When using Wix for your website, one of the key decisions is choosing the right plan and understanding the domain cost associated with it. Wix offers a variety of pricing tiers, each with its own set of features and domain options. Below, I’ll break down Wix domain costs and explain which plans to pick, and which to avoid depending on your needs.
Wix Pricing Plans Overview
Wix offers several plans tailored to different needs: Website, Business & eCommerce, and Enterprise. The plans vary in terms of features, such as additional storage, access to advanced tools, and, of course, the domain inclusion.
1. Free Plan (No Domain)
Overview:
The Wix Free Plan does not include a custom domain. Instead, you get a Wix subdomain (e.g., yourname.wixsite.com), and the site will have Wix ads displayed.
Domain Cost:
- Free Plan: You get a free Wix subdomain, but you cannot link a custom domain.
- Domain Purchase: If you want a custom domain (e.g.,
yourname.com), you will need to purchase it separately through Wix or another domain provider.
Best For:
- Testing out Wix or building a temporary site (e.g., personal blog or portfolio).
- If you’re not concerned about branding and can work with a subdomain.
- Beginners on a budget.
Pricing:
Free plan, but the domain costs extra if purchased outside the plan.
2. Combo Plan
Overview:
The Combo Plan is aimed at personal websites and small projects. It includes a custom domain (for one year) and removes ads.
Domain Cost:
- Included Domain: Free for the first year (custom domain, such as
yourname.com). - Renewal Cost: After the first year, Wix charges around $14.95/year for domain renewal (this may vary depending on the domain extension).
Best For:
- Personal websites or blogs that want a professional domain and removal of Wix ads.
- If you want to create a website for yourself or a small project with a budget-friendly plan.
Pricing:
Starts at $16/month (billed annually).
3. Unlimited Plan
Overview:
The Unlimited Plan is perfect for growing businesses or those who need more resources for larger websites, such as additional storage and enhanced features. Like the Combo plan, it includes a free domain for one year.
Domain Cost:
- Included Domain: Free for the first year (custom domain).
- Renewal Cost: Around $14.95/year for renewal after the first year.
Best For:
- Entrepreneurs and small businesses that require more flexibility, extra storage, and marketing tools.
- Websites that need more resources but still want to avoid the higher costs of business plans.
Pricing:
Starts at $22/month (billed annually).
4. Pro Plan
Overview:
The Pro Plan is geared towards users who need even more features like social media integration, better customization, and branding tools. It includes a free domain for the first year.
Domain Cost:
- Included Domain: Free for the first year (custom domain).
- Renewal Cost: After the first year, domain renewal will typically cost around $14.95/year.
Best For:
- Professional portfolios, creatives, or users who need advanced features for marketing and customization.
- Users who need additional design flexibility with more tools for branding and social media integration.
Pricing:
Starts at $27/month (billed annually).
5. Business Basic Plan
Overview:
The Business Basic Plan is ideal for users starting an online store. It includes a custom domain for one year, the ability to accept payments, and essential eCommerce features.
Domain Cost:
- Included Domain: Free for the first year (custom domain).
- Renewal Cost: After the first year, domain renewal is typically $14.95/year.
Best For:
- Small businesses and individuals who want to start an online store.
- Users who need essential eCommerce tools, such as online payments and inventory management.
Pricing:
Starts at $23/month (billed annually).
6. Business Unlimited & Business VIP Plans
Overview:
These are the higher-tier plans aimed at businesses with larger needs or growing eCommerce stores. They offer additional features such as advanced eCommerce tools, priority support, and more.
Domain Cost:
- Included Domain: Free for the first year (custom domain).
- Renewal Cost: Typically $14.95/year for domain renewal after the first year.
Best For:
- Established businesses looking for advanced features and tools to scale their online store.
- Users who need priority support and advanced marketing tools.
Pricing:
- Business Unlimited: Starts at $29/month (billed annually).
- Business VIP: Starts at $49/month (billed annually).
Which Wix Plan Should You Choose for a Domain?
- If you’re just starting out and don’t need a full-featured website, the Combo Plan is an affordable choice that includes a custom domain for the first year.
- For growing businesses or more complex needs (like larger blogs or small businesses), the Unlimited Plan offers great value with more storage, better marketing tools, and a free domain for the first year.
- For eCommerce websites, the Business Basic Plan is a good starting point for selling online, and it includes a domain for the first year.
- If you’re running a larger, more advanced business site, consider the Business Unlimited or Business VIP plans for even more functionality and support.
Which Wix Plan to Avoid
- Free Plan: This plan doesn’t include a custom domain and comes with ads. It’s not ideal if you want to build a professional-looking site or brand.
- Combo and Unlimited Plans: While they are great for personal websites, the Business Basic plan is better if you’re focusing on an eCommerce store, as it includes essential online selling features.
Additional Domain Costs
If you purchase a domain from Wix after the first year, the renewal cost will be around $14.95 per year, depending on the domain extension (.com, .net, etc.). Wix also offers domain transfers if you want to move your domain to another provider, although this may come with additional fees.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Wix plan depends largely on your needs:
- Basic personal websites: Go for the Combo or Unlimited plans, as they include a domain for the first year.
- Business or eCommerce sites: Consider the Business Basic or higher for essential eCommerce tools and domain inclusion.
Avoid the Free Plan if you’re serious about having a custom domain and professional appearance for your site. Ultimately, Wix makes it easy to get started with a free domain for the first year, but it’s important to know your renewal costs for long-term planning.
