The eCommerce landscape will keep evolving in 2025. Choosing the right alternative to Shopify as your preferred eCommerce platform to launch and grow your online store is nothing short of pivotal. While Shopify has long held its place as a dominant force in the world of digital retail, the expanding array of eCommerce platforms provides merchants with a tantalizing array of options to consider.
In this article, we embark on a journey through the top 8 viable Shopify alternatives, each offering its unique blend of eCommerce features, pricing, and customization possibilities for your online shop.
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding eCommerce enthusiast, this comprehensive exploration of services like Shopify aims to help you make an informed decision, unlocking the potential for your business to thrive in the competitive realm of eCommerce.Whether you want to start a small online shop or a giant website like Amazon, join us as we delve into the world of eCommerce solutions and discover the alternatives that might just be the perfect fit for your eCommerce store and online retail dreams.
What is Shopify?
Shopify, a leading eCommerce platform, stands as a robust platform for entrepreneurs seeking to establish and manage their online stores. Through this versatile e-commerce platform, you can build and customize your online shop, while enjoying a plethora of e-commerce features, including product management, shipping rate calculations, and seamless multi-channel selling capabilities. It offers an array of marketing features that help you reach a wider audience and boost online sales.
One notable advantage of Shopify as an alternative to other e-commerce platforms is its cloud-based, hosted solution, known as a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service). With Shopify, you’re not responsible for the intricate software maintenance, freeing you to focus on your online shop and business growth.
Shopify caters to a wide range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations, providing a diverse set of plans to meet the unique requirements of each e-commerce store.
For larger, enterprise-level businesses, Shopify Plus serves as a premium alternative, operating on a custom pricing model. This typically involves a percentage of your revenue, with a minimum monthly commitment starting at $2,000. Shopify Plus opens the door to more advanced eCommerce features, carefully designed to address the demands of high-volume e-commerce stores.
Moreover, if you’re looking for an efficient way to add shopping cart functionality to your website or blog, Shopify offers Shopify Lite as a viable solution. This provides a seamless integration of a purchase button into your online presence, bridging the gap between content and commerce, making it a noteworthy option among e-commerce platforms and Shopify alternatives. There are many Shopify Plus agencies that specialize in setting up and customizing solutions like Shopify Lite, ensuring that businesses can seamlessly integrate shopping features into their websites while maintaining a user-friendly experience.
5 Reasons to Look for a Shopify Alternative
Considering a Shopify-like platform for your self-hosted eCommerce platform is a wise decision, especially if you aim to maximize control and customization over your online shop. While Shopify serves as a prominent choice among eCommerce solutions, several compelling Shopify alternatives offer distinct advantages for your eCommerce business.
For businesses considering a Magento to Shopify migration, the flexibility and control offered by other platforms can be a significant draw.
Complex Inventory Management
If your eCommerce store boasts a wide-ranging and diverse product catalog, Shopify’s limitations may be a hindrance. These alternative eCommerce platforms can accommodate your extensive inventory more effectively, enabling you to offer various sizes, colors, and designs to your customers, ensuring a seamless shopping experience.
Limited Customization Tools
By opting for a Shopify alternative, you can unlock a higher degree of control and customization for your online shop. This flexibility empowers you to tailor the design and functionality of your eCommerce cms platform, offering a unique shopping experience that aligns precisely with your business objectives.
Shopify Transaction Fees
The company offers their own Shopify payments, so one reason to explore a Shopify alternative is the flexibility to choose your payment gateway without incurring additional fees. Many self hosted solutions provide this option, ensuring you have more control over your payment processing. This aspect is essential when you consider the unique requirements of your eCommerce business.
Lacking SEO Options
Effective SEO is a cornerstone of any successful eCommerce store, and having more control over your eCommerce platform is crucial for harnessing the full potential of marketing functions. While Shopify is proficient at handling basic SEO tasks, you may want more say in shaping your site’s SEO strategy, especially as your online shop grows.
A Shopify alternative allows for greater customization, including editing robots.txt files and fine-tuning how your website appears in search engine results. Consulting with eCommerce SEO experts can further optimize your strategy and ensure that your store achieves the best possible rankings.
Scaling Perspectives
While Shopify offers an excellent starting point for many e-commerce businesses, it has limitations in terms of scalability. If your long-term vision includes expanding into a full-fledged online marketplace with unlimited products or developing an enterprise-level e-commerce site, exploring alternatives to Shopify becomes imperative. These Shopify alternatives can provide the infrastructure and flexibility needed to accommodate your ambitious growth plans, ensuring that your online store can evolve into a formidable player in the e-commerce industry.
In the realm of eCommerce, Shopify has been a dominant force, but exploring Shopify alternatives can reveal a world of possibilities for your online store. Whether you’re looking for more control, advanced eCommerce features, or a scalable solution for your business, these alternative eCommerce solutions stand as worthy contenders, equipped to meet your unique needs and surpass your expectations.
