Free Forum Software Vs Paid Forum Software

[Kane]

If you want to build a forum, you can either go with free forum software like MyBB, PhpBB, SMF or paid forum software like vBulletin., Xenforo, etc. I have not tried any paid forum software, but I have built a couple of forums on the free forum software. Based on my experience, I can say that free forum software are also great, I see absolutely unnecessary to use paid forum software.

 

[saoussen5766]

For beginners what you say is true or trial forum but for some companies, they want some licensed functionalities available on the paid forum so it depends on the use case.

 

[Jason]

I don't think it really matters - aside from the fact paid stuff has more "in the box". In other words, extra work isn't needed to put in special plugins.

Nonetheless, though, it might really matter when it comes to the pocketbook. In other words, the starting prices and upgrades can drain you, making free an attractive choice - especially if things are mobile compatible - out of the box.

 

[Nad1afa]

Paid features are always worth it, but the free option is also great if you already have the complete know-how yourself

 

[WebKitty]

If you are going to go with free, go with something like Flarum over other older models most people don't like or want anymore. What is great is that it is free, easy to set up, and doesn't require a lot of knowledge to set it up. The biggest downside of going free though is limited features and customization. You don't have access to plugins, security options, or optimal spam control either.

 

[Jason]

If you are going to go with free, go with something like Flarum over other older models most people don't like or want anymore. What is great is that it is free, easy to set up, and doesn't require a lot of knowledge to set it up. The biggest downside of going free though is limited features and customization. You don't have access to plugins, security options, or optimal spam control either.

MyBB, phpBB etc. are loaded with plugins. What do you mean? Also, how limited are the security options with free forum software? They seem good enough.

 

[WebKitty]

MyBB, phpBB etc. are loaded with plugins. What do you mean? Also, how limited are the security options with free forum software? They seem good enough.

Just in my experience and observation. I have not used MyBB in years or phpBB ever. I messed around with both years ago and only used MyBB for a year or so before switching. So they likely do have a lot more to offer now.

 

[Jason]

MyBB sometimes has problems with theme incompatibility. It is pretty serious. Well, you need to be on the ball considering knowing what updates are going and how they relate to your free theme.

 

[James2]

of course Paid forums software has a lots of features while the free forum software doesn't have any. But for newbies they should start with the free software so they can learn more about it.

 

[Busybee]

It all depends upon your budget and your experience. If you are new to blogging or to managing forums. It's best to start with the free forum software and as you have become well versed with all the aspects and when you feel you need more resources, you can shift to paid forum software such as VBulletin which provides many great features that would be very helpful to administrate your site.

 

[Kane]

MyBB sometimes has problems with theme incompatibility. It is pretty serious. Well, you need to be on the ball considering knowing what updates are going and how they relate to your free theme.

I have a MyBB forum, I have been running this site for some time and I really like the software. Until now I have not encountered any issues with MyBB, maybe that's because I have not played much around. The only issue I see with mybb is it does not display well on mobile devices