Service Comparison
| Feature comparison table |
 $29.95 /mo
Build 1
|
 $43.98 /mo
Standard NVMe 4
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|---|---|---|
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Feature Name
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CPU cores
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2 CPU cores
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2 CPU cores
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RAM
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4GB RAM
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4GB RAM
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Storage
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50GB
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100GB
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Automatic Offsite Backups
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yesDaily, upgradeable
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Included, but information is unclear, and backups are stored on the same server
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External Backups Support
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yesYes (S3, B2)
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noNo
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Includes Control Panel
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yesYes - SPanel (free)
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yesYes, cPanel (with yearly price hikes)
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Free Website Migration
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yesYes, unlimited
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1 free; then $127 per site
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Free WP Migration
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yesYes, unlimited
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1 free; then $127/site (has questionable free tools)
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Free Email Migration
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yesYes
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no$99 per domain
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Free Global CDN Integration
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yesYes
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yesYes
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Malware Protection
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yesYes, SShield (included)
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SiteLock (paid addon)
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Free OpenLiteSpeed Аcceleration
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yesYes
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noNo
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Scalable Resources
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yesYes, granular
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noNo, fixed plan tiers only
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Dedicated IP
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yesYes
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yesYes, 2 IPs
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IP Blacklist Monitoring
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yesYes
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noNo
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Free SSLs
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yesYes
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yesYes
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Money-back Guarantee
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yesAnytime
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30-day -not available for monthly accounts and payments other than credit card.
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Bandwidth
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yesUnmetered
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yesUnmetered
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Root Access
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yesYes
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noNo
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Many users looking for a Bluehost alternative discover that Bluehost’s “fully managed” VPS does not always match the expectations set by its marketing.
Despite claims of expert monitoring and optimization, servers may come with a near-default cPanel installation and require manual configuration to handle higher traffic effectively. Important elements such as remote backups, proper firewall protection, and additional IP allocation may also require extra effort or support requests, while scalability options are limited.
As a Bluehost alternative, ScalaHosting offers a truly managed cloud environment from the start, with optimized server configuration, remote backups stored off-server, proper security setup, and proactive management by experienced specialists to ensure reliable performance and protection without requiring users to handle complex server adjustments themselves.
| Feature comparison table |
$5.95 /mo
($14.95/mo when you renew)
Start
|
$6.99 /mo
($24.99/mo when you renew)
Business
|
|---|---|---|
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Feature Name
|
||
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Number of Websites
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Unlimited
|
50
|
|
Storage Space
|
50GB
|
50GB
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Storage Type
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NVMe
|
NVMe
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Automatic Offsite Backups
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yesYes, 7 days
|
yesWeekly
|
|
Free SSLs
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yesYes
|
yesYes
|
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Free Website Migration
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yesYes, unlimited
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1 free; $127 per site after
|
|
Free Email Migration
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yesYes, via IMAP
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noNone, $99 per domain
|
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Email Inbox Size Limit
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yesNo limit
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Strict inode limits apply
|
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Free Global CDN Integration
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yesYes
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yesYes
|
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Malware Protection & Scanning
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yesYes
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yesYes
|
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Uncapped Inodes
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yesYes
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no200,000 across the board
|
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Database Size
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yesUnlimited
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5GB each or 10GB combined, 5000 tables max
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|
Softaculous
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yesYes
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yesYes
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Money-back Guarantee
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yesAnytime
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30-day - not available for monthly accounts and payments other than credit cards.
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Many users searching for a Bluehost alternative find that Bluehost’s shared hosting includes strict technical limits that can lead to unexpected setbacks as a website grows. The platform enforces inode limits, caps the total size and number of databases, and restricts the size of individual tables. In addition, a “CPU protection” system may throttle or disable resource-intensive scripts, while memory limits and unclear I/O or IOPS allocations can further affect performance and scalability.
ScalaHosting takes a different approach to shared hosting, allocating resources based on the percentage of server capacity used rather than fixed numerical limits. This model provides greater predictability for growing websites while avoiding the overselling practices that can negatively impact performance on traditional shared hosting platforms.
Support Comparison
Real Experts. Real Answers. No Waiting.
ScalaHosting
ScalaHosting provides a premium, highly responsive support experience centered on in-house technical expertise. With an industry-leading average chat response time of just 15 seconds and ticket resolutions within 15 minutes, our specialists are proactive and deeply engaged in both the sales and technical processes. By offering immediate human assistance and server-level mastery, we create a supportive environment that actively guides customers and helps drive business growth.