Quick Comparison of Best Shopify Alternatives
Platform | Starting Price | Ease of Use | Scalability | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shopify | From $24/mo | High | Medium | Small and medium businesses |
CS-Cart | From $1,350 lifetime | Medium | High | eCommerce platforms of any size |
Wix | $17/month | Very High | Low | Beginner entrepreneurs |
Ecwid | $0 (Free Plan) | High | Medium | Small businesses and social sellers |
WooCommerce | Free (Plugin) | Medium | High | Tech-savvy users with WordPress experience |
Adobe Commerce | $22,000/year | Low | Very High | Enterprise-level and complex eCommerce businesses |
Squarespace | From $16/mo | High | Low | Design-focused small businesses |
BigCommerce | $29/month | Medium | High | Growing businesses and enterprises |
Shift4Shop | Free (US users) | Medium | Medium | Small and medium online stores |
#1 CS-Cart—To Get Started Fast and Grow at Scale
CS-Cart, an American-made software hailing from the vibrant city of San Diego, stands out as one of the best eCommerce solutions and a versatile e-commerce solution. Beyond being a robust multi-vendor marketplace platform, CS-Cart distinguishes itself as a potent website builder and a prime contender among Shopify alternatives.
This self-hosted and open-source software offers a wealth of flexibility and customization opportunities, allowing users to sculpt their own online store according to their unique visions. In addition to its basic eCommerce features, CS-Cart shopping cart solution boasts a free full-scale demo to test the system within 15 days making it a standout in the realm of website builder and Shopify alternatives.
With its primary focus on providing administrators with full control over their vendors and affording maximum flexibility in configuring monetization options, CS-Cart empowers e-commerce entrepreneurs with all the features. Administrators enjoy comprehensive tools to accommodate new web vendors seamlessly, have the flexibility to select from multiple payment gateways and multiple currencies, and edit design with a drag and drop editor.
New marketplace sellers, under the CS-Cart umbrella, can select the most suitable vendor plan with pre-set conditions. They gain access to a personal, fully-featured micro online store equipped with a dashboard and reporting capabilities. Even those with no prior experience in online marketplace solutions find it intuitive to operate their stores. The platform’s transparent yet powerful inventory management is equally accessible to newcomers and experienced sellers.
Multi-vendor eCommerce website owners often laud the platform’s security and its web hosting capabilities, noting that they encounter no security issues throughout their usage of CS-Cart marketplace software. Its formidable feature set, coupled with flexibility, customization options, and robust security measures, underpin its reputation for creating top-tier marketplace platforms for businesses. The responsive customer support and regular updates ensure that it continues to shine as one of the best eCommerce platforms and Shopify alternatives.
Customization and Design Options
CS-Cart provides full access to the source code, allowing entrepreneurs to modify their stores, develop unique functionalities, and tailor themes to match their operational needs. Unlike Shopify, which restricts code-level modifications, CS-Cart enables deep customization for a fully adaptable eCommerce experience.
For those without coding expertise, a variety of budget-friendly third-party themes and add-ons make platform personalization simple. The built-in visual editor also offers extensive storefront design options, ensuring flexibility without technical knowledge.
eCommerce Feature Set
CS-Cart comes equipped with a complete suite of eCommerce tools designed for online stores and marketplaces. A structured product catalog with advanced search and filtering helps customers quickly locate products. Store owners can define custom product variations, offering multiple sizes, colors, and models to meet different customer preferences.
The platform ensures a mobile-optimized shopping experience, making it convenient for users who prefer browsing and purchasing on smartphones or tablets.
- Marketing and Business Management. CS-Cart includes built-in marketing tools, such as discounts and promotions, personalized product suggestions, customer reviews, and social commerce integration to expand audience reach. For efficient operations, the platform offers multi-warehouse inventory tracking, automated accounting tools, and centralized shipping management to coordinate deliveries across multiple locations. AI-driven automation, including chatbots and smart assistants, further enhances efficiency, making CS-Cart a versatile and scalable eCommerce solution.
- Shopping Cart and Payments. A robust shopping cart enhances conversions with abandoned cart recovery, a real-time tax calculator, and an automated shipping cost estimator. The payment system supports split transactions via PayPal and Stripe, allowing automatic revenue distribution between marketplace owners and sellers. Customers benefit from one-click checkouts and a streamlined refunds process for hassle-free transactions.
Pricing
CS-Cart offers three paid plans tailored to different business needs. Those looking for a chance to build a fully-featured marketplace on premises, can choose from the following from the four different plans depending on their business needs.
CS-Cart lifetime license
One can get started from a Standard plan costing $55 per month within an annual subscription or buy a lifetime license and then scale gradually to a Plus, Ultimate, or Unlimited plan to get the most of the platform and its eCommerce functionality for large multi-vendor marketplaces.
Besides, they can choose from separate plans and licenses for the CS-Cart Store Builder.
Pros:
- Feature-rich: Offering a rich set of built-in eCommerce functions enough to get started. They include advanced marketing and SEO tools, and unlimited products and sellers.
- Secure: CS-Cart complies with PCI DSS and GDPR requirements, prioritizing the protection of user data and gaining an edge among Shopify alternatives.
- Self hosted solution: Providing users with full control over the platform and its environment, allowing for unparalleled customization and making it a prime website builder.
- Well-supported: Regular updates and new features ensure the platform stays up-to-date, a pivotal aspect for those seeking Shopify alternatives.
- Best customer care: A responsive technical team is on hand to address issues, conduct audits, and make necessary modifications, providing outstanding customer support.
- Multi-device: A dedicated Multi-Vendor marketplace mobile app enhances accessibility, an advantage over basic eCommerce features.
