8 Best Blogging Tools for WordPress Users

I may earn a small commission if you buy a product or service through a link in this article at no extra cost to you.

The internet is packed with WordPress blogging tools, services, and add-ons promising to make blogging easier. Over the years, I’ve tried (and paid for) more than a few. Some were worth it, others not so much.

In this guide, I’m sharing the tools I currently use (and trust), along with a few I’ve used in the past and still recommend—from web hosting and plugins to keyword research and email marketing.

1. Cloudways

Cloudways is a managed cloud hosting platform that delivers excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of other premium web hosts.

If you’re a reasonably experienced blogger or have some technical know-how, I highly recommend Cloudways. I personally use their Vulture High Frequency server, which offers outstanding speed and reliability.

Their technical support is also excellent—fast, helpful, and knowledgeable. That said, once your site is set up, you’ll rarely need to contact them anyway.

Try Cloudways

2. DreamHost

DreamHost is a straightforward hosting provider that offers a solid range of plans, reliable support, and above-average performance. It’s not the cheapest option, but it strikes a great balance between quality and affordability.

While most of my sites are now hosted with Cloudways, I still use DreamHost’s VPS plan for some of my smaller test projects, and it continues to do the job well.

Use this link for a discounted hosting package, which also includes a free domain. Also check out my step-by-step guide to starting a WordPress blog with DreamHost, where I walk you through setting up your site from scratch.

Try DreamHost

3. GeneratePress

GeneratePress combines a free, lightweight WordPress theme with a premium plugin that lets you add only the features you actually need.

This makes it both powerful and efficient, light on resources but highly customisable. If you’re after a theme that speeds up your site and is easy to tailor to your needs, GeneratePress is the best choice.

Try GeneratePress

4. Semrush

Semrush is a powerful web-based tool that helps you uncover which keywords your sites (and your competitors) are ranking for.

It provides accurate keyword rankings by location, making it easy to track performance and spot opportunities to improve content that isn’t ranking as well as it could.

While Semrush shines as a keyword research and tracking tool, it also offers features like SEO audits, backlink tracking, domain comparisons, social media reports, and more.

Ahrefs is its main competitor, with a similar feature set and pricing—both are excellent, but I personally prefer Semrush for its user interface and tracking tools.

Try Semrush

5. Keysearch

Keysearch is a web-based keyword research tool that offers solid features for tracking keywords, analysing competitors, and monitoring backlinks.

While it doesn’t have the power or depth of tools like Semrush or Ahrefs, it’s an excellent option for beginners or budget-conscious bloggers who want to explore keyword research without overspending.

It’s much more affordable than the big-name tools, and while it has its limitations, it still delivers great value for what you pay.

Try Keysearch

6. WP Rocket

A fast-loading website starts with a solid caching plugin, and WP Rocket is one of the best in the WordPress ecosystem.

It comes packed with features like page caching, cache preloading, file compression, lazy loading, and more—all for a very reasonable yearly fee.

Despite its advanced capabilities, WP Rocket is easy to use. The interface is clean, the settings are straightforward, and you can have it up and running in just a few minutes.

Try WP Rocket

7. AAWP

AAWP (Amazon Affiliate WordPress Plugin) is one of the most flexible and user-friendly plugins for Amazon Associates.

It lets you easily create professional-looking comparison tables, product boxes, widgets, bestseller lists, and more, with minimal effort. The end result? Clean, attractive displays that look trustworthy and convert well.

I’ve used AAWP on my affiliate site for years, and it’s been a game-changer. If you’re looking to boost your Amazon affiliate revenue, this plugin is a must-have.

Try AAWP

8. Thrive Leads

If growing your email list is a priority, Thrive Leads is one of the best tools you can use.

Built by Thrive Themes, it’s a powerful lead generation plugin for WordPress that gives you everything you need for list building and conversion. It includes features like A/B testing, detailed analytics, and a wide range of opt-in form types.

Popups, slide-ins, sticky ribbons, in-line forms, content locks—you name it, Thrive Leads has it. It’s a no-brainer if you’re serious about building and engaging your audience.

Try Thrive Leads