Bluehost
In contrast, Bluehost offers standard 24/7 availability that often suffers from low engagement and inconsistent quality. Direct testing reveals a passive support culture where users must lead the conversation and frequently repeat basic information. The Sales staff shows more interest in pushing upsells and answering with templated responses. This lack of proactive attitude raises significant concerns regarding the quality of their long-term technical support, especially for more complex hosting needs.
| Support Response Time |
|
|
|---|---|---|
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Support Availability
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24/7 via live chat and ticket system
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24/7 support available
|
|
Expertise
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In-house specialists with deep server-level expertise
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Varies depending on issue, often slow and templated
|
|
Average Response Time
|
15 seconds (chat),
10-15 minutes (tickets) |
Varies; often longer for complex cases
|
Performance Comparison
| Performance Comparison |
|
|
|---|---|---|
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Feature Name
|
||
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Storage Performance (Read IOPS)
|
162,000
|
101,000
|
|
Storage Performance (Write IOPS)
|
53,900
|
33,800
|
|
CPU Power (Events/second)
|
5,028
|
4,865
|
|
Storage Type
|
NVMe on all plans
|
NVMe on VPS plans
|
|
Web Server Options
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Apache, Nginx, OpenLiteSpeed, LiteSpeed (customer choice)
|
No choice, locked to their stack
|
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Performance Tools
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Redis Manager with GUI, LiteSpeed/OpenLiteSpeed support
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Limited caching, no LiteSpeed option
|
Performance tests show clear advantages for users seeking a Bluehost alternative. ScalaHosting delivers faster storage performance with up to 162,000 read IOPS and 53,900 write IOPS, compared to about 101,000 and 33,800 respectively on Bluehost. ScalaHosting also includes NVMe storage on all plans, multiple web server options, and advanced performance tools.
Testing also suggests that Bluehost servers often come with a nearly default cPanel setup and minimal optimization, which may require manual configuration for higher-traffic sites. As a Bluehost alternative, ScalaHosting provides an optimized environment and flexible performance tools from the start. SPanel contains all essential tools plus some unique modules for security monitoring and app management at no added cost. In comparison, some important cPanel features are locked behind a paywall.
Migrations Comparison
Migration Requests
The ScalaHosting Migration team works 24/7. You can schedule a data translate at any desired time (nights and weekends included). The transfer is initiated immediately after receiving valid login credentials. Post-migration checks are included to ensure proper operation on the Scala servers.
Bluehost offers one free migration supposedly done by them. For WordPress, they offer free automated tools with no guarantee of success.
Mail Transfer
Mail migration is free and can be performed for clients coming from any platform via IMAP sync. Professional assistance included.
$99 per email domain for migration. Doesn't matter if migrating from cPanel (which they also use) or another control panel. Intentionally overpriced - chat agent mentioned giving "15% discount" that wasn't even asked for, indicating markup strategy.
Cost
Free migration for all new hosting accounts,
ScalaHosting offers free migration for all new hosting accounts, regardless if shared, email, reseller, or managed cloud. You can transfer an unlimited number of websites and we won’t charge you a dime.
1 free migration, subsequent ones are either paid or performed manually by the client with an automated tool
No free migration on monthly plans ($127/one-time fee per website)
Conditions
No conditions for the site transfer whatsoever.
We will move you from any host, any panel, any type of website, as long as we have access to files and database. Size, type, and number of websites don't matter - the migration is always free and guaranteed. Not limited to WordPress or common CMS platforms.
A single free migration is included, performed by the Bluehost support team. Any additional professional migration costs $127 per website, flat rate, non-negotiable. Email transfer is not available.
Resources and Scalability
| Scalability Feature |
|
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|---|---|---|
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Feature Name
|
||
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Resource Focus
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Primarily focuses on % of server resources used, rather than strict numbers (CPU cores, RAM, I/O, EP).
|
Very limiting and strict: defined limits for inodes, database size, memory, etc.
|
|
Predictability
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Offers better predictability and makes resource allocation easier.
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Unclear resource allocation policies.
|
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Server Overcrowding
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Servers aren't overcrowded; no overselling needed.
|
Implied overcrowding due to strict limits/throttling.
|
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Traffic Spikes
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Allows for peaks and spikes without penalties.
|
CPU protection system either throttles or disables heavy scripts.
|
|
Inode Limits
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No limit
|
200,000 inodes
|
|
Database size
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No limit
|
Total 10GB size across ALL databases, 5GB maximum size for single database
|
|
Database Tables
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No limit
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5000 tables maximum
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Bluehost's strict limits can cause unexpected shutdowns or resource throttling. The 10GB total database limit or 5000 table limit (whichever comes first) is particularly restrictive for growing sites. ScalaHosting's percentage-based approach allows natural growth without hitting arbitrary walls.
