WooCommerce vs Shopify: which platform is right for your online store?.
If you’re starting an online store, you’ve probably narrowed things down to WooCommerce (WordPress) and Shopify. Both are solid choices—but they suit different kinds of businesses and workflows.
What is WooCommerce?
WooCommerce is a free plugin for self-hosted WordPress sites. It turns your website into a powerful online store, with full control over everything from products and payments to design and SEO. You’ll need your own hosting and a bit of setup, but the flexibility is worth it.
Pros:
- Fully customisable and extendable
- No monthly platform fees (just hosting and any paid extensions you choose)
- Great for SEO and content-rich sites
Cons:
- Bit of a learning curve if you’re brand new to websites
- You’ll manage updates, backups, and security (or hire someone like me to handle it for you)
What is Shopify?
Shopify is a hosted platform designed specifically for e-commerce. It handles the tech stuff—like hosting, updates, and security—so you can focus on products and sales. It’s easy to get started, but a bit more limited when it comes to customisation.
Pros:
- Super user-friendly interface
- Built-in tools for payments, shipping, and inventory
- Fast and secure out of the box
Cons:
- Monthly fees can add up, especially with paid apps
- Less design freedom
- SEO and blogging tools aren’t as strong as WordPress
So, which one should you pick?
- Go with WooCommerce if you want full control, advanced customisation, and a site that can grow alongside your business. It’s especially ideal if you’re already using WordPress or want to build a content-driven brand.
- Go with Shopify if you want a simpler setup and don’t mind some limitations in exchange for ease of use. Great for smaller product ranges or quick-launch stores.
Still deciding between WooCommerce and Shopify? I help clients set up e-commerce sites that are built to scale—let’s chat about the best fit for your store.
