We remember the anxiety of launching our first site — the late nights, the performance worries, the fear of hidden fees that kill momentum. Today, we cut through that noise. This review compares two major companies so you can pick hosting that protects uptime, speed, and your budget over time.
We test real-world features and measure raw speed, security, and support. Our focus is practical: how fast a site goes live, how pricing holds up after renewals, and what actually saves time for founders this year.
Expect clear findings on LiteSpeed stacks, free SSL, daily backups, global CDNs, AI builders, and where entry-level pricing hides add-ons. We speak plainly — no fluff — and give a short, decisive verdict for U.S. small businesses and agencies.
Key Takeaways
- We compare real-world uptime, speed, and long-term costs.
- Transparent pricing and included security matter more than low entry fees.
- LiteSpeed, free SSL, and daily backups improve Core Web Vitals.
- AI site builders can cut time-to-live to under five minutes.
- Support responsiveness is a major differentiator for growing sites.
At a glance: who wins in 2025 for speed, value, and reliability
In one glance we separate headline promises from what actually matters for speed, uptime, and long-term cost.
Quick U.S. verdict: Our pick leads on speed, value, and reliability thanks to LiteSpeed servers, free SSL, daily backups, an included global CDN, and 24/7 expert support that resolves most issues in minutes.
We tested real-world metrics and checkout carts. We weighed advertised prices against what you actually pay after add-ons. Results favor providers that bundle essentials rather than selling them at checkout.
How we tested and which sources informed this comparison
Testing inputs included public third-party comparisons, Sucuri performance notes, and independent server-response checks. We noted a reported 190 ms average server response time for one competitor and an overall Sucuri score of C in mixed regions.
We also reviewed SSL pricing tiers, backup frequency, and support feedback. The competitor relied on paid add-ons, weekly backups by default, and variable chat accuracy. That combo raises long-term costs and risk.
“Pick infrastructure that bakes in essentials; don’t rent them piecemeal.”
- Speed: sub-200ms global TTFB and edge caching improve Lighthouse scores and mobile conversion.
- Value: total cart math beats low headline fees.
- Reliability: 99.99% uptime reduces downtime and lost revenue.
BoostedHost vs Crazy Domains: pricing transparency and real cost of ownership
Pricing pages can promise savings—checkout carts reveal the true bill. We look beyond the sticker to show the real cost of ownership for a year. That includes essential security and backup needs.
Sticker price vs checkout upsells
One provider bundles essentials—free ssl, daily backups, malware protection, and a CDN—so monthly rates stay predictable.
In contrast, Crazy Domains often charges separately for ssl (Standard $70.72/yr, Premium $135/yr, Wildcard $455/yr), daily backups, and site builders at checkout.
Plan flexibility for individuals, small businesses, and agencies
- Flexible plans cover single domain name launches to multi-account agency workflows.
- Included protections speed onboarding and reduce billing complexity for accounts.
- Multi-year billing and a 60-day money-back guarantee are available, but careful review of terms matters.
| Feature | Bundled | Common Checkout Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Free SSL | Yes | $0 vs $70.72/yr |
| Daily backups | Yes | $0 vs paid add-on |
| Malware protection | Yes | $0 vs paid service |
We define real cost of ownership as the sticker price plus all essential add-ons needed to run a professional site for a full year.
Included features that matter in 2025
Included features define whether a hosting plan protects your site or just sells peace of mind. In 2025, security and performance must be standard—not paid extras.
What’s bundled determines your real cost and risk.
Free SSL, daily backups, malware protection, and global CDN—what’s bundled and what’s paid
We include free SSL, automated daily backups, malware protection, and a global CDN so sites are fast and secure from day one. SSD storage is standard across plans to keep I/O fast.
Email, storage, and account resources: avoiding nickel-and-dime add-ons
Plans also ship with generous email, sensible storage, and scalable compute resources. Teams can work without surprise bills for basic functionality.
- Essentials included: SSL, daily backups, malware scans, CDN.
- Daily backup cadence reduces data-loss risk versus weekly schedules.
- SSD everywhere prevents uneven performance across sites.
- Reality check: Crazy Domains often charges for SSL and daily backups as add-ons, complicating budgets and domains offers.
For details and plan options, see our web hosting plans.
Performance and uptime: LiteSpeed servers, TTFB, and real-world speed
Server architecture and CDN reach shape how quickly a page paints for visitors. We run tests and look at what matters for conversions: first byte, edge caching, and consistent uptime.
Ultra-fast LiteSpeed with sub-200ms global TTFB
Our LiteSpeed stack delivers sub-200ms global TTFB by combining server-level caching, optimized PHP, and HTTP/3. That feels like an instant start for users and improves Core Web Vitals.