- Multiple payment gateways: With a variety of payment methods catering to different regions, it ensures convenience for both buyers and sellers, adding to its appeal as a web hosting solution and Shopify alternative.
- No additional transaction fees: you don’t pay any transaction fees to CS-Cart for doing your business on the platform. Only the subscription is paid.
Cons:
- Translations into other languages may not always be perfect, potentially leading to minor language-related issues that could affect website builder capabilities.
- Users express a desire for more powerful and attractive storefront themes in future updates, indicating room for enhancement in website builder and Shopify alternatives.
What Is CS-Cart Good for?
As a self-hosted solution for businesses, it is ideal for online store and marketplace owners who need a flexible, scalable, and feature-rich eCommerce platform without high development costs.
#2 Wix—Best Ecommerce Website Builder for Small Stores
When it comes to a head-to-head comparison between Wix Stores and hosted eCommerce solutions like Shopify, the central disparity lies in their core functionalities. Wix can serve as an AI website builder, which makes it an enticing option for those new to website development and seeking user-friendly solutions within the realm of ecommerce scripts and top shopify alternatives. Wix is definitely better than Shopify in terms of versatility. But is it better as an online shop solution?
While it may appear that Wix can contend with other shopping cart solutions by offering an eCommerce plan, in general, it falls short in terms of features and control, especially when compared to the best ecommerce platform options.
Design Options
Wix provides a handful of mobile-responsive templates. Also, it has a custom Wix ADI tool that lets users preview their websites on mobile devices. Users will have access to a collection of platform’s stock images of high resolution including over 40 photo galleries.
The software makes it possible to integrate different visual effects that make a website look catchier. Wix Code feature leaves more editing opportunities for those who have enough skills to deal with CSS editing.
eCommerce Feature Set
Wix eCommerce features
Depending on the package users select, the platform delivers a set of basic eCommerce features including free pre-designed templates for basic online stores, up to 17 different payment options available for integration including PayPal, Braintree, and Stripe, major delivery methods, promotion and inventory management instruments.
If you want to promote a product and increase sales, Wix offers promo codes integration, coupons, discounts, etc.
Multilingual support is also a crucial feature when it comes to reaching the international target audience. The platform has its custom Wix App Store with a wide selection of widgets and add-ons. To make things simpler for users, Wix comes with its built-in SEO Wizard – a tool that can generate SEO strategies for content, product description, and blog posts.
These features make the platform a good choice only for small digital shops with quite limited options to grow business and expand. As for the tool to get started with a small online store to test the idea, it might work well.
Pricing
The platform offers its basic plan for only $17 per month. However, it does not have enough features for online shops. It will work only for blogs or company’s websites with only 2 GB of storage space.,
A Business plan looks like a better option for eCommerce needs starting at $36 per month. However, the optimal option is the Business Elite plan that is quite pricy for such a limited toolkit starting at $159 per month. So, Wix is hardly a cheaper alternative to Shopify in the bottom line.
Wix pricing plans
Pros:
- A broad add-on library that extends beyond eCommerce functionalities.
- A user-friendly interface that simplifies website management, crucial for those with minimal experience.
- Attractive pricing options that accommodate a range of budgets, makes it a viable option among other eCommerce solutions.
- Modern and aesthetically pleasing templates, enhancing the visual appeal of your website.
- An API for advanced customizations and integrations, offering flexibility for those seeking a versatile eCommerce solution.
- A mobile app for on-the-go site management, catering to the need for mobile accessibility.
Cons:
- Limited in terms of features compared to the most popular eCommerce platforms, potentially lagging behind the best Shopify alternatives in this regard.
- Unsuitable for handling high-volume online stores, which can be a setback for those with ambitious eCommerce ventures.
- Lacks support for multi-channel selling, limiting market reach in comparison to certain Shopify competitors.
- Many specific features require costly third-party apps, which can impact the budget for your eCommerce solution.
- Deficient built-in functionality for selling digital products, necessitating additional solutions for such sales, especially in comparison to the best eCommerce platform options.
What Is Wix Good for?
It works better for small business owners and beginners who need an easy-to-use website builder with drag-and-drop functionality and no coding required.
In essence, while Wix may be an appealing choice for website creation and beginners in website development, it may not provide the depth and breadth of all the features required for robust eCommerce operations, especially for those aiming to handle larger, more complex online stores. It’s crucial to consider your specific eCommerce needs and whether the platform’s offerings align with your goals, keeping in mind the importance of customer support and payment gateways when making comparisons among Shopify competitors and top Shopify alternatives.
#3 Ecwid—Ecommerce Add-On for Existing Websites
The next eCommerce platform, Ecwid, emerges as a standout choice among popular e-commerce platforms, thanks to its robust e-commerce features and the added benefit of not incurring additional transaction fees. Its provision of a free plan and an intuitive drag-and-drop dashboard, along with reliable customer support, sets it apart as an enticing hosted e-commerce platform.
Unlike Shopify, Ecwid is focused on being incorporated into the existing website. While it can function as a stand-alone site, Ecwid truly shines when harnessed as a widget and seamlessly integrated into a website, making a fully functioning online store out of the website. This unique approach aligns perfectly with the needs of those who seek to enhance their existing websites with e-commerce capabilities.
