8 Best WordPress Backup Plugins for Backing Up Your Website

August 12, 2025

Introduction

Ever had your website crash out of nowhere? One minute it’s working fine, and the next it’s gone. Maybe it was a plugin update gone wrong, a server failure, or worse a hacker slipped through the cracks. These things don’t come with a warning, and when they hit, they hit hard.

That’s where backups come in not as a luxury, but as a lifesaver. Whether you're running a blog, an eCommerce site, or a company portfolio, regular backups are your safety net. Without one, a single glitch could wipe out months or even years of hard work.

The good news? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to protect your site. WordPress has a treasure trove of plugins designed specifically for this job. In this blog, we’ll explore the 8 best WordPress backup plugins you can trust to safeguard your site’s data and give you peace of mind.

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Let’s dive in and find the perfect backup plugin that fits your site like a glove.

Why You Need a Backup Plugin for WordPress

Let’s be honest, backing up your website manually is like trying to juggle fire. It’s slow, stressful, and one small slip-up can set everything ablaze. Sure, you could download your files and database manually, but doing that every day? No way. And even if your hosting provider says they run regular backups, relying on them alone is risky. Many hosting backups are limited, outdated, or hard to access when you really need them.

That’s why having a dedicated WordPress backup plugin isn’t just smart it’s essential.

Here’s what can go wrong when you least expect it:

You accidentally delete an important file.
A plugin update causes your entire layout to break.
A new theme conflicts with your existing setup.
Your site gets hacked or infected with malware.

With a backup plugin, you don’t have to panic. These tools automate the backup process, saving copies of your site at regular intervals, daily, weekly, or even after every major change. If disaster strikes, you can restore your site with just a few clicks and carry on like nothing ever happened. That’s the kind of peace of mind every website owner deserves.

What to Look for in a WordPress Backup Plugin

Not all backup plugins are built the same. Some offer just the basics, while others come packed with pro-level features. Before you pick one, it’s important to understand what truly matters, because the right tool can save your site, while the wrong one might leave you stranded.

Here are the key features to look for:

Automated Scheduled Backups: You shouldn’t have to remember to back up your site manually. Look for plugins that let you set it and forget it.
Easy Site Restoration: A backup is only as good as its restore function. You want a plugin that allows quick, fuss-free restoration when needed.
Cloud Storage Options: Backups stored on your hosting server won’t help if the server crashes. Cloud storage options like Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3, or OneDrive add a layer of protection.
Full vs. Partial Backups: Some plugins only back up your database. Others do full backups of files, media, themes, plugins, and the database. Choose based on your needs.
Incremental Backups: This advanced feature saves only the changes made since the last backup. It reduces load on your server and storage space.
Support & Regular Updates: A well-maintained plugin with active support ensures you’re not left hanging if something breaks.
Free vs. Paid Features: Many plugins have a free version with essential features and a premium version for advanced tools. Know what you’re getting upfront.

Keeping these features in mind will help you pick a plugin that not only protects your site but fits seamlessly into your workflow.

8 Best WordPress Backup Plugins (Detailed Reviews)

When it comes to protecting your WordPress site, the right backup plugin can make all the difference. Let’s break down the top 8 options you can rely on, each with its own strengths and specialties.

1. UpdraftPlus

Overview:
One of the most popular WordPress backup plugins, UpdraftPlus offers easy scheduled backups with multiple cloud storage options.

Key Features:

Automatic and manual backups
Cloud storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3, etc.
Restore feature directly from WordPress dashboard
Supports multisite networks (premium)
Backup scheduling flexibility

Pros:

User-friendly interface
Reliable and widely trusted
Good cloud integrations

Cons:

Some features (like cloning and migration) locked behind the paid version

Best For:
Beginners and small to medium websites that want an easy-to-use, set-it-and-forget-it tool.

Pricing:
Free version available; Premium starts at $70/year

2. Jetpack VaultPress Backup

Overview:
From the makers of WordPress.com, VaultPress (now part of Jetpack) offers real-time backups and security scanning.

Key Features:

Real-time automatic backups
One-click restores
Activity log to track site changes
Offsite storage on Automattic servers
Security scanning (on higher tiers)

Pros:

Seamless integration with WordPress
Real-time backup capability
Built-in support and updates from Automattic

Cons:

Requires Jetpack connection
Not ideal for budget-conscious users

Best For:
Ecommerce sites or high-traffic blogs needing real-time protection and premium support.

Pricing:
Starts at $4.95/month (billed annually)

3. BlogVault

Overview:
A reliable, offsite backup service that also offers staging, migration, and site management features.

Key Features:

Daily automatic and real-time backups
Built-in staging environment
One-click restore and migration
Offsite backups stored on BlogVault’s servers
Uptime monitoring and performance reports

Pros:

Great for developers and agencies
Doesn’t slow down your website
Reliable restore process

Cons:

No free version
Can be overkill for small blogs

Best For:
Agencies, freelancers, and developers managing multiple sites.

Pricing:
Starts at $89/year

4. BackupBuddy

Overview:
Developed by iThemes, BackupBuddy is a premium backup solution known for its all-in-one features.

