What is Ghost?
Ghost is an open-source publishing platform centred on a publication, its newsletter and its members. Teams can run the software themselves or buy Ghost(Pro) managed hosting. The operational difference matters: a self-hosted installation needs infrastructure and email delivery arrangements, while Ghost(Pro) packages managed services into plans. Membership payments and custom themes are plan-dependent on Ghost(Pro), so a paid publication should evaluate the intended tier rather than assume the entry plan includes every publishing capability.
Who is Ghost for?
Publishers building a publication and subscriber relationship around web and email content
Ghost features
The core capabilities to consider for your workflow.
- Website and publication editor
- Email newsletters
- Member accounts and segmentation
- Paid subscriptions on eligible plans
- Themes and content APIs
Ghost pricing
Free self-hosted software
Compare hosting model, member count, staff access, themes, email delivery and subscription requirements. Include payment processing and any self-hosted operating services.
Calculate the cost of your quote →Free access & evaluation
The open-source Ghost software can be self-hosted without a software licence fee. Ghost(Pro) is paid managed hosting; its trial is not a permanent free hosted plan.
Before you choose Ghost
Self-hosting requires server maintenance and newsletter delivery services
Ghost(Pro) custom themes and paid subscriptions require an eligible plan
Payment processor fees still apply where Ghost charges no additional transaction fee
Explore Ghost in more detail
Take a closer look at the decisions behind this product.
Compare CMS scope and operating responsibilities
Read the articleCompare Ghost
Explore the individual profiles
Ghost FAQs
Does Ghost have a free plan?
The open-source Ghost software can be self-hosted without a software licence fee. Ghost(Pro) is paid managed hosting; its trial is not a permanent free hosted plan.
Who is Ghost for?
Publishers building a publication and subscriber relationship around web and email content
What should I compare before buying?
Check the tier that contains your essential features, confirm plan limits and compare the total quote with your own expected usage.