Relocating your WordPress website to a new host or domain sounds like an intimidating task. Whether you’re seeking better performance, improved security, or simply a change of scenery, the migration process can be complicated and definitely time-consuming. Fortunately, choosing a powerful WordPress migration plugin can simplify this process, reducing your anxiety and minimizing potential downtime.
This guide will explore the best WordPress migration plugins available, helping you select the ideal tool for you to execute a smooth transition.
What Is a WordPress Migration Plugin?
A WordPress migration plugin is a tool that simplifies the process of moving an entire WordPress website from one place to another. This could be transferring your site to a new hosting provider, a different domain, or creating a test environment. Migration plugins handle your website’s database (content, users) and files (images, themes, plugins) efficiently. Some advanced features include selective migration, large file handling, cloud storage integration, and staging environment creation.
Other methods of migrating a WordPress website are not as simple. They involve more manual effort and technical expertise. For example, using FTP to transfer files, manually exporting/importing the database, or using command-line tools for advanced users. You might even have to create a complete backup and restore it on the new server. It is true that these methods offer more control, but they are generally more time-consuming and prone to errors compared to using a migration plugin.
Using a migration plugin saves time and effort compared to manual migration. It reduces the risk of errors and makes the process smoother.
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9 Best WordPress Migration Plugins (Features, Ratings, Pricing)
The quality of WordPress migration plugins has improved in recent years, offering users significantly more efficient and reliable tools for transferring websites. We’ll explore nine of the best options available.
- Duplicator
- UpdraftPlus
- All-in-one WP Migration
- WP Migrate DB
- Migrate Guru
- Solid Backups (formerly, BackUp Buddy)
- WP BackItUp
- JetBackup
- VaultPress – JetPack
| Plugin | WP Version | PHP Version | Active Installs | Rating | Migration Types | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-in-One WP Migration | 3.3 or higher | 5.3 or higher | 5M+ | 4.5 (7,435) | Site wide, selective | Freemium (Starts at $70/y) |
| UpdraftPlus | 3.2 or higher | – | 3M+ | 5 (7,605) | Site wide, selective (premium) | Freemium (Starts at $70/y) |
| Duplicator | 4.9 or higher | 5.6.2+ | 1M+ | 4.9 (4,507) | Site wide | Freemium (Starts at $49/y) |
| WP Migrate DB | 5.2 or higher | 5.6 or higher | 300K+ | 4.5 (303) | Database | Freemium (Starts at $70/y) |
| Migrate Guru | 4.0 or higher | 5.6 or higher | 100K+ | 5 (1,372) | Site wide | Free |
| SolidWP (Backup Buddy) | 4.5 or higher | 5.6 or higher | 50K+ | 5 (4) | Site wide/selective site & database | Starts at $99/y |
| JetBackup | 6.0 or higher | 7.4 or higher | 40K+ | 4.5 (1,042) | Site wide | $8.95/mo or $89.95/y |
| WP BackItUp | 3.8 or higher | 5.2.4 or higher | 10K+ | 4.5 (296) | Site wide | Starts at $79/y |
| JetPack – VaultPress | 6.4 or higher | 6.6.1 or higher | 10K+ | 4.5 (26) | Site wide | $9.49/mo |
1. Duplicator
— Duplicator
Duplicator is one of the best WordPress migration plugins known for its user-friendliness and speed. It simplifies the complex task of moving your website by allowing you to create a package of your site’s content, including themes, plugins, and media files.
This package can then be easily transferred and restored to a new location. For larger sites, Duplicator offers the convenience of importing directly from a URL, eliminating the need for large downloads. Beyond migration, this plugin empowers you to create reusable site templates, streamlining the process of launching multiple websites with identical setups.
Duplicator’s capabilities extend to website backup and restoration. You can schedule backups and integrate cloud storage, which keeps your website’s data secure. Since it is compatible with popular managed hosting platforms, the migration experience, regarding your current provider, is expected to be smooth. While beginners might require initial assistance with FTP setup, Duplicator’s customer support is readily available.
Image Source: WordPress.org
The plugin’s free version is suitable for small to medium-sized WordPress websites. Users with larger websites will likely benefit from the premium version, as it is specifically designed to handle the increased demands of larger-scale migrations.
Key features:
- Local development
- Site backup
- Staging
- Site packaging
- Scheduled backups (Cloud Storage!)
