Head to head · Best CMS Platforms for News Sites
Ghost vs Tresite
Ghost and Tresite score within 0.2 of each other, so the decision comes down to fit rather than quality.
| Criterion | GhostStrong Choice | TresiteStrong Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.9 | 3.9 |
| Capability45% of composite | 3.4 | 3.7— higher score for Tresite |
| Publisher fit40% of composite | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Total cost of ownership15% of composite | 4.1— higher score for Ghost | 2.8 |
| Best for | Small, Mid-Market | Mid-Market |
| Pricing | Managed Ghost(Pro) starts at $15/mo (Starter), $29/mo (Publisher), and $199/mo (Business). Software is free to self-host. | Subscription based, varies by traffic |
Ghost
- Open-source platform with advanced customization designed for publishers
- All-in-one platform with website building, publishing, email newsletters, and premium subscriptions
- Hundreds of templates and extensive third-party integrations including PayPal, Slack, and Instagram
- Starter plan only offers one newsletter and lacks custom themes and integrations
- Creator and Team plans require a minimum of 1,000 subscribers
- Business plan starts at $249/month for 10,000 subscribers, which is expensive
Tresite
- News-specific editorial workflows
- Strong SEO optimization tools
- AI-assisted content generation
- Limited third-party marketplace
- Niche regional focus
- Restricted customization compared to open-source
Common questions
Is Ghost or Tresite better?
Ghost and Tresite score within 0.2 of each other, so the decision comes down to fit rather than quality. Ghost scores 3.9/5 and Tresite scores 3.9/5 on Benchmark Grid's independent assessment. Scores are set editorially by SODP against published criteria and cannot be purchased.
Which is cheaper, Ghost or Tresite?
On total cost of ownership — which covers pricing transparency, entry cost, implementation, hidden-fee risk and ongoing cost — Ghost scores 4.1/5 and Tresite scores 2.8/5. A higher score means better value, not a lower sticker price.
How are these scores calculated?
Each tool is assessed across 12 criteria grouped into Capability (45% of the composite), Publisher Fit (40%) and Total Cost of Ownership (15%). Assessment is carried out by SODP's editorial team against a published methodology. Vendors cannot pay for inclusion, scores or rankings.
Still deciding?
Answer four questions about your publication and we'll recommend a full stack — with the reasoning for each pick and what it will cost.
Both tools are scored in Best CMS Platforms for News Sites. See alternatives to Ghost or alternatives to Tresite.
