Nova vs. WP Engine

Both offer premium managed WordPress hosting. Here's how we compare.

Key Differences

Nova Advantages

  • Kubernetes auto-scaling handles traffic spikes automatically
  • 90-Day SEO Growth Plans with analytics dashboard
  • Modern container-based infrastructure

WP Engine Advantages

  • Longer track record (established 2010)
  • Larger customer base
  • More data center locations

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Infrastructure

FeatureNovaWP Engine
Auto-ScalingKubernetes auto-scaling (all plans)Auto-scaling on Enterprise plans
Traffic Spike HandlingAutomatic resource scalingMay require plan upgrade
InfrastructureKubernetes containersTraditional VMs
CDNGlobal CDN includedOptional (Cloudflare add-on)
BackupsDaily (hourly on higher plans)Daily automated

Security

FeatureNovaWP Engine
Web Application Firewall
SSL Certificates
Malware ScanningDaily automatedAvailable

SEO & Growth

FeatureNovaWP Engine
90-Day SEO Growth Plans
SEO AnalyticsRankings, traffic & Core Web Vitals
Keyword TrackingUp to unlimited

Support & Management

FeatureNovaWP Engine
24/7 Support
Site MigrationFree (annual plans)Available
WordPress UpdatesFully managedFully managed

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Nova If:

  • You expect traffic spikes and need automatic scaling
  • You want SEO growth planning integrated with hosting
  • You prefer modern, container-based infrastructure
  • You're growing and want infrastructure that scales with you

Choose WP Engine If:

  • You prefer established, proven hosting solutions
  • You need specific data center locations
  • You value brand recognition and larger customer base

Ready to Grow Your WordPress Site?

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Have questions? Talk to our team — we'll help you decide.