DreamHost Overview

DreamHost is a veteran web host founded in 1997, known for its commitment to open-source technologies, transparency, and developer-friendly tools. Unlike many competitors, it offers month-to-month billing with no long-term contracts required.

Our Verdict

DreamHost delivers excellent uptime, strong performance, and unique features like 100% SSD storage and free privacy protection. While its custom panel has a learning curve, it's a top choice for developers and WordPress users who value flexibility.

DreamHost Pricing & Plans

DreamHost's pricing is straightforward with no tricky introductory rates. Here are their shared and managed WordPress hosting options:

Plan Price Websites Storage Bandwidth
Shared Starter $2.95/mo (3-year term) 1 50GB SSD Unmetered
Shared Unlimited $3.95/mo (3-year term) Unlimited Unlimited Unmetered
DreamPress (Managed WP) $16.95/mo 1 30GB SSD Unmetered
VPS Basic $10/mo Unlimited 30GB SSD Unmetered
Important Note

DreamHost stands out by offering month-to-month billing at reasonable rates (e.g., $4.95/mo for Shared Starter). The 3-year plans offer the best value but aren't required.

Performance Tests

We monitored a DreamHost Shared Starter plan with a WordPress site for 6 months. Key results:

Strengths

  • 100% uptime in our tests
  • Fast SSD storage across all plans
  • Built-in caching for WordPress
  • Free CDN with Jetpack (WordPress)

Weaknesses

  • No cPanel (custom panel)
  • No phone support
  • Limited database access on shared plans

Our test site loaded in 1.2 seconds with caching enabled. DreamHost uses a custom-built stack with NGINX, PHP-FPM, and SSDs, resulting in above-average performance.

Key Features

DreamHost includes several standout features even on entry-level plans:

  • Free Domain Privacy: WHOIS protection included forever
  • Free SSL Certificate: Auto-installed Let's Encrypt SSL
  • Unlimited Traffic: No overage charges
  • 97-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Industry's longest trial
  • SSD Storage: On all plans (even shared)
  • WP-CLI: Command-line WordPress management
  • Custom Control Panel: Streamlined but different from cPanel

Ease of Use

DreamHost's custom panel is clean but may confuse users accustomed to cPanel. WordPress installation is seamless with their 1-click installer.

Developer Friendly

DreamHost shines for developers with SSH access, Git support, and multiple PHP version options. The panel provides direct access to advanced settings most hosts hide.

Customer Support

DreamHost offers 24/7 support via live chat and email tickets. We tested response times:

  • Live Chat: 2-5 minute wait time (knowledgeable)
  • Email Tickets: 1-2 hour response time
  • No Phone Support: A notable omission
  • Extensive Documentation: Well-organized guides and tutorials

DreamHost Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • 100% uptime guarantee
  • Month-to-month billing available
  • Free domain privacy (lifetime)
  • SSD storage on all plans
  • Developer-friendly tools
  • No price hikes at renewal

Disadvantages

  • No cPanel (custom interface)
  • No phone support
  • Limited Windows server options

DreamHost Alternatives

Consider these alternatives depending on your needs:

  • SiteGround: Better support but higher renewal prices
  • Bluehost: More beginner-friendly (cPanel)
  • A2 Hosting: Faster turbo server options
  • Kinsta: Premium managed WordPress hosting

Conclusion: Who Should Choose DreamHost?

Our Final Rating: 4.2/5

DreamHost is ideal for:

  • Developers who need SSH/WP-CLI access
  • WordPress users wanting hassle-free hosting
  • Those who value transparency and no contracts
  • Privacy-conscious users (free WHOIS protection)

The Shared Unlimited plan offers the best value for most users.

Visit DreamHost

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DreamHost use cPanel?

No, DreamHost uses a custom control panel that's streamlined but different from cPanel. It has all essential features but requires some learning.

Is DreamHost good for WordPress?

Yes! DreamHost is officially recommended by WordPress.org and offers optimized managed WordPress plans (DreamPress).

Does DreamHost offer email hosting?

Yes, but it's not free on the starter plan. Unlimited email comes with the Shared Unlimited and higher plans.