- Multisite migration
- Standalone subsite creation
- Database & user creation (cPanel API)
- Email notifications
Ratings:
Duplicator has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 4,514 reviews.
Pricing:
The pricing starts at $49 for the Basic package and goes up to $299 for the Elite.
Source: Duplicator
2. UpdraftPlus
Image Source: UpdraftPlus
UpdraftPlus is a popular freemium WordPress plugin renowned for its user-friendly approach to backups and migrations. Beginners appreciate its simplicity, allowing them to create backups, clone, and move their websites without much complications.
The plugin offers flexibility by permitting backups to multiple locations, ensuring data protection. With just a click of the ‘Backup Now’ button, users can quickly safeguard their site.
While the free version enables basic site migration by downloading and restoring backups, more advanced features require the UpdraftMigrator Premium addon. This premium option streamlines the transfer process to new hosts or domains even further, offering greater experience with just a few clicks.
The free version is suitable for basic migrations. Users seeking granular control and additional features will find the premium version beneficial.
– Configuring your backs up with UpdraftPlus. Source: WordPress.org
Key features:
- Incremental backups
- Multiple remote storage options
- Restore from other backup plugins
- Scheduled backups
- Detailed reports
- Multisite compatibility
- Non-WP file/database backup
- Database encryption
- WP-CLI management
Rating
UpdraftPlus a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 7,615 reviews.
Pricing:
The premium version of UpdraftPlus starts at $70/year and goes up to $399/year.
– UpdraftPlus
3. All-in-One WP Migration
– WordCamp Asia
All-in-One WP Migration is a user-friendly plugin designed to make the website migration process easy. Catering to beginners, it takes away the need for technical expertise. Users can easily export their website and import it to a new location with a few clicks.
The plugin offers customization options, allowing users to selectively include or exclude specific elements like plugins, themes, and media. Unlike many competitors limited to ZIP files, All-in-One WP Migration supports a wide range of file formats. Notably, it can automatically replace URLs during the export process, preserving SEO after migration. To enhance data protection, the plugin creates backup copies of exported files.
– Mobile export page. Source: WordPress.org
While the plugin excels in simplicity and customization, it does have limitations. Export and import processes can be time-consuming for larger websites. Additionally, multisite functionality is restricted to the premium version. Despite these drawbacks, All-in-One WP Migration remains a popular choice for those seeking a straightforward migration solution. It is trusted by the likes of NASA, State of Hawaii and Harvard University.
Key features
- Custom uploads
- Multilingual (50+ languages)
- Accessible (WCAG 2.1 AA)
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Wide hosting provider support
- Product support
- File browsing (Traktor Web)
- File extraction (Traktor Desktop)
- WordPress Playground integration
Rating
All in One WP Migration has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 7,435 reviews.
Pricing:
The premium version starts at $69/one-time and goes up to $319/one-time.
Just like the pricing heading, cover one for Rating & Reviews (add screenshot as well of ratings like the one below).
4. WP Migrate DB
– Delicious Brains
Unlike full-site migration plugins, WP Migrate DB focuses exclusively on transferring database information. While this might seem limiting, databases are often the most complex part of a website migration, making WP Migrate DB a truly valuable asset. The plugin handles database serialization issues and ensures a smooth transfer process.
Primarily aimed at developers, WP Migrate DB offers granular control over database migration. It allows users to export databases as MySQL dumps, providing opportunities for manual adjustments and troubleshooting.
This level of flexibility is beneficial for recovering from database corruption or making specific modifications. However, this specialized focus comes at a cost. To migrate entire websites, users must purchase additional addons, making it a more expensive option compared to full-site migration plugins.
– WP Migrate DB migration profile. Source: WordPress.org
While not ideal for beginners, WP Migrate DB is a powerful tool for experienced developers. Its ability to handle large databases efficiently, combined with the flexibility to manipulate database structures, makes it a valuable asset in complex migration scenarios.
Key features:
- Local import
- Priority email support
- Push and pull migrations
- Advanced multisite features
- WP-CLI integration
- Pre-migration backup
- Targeted database migration
Rating
WP Migrate DB has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 303 reviews.
Pricing:
WP Migrate DB has four different pricing offers. For individual use, for Organizations, for Teachers and Students, and for Non-Profits.