Caching, CDN reach, and edge delivery for websites and video
We pair edge caching with an anycast CDN to shrink distance for visitors. This matters for media-heavy sites and smooth video playback.
- LiteSpeed + optimized PHP + HTTP/3 yield faster initial loads.
- Edge caching reduces bandwidth spikes and speeds asset delivery.
- Consistent SSD storage keeps response times low under load.
What 99.99% uptime means for revenue and SEO
Uptime is not a slogan—it’s revenue protection. A 99.99% average reduces missed orders and gives search engines stable signals. By contrast, Crazy Domains advertises 99.9% and shows mixed global results in independent tests.
Faster first byte and steady uptime compound into higher conversions and better organic rankings.
Security stack: DDoS protection, isolation, and backup frequency
Layered defenses mean fewer incidents and faster recoveries when something goes wrong.
Our stack focuses on prevention and fast recovery. Automatic daily backups and malware scanning cut recovery time. Account isolation prevents a breach in one site from spreading to other accounts.
Crazy Domains provides ddos protection and CloudLinux-based isolation. They include anti-spam/antivirus for email and advertise 24/7 monitoring. Their default backup cadence is weekly; daily restores cost extra.
Automatic daily backups vs weekly backups and paid daily options
Daily automated backups are standard here. Restores are quick and reduce data-loss risk. Weekly backups leave larger recovery gaps and can cost more in a crisis.
WAF, malware scanning, account isolation, and update policies
- WAF and malware scanning block common exploits proactively.
- Server hardening and edge filtering reduce attack surface and preserve legitimate traffic.
- Smart updates and safe rollouts keep WordPress and plugins current with minimal disruption.
- Support triages security tickets in minutes to lower dwell time and damage.
“Containment plus daily restores is how you win back control after an incident.”
| Security area | Included (standard) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backups | Daily | Fast restores, lower RPO |
| Isolation | Per account | CloudLinux-like containment |
| WAF & scanning | Yes | Blocks common exploits |
| DDoS & hardening | Edge filtering + server hardening | Preserves uptime under volumetric attack |
Managed WordPress and WooCommerce hosting compared
WordPress hosting must make content edits, staging, and checkout flows feel instant under load.
Managed plans here include LiteSpeed acceleration, automatic daily backups, malware protection, and staging. That combination speeds admin tasks and reduces risk when deploying changes.
Speed, staging, and auto-updates for WordPress users
We optimize WordPress at the server level—LiteSpeed Cache, HTTP/3, and tuned PHP—so pages and the admin UI render fast.
Staging environments let teams test updates safely. One-click deploys cut release friction for marketing and high-traffic websites.
Auto-updates plus daily backups protect content and plugins. Restores are quick, so rollbacks cost minimal time.
WooCommerce performance under traffic spikes
WooCommerce needs steady I/O and object caching to keep carts and checkouts responsive during campaigns.
Our stack applies caching rules, object cache, and a global CDN to reduce latency at checkout.
Disk and database storage are provisioned to scale as catalogs and media libraries grow. That keeps performance predictable.
- Server-level tuning: LiteSpeed Cache, HTTP/3, optimized PHP.
- Safe deployments: staging and one-click deploys.
- Resilience: daily backups and malware scans reduce recovery risk.
- Scaling: cloning and multi-site workflows for agencies.
We prefer defaults that favor reliability under load—mixed global tests elsewhere show uneven results, and weekly backups widen recovery gaps.
| Feature | Included | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backups | Daily | Fast restores for websites and stores |
| Storage | SSD | Provisioned for growth |
| Platform support | Linux & Windows | Cross-platform hosting plans |
Orbit AI Website Builder vs “like crazy” add-ons
Orbit AI crafts a complete live site from your brand name in minutes, not hours. We use it to generate layouts, pages, and starter copy tied to your industry and name. The result is a production-ready website that plugs into hosting essentials without extra checkout friction.
Build a professional site in under 5 minutes with AI tools
Speed matters for founders and small teams. Orbit builds structure and copy fast. It also wires in free SSL, daily backups, and the CDN so your site is secure and fast from day one.
When AI helps more than template-based site builders
AI reduces the blank-page problem. You iterate content and images instead of rebuilding rigid templates. Agencies clone frameworks for clients in minutes and ship billable work faster.
- Generate a full site: layouts, pages, and starter copy mapped to your brand name and industry.
- Production-ready: built-in SSL, backups, and CDN remove extra paid options that inflate cost like crazy add-ons.
- Better workflow: iterate instead of starting from scratch; scale templates across projects.
Orbit lowers setup time and reduces hidden checkout costs compared to builders sold separately at purchase.
For a close look at plans and integration, see our web hosting plans.
Developer stack and compatibility
Teams choose hosting that fits their workflow; we make that choice easy with flexible runtimes and CLI access.
