Top BigCommerce Alternatives to Consider in 2024
Looking for a BigCommerce alternative? Compare top ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and more. Find the best fit for your online store.
BigCommerce offers a robust platform, but it isn't always the right fit. Here’s a breakdown of the best alternatives to help you find the ideal ecommerce solution.
BigCommerce is a strong choice for established businesses with complex needs, but its feature set and pricing can be overwhelming for smaller operations or those just starting out. Many users seek alternatives due to BigCommerce's complexity, cost, or limited customization options. This article compares several leading BigCommerce alternatives, evaluating them based on ease of use, features, scalability, and overall value. We've focused on platforms that provide a range of capabilities to suit different business sizes and technical expertise.
The ranked list
- Top pick · Editor’s choice1Visit Shopify →
Shopify
An all-in-one ecommerce platform ideal for businesses of all sizes.
Best forBusinesses of all sizes; fast setup and ease of use.Pros
- Shopify offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy to manage products, orders, and customers.
- The Shopify App Store provides a vast ecosystem of integrations and extensions to enhance functionality.
- Robust marketing features, including SEO tools and email marketing integration, are readily available.
- Shopify Payments simplifies transaction processing and offers competitive rates.
Cons
- Transaction fees apply if using a third-party payment gateway.
- App costs can add up, increasing the overall platform expense.
- Shopify’s templating language (Liquid) requires technical knowledge for advanced customization.
PricingPAIDVerdict. Shopify strikes a great balance between power and usability. It's a strong option for businesses that want a comprehensive ecommerce platform without the steep learning curve of more complex solutions. Its app ecosystem allows for scalability and customization as your business grows.
- 2Visit WooCommerce →
WooCommerce
A flexible, open-source ecommerce plugin for WordPress.
Best forWordPress users; businesses needing extensive customization.Pros
- WooCommerce is highly customizable and provides complete control over your store’s design and functionality.
- Being open-source, WooCommerce offers cost savings and a large community for support.
- Seamless integration with WordPress provides access to a vast library of themes and plugins.
- Full control over data and hosting.
Cons
- Requires technical expertise to set up, manage, and maintain.
- Security is the responsibility of the user; requires diligent updates and security measures.
- Finding proper hosting to run WooCommerce optimally can be challenging.
PricingOPEN_SOURCEVerdict. WooCommerce is a powerful choice for businesses already invested in the WordPress ecosystem and comfortable with technical aspects of web management. Its flexibility and scalability are major advantages, but it’s not a beginner-friendly option.
- 3Visit Squarespace →
Squarespace
An all-in-one website builder with integrated ecommerce features.
Best forSmall businesses and creatives focused on design and ease of use.Pros
- Squarespace offers beautiful, professionally designed templates.
- User-friendly drag-and-drop interface simplifies website creation and management.
- Integrated marketing tools, including email campaigns and SEO features.
- All-in-one platform means less technical overhead.
Cons
- Customization options are limited compared to platforms like WooCommerce or Shopify.
- App integrations are less extensive than those available on Shopify.
- May not be suitable for businesses with highly complex product catalogs.
PricingPAIDVerdict. Squarespace is an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize aesthetics and simplicity. While it may lack some of the advanced features of dedicated ecommerce platforms, it provides a streamlined and visually appealing online store solution.
- 4Visit Wix →
Wix
A versatile website builder with ecommerce capabilities.
Best forSmall businesses and entrepreneurs with limited technical skills.Pros
- Wix offers a highly intuitive drag-and-drop website builder.
- Wide range of templates and design options.
- Wix App Market provides access to numerous extensions.
- Relatively affordable pricing plans.
Cons
- Limited scalability for rapidly growing businesses.
- Changing templates after launch can be difficult.
- SEO capabilities, while improving, are still not as robust as some competitors.
PricingPAIDVerdict. Wix is a solid option for small businesses that need a simple and affordable way to get online. However, its limitations in scalability and advanced features may make it unsuitable for larger or more complex ecommerce operations.
- 5Visit PrestaShop →
PrestaShop
A powerful, open-source ecommerce platform.
Best forTech-savvy users who need a self-hosted solution with extensive customization.Pros
- PrestaShop offers a wide range of features, including multi-store management and advanced product options.
- Open-source platform provides high levels of customization.
- Large community and marketplace of modules and themes.
- Good for international selling with multi-language and multi-currency support.
Cons
- Requires technical expertise to set up and maintain.
- Can be resource-intensive, requiring a robust hosting environment.
- Module quality can vary.
PricingOPEN_SOURCEVerdict. PrestaShop is a strong contender for users who seek a self-hosted, highly customizable ecommerce platform. It delivers a lot of functionality out-of-the-box, but demands a higher level of technical proficiency.
At a glance
Side-by-side comparison of the alternatives ranked above.
| Tool | Best For | Starting Price | Free Plan | Customization | Ease of Use | Scalability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify | All Businesses | PAID | Free Trial | Medium | High | High |
| WooCommerce | WordPress Users | OPEN_SOURCE | Yes (plugin is free) | Very High | Medium | High |
| Squarespace | Small Businesses | PAID | Free Trial | Low | High | Medium |
| Wix | Entrepreneurs | PAID | Free Plan | Medium | High | Low |
| PrestaShop | Tech-Savvy Users | OPEN_SOURCE | Yes | Very High | Low | High |
Frequently asked questions
Is it difficult to migrate from BigCommerce to another platform?
Migration complexity depends on the size and complexity of your BigCommerce store. Most platforms offer import tools, but manual adjustments may be necessary. Consider using a dedicated migration service for larger stores.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a BigCommerce alternative?
Consider your budget, technical expertise, customization needs, and scalability requirements. Evaluate features like payment gateway integrations, marketing tools, and customer support options.
Can I transfer my domain name when switching platforms?
Yes, you can typically transfer your domain name to another registrar when you switch platforms. However, there may be a small transfer fee.
What is the best option for a small business with limited technical expertise?
Shopify or Squarespace are excellent options for small businesses with limited technical skills. They offer user-friendly interfaces and all-in-one solutions.
The verdict
What to pick
Choosing the right BigCommerce alternative is crucial for the success of your online store. Shopify emerges as the strongest all-around option due to its balance of features, usability, and scalability. However, WooCommerce provides unmatched customization for WordPress users, while Squarespace and Wix are ideal for businesses prioritizing simplicity and design. PrