS protection available |
| Regular Updates | Automatic updates for the platform and applications | Automatic updates for WordPress and other CMSs |
| Data Encryption | Encryption for data in transit | Encryption for data in transit |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Available for account access | Available for account access |
| Regular Backups | Automated backups with on-demand restoration | Daily automated backups with easy restore options |
| Security Monitoring | 24/7 server monitoring for potential threats | 24/7 monitoring and malware scanning |
| Compliance Standards | Meets industry-standard security practices | PCI compliance for eCommerce sites |
Final Recommendation
Both Cloudways and Nexcess deliver excellent WordPress hosting, but Nexcess is our top recommendation for most WordPress sites. Its premium features and specialized support set it apart, especially for WooCommerce, where Nexcess excels with additional e-commerce features, iThemes Security, and optimized tools for online stores.
Cloudways, however, may be the better fit if you need greater control over server settings due to its added server management flexibility.
In summary, while both hosts perform well, Nexcess leads overall in this comparison. For a detailed look, see our Nexcess review ratings below.
| Criteria | Cloudways | Nexcess |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Developers and agencies needing cloud flexibility | ECommerce businesses and users of specific CMSs |
| Pricing Structure | Pay-as-you-go for scalability | Fixed monthly plans for predictable budgeting |
| Technical Expertise Required | Some technical knowledge beneficial for optimization | Minimal technical knowledge needed for basic usage |
| Performance Needs | High performance for dynamic websites | Optimized for eCommerce and high-traffic CMS sites |
| Support Preference | Good for general support and community resources | Excellent for specialized CMS support |
| Security Focus | Strong security features, but user-managed | Comprehensive security for eCommerce and CMS |
| Backup Options | Automated backups available, but require setup | Daily backups included with easy restoration |
| Scaling Requirements | Flexible scaling based on resource usage | Automatic scaling for traffic spikes |
| User Experience | User-friendly interface, but may require setup | Intuitive dashboard with easy management for CMSs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform that allows users to deploy applications on various cloud providers, including AWS, Google Cloud, and DigitalOcean, with a focus on performance and scalability.
Nexcess is a managed hosting service that specializes in WordPress, WooCommerce, and Magento hosting, providing tailored solutions for eCommerce and content-heavy websites.
Cloudways offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model, allowing users to pay based on the resources they consume, which provides flexibility for scaling as needed.
Nexcess operates on a fixed monthly pricing model, which includes various plans based on the chosen hosting features and resource allocations.
Cloudways provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and ticketing, along with an extensive knowledge base and community forums for additional resources.
Nexcess offers 24/7 support via phone, chat, and tickets, with a focus on CMS-specific expertise, especially for WordPress and eCommerce platforms.
Yes, Cloudways provides automated backups with the option for on-demand restoration, allowing users to restore their applications easily.
Yes, Nexcess includes daily automated backups with easy restoration options, ensuring that data can be recovered quickly if needed.
Yes, Cloudways allows users to choose from multiple cloud providers, giving flexibility in selecting the infrastructure that best meets their needs.
Yes, Nexcess is specifically optimized for eCommerce platforms like WooCommerce and Magento, providing features tailored to enhance online store performance.
Yes, both Cloudways and Nexcess offer free SSL certificates to secure your websites and applications.
While Cloudways is user-friendly, some technical knowledge is beneficial for optimal setup and management, especially for users who wish to take full advantage of its flexibility.
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