Run modern apps in production without compromise. We support PHP, Node.js, and Python so you can pick frameworks and package managers that match your product.
Git-based deploys and full CLI access streamline releases. Pair those tools with staging to test updates before they hit live traffic.
Build, deploy, and maintain with confidence
We tune server limits and caching profiles to keep APIs and SPAs responsive while protecting shared resources. SSD-backed plans prevent I/O bottlenecks.
- Run PHP, Node.js, and Python in production with freedom to choose frameworks.
- Git deploys and CLI workflows for modern CI/CD and safe rollouts.
- We assist with version upgrades, performance profiling, and safe updates.
“Predictable environments reduce surprise outages during busy cycles.”
Competitors span linux windows and offer WP-CLI and Git on managed tiers, but double-check which features sit behind paid plans. For details about our approach and team, see our about us.
Data centers, network, and global reach
Geography shapes latency: where you place your origin servers matters more than raw bandwidth.
We operate across Switzerland, the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Paired with a global CDN, this setup minimizes latency for U.S. buyers reaching national and international audiences.
Location choices and performance impact
Keep primary traffic near the server to shave critical milliseconds off TTFB. That improves mobile load time and perceived speed.
Proximity also helps email deliverability. Regional routing and clean IP reputation mean less greylisting and fewer false positives for transactional mail.
Practical guidance for multi-geo brands
- Use origin servers near core users and a CDN everywhere campaigns run.
- Anycast routing reduces packet hops and stabilizes performance during peak time and routing shifts.
- Wide region coverage helps, but peering quality and stack tuning matter more than a long list of locations.
Result: smart server placement plus an anycast network yields faster site load, steadier email delivery, and fewer surprises in global metrics.
| Region | Advantage | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland & Europe | Low latency across EU | Good for European customers and compliance |
| USA | Best for national US audiences | Shaves milliseconds off TTFB for US mobile users |
| Asia (HK, SG, India) | Improved APAC reach | Mixed performance needs strong peering |
| Anycast CDN | Global edge delivery | Reduces hops and stabilizes routing during peaks |
Support responsiveness and customer satisfaction
Support should feel like an extension of your team—responsive and technical. We staff expert engineers around the clock so issues get resolved, not escalated. Fast, accurate help keeps sites live and teams focused on growth.
24/7 expert support that resolves most requests in minutes
We provide 24/7 channels staffed by engineers who know the stack end to end. Most routine problems are fixed in minutes. That reduces downtime and restores service quickly.
Onboarding, migrations, and issue resolution time
Onboarding is hands-on. We configure DNS, SSL, email, and CDN during setup to avoid surprises.
Migrations are scheduled to minimize downtime and use checklists for repeatable success. Agencies get structured workflows so multi-site moves run like clockwork.
- Resolution time matters: swift, accurate fixes from staff who own outcomes.
- Post-incident follow-through: hardening, updates, and tuning to prevent repeats.
- Comparative note: crazy domains offers many channels, but users report variable chat accuracy and gaps that slow live problem handling.
Faster, expert-first support reduces churn and improves long-term results—your team spends time building, not chasing tickets.
Conclusion
Conclusion
We recommend the platform that bundles essentials and runs quietly in the background. For U.S. businesses, predictable web hosting matters more than low headline fees. Transparent pricing, free SSL, daily backups, malware protection, and a global CDN deliver uptime and fewer surprises.
Our stack hits 99.99% uptime and sub-200ms global TTFB. Multiple data centers (Switzerland, USA, Europe, Asia) and support for PHP, Node.js, Python, and WooCommerce keep deployment simple for agencies and teams.
Crazy Domains charges for SSL and pushes add-ons and weekly backup defaults. That raises cost and risk over a year. If you value performance, security, and fast expert support, choose the provider that includes these features so you can focus on growth—not hosting.
FAQ
What are the main differences in pricing and real cost of ownership between the two providers?
We found differences in sticker price, checkout upsells, and renewal rules. One provider includes essentials like SSL and daily backups in entry plans. The other shows lower initial prices but charges for SSL, backups, and email at checkout and on renewal. Look at renewal rates, paid add-ons, and included resources to calculate true cost over 12–24 months.
How do their included features compare for 2025 — SSL, backups, CDN, and email?
One plan bundles free SSL, daily automated backups, malware scanning, and a global CDN. The alternative often offers basic features only, with premium options sold separately. Email quotas and storage vary — check account resource allocations and whether spam protection or secure SMTP are included.
Which provider delivers better real-world performance and uptime?
We tested TTFB, caching, and uptime claims. The higher-performing service uses LiteSpeed and aggressive caching, delivering sub-200ms TTFB in many regions and consistent 99.99% uptime. The competitor produced mixed speed results and marketing-level 99.9% uptime. Site architecture, CDN reach, and server placement shape real speed more than headline claims.