Key Features:

Full backups: database + files
Scheduled backups
Remote storage options: Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.
Site migration and deployment tools
Malware scanning

Pros:

One-time payment (no subscriptions)
Migration and cloning included
Extensive features in one plugin

Cons:

No free version
Interface can feel dated

Best For:
Site owners looking for a one-stop premium solution with long-term use in mind.

Pricing:
Starts at $99/year

5. BackWPup

Overview:
A free plugin with essential features for database and full-site backups.

Key Features:

Scheduled backups
Stores backups in cloud services like Dropbox, Amazon S3
Supports database optimization
Export to .zip for easy restoration

Pros:

Free with generous features
Lightweight and beginner-friendly

Cons:

No restore option in free version
Interface not as modern or intuitive

Best For:
Bloggers or small site owners on a tight budget.

Pricing:
Free; Pro version starts at $69/year

6. WPvivid Backup Plugin

Overview:
A newer backup solution that combines backups, migration, and staging in one plugin.

Key Features:

Full and incremental backups
One-click migration
Staging site creation
Remote storage support
Backup splitting for large sites

Pros:

Packed with advanced tools
Great value for features
Good support and updates

Cons:

Still gaining trust compared to older players
Some advanced features in paid version only

Best For:
Tech-savvy users, testers, or anyone wanting staging + backups in one.

Pricing:
Free version available; Pro plans start at $49/year

7. Duplicator

Overview:
Primarily known for site migration, Duplicator also offers full-site backups and archiving.

Key Features:

Manual and scheduled backups (Pro)
Full-site packages (files + database)
One-click deployment to new hosts
Cloud storage integrations (Pro)

Pros:

Excellent for cloning and moving sites
Clean interface
Powerful compression and packaging

Cons:

Automation requires Pro version
Learning curve for beginners

Best For:
Site developers and freelancers handling migrations often.

Pricing:
Free version available; Pro starts at $69/year

8. Total Upkeep by BoldGrid

Overview:
A user-friendly plugin developed by BoldGrid that focuses on full-site backups and restoration.

Key Features:

Scheduled and manual backups
Easy restore and site rollback
Auto backup before updates
Cloud storage support (premium)

Pros:

Excellent fail-safe features
Beginner-friendly interface
Strong restore capability

Cons:

Limited cloud options in free version
BoldGrid branding can feel intrusive

Best For:
Beginners who want a simple backup tool with safety-first features.

Pricing:

Free version available; Premium starts at $30/year
Free vs Premium Backup Plugins – What’s Right for You?

Let’s be real, when it comes to choosing between free and premium WordPress backup plugins, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on the type of site you run and the level of importance your content holds.

If you’re running a personal blog, portfolio, or small site with minimal traffic and updates, a free plugin can do the job. Most free tools offer basic full-site backups, manual or scheduled options, and even cloud storage integration.

But if your website is a business tool, like an online store, membership site, or a high-traffic blog, premium plugins are the smarter route. They offer advanced features like real-time backups, malware scanning, priority support, and easier restoration processes. Plus, they usually come with dedicated support, which is a lifesaver when things go sideways.

Ask yourself:

How often do I update content or install plugins?
Could I afford downtime?
Do I want peace of mind or just the bare minimum?

Tip: If you’re new to building a website, learning how to install plugins on WordPress is essential for adding features and enhancing your site’s functionality.

If your website is essential to your income or brand, investing in a premium plugin is not just recommended, it’s strategic.

Tips for Managing WordPress Backups Like a Pro

Having a backup plugin is only half the job. Knowing how to use it smartly? That’s what separates a casual site owner from a website wizard. Here’s how to get there:

Stick to a schedule: Backups aren’t a “set it and forget it” thing. Set them to run daily or weekly depending on how often your site changes. Dynamic sites? Daily. Static ones? Weekly should do.

Always test your restore process: A backup is useless if it doesn’t restore properly. Run test restores occasionally, especially after major site changes.

Use offsite storage: Never store backups only on your website’s server. If your site goes down, those backups may vanish too. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Amazon S3 can be your safety net.

Use incremental backups: For large sites, full backups every day can be heavy. Incremental backups only save changes since the last backup, keeping things light and fast.

Don’t rely solely on hosting backups: Many hosting providers do create backups—but they aren’t guaranteed or always accessible. Use them as a bonus layer, not your only line of defense.

With these habits, your backup system will hum quietly in the background, ready to save the day if (or when) disaster strikes.

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Conclusion

Backups aren’t just another checkbox on your website to-do list, they’re your safety net when things go sideways. Whether it’s a plugin update gone wrong, a sudden crash, or a hacker trying to break in, having a reliable backup plugin means you’re never starting from scratch. The best WordPress backup plugins don’t just store your site’s data, they offer peace of mind. They make sure your hard work, content, and brand presence are always protected. So don’t wait for a disaster to teach you a lesson. Pick a plugin, install it, set up your backups, and breathe a little easier. The earlier you start, the safer your site will be.

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