What is the best web hosting for beginners?
The short answer
For most beginners Hostinger is the best fit. Entry is very cheap, the control panel explains itself and everything your first site needs is included. DreamHost is the WordPress-recommended alternative with a $2.89 first year. IONOS adds a personal assistant.
In detail
As a beginner you want a fair price and nothing to puzzle over. You also want somewhere to turn with questions. Hostinger does well on all three. For $2.99 a month on a prepaid promo you get free SSL, email and a WordPress install in a few clicks. It all sits behind the friendliest control panel we know. The renewal is $10.99 a month. That is the going rate in this market.
DreamHost gives you a $2.89 first year for 25 websites. WordPress.org officially recommends it. The renewal rate of $10.99 a month is shown right on the plan card. These days that is a market rate rather than a bargain. Judge DreamHost on the product and the first year.
IONOS suits you if you like a fixed point of contact. Every plan comes with a personal assistant you can call or email at no charge. The first year costs $4 a month and the renewal is a reasonable $8. Whichever host you pick, you can skip the extra checkboxes at checkout. You can always add what you need later.