Is DDoS protection and site isolation included, or do I need paid upgrades?
Basic DDoS mitigation and account isolation vary. One provider includes enterprise-style DDoS filtering and strict account isolation by default. The other limits protection to paid tiers or external add-ons. For high-traffic stores or mission-critical sites, choose the plan with built-in WAF, isolation, and regular backups.
How do managed WordPress and WooCommerce offerings compare?
Managed plans differ on speed features, staging, and auto-updates. The stronger option offers LiteSpeed, staging sites, and safe auto-updates tuned for plugins, plus WooCommerce caching for traffic spikes. The alternative provides basic managed tools but may require paid upgrades for staging or advanced caching.
Can I build a site quickly with AI tools, and are they useful?
Yes — the AI-based site builder can create a professional starter site in under five minutes. It speeds up setup and content generation. AI helps most when you need a polished launch quickly; hand-tuned templates and developer workflows still win for bespoke or highly optimized sites.
Do they support modern developer stacks — PHP, Node.js, Python, Git, CLI?
Both services offer developer support, but capability depth differs. Look for SSH, Git deployment, Node.js and Python runtime options, and CLI tools. If you run custom apps or CI/CD pipelines, choose the host with full Git/CLI workflows and multi-language runtime support.
How important is server location, and which data center options are available?
Server placement directly affects latency, speed, and email deliverability. Choose data centers close to your audience — USA, Europe, Asia, or Switzerland — to reduce TTFB and improve mailbox reputation. Providers with multiple POPs and a global CDN give the best reach.
What are typical support response times and migration assistance like?
Top-tier plans include 24/7 expert support that resolves most tickets in minutes, plus free migrations and onboarding help. Other plans rely on ticket queues and chat with variable wait times. Verify SLA terms, migration limits, and whether premium support is an add-on.
How do renewal terms, promotional discounts, and long-term value compare?
Introductory discounts often double at renewal. Compare first-term pricing to standard renewal rates and watch for mandatory multi-year contracts to lock in lower prices. Long-term value depends on included features, renewal protection, and transparent upgrade policies.
Are backups daily or weekly, and how easy is restoration?
Backup frequency is critical. One provider includes automatic daily backups with simple one-click restores. The other may limit to weekly backups or charge for daily snapshots. Confirm retention length, restore speed, and whether restores are free.
Will either host handle traffic spikes for e-commerce or media-heavy sites?
Look for scalable resources, specialized WooCommerce caching, CDN edge delivery for video, and burstable CPU/RAM. The stronger host provides proven spike handling and autoscaling options. The cheaper plan may require manual upgrades during peaks.
What security features should we expect — WAF, malware scanning, and update policies?
Expect a WAF, regular malware scans, automated patching, and clear update policies. The better service includes proactive monitoring and timely core/plugin updates. If you manage multiple sites, account-level scanning and policy enforcement save time and reduce risk.
How do we choose between value and raw performance for a small business site?
Prioritize what impacts your bottom line: speed for conversions, uptime for revenue, and included security for trust. If budget is tight, pick a plan with bundled essentials. If growth or traffic spikes matter, invest in higher-performance hosting with a reliable CDN and support.
Are there hidden fees we should watch for at checkout?
Watch for charges on SSL, email accounts, backups, migrations, and premium support. Also check domain registration, WHOIS privacy, and migration limits. Read the checkout flow and terms to reveal one-time or recurring add-ons.
Do either provider offer DDoS SLA or uptime credits?
Some plans include uptime SLAs and credits for downtime; DDoS guarantees are rarer. Review the terms of service for SLA percentages, credit calculations, and required claim processes. For mission-critical sites, choose a host with explicit SLA protections.
How is email deliverability affected by data center location and hosting policies?
Deliverability improves with geographically appropriate mail servers, good IP reputation, and proper DNS authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC). Hosts with multiple data centers and strict abuse policies reduce bounce rates and spam flags.
What steps should we take before migrating multiple websites?
Inventory sites, test staging environments, verify PHP/runtime versions and extensions, back up everything, and confirm DNS cutover timing. Take advantage of free migrations if offered and schedule migration windows for low traffic to minimize disruption.
How do caching, CDN reach, and edge delivery impact SEO and video performance?
Proper caching and broad CDN edge coverage reduce load times, boosting SEO and user retention. For video, edge delivery lowers buffering and improves playback. Choose a host with integrated CDN and configurable cache rules for best results.
What should agencies look for in plan flexibility and account resources?
Agencies need multi-site management, white-label tools, account-level backups, and scalable resource pools. Flexible billing, API access, and granular role permissions streamline client work and reduce overhead.
