
My WebPageTest configuration was as follows: I configured MachMetrics to run a test every six hours ( four tests per day) and let it run for a week, which equals about 28 separate tests on different days and at different times of day. MachMetrics uses WebPageTest as its testing engine but allows for automated daily testing, which helps to eliminate single-test variability. To collect WebPageTest data, I used another service called MachMetrics. K6 ( formerly Load Impact) - this service simulates performance under scale by hitting a site with 50 visitors over five minutes.It’s basically like a more detailed version of Pingdom and GTmetrix. It’s what most people think of when testing ‘load time’. WebPageTest - this service runs one-off tests.To collect the data, I ran two types of tests: So, if you host at Flywheel, you’ll be able to use these premium themes for free. Why am I using the Genesis Framework for my test? Because, as I mentioned above, all Flywheel customers get access to the Genesis Framework and StudioPress child themes at no extra cost. Basically, it looks like a ‘real’ website.” I wanted to create a ‘realistic’ test scenario, so I installed the Genesis Framework and imported the full Authority Pro child theme demo site, which includes a hero section, opt-in form, lots of CTAs and more. To assess Flywheel’s performance, I created a test site on the Tiny plan. For that reason, I think it’s important to start off the hands-on section of every hosting review with some performance tests. If a host can’t make your WordPress site load quickly, none of the other features really matter. With any WordPress host, performance should always be your most important consideration. Now, let’s go hands-on with Flywheel… Flywheel Performance Test Data Lastly, all Flywheel customers get free access to the premium Genesis Framework theme and all StudioPress child themes, which is a perk of the WP Engine acquisition, as WP Engine also acquired StudioPress. ‘Blueprints’ to quickly spin up new sites from a template.Option to white-label the Flywheel dashboard to resell hosting to clients.To that end, you’ll get the following features: One thing that sets Flywheel apart from other managed WordPress hosts is their focus on creating useful tools for freelancers and agencies who are building/managing WordPress sites for clients. Automatic daily backups with 30-day storage, as well as on-demand backups when needed.

Free malware removal if something slips through the cracks.Īnd, in terms of convenience/management, you’ll get the following features:.

Limit login attempts activated by default.In terms of security, you’ll get the following features: Server-level caching that’s built specifically to work with the CDN and has built-in exclusion rules for popular tools, such as WooCommerce.A built-in content delivery network (CDN) powered by Fastly that offers full-page caching on the CDN.Google Cloud infrastructure on all plans.In terms of speed/performance, you’ll get the following features: This means they don’t just host your site - they also create a 100% WordPress-optimized environment, and give you lots of tools to manage, secure and maintain your site. In a nutshell, Flywheel are managed WordPress hosting. However, in case you’re not already familiar with the specific details on what Flywheel offer, I think it’s useful to set the stage with a quick overview. The High Website Limits are Great for Client Sitesįlywheel do a good job of explaining all of their features and technology in their marketing copy, so I won’t go too in-depth here.White Label Dashboard for Reseller Hosting.Easy Access Controls and Client Billing Transfer.Blueprints When Installing a WordPress Site.Exploring Flywheel’s Development/Client Workflows.User Experience: One of the Best Hosting Dashboards.A Quick Overview of Flywheel’s Features.Pricing details, including comparisons with other popular WordPress hosts.A detailed look at the Flywheel dashboard experience and features.A short overview of the features/tech stack Flywheel offer.To help you to understand how Flywheel perform and what it’s like to use them, here’s what I’ll cover: However, I’m getting ahead of myself with that summary, because this review is really about showing you why I came to those conclusions. (note: here’s how Flywheel compares to WP Engine and here’s another article on how Flywheel compares to Kinsta) They have stellar performance, a well-designed dashboard, and lots of useful tools for both solo WordPress users and agencies/freelancers that are building client websites. In general, Flywheel definitely sit in the top tier of managed WordPress hosting (alongside the likes of WP Engine and Kinsta).

Considering using Flywheel WordPress Hosting to host your WordPress website? In this hands-on Flywheel review, I’ll help you to decide whether or not this popular WordPress host is right for you.