In addition to the array of features, Ecwid offers a free plan, enabling businesses to initiate their journey into e-commerce without immediate financial commitment. This is complemented by advanced content marketing functions, including the capacity to integrate social media sales capabilities.
One noteworthy distinction is Ecwid’s capacity to adapt and expand as your business grows. This potential to evolve is a hallmark of popular e-commerce platforms, with the Unlimited plan offering the creation of a custom iOS or Android shopping app, thereby enhancing the accessibility and reach of your online store.
If your website is already established on platforms like WordPress, Wix, Tumblr, or Weebly, the seamless integration of Ecwid can swiftly equip your site with e-commerce capabilities, ensuring a hassle-free expansion of your business.
Design Options
Ecwid makes it easy to create responsive digital stores that run equally well on all types of devices despite the OS or type. As for the design features, they mainly rely on the initial site appearance. As the system can be integrated with both CMS and SaaS website builders, the final look will depend on the platform you choose. The bad news is that developers do not provide access to the source code. It means zero customization opportunities.
As for the custom Ecwid starter websites, they look rather primitive. They lack crucial customization features, as there is no access to the site source code. The problem can be solved when opting for open-source CMS to integrate your ready-made Ecwid shop. However, that requires technical background. Otherwise, you will be forced to pay third-party teams.
eCommerce Feature Set
Ecwid eCommerce features
Ecwid delivers a set of free features that include a mobile-friendly shopping cart, a free starter site to sell online in a couple of clicks. Premium plans come with expanded functionality offering abandoned cart saver, inventory management with iOS and Android apps, advanced SEO tools, and POS integration.
However, they all look pretty limited when it comes to expanding the project. For instance, if you want to create a marketplace with multiple vendors to manage and host or launch a big online store with dozens of categories requiring effective inventory management, Ecwid will be a bad idea.
Pricing
The price depends on the features users are looking for:
- A Free plan with baseline features to test the system
- A Venture plan costs $21 per month offering up to 100 products, tools to sell on social media, mobile store management app, and more.
- A Business plan costs $39 per month offering everything from the Venture plan plus staff accounts, abandoned cart saver, and some other tools.
- An Unlimited plan costs $81 per month with additional POS integration, branded mobile app, and VIP support.
Ecwid pricing plans
Pros:
- Offers a free plan, allowing businesses to begin their e-commerce journey without immediate financial commitment.
- Seamlessly integrates with your existing website, streamlining the e-commerce setup process.
- The Unlimited plan permits the creation of a custom iOS or Android shopping app, amplifying your store’s reach and accessibility.
Cons:
- While Ecwid offers a stand-alone site option, it comprises only one page, which may be limiting for businesses requiring multi-page sites.
- Product variations are not available on the Free or Venture plans, which could impact product diversity and presentation.
- On the Free or Venture plans, editing orders is not possible, potentially posing challenges in managing customer transactions and orders effectively.
What Is Ecwid Good for?
The platform might be a pick for small and multi-channel retailers selling across websites, social media, and marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
Ecwid’s versatile approach to e-commerce, complemented by its appealing features and adaptability, makes it a strong contender among hosted e-commerce platforms. Whether you’re exploring options for a website builder, need a free plan to kickstart your e-commerce journey, or require advanced content marketing features, Ecwid stands ready to meet your business needs.
#4 WooCommerce—For a Tech-Savvy User Unfamiliar with Coding
Unlike other websites like Shopify, WooCommerce functions as a versatile shopping cart plugin that easily integrates into your existing WordPress websites. Once installed, you gain full control over the design and development of your online storefront, all within the framework of this source-available popular platform.
WooCommerce itself is a cost-effective solution, making it particularly appealing to budget-conscious entrepreneurs looking to create an online store without incurring hefty initial expenses. However, it’s essential to factor in ongoing operational costs, including hosting, a domain name, and the procurement of an SSL certificate, elements vital for the security of your web-based shop. Many hosting providers include a free SSL certificate, or alternatively, you can manually install a Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate at no additional cost. Also, you can often get a free domain name from the provider.
WooCommerce’s allure extends to its versatile array of payment gateways, offering more than 140 options. From WooCommerce Payments and Amazon Pay to Apple Pay, Google Pay, Stripe, Square, and PayPal, you have the flexibility to choose a payment processor that suits your needs.
Payment gateways play a pivotal role in authorizing transactions in your eCommerce store, ensuring seamless and secure transactions for your customers. The absence of monthly fees with WooCommerce Payments is a noteworthy advantage, and instead, you’ll pay transaction fees starting at 2.9% plus an additional 30 cents per transaction. Moreover, for those seeking swift access to their funds, immediate deposits are available, albeit for a 1.5% fee.
Starting a WooCommerce store is a suitable choice for WordPress users aiming to augment their web hosting account with e-commerce capabilities, all without the need to delve into coding. It’s essential to recognize that while a WooCommerce store presents numerous advantages, it may not match the user-friendliness of more straightforward, hosted e-commerce platforms, such as popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify. However, its open-source nature affords you the flexibility to tailor your online store precisely as you envision it.Also, considering WordPress as a Shopify alternative could impact your overall WordPress website development cost, offering different advantages in terms of customization and control. However, if you want to move from WooCommerce to Shopify smoothly, you can use the LitExtension tool. With automated processes, you can migrate Shopify to WooCommerce smoothly while we safeguard your valuable data.
Design Options
WooCommerce is an open-source plugin for WordPress websites, which means some challenges in terms of technical setup. However, users can use it on any of WP themes, including the ones developed for eCommerce needs. They include free and paid premium templates depending on user preference.
Besides, WP-site code can be accessed right from the dashboard. You may change the structure, add new design features, create elements and icons for your website to let it stand out. However, it all requires technical background and coding skills. Otherwise, you will have to hire WordPress developers.
eCommerce Feature Set
WooCommerce features
The plugin offers extensive customization options and feature additions. Users may connect its official Facebook plugin, integrate leading POS systems to sell physical goods as well. The plugin extensions also include MailChimp integration, connection with payment (PayPal, Stripe, etc.) and shipping methods (United States Postal Services).
The problem is that you will mainly deal with third-party plugins developed by side teams. It means limitations in terms of maintenance and support. Besides, users will have to handle integration and setup themselves.
Pricing
WooCommerce is actually one of the best free Shopify alternatives. A baseline version is available at zero cost and provides only starter features to launch a small shop. If you want to create a growing eCommerce project you will need an additional extension that costs from $50 to $250 depending on your needs.
Pros:
- Freedom from monthly fees makes WooCommerce a cost-effective choice for those initiating their e-commerce journey, perfect for budget-conscious startups.
- The availability of instant deposits when using WooCommerce Payments ensures swifter access to your earnings, enhancing your cash flow management.
- Operating on an open-source platform grants you considerable flexibility in tailoring the functionality and design of your online store to your specifications.
Cons:
- WooCommerce’s integration is contingent on using WordPress, which could be limiting if you are not already on this platform.
- While highly versatile, WooCommerce might not offer the same level of user-friendliness as the most popular e-commerce platforms, potentially necessitating a more extensive learning curve.
What Is WooCommerce Good for?
The plugin will only suit businesses that use WordPress. It fits customization-focused entrepreneurs looking for a full control over design, features, and functionality through themes, plugins, and custom development.
#5 Adobe Commerce with a Free Open-Source Magento Service
Adobe Commerce
Launched in 2007 and formerly known as Magento, Adobe Commerce has found itself in the list of most robust CMS platforms. It is definitely a worthy open-source Shopify alternative.
The system delivers a huge list of features in addition to vast integration capabilities to build a solid digital store. It is packed with add-ons and apps making it a fav for millions of merchants across the globe.
Despite all the great features, the platform will hardly be a good idea for beginners. Non-technicians might find it challenging to set up a website due to a complicated dashboard and interface. It will certainly take some time to figure it out. However, once you have passed the learning stage, the editing process will become easier.
Design Options
The platform does not have ready-made website layouts or templates. All themes are mainly developed by third-party companies. Only a few of those themes are free. More stylish and up-to-date layouts may cost over $400.
On the other hand, such themes usually have built-in extensions and add-ons you want to integrate. In other words, there is no need to hire web developers. All themes are mobile-responsive, which ensures smooth running on different devices despite the OS or display size.
eCommerce Feature Set
Adobe Commerce features
Although it is pretty complex to use, Magento Service is rich with various features even despite the fact the open-source version is free. The functionality includes essential instruments to deal with marketing, website SEO, shipping and checkout, product catalog management, payment process, and scaling.
Its marketing tools include wish lists, coupons, and product comparison options, allowing users to create promo codes, highlight popular products, and reduce cart abandonment with a persistent shopping cart.
While Magento Open Source is free, integrating payment methods like debit or credit cards may require additional costs. Another way is to use built-in options such as Stripe, Braintree, PayPal, and Amazon Pay.
The platform also enhances the checkout experience with guest checkout, automatic shipping estimates, and order tracking.
SEO features include meta tag editing, customizable URLs, and integration with Google Analytics. Despite its extensive functionality, businesses requiring advanced customization may need to hire a developer for proper integration.
Pricing
Adobe subscribers can use open-source Magento Service at no cost. But the trick is that you must have a yearly Adobe subscription that starts from $22,000. On the one hand, it includes all other Adobe services. On the other hand, it is way too expensive if you plan to use only the eCommerce extension.
Pros:
- A selection of features and integrations.
- A wide range of apps and add-ons.
- Good for growing online business.
- Huge user community and knowledge base.
- It is free for Adobe users.
Cons:
- Very complicated.
- Limited free themes.
- Expensive customization.
- The lack of support team.
What Is Adobe Commerce Good for?
The platform was designed for companies needing advanced scalability, high performance, and enterprise-grade features. It works best for companies with in-house developers or enough budget to hire experts for customization and maintenance.
#6 Squarespace—Top Choice for Those with a Keen Eye for Visual Design
Squarespace stands out as yet another strong example of SaaS-based eCommerce software, originating as a website builder before metamorphosing into something more. However, it distinguishes itself from the likes of Wix by appealing to those with a discerning taste for a unique designer aesthetic in their online presence.
Like Wix, Squarespace employs the user-friendly power of drag-and-drop functionality, streamlining the process of creating a professional online store. However, in the realm of offered sales tools, it may not match the depth and sophistication found in other eCommerce platforms. And, to be perfectly candid, Squarespace might not be the most straightforward option in terms of ease of use, with a dashboard that might require a bit of acclimatization and an editor page that can prove somewhat intricate to navigate.
