Kinsta vs Flywheel: Which WordPress Hosting is Right for You?
When choosing a premium managed WordPress hosting provider, the debate of Kinsta vs Flywheel is one that many website owners face.
Both services offer high-performance hosting, excellent security, and expert support, but they cater to different types of users and needs.
This article provides an in-depth comparison of Kinsta and Flywheel, covering performance, pricing, features, security, scalability, and more.
Understanding Kinsta and Flywheel
Kinsta Overview
Kinsta is a managed WordPress hosting provider powered by Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
It is known for its focus on speed, security, and developer-friendly features.
Kinsta’s infrastructure leverages Google’s premium tier network, ensuring lower latency and faster load times.
Flywheel Overview
Flywheel is another premium managed WordPress hosting service, acquired by WP Engine in 2019.
It focuses on simplicity, ease of use, and creative workflows for agencies and freelancers.
Flywheel offers an intuitive dashboard, staging environments, and built-in collaboration tools.
Performance Comparison
Performance is a key factor when deciding between Kinsta vs Flywheel.
| Feature | Kinsta | Flywheel |
|---|---|---|
| Server Network | Google Cloud Platform (GCP) | Google Cloud Platform (GCP) |
| CDN | Free with KeyCDN | Free with Fastly |
| Data Centers | 35 locations worldwide | Multiple locations via GCP |
| Uptime SLA | 99.99% | 99.9% |
| PHP Version | Latest supported | Latest supported |
| Caching | Edge Caching + Object Caching | FlyCache (Custom caching solution) |
| Performance Optimization | Nginx, LXD containers, MariaDB | Custom caching, CDN |
Both Kinsta and Flywheel use Google Cloud Platform, ensuring high performance and reliability.
However, Kinsta provides more data center locations and a better uptime guarantee.
Ease of Use
Kinsta
- Offers a custom-built MyKinsta dashboard.
- Provides SSH, WP-CLI, and Git support.
- Automatic backups and easy staging environment.
- Suitable for developers and enterprises.
Flywheel
- Features an intuitive and user-friendly dashboard.
- No technical expertise required.
- Collaboration tools for agencies and designers.
- Perfect for freelancers and small businesses.
Flywheel has a more beginner-friendly interface, whereas Kinsta offers more advanced tools for developers.
Security Features
Security is a crucial aspect when comparing Kinsta vs Flywheel.
| Security Feature | Kinsta | Flywheel |
|---|---|---|
| Free SSL | Yes | Yes |
| DDoS Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Automated Backups | Yes, daily | Yes, nightly |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Yes | No |
| Malware Scanning | Yes | Yes |
| Hack Fix Guarantee | Yes | Yes |
Both hosts provide robust security, but Kinsta offers more advanced features like two-factor authentication.
Pricing Comparison
| Plan Name | Kinsta Price (per month) | Flywheel Price (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | $35 | $13 (Tiny Plan) |
| Pro | $70 | $25 (Starter Plan) |
| Business 1 | $115 | $96 (Freelancer Plan) |
| Business 2 | $225 | $242 (Agency Plan) |
| Enterprise | Custom Pricing | Custom Pricing |
Flywheel is generally more affordable for small websites, while Kinsta offers better value for high-traffic sites.
Developer Features
Kinsta is better suited for developers and enterprise-level businesses.
It offers SSH access, Git integration, WP-CLI, and APM (Application Performance Monitoring).
Flywheel is more focused on ease of use and team collaboration, making it ideal for agencies and designers.
Customer Support
| Support Feature | Kinsta | Flywheel |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Live Chat | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Support | No | No |
| Ticket System | Yes | Yes |
| WordPress Experts | Yes | Yes |
Both hosting providers offer excellent WordPress-specific support via 24/7 live chat.
Pros and Cons
Kinsta Pros
- Uses Google Cloud Platform’s premium tier.
- Advanced caching with edge performance.
- More data center locations.
- Automatic scalability.
Kinsta Cons
- More expensive than Flywheel.
- No phone support.
Flywheel Pros
- Affordable entry-level plans.
- Easy-to-use dashboard.
- Great for agencies and freelancers.
Flywheel Cons
- Fewer data center locations.
- Limited advanced developer features.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Kinsta if you need top-tier performance, global scalability, and developer-friendly features.
- Choose Flywheel if you want a more affordable, user-friendly experience tailored for agencies and freelancers.
Both hosting providers are excellent, but the right choice depends on your specific needs.
Kinsta vs Flywheel—which one suits your website best? Evaluate your needs and make an informed decision.
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About Author
Magno Barbosa
Magno has a degree in Computer Network Management and a postgraduate degree in Information Security. He has worked in the Information Technology area since 2003 and has experience in large companies in the web hosting sector. He is a minimalist and seeks to consume consciously and sustainably.