- Individual use: Starting at $49/year
- Organizations: Starting at $249/year
- Non-Profits: Starting at $249/year
– Delicious Brains
5. Migrate Guru
– WordPress.org
Migrate Guru is a relatively new player in the WordPress migration market, brought to you by the team behind BlogVault. Known for its simplicity, the plugin offers a fast and zero-downtime migration process, leveraging its own secure servers. What is even more impressive is its ability to handle large websites, up to 200GB in size. Additionally, it prioritizes data security by deleting user data immediately after the transfer.
Migrate Guru does have limitations too, like any other tool. It lacks a dedicated dashboard, requiring users to manage the migration process through email and FTP/cPanel. However, BlogVault premium customers gain access to a user-friendly dashboard. Despite these limitations, Migrate Guru’s speed, capacity to handle large websites, and automated features make it a compelling option for many users.
Migrate Guru addresses common issues like timeouts and resource constraints often encountered during large website transfers. This, coupled with its ability to clone websites, positions Migrate Guru in the list of best WordPress migration plugins.
Key Features
- Wide compatibility
- Fast installation
- Supports sites up to 200 GB
- Automated URL replacements
- Real-time alerts
- One-click migration
Rating
Migrate Guru has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 1,378 reviews.
Pricing
- Free
6. Solid Backups (Formerly Backup Buddy)
– SolidWP
Solid Backups, previously named BackupBuddy, is a versatile WordPress plugin that offers a suite of tools for website management which includes migration. While primarily recognized for its backup capabilities, the plugin provides solutions for transferring websites to new hosts or servers. With features like automated URL replacements and staging environment creation, Solid Backups simplifies the migration process.
While not exclusively designed as a migration tool, Solid Backups’ comprehensive feature set makes it a viable option for many users. Its ability to handle both backups and migrations can be advantageous. However, users prioritizing migration speed and simplicity might find dedicated migration plugins more suitable for their needs.
For users who require a balance of backup, migration, and staging capabilities, Solid Backups could be the perfect option. Its reputation for reliability and ease of use, coupled with its migration features, make it a popular choice among WordPress users.
Key Features:
- Scheduled backups
- Automatic backups
- Store WordPress backups offsite
- Customize backup contents
- One-click restore
Rating
Solid Backups has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 3,950 reviews.
Pricing:
Starts at $99/year for one site.
Just like the pricing heading, cover one for Rating & Reviews (add screenshot as well of ratings like the one below).
7. WPBackItUp
-WPBackItUp
While primarily recognized for its strong backup capabilities, WPBackItUp offers a valuable migration feature within its premium plan. This allows users to effortlessly transfer their entire WordPress website to a new host or domain. The plugin handles the complexities of the migration process leading to a smooth transition.
Unlike many other backup plugins that focus solely on data protection, WPBackItUp provides a thorough solution for website management. By combining backup, restore, and migration functionalities, it offers users a convenient and efficient way to maintain control over their WordPress sites.
-WPBackItUp dashboard. Source: WordPress.org
While WPBackItUp might not be exclusively marketed as a migration plugin, its inclusion of this feature adds significant value to the overall package. For users seeking a reliable solution that covers both backup and migration needs, WPBackItUp is definitely worth considering.
Key Features:
- One-click migration
- One-click backup
- Unlimited backups
- Customize your backups
- Compressed backups
- Professional support
Rating
WPBackItUp has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 296 reviews.
Pricing:
Migration is included in the plugin’s paid version. The pricing starts at $79/year and goes up to $199/year.
Just like the pricing heading, cover one for Rating & Reviews (add screenshot as well of ratings like the one below).
8. JetBackUp
– JetBackUp
JetBackup is another backup plugin that also offers a user-friendly option to migrate your wordpress site. Whether you’re switching hosts or domains, JetBackup allows you to effortlessly transfer your entire website with one click, including files and database. This eliminates the need for manual data transfers and complicated configurations, making sure that the migration experience is smooth and efficient.
Beyond basic migration, JetBackup offers additional benefits for a smooth transition. You can download backups for migration purposes, allowing you to readily transfer the data to your new host. Plus, as expected, JetBackup supports scheduled backups, ensuring your website remains protected throughout the migration process. This provides peace of mind knowing you have a recent copy of your site readily available in case of any unforeseen issues.
-Source: WordPress.org
Key Features
- Download backups
- Import backups
- Multisite WordPress network
- Live progress
- Upload to Dropbox
Rating
JetBackUp has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 1,042 reviews.
