import Image from 'next/image'

Top Free Blogging Platforms Like Hashnode, Blogger & More (Beginner-Friendly Guide)

If you're new to blogging and looking for the top free blogging websites like Hashnode, Blogger, and more, you're in the right place.
Starting a blog can feel overwhelming—but with the right platform, it's much easier.
When I launched my first tech blog, I tested several platforms. Some were too complex, others lacked customization. This guide shares what I learned, and which ones are worth your time.

---

🥇 1. Hashnode – Best for Developer-Focused Blogging

My experience:
As a developer, Hashnode helped me build visibility fast. Its dev-focused audience and GitHub integration made it my go-to.

Features:

• Free custom domain with HTTPS
• Built-in dev community
• Markdown editor + GitHub sync
• SEO-optimized structure

Pro tip: Use Hashnode for dev tutorials, open-source logs, and product building stories.

---

✍️ 2. Blogger – Best for Personal and Hobby Blogging

My take:
Blogger was my first blogging tool in college. It’s simple, reliable, and ties in with Google tools.

Features:

• Hosted for free on blogspot.com
• Google AdSense support
• Basic drag-and-drop editor
• Good for non-tech users

Pro tip: Great choice for travel blogs, diaries, or school projects.

---

🧠 3. Medium – Best for Writing-Focused Content

My experience:
Medium made my editorial content shine. I reached thousands of readers without marketing.

Features:

• Distraction-free writing experience
• Large built-in audience
• Medium Partner Program to earn money
• Zero design hassle

Pro tip: Focus on storytelling, thought pieces, and long-form writing.

---

⚙️ 4. WordPress.com – Best for Long-Term Flexibility

My opinion:
WordPress.com is future-proof. I started free, then upgraded for full control later.

Features:

• Dozens of free and premium themes
• SEO tools even on free plan
• Easy upgrade path to custom domains/plugins

Pro tip: Ideal for bloggers who want to scale over time.

---

👨‍💻 5. Dev.to – Best for Community & Collaboration

My experience:
Dev.to is where I share dev-focused posts and get helpful feedback.

Features:

• Developer-only network
• Tags and discoverability features
• Markdown editor
• Supports syndicated content

Pro tip: Great for building tech credibility and starting dev discussions.

---

📬 6. Substack – Best for Email-First Blogging

How I use it:
I use Substack for my AI tools newsletter. It works both as a blog and an email list.

Features:

• Newsletter + blog in one place
• Built-in subscription and monetization
• Free to start, paid plans optional

Pro tip: Use Substack to grow a loyal audience and convert readers into subscribers.

---

🧭 How to Pick the Right Platform

When I coach new bloggers, I always ask:

1. What are you writing about?

• Tech content: Hashnode, Dev.to
• Personal/lifestyle: Blogger, WordPress.com
• Editorial/newsletters: Medium, Substack

2. Do you need full control?

• Yes: WordPress
• No: Medium or Substack

3. Want to grow an email list?

• Yes: Substack
• No: Medium, Dev.to

---

✅ Final Thoughts – My Recommendations

If you're starting today:

• Choose Hashnode if you're a developer
• Go with Medium for thought leadership or personal essays
• Try WordPress.com if you want to scale and customize
• Pick Substack to build an email-based brand

---

🚀 Next Steps for You

👉 Choose one platform and publish your first post this week.
👉 Need help with content? Use Junia AI – the #1 SEO blog writer I personally use to create optimized, research-backed posts faster.

Want a comparison table or downloadable checklist next? Let me know and I’ll add it for you!