When it comes to setting up an ecommerce store, Shopify is often one of the first platforms that comes to mind. However, in the ever-evolving digital landscape, there are several alternatives that might suit your specific business needs even better. While Shopify is robust and popular, it’s crucial to consider other options that could potentially offer better customisation, pricing, or features. In this post, we’ll explore what’s better than Shopify, assess their strengths, and help you decide which might be the best fit for your business.
Why Consider Alternatives to Shopify?
Shopify is undoubtedly a powerful platform with a wide variety of apps and features. However, it may not always align with every business owner’s needs. Here are a few reasons why you might consider other platforms:
- Scalability: As your business grows, you may need features that are not readily available or easily implemented on Shopify.
- Customisation: Shopify has its limitations in terms of customising your online store without extensive coding.
- Cost: Monthly fees and transaction costs can add up, especially for small businesses.
Top Alternatives to Shopify
Let’s take a look at some of the most promising alternatives to Shopify in terms of functionality, pricing, and customisation capabilities.
1. WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free WordPress plugin that transforms your website into a fully functional ecommerce store. It offers a high degree of customisation, given the myriad of plugins available for WordPress. If you already have a WordPress site, WooCommerce is a cost-effective choice with a range of features that can be tailored to meet your business requirements.
2. BigCommerce
BigCommerce is a SaaS platform that gives Shopify a run for its money with its robust built-in features. It eliminates the need for additional apps, which can increase costs. BigCommerce is ideal for businesses looking to scale up, as it offers unparalleled flexibility and customisation options alongside affordable pricing plans starting from around £21 per month.
3. Magento
For larger businesses requiring scalable and highly customisable ecommerce solutions, Magento is a good choice. Although it requires more technical expertise to set up and manage, Magento offers extensive features and a high level of control over the site, making it a favourite among businesses with larger budgets.
4. Wix eCommerce
Wix eCommerce is perfect for small to medium businesses, offering simplicity and ease of use. With an intuitive drag-and-drop website builder, you can create visually appealing stores without any programming skills. It’s also competitively priced, with plans starting at approximately £15 per month.
Features to Consider When Choosing an Ecommerce Platform
When deciding on an ecommerce platform, consider the following features to ensure it meets your business needs:
- Ease of Use: How easy is it to set up and manage your store?
- SEO Features: Does the platform offer SEO tools to help your store rank in search engines?
- Payment Options: What payment gateways does the platform integrate with?
- Support: Is customer support readily available and helpful?
Conclusion
Choosing the right ecommerce platform is crucial for the success of your online business. While Shopify is a popular choice, exploring alternatives such as WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, and Wix eCommerce could offer better advantages based on your business needs. Consider your budget, your need for customisation, and the level of technical expertise available to you. At Update, we specialise in web design, ecommerce development, and digital marketing strategies, helping businesses like yours thrive with expert guidance and tailored solutions. Consider partnering with Update for a seamless transition to an ecommerce platform that suits your business goals.