Why use Hostgrid with Readymag?
- Avoid upgrading to an expensive Readymag plan just to enable a custom domain.
- Works with your Readymag site on any plan, including free projects used for experimentation.
- Keep your Readymag site exactly as it is — Hostgrid does not modify your site content.
- Automatic HTTPS support with managed SSL certificates.
- Manage multiple domains in one dashboard, even across different platforms.
This allows creators and builders to use their own domain for their Readymag site without committing to a monthly site plan.
How to Use Custom Domains with Readymag
Connecting a domain to your Readymag site through Hostgrid only takes a few steps.
Add your Readymag site as an upstream Enter the URL of your Readymag site inside the Hostgrid dashboard.
Add your domain Choose the domain you want visitors to use for your Readymag site.
Follow the DNS setup instructions Hostgrid will provide DNS records that need to be added at your domain registrar.
DNS verification and SSL activation Hostgrid automatically detects the DNS configuration, verifies it, and activates your domain with HTTPS.
Hostgrid makes connecting custom domains easy. The Individual Starter plan starts at $20/year — see pricing for more.
Once activated, visitors can access your Readymag site through your custom domain.
Hostgrid vs Upgrading Readymag Plans
| Option | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Upgrade Readymag Plan | 💳 Pay around $168/year to unlock custom domain support 🔒 Domain usage tied only to Readymag 📉 Higher long-term cost if you only need domain functionality |
| Use Hostgrid | 💰 $20/year starter pricing 🔗 Use the same domain setup across any platform 🔐 Automatic SSL certificates and DNS verification 📊 Manage multiple domains from one dashboard |
If your goal is simply to launch a Readymag site on your own domain, Hostgrid can be a significantly cheaper and more flexible alternative.
Who Should Use Hostgrid
Individuals / Indie Builders
Many indie builders use Readymag to prototype websites, landing pages, portfolios, or experimental projects.
However, Readymag requires upgrading to a paid site plan before you can connect a custom domain, which may not make sense for early-stage ideas or projects that are still being tested.
For builders who are comfortable with the compromise of Readymag branding appearing on the free plan, Hostgrid provides a practical workaround.
You can keep your Readymag site hosted exactly as it is while connecting your own domain through Hostgrid. This allows you to:
- Launch projects with a real domain
- Test ideas before committing to a monthly plan
- Share a cleaner link with collaborators or users
The Individual Starter plan ($20/year) makes it easy to run early projects on a custom domain while continuing to prototype on Readymag. See details on the pricing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect a custom domain to a free Readymag site?
Normally, Readymag requires a paid plan to connect a custom domain. Hostgrid allows you to use your own domain while your Readymag site continues running on its existing plan.
However, Readymag branding will still appear on the free plan.
Does Hostgrid remove Readymag branding?
No. Hostgrid does not modify your Readymag site. Any branding that appears due to your Readymag plan will remain visible.
Does Hostgrid provide SSL for my domain?
Yes. Hostgrid automatically provisions and renews SSL certificates so your custom domain works securely with HTTPS.
How many domains can I connect?
Hostgrid supports managing multiple domains from a single dashboard. You can point several domains to the same Readymag site if needed.
Do I need technical knowledge to connect my domain?
No. Hostgrid provides step-by-step DNS instructions and automatically verifies the configuration, making the process simple even for non-technical users.
How long does activation take?
In most cases, domains activate within minutes after DNS records are configured. Depending on your registrar, DNS propagation may sometimes take a few hours.
Will this change how my Readymag site works?
No. Your Readymag site continues operating exactly the same way. Hostgrid only allows visitors to access it through your custom domain.