Design Options
The website builder currently has over 100 layouts that work great on different devices. They are divided into categories that include online stores, portfolios, events, restaurants, and other business projects.
Page editing is simple and intuitive. Although each theme comes with pre-designed pages and layouts, you may add additional blocks and elements from the list provided. Users are free to edit content, formatting, and styling. Additionally, they can create headings, subheadings, and paragraphs to make texts more SEO and readers-friendly.
Squarespace has its custom mobile app available for both iOS and Android devices. It provides access to the dashboard and editor making it possible to customize each page on the go. The mobile version delivers the same functionality as the desktop.
Some plans include Complete customization with CSS and Javascript.
eCommerce Feature Set
Squarespace eCommerce features
The platform has a range of eCommerce-oriented templates. They have basic built-in features that include product page, item management functionality and built-in payment gateways (Stripe). The system ensures a stylish and attractive good representation.
Managing products is very easy. Users can edit item descriptions, set currency or quantity, add images, connect additional forms in case you need to collect extra customers’ info. As we have stated earlier, SEO settings may apply to various pages and items. Squarespace lets you configure them for product pages separately.
A comprehensive reporting feature ensures a detailed stats overview including some crucial metrics. Users will be able to monitor general stats that include sakes, traffic, and customers’ geography.
Additionally, store owners may access deeper insights such as commerce (purchase funnel, sales by product), engagement (most popular ages, activity logs, etc.), and user acquisition data (effective traffic sources, most searched keywords, so on).
Pricing
Four plans are available for Squarespace users:
- A Basic plan costs $25/month with only baseline tools to sell several products.
- A Core plan costs $36/month and additionally includes shipping methods’ integration and sales funnel analytics
- An Advanced plan costs $139/month.
Squarespace pricing plans
Pros:
- No coding skills are required, making it accessible to individuals regardless of their technical expertise, an ideal choice to create an online store.
- Opting for the annual plan comes with the added perk of a complimentary domain name, enhancing the professionalism of your web venture.
- Squarespace offers you the flexibility to showcase an unlimited array of products, a key factor when seeking to expand your online inventory.
- The platform boasts robust technical support, ensuring you have a reliable resource to address queries and troubleshoot concerns.
- With an impressive selection of designer themes, Squarespace empowers you to craft a unique, visually captivating website.
Cons:
- Navigating Squarespace can prove challenging for some users, particularly when faced with the less intuitive dashboard.
- The absence of comprehensive marketing tools may necessitate seeking external solutions to implement a holistic marketing strategy.
- Squarespace’s reliance on third-party apps imposes limitations on the range of available functionalities, potentially affecting the depth of customization.
- The array of payment options may feel somewhat restricted compared to other eCommerce platforms.
- Squarespace, notably, does not incorporate an add-on marketplace, potentially limiting the ease with which you can expand your online store’s capabilities.
- Squarespace cannot effectively handle an unlimited number of products.
What Is Squarespace Good for?
A good option for small online store owners seeking eCommerce tools to launch online projects with a limited product range.
#7 BigCommerce—Tailored for Well-Established Businesses
When comparing BigCommerce to Shopify, it becomes evident that BigCommerce distinguishes itself through its advanced content-marketing features, catering to the needs of eCommerce entrepreneurs and small businesses alike. With BigCommerce, you’ll find a comprehensive suite of built-in eCommerce tools, reducing the reliance on external apps and extensions.
One aspect where BigCommerce truly shines is its support for the promotion and sale of digital products. Unlike Shopify, BigCommerce offers solid functionality for selling digital products online, even if you have minimal coding knowledge.
BigCommerce empowers you with a range of tools to manage your online store effectively. From built-in SEO and marketing tools to a user-friendly interface, it caters to diverse eCommerce needs. What’s even more appealing is the absence of additional transaction fees, making it a cost-effective alternative for eCommerce entrepreneurs.
Additionally, BigCommerce stands out by offering an unlimited number of staff accounts with any plan, facilitating seamless collaboration, and enhancing your store’s management.
However, there are certain limitations to be aware of. Managing VAT MOSS rates, particularly when selling digital products, can be challenging, impacting your international sales. BigCommerce also imposes annual sales limits, which could affect the scalability of your eCommerce site over time.
Despite these constraints, BigCommerce remains a compelling Shopify competitor, offering advanced functionality that caters to a broad spectrum of eCommerce stores, making it a viable choice for those seeking a solution better than Shopify for their online business.
Design Options
BigCommerce offers Stencil templates for its new merchants. They come with a point-at-click interface making it possible to modify or change templates without manual coding.
The platform does not boast a huge variety of ready-to-use layouts. Overall, there are about 125 themes to choose from. Each theme comes with various styles, which means a bit more variations.
All templates are divided between free and paid ones. However, only 7 out of 125 templates are available at no cost. The rest range from $140 to $250, which is not as cost-effective as some could expect. On the other hand, all templates are responsive and provide access to CSS/HTML whenever you need to customize the website. In this case, you will need some good coding and web designing skills.
eCommerce Feature Set
BigCommerce features
Users are able to set up FedEx for shipping quotes in addition to UPS, DHL, and some other delivery services. The control panel has a separate section to set up the shipment settings and inventory.
