To begin with, let's put this rumor to rest. People think that Google has claims copyright to the content of your blog. This is false. Google may be able to maintain the intellectual property rights for the tools they provide you with, but the information on your website is still the property of the original author. This is explained in detail in their terms of service. http://www.blogger.com/terms.g
Limitations of content. Google is authorized to limit, or even terminate your account when your content violates their service conditions. (This is not a factor for most writers, the permitted content is very broad - and is limited mainly to hate and illegal activities) Using WordPress, you host your blog on the hosting account that you possess. While you have power over your content, you may yet be bound to the restrictions of the TOS or terms that your web hosting company lays out.
Ease of Installation: Blogger is usually simpler to install. If your hosting company doesn't have Fantastico as part of its web hosting service, you will have to install WordPress by hand, which can be difficult -- especially if you aren't very adept with your server control panel and FTP.
Google is superior in terms of its customizable features. It is possible to revise the format of templates, designs, and layout much easier with Blogger. In the event the way your template initially looks is not adequate, you'll have to use or learn PHP and HTML if you use WordPress.
Quite a few templates are included with each platform, and a vast number of templates have been developed by third-parties -- a number that continues to grow by leaps and bounds.
Xanga, Drupal (difficult to learn), Joomla, are other blog software which can be used.
Blogger, Myspace, Typepad, and wordpress.com all offer free blog hosting.
In the final analysis, it truly is based on the amount of control you desire to have over the look and functionality your site, as well as your tech-savviness. For those familiar with HTML, and willing to learn the relatively simple PHP, WordPress is a good bet. For those simply wishing to begin a blog, or those on a budget, opt for Google.