Cloud VPS Scalability
| Scalability Feature |
|
|
|---|---|---|
|
Feature Name
|
||
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Scalability
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Full, granular - add individual resources as needed
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NO granular, on-the-fly CPU/RAM/SSD upgrades
|
|
Max Resources
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Up to 24 CPU cores, 128GB RAM, 2000GB storage, cluster options after that
|
Limited to plan-based upgrades only
|
|
Resource Upgrades
|
No server migrations required; Quick server reboot for CPU/RAM (instant for storage)
|
Must upgrade to higher tier (Standard NVMe 4 → Enhanced NVMe 8 → Ultimate NVMe 16)
|
|
Resource Adjustment
|
True on-the-fly resource adjustment
|
Cannot increase RAM or CPU independently without upgrading the entire plan
|
|
Customization
|
Continuous resource customization
|
Must follow predefined plans
|
|
Guaranteed Resources
|
Guaranteed Resources
|
Not explicitly listed (implied plan-based limits)
|
|
Clustering
|
Clustering available for enterprise needs
|
No clustering options
|
|
Max CPU Cores
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Up to 24 CPU cores, cluster options after that
|
No scalability over 32 CPU cores
|
Scalability is another important factor for users looking for a Bluehost alternative. With ScalaHosting, resources can be adjusted instantly, allowing users to add exactly what they need, such as a small increase in RAM, and pay only for the additional resources used.
With Bluehost, scaling typically requires upgrading to the next plan tier, which means paying for extra CPU, storage, and other resources even if they are not needed. This approach can make scaling less flexible and increases costs unnecessarily.
Security Comparison
| Security |
|
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|---|---|---|
|
Feature Name
|
||
|
SSL Certificates
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Included free
|
Included free
|
|
Backups
|
Daily
|
Weekly on lower plans, Daily on Business and Cloud plans
|
|
Server Monitoring
|
Constant, proactive
|
Not available
|
|
Malware Detection
|
Yes, SShield AI Protection
|
Included (basic scanning), Sitelock is a paid add-on
|
|
Firewall
|
CSF firewall on cPanel, integrated firewall on SPanel
|
WAF (Web Application Firewall) mentioned as included, No actual firewall on the VPS plans
|
|
Account Isolation
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Full isolation on Cloud VPS
|
Not available
|
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WordPress Protection
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WP-Lock included
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Not available
|
Security is another area where users often look for a reliable Bluehost alternative. Knowing its importance, ScalaHosting includes free SSL certificates, daily backups with remote storage options, proactive server monitoring, and built-in security tools such as SShield, integrated firewalls, and WordPress Security Lock at no extra cost. External backup integrations and full account isolation on the Cloud VPS plans further strengthen the overall security setup.
With Bluehost, some essential protections depend on additional services. Shared hosting typically includes basic SSL and weekly backups, while advanced security tools like malware cleanup and enhanced protection are offered through paid add-ons (such as SiteLock and CodeGuard). Testing also indicates that VPS configurations may require manual firewall setup and storing backups on the same server, which can create risks if the server fails or is compromised.
Control Panel Comparison
| Control panels |
|
|
|---|---|---|
|
Feature / Tool
|
||
|
Control Panel
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SPanel by default (free, cPanel-compatible
|
cPanel is standard across all supported plans
|
|
Root Access
|
Root access on Cloud VPS
|
|
|
Extended WordPress Manager
|
|
Partial
|
|
Joomla Manager
|
|
|
|
WordPress AI Sitebuilder
|
|
Limited
|
|
WordPress Security
|
|
|
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Lock tool
|
|
|
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SShield AI Security
|
|
|
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IP Blacklist Monitoring (Gmail/Yahoo)
|
|
|
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Redis Manager with GUI
|
|
|
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Node.js Manager
|
|
|
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N8N Automation Integration
|
|
|
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Automated IMAP Migration Tool
|
|
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Lighthouse Performance Monitoring
|
|
|
ScalaHosting’s control panel costs (or lack thereof) and pricing stability are another reason many users choose this host. Scala plans come with a proprietary SPanel control panel by default, which is fully featured, fast, and free to use with no licensing fees. This allows the company to maintain stable pricing without being affected by external software licensing increases, while still offering cPanel as an optional paid upgrade for those who prefer it.
In contrast, Bluehost relies on cPanel across its hosting plans, meaning pricing is tied to cPanel’s licensing structure. As these licenses increase over time, the added costs are typically passed on to customers, which can make long-term pricing less predictable.