Some users may find it difficult to re-arrange the shipment details if they want to change the delivery method or company. What’s more, they need to make sure the correct info is displayed on the product page.
BigCommerce offers various integration capabilities with major payment systems to process payments. They include free options like PayPal, Stripe, Square or Amazon Pay.
If you want to offer more flexible user experience, you should be ready to pay. For instance, Braintree integration for credit cards will additionally cost you 2.9% on each transaction plus $0.30 not including shipping costs or VAT.
The platform has some decent checkout features. They include social media sharing letting customers post the product or purchase through their Facebook accounts. At the same time, users can add an advanced sidebar to the page with enhanced search options by the filter, size, category, etc.
Users can choose from over 600 of add-ons available for integration with their digital shops. They can use instruments like Google Analytics or Glew for detailed reporting to Live Chat and ZenDesk to contact customers. The store can be integrated with CRM or wholesale B2B solutions.
Pricing
Currently, BigCommerce users can choose from 4 different plans:
- A Standard plan for individuals and smart brands costs $39/month.
- A Plus plan for small business and stores costs $105/month.
- A Pro plan for growing eCommerce projects costs $399 per month.
- An Enterprise plan is a custom option with features and tools designed for specific business needs.
BigCommerce pricing plans
Pros:
- BigCommerce does not require coding expertise, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.
- The platform offers solid store management tools, simplifying the process of overseeing your online business.
- Built-in marketing and SEO tools are valuable resources to enhance your store’s visibility and promotional efforts.
- BigCommerce refrains from imposing transaction fees, providing a cost-effective solution for your eCommerce venture.
- The platform allows an unlimited number of staff accounts with any plan, facilitating seamless team collaboration.
- Built-in product review functionality is a valuable asset to boost customer engagement and trust.
Cons:
- Premium themes may be relatively expensive, which could impact your budget when seeking to enhance your store’s design.
- Managing VAT MOSS rates when selling digital products can prove challenging, potentially impacting your international sales.
- BigCommerce imposes limits on annual sales, which could affect your store’s scalability in the long run.
- Feedback suggests that the available store themes may exhibit a degree of similarity, potentially limiting design diversity.
What Is BigCommerce Good for?
It will suit different categories of business owners from mid-market to large-scale projects requiring advanced tools for high-volume stores, automated workflows, and detailed analytics.
#8 Shift4Shop—Ideal for Budget-Conscious Sellers
Much akin to the approach adopted by some of the most popular eCommerce solutions, Shift4Shop (formerly 3dcart) presents itself as a hosted, all-inclusive eCommerce solution, designed to serve as the foundation for creating and launching your online store. For U.S. residents, there’s an enticing free plan, although it hinges on using the native Ship4 payment gateway.
What sets Shift4Shop (formerly 3dcart) apart is its capacity to harmoniously connect with over 300 distinct payment providers, offering an extensive array of features, including real-time shipping options facilitated through trusted partners. The platform’s inventory management system stands out for its robustness, complemented by a comprehensive toolkit, which includes SEO tools to enhance your store’s visibility on search engines. Additionally, Shift4Shop provides a more cost-effective platform, offering a broader range of built-in features, often exclusive to higher-tier Shopify plans, even with the basic plan.
Nevertheless, it’s important to be ready for certain challenges when embarking on your eCommerce journey with Shift4Shop. In contrast to some platforms, Shift4Shop does not feature drag-and-drop site-building capabilities, potentially resulting in a steeper learning curve, particularly for those less experienced in web development. The design and layout of product pages may appear more intricate than necessary, and occasional technical hurdles might necessitate support, although reports have raised concerns about the consistency of technical assistance from Shift4Shop.
Design Options
Shift4Shop has a range of high-quality responsive templates. Right after you access the platform, you’ll get a default theme. Additionally, users can select from around 118 pre-installed templates. It is possible to switch between them in one click whenever needed. A preview mode helps one see how the future store looks like.
CSS and HTML access will help technically experienced users change the default theme and customize them if needed.
eCommerce Feature Set
Shift4Shop features
Shift4Shop has a solid feature set to launch an online store of any size. However, beginners might find its functionality a bit overwhelming at first. The notable part of options, integrations and modules will remain inactive while using multiple projects.
But in the bottom line, it delivers multiple marketing and SEO tools, a powerful integrated CRM, a blog, gift certificates, automated emails, user groups, and reports.
A baseline feature set includes product import/export with lots of detailed settings, payment services (PayPal, Square, Stripe, Amazon Payments, credit cards) and delivery (FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL) methods.
There are also warehouse stock product charts with sales statistics for a certain period. Integration with the most important social services is supported here. Users will appreciate detailed analytics and statistics generated via multiple channels via promo tools and order dashboard.
Apart from the out-of-the-box basic feature set, a user has access to a variety of modules. Several dozen of them are installed by default, while others can be connected as needed.
Pricing: Options span from an end-to-end free plan, with a requirement to solely use the Ship4 payment gateway, to a $299 per month fee, with four distinct plans tailored to accommodate your specific needs.
Pros:
- No coding expertise is essential, making Shift4Shop accessible for individuals without a technical background, enabling you to start selling online effortlessly.
- An assortment of plans, including both a free option and three paid plans, granting you the flexibility to select the one that best aligns with your business goals.
