better than the free version?

you can use WordPress to create a backend where you can log in to your website to create, edit and manage web pages, blog posts, images any sort of content..   The other two pieces needed to run website hosting and domain name.   That said, compared to other website builders, WordPress com is more open and accessible because it runs WordPress software.   Inside the builder, you can change the format by adding columns, embedding elements, and even editing the page code if you know HTML CSS...   You ca not see how they play out in the context of the design this may not matter to you, except it's something to keep in mind if you are looking to build lots of websites for clients..   But for business or really any size, then it's hard to compete with running self-hosted WordPress website or finding another solution like Website Creator or another drag & drop website builder..   Based on your website experience, using WordPress as CMS does come with learning curve — and it's no different when it's bundled with hosting and DNS services through WordPress.com.   But and you were drawn to WordPress as CMS because of that, then going with hosted WordPress on WordPress com is not your best option, because you're giving up quite bit of functionality and control..   You know how I mentioned that WordPress com provides lot of things like backups, security, and support that self-hosted WordPress website does not have.   JetPack is paid plugin software owned by Automattic that any self-hosted WordPress website can install and get automated backups, security scans, in dashboard support, management via the WordPress app and more..   Read more