Refunds and Hidden Fees Comparison
30-day full money-back guarantee
Anytime prorated refunds (unique advantage)
Applies to web hosting services
Does not apply to extras like domains, SSL, licenses
Change your mind anytime - get refund for the unused time
No mandatory extra charges
Optional add-ons clearly disclosed
All essential features included
No surprise fees
30-day standard money-back guarantee only
No refunds after 30 days
Must cancel within 30 days for any refund
No money-back guarantee for monthly plans
Required/Important Services (Extra Cost):
SiteLock: Enhanced security and malware cleanup (per-site billing)
CodeGuard: Backups, monitoring, backup restore (paid)
Professional migration: One free and each additional is $127 per site
Email migration: $99 per domain
Monthly plan migration: €129.17 per website
ScalaHosting's "Anytime money-back guarantee" means that even if you're unhappy 3, 6, or 12 months in, you can cancel and get a prorated refund for unused time. This shows confidence in service quality. Bluehost locks you in after 30 days with no refund option.
What Our Customers Say About ScalaHosting
I have been operating websites on a commercial basis since 1993 and have never been exposed to such a satisfying and positive hosting experience. We are using the NY based servers and our speed is fantastic with First Contentful paint at 0.8s and Speed Index at 1.0s. You could not get faster!
Receiving a prompt, positive response when having a question or issue is very important, particularly when working with live ecommerce sites. I moved the 90+ websites I manage to ScalaHosting almost two years ago. It's a decision I've never regretted and has really been beneficial to my business.
I was having troubles with my online store going down every day losing visitors and sales. Then I found ScalaHosting. Those people moved my site for free and without downtime. My website never stopped loading. I recommend them with both hands and thumbs up!
Ready for a better Bluehost alternative?
Switch to ScalaHosting and experience truly managed cloud hosting with optimized servers, stronger security, and flexible scalability built for growing websites and businesses. Enjoy predictable pricing, powerful performance, and expert support available 24/7.
Start your hosting with ScalaHosting today and see why thousands of website owners choose it as the smartest Bluehost alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Bluehost's VPS really "fully managed"?
Based on direct chat testing, NO, you cannot classify the Bluehost plans as fully managed. Despite the company website's claim of "A managed Linux VPS optimized and monitored by experts for reliable performance," their own agent stated this is "not actually done." Servers come with almost default cPanel installations requiring customer knowledge to request optimizations. ScalaHosting provides genuinely managed VPS with proper configuration from day one.
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Why are Bluehost's migration fees so high?
Bluehost charges $127 per website for professional migration (after 1 free) and $99 per email domain. Their "free" migration is just access to automated tools with no guarantee of success. This pricing keeps customers locked in. ScalaHosting provides unlimited free professional migrations to make switching easy.
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Can I really get a refund from ScalaHosting anytime?
Yes. ScalaHosting offers a 30-day full money-back guarantee PLUS anytime prorated refunds for unused time. Cancel after 6 months? Not a problem, you can get a refund for the remaining 6 months. Bluehost only offers standard 30-day refund - after that, no refunds regardless of dissatisfaction.
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What about Bluehost's security issues?
During testing, Bluehost quoted 24-48 hours to install the CSF firewall, then said they couldn't install it, leaving the VPS without a firewall. Backups are stored on the same server (not remote), so if the server fails, backups are lost. SiteLock security is a paid per-site addon. ScalaHosting includes SShield security free, remote backups, and proper firewall configuration.
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Is Bluehost's VPS scalable?
There is no granular scaling on the VPS plans. You must upgrade to higher plan tiers (can't add just RAM or just CPU). No scaling beyond 32 CPU cores. No clustering. Cannot downgrade. ScalaHosting offers true granular scalability up to 24 cores, 128GB RAM, with clustering available, and can scale down if needed.
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Why is Bluehost's G2 rating so much lower than ScalaHosting’s(3.4/5 vs 4.8/5)?
The 3.4/5 G2 rating and 16% negative TrustPilot reviews suggest widespread customer dissatisfaction. Common complaints include: misleading management claims, poor default configurations, high migration fees, strict limits, and disengaged support. In comparison, ScalaHosting maintains 4.8/5 G2 and 4.9/5 TrustPilot with <1% negative reviews, a sure sign the host is doing things right.
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Can ScalaHosting migrate me from Bluehost for free?
Yes, absolutely. ScalaHosting provides unlimited free professional migrations 24/7 with no restrictions on size, type, or number of websites. We handle websites, databases, emails, and configurations with zero downtime. No automated tools - real expert migration assistance. After the data transfer is complete, our expert support will ensure everything works properly on your new server with ScalaHosting.