Pricing
With JetBackUp, you can choose to either pay monthly or yearly. It costs $8.95/month and $89.95/year
– JetBackUp
9. JetPack – VaultPress
– WordPress.org
Jetpack’s VaultPress is another great WordPress migration that is targeted for users comfortable with technical details. VaultPress comes pre-installed on WordPress.com sites, simplifying backup and migration processes. It facilitates easy transfers of your entire website, including the database, plugins, settings, themes, content, and images.
However, managing Jetpack migration on self-hosted WordPress.org sites requires technical knowledge, such as entering SSH, SFTP, or FTP credentials and making adjustments to DNS records. If you’re unfamiliar with these steps, a more user-friendly option like WordPress Migrator might be ideal.
Beyond migrations, Jetpack empowers you with a robust suite of security and backup features. Real-time cloud backups ensure data protection, while easy one-click restores provide a quick solution in case of issues. It even offers website firewall protection and malware scanning to keep your site secure.
Key Features
- Unlimited site migrations
- Backups of all files (database, themes, plugins)
- Backups of WooCommerce data (customers, orders)
- One-click restores
Rating
VaultPress has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on WordPress.org based on 26 reviews.
Pricing:
VaultPress pricing is $9.95/month.
– JetPack
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How to Choose a Migration Plugin for WordPress?
Moving an entire website can be a daunting task, but the right migration plugin for WordPress can make it much easier and smoother. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best plugin for you:
- Ease of Use: Look for a plugin that is user-friendly, with a simple interface and easy-to-understand instructions.
- Compatibility: Make sure that the plugin works with your current WordPress version and hosting provider.
- Data Transfer: Check if the plugin can handle the size of your website and if it offers features like selective migration.
- Backup and Restore: A good migration plugin often comes with backup options to protect your data.
- Staging Environment: Consider if you need to create a testing ground for your website before going live.
- Security: Make sure your data is safe during the migration process.
How To Install and Set Up WordPress Migration Plugin?
Installing and setting up a WordPress migration plugin is pretty simple. Follow the steps below:
Installation
1. Access your WordPress dashboard by logging in to your website’s admin area.
2. Navigate to Plugins.
3. Go to the “Plugins” section and click “Add New.”
4. Use the search bar to find your desired plugin or upload it manually if downloaded from an external source. For this example, I’ll use Duplicator.
5. Click “Install Now” followed by “Activate” to enable the plugin.
Setup
The setup process varies depending on the plugin you choose to install. However, most plugins include a “Guide” to assist you.
Here are the general steps:
1. Navigate to the plugin’s settings page within your WordPress dashboard. If not the word “Settings”, you might find an icon.
2. Customize plugin settings based on your preferences and migration goals.
3. Verify that the plugin is working as expected by creating test campaigns or forms.
Additional tip: Always refer to the plugin’s specific documentation for detailed setup instructions.
Summary
Successfully migrating a WordPress website requires careful planning and the right plugins. By understanding the core features and capabilities of different migration plugins, you can select the most suitable option for your specific needs.
Evaluate your website’s requirements, technical expertise required for each tool, and budget to find the best WordPress migration plugin for yourself, resulting in a tension-free, smooth transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the best migration plugin for WordPress?
A. Determining the “best” migration plugin depends on various factors, including website size, technical expertise, and specific needs. Plugins like Duplicator, All-in-One WP Migration, and WP Migrate DB are popular choices, each with its own strengths. It’s recommended to compare features, user reviews, and pricing before making a decision.
Q2. What is the easiest way to migrate a WordPress site?
A. Using a migration plugin for WordPress is generally the easiest way to migrate your site. These plugins automate most of the process, saving you time and effort.
Q3. Can I copy plugins from one WordPress to another?
A. Yes, you can copy plugins from one WordPress site to another. You’ll need to:
- Export the plugin files from the original site.
- Upload them to the new site via the WordPress dashboard or FTP.
- Activate the plugins on the new site.
Hafsa Tahir
Hafsa is a content marketer who has been in the organic growth space for the past three years. With her background in Psychology and UX, she enjoys reading users' minds and is keen to try the most creative product marketing angles. Her copies scream: "you're not just a paycheck to us". Loves to crack unfunny jokes, pay gym fee and not go, and write psychologically disturbing short stories for some reason.
