While Shopify is our top recommendation overall, these alternatives each have genuine strengths for specific use cases.
Table of Contents
1. WooCommerce
Free WordPress plugin. Best for developers wanting full control. Hosting $10-50/mo extra.
2. BigCommerce
Matches Shopify feature-for-feature. Better B2B. No transaction fees. $39-399/mo.
3. Squarespace
Most stunning templates. Design-first brands. Commerce plans $33-65/mo.
4. Wix
Easiest builder. Basic e-commerce. $17-159/mo.
5. Square Online
Genuinely free plan. Great for physical retailers going online.
6-10: Ecwid, Sellfy, Gumroad, PrestaShop, Webflow
Each serves specific niches: adding shop to existing sites, digital products, open-source European, and design-driven commerce respectively.
Verdict
For most product businesses, Shopify remains best overall. Consider alternatives only for specific unmet needs.