- Shift4Shop refrains from imposing additional transaction fees, which can be a substantial cost-saving feature for your eCommerce venture.
- Compatibility with over 300 payment gateways ensures your customers have the freedom to make online payments conveniently.
- The platform offers a user-friendly interface, which can be particularly advantageous for experienced users eager to exert maximum control over their store.
- The integration of built-in marketing tools such as discounts and gift certificates empowers you to optimize your promotional efforts effectively.
- The capability to create and calculate discount and promo codes provides an invaluable tool to enhance sales and boost customer engagement.
Cons:
- The platform’s interface may not be as intuitive, potentially requiring some acclimation for newcomers.
- Notable limitations regarding multilingual capabilities could affect the reach of your online store, especially in diverse markets.
- Concerns regarding the reputation of the payment gateway might impact the reliability of online payments processing.
- The free templates provided may not be as visually appealing or as flexible for customization.
- Reports have surfaced about the variable quality of customer service from Shift4Shop, raising questions about the consistency of support experiences.
- A steep learning curve could pose challenges for users with limited web development experience, making the platform more challenging for newcomers.
- Paid plans may impose revenue limits, potentially affecting the growth potential of your online business.
What Is Shift4Shop Good for
The platform focuses on retailers with limited scaling and development resources. It will also fit multi-channel vendors and small to medium-sized eCommerce projects.
FAQ
Q1. How do I choose the right Shopify alternative for my business?
Choosing the right Shopify alternative for your successful eCommerce store requires a strategic approach. Begin by identifying your specific requirements, such as necessary features, budget constraints, and scalability needs. Understanding your business size and industry focus is crucial, as certain competitors to Shopify specialize in catering to small businesses, while others are better suited for larger enterprises or specific sectors.
Additionally, consider the level of customization and user-friendliness you desire, as well as the availability of support and resources. It’s important to review user feedback, seek recommendations, and explore the platform through trials or demos. By systematically evaluating these factors, you can select the best Shopify alternative that aligns with your business objectives and ensures a smooth transition to your new eCommerce platform, all while minimizing transaction fees and optimizing your shopping cart experience.
Q2. Can I migrate my existing Shopify store to a different platform?
Yes, migrating your existing Shopify store to a different platform is feasible. However, the process involves several key steps:
- Select a Suitable Platform: To transition from Shopify, choose a dedicated eCommerce platform that aligns with your specific business needs. Unlike Shopify SaaS eCommerce platform, which handles web host and eCommerce functionality, a dedicated platform may require you to manage your own hosting. Bear in mind that with a different platform you probably won’t be able to use Shopify payments.
- Export and Import Data: Begin by exporting crucial data, such as product listings, customer information, and order history, from your Shopify store. Then, use the import features or tools provided by your new platform to transfer this data seamlessly.
- Recreate, Test, and Launch: Replicate your website’s design and layout on the new platform. Configure payment gateways, thoroughly test the site, and optimize it for performance and user experience. Once you are satisfied, proceed to launch your revamped online store.
It’s vital to plan the migration of your eCommerce platform like Shopify carefully, ensuring that the chosen platform meets your specific requirements while accommodating the shift from a Shopify SaaS eCommerce platform to a dedicated one, where you manage your web host and eCommerce functionality independently. If needed, consider seeking professional assistance or utilizing migration services such as LitExtension’s Shopify migration to streamline the process and minimize disruptions to your eCommerce business.
Q3. Is there a free alternative to Shopify?
Along with a lot of affordable Shopify alternatives, there are free services available in the eCommerce market. One notable option is WooCommerce, a WordPress plugin and an open-source eCommerce platform.
Unlike engines similar to Shopify, WooCommerce itself is free to use, and it’s a versatile choice for businesses looking to sell digital products and physical goods alike. While WooCommerce offers unlimited products, it’s important to note that you may incur costs for web hosting, domain registration, and additional features or extensions based on your specific needs. Often, hosting providers offer a free domain, so you can save here.
Another free alternative is Ecwid, which provides a free plan with certain limitations. Ecwid is a user-friendly shopping cart solution suitable for businesses looking to sell digital products or physical items. While the free plan is a cost-effective choice, businesses may choose to upgrade to paid plans for more advanced features and SEO tools.
WooCommerce, Ecwid and CS-Cart offer cost-effective alternatives to Shopify, providing businesses with the flexibility to sell digital products and customize their online stores according to their unique requirements.
Q4. What are the costs associated with using a Shopify alternative?
The costs associated with using a Shopify alternative vary based on the platform and your specific business needs. Subscription plans are a primary cost factor, ranging from free plans with basic features to tiered plans offering advanced functionalities. Some alternatives may also charge transaction fees, although these can be lower or nonexistent compared to Shopify.
Additionally, you may need to consider hosting and domain costs, which can be separate from the platform’s subscription fees. Premium themes, apps, and extensions, if required, can also contribute to expenses. Customization costs, such as design and development work, should be budgeted based on your store’s specific needs. Finally, ongoing maintenance and support are essential considerations to ensure your eCommerce alternative to Shopify continues to perform efficiently.
By carefully assessing these factors, you can determine the total cost of ownership for your chosen Shopify alternative, aligning it with your budget and business requirements for your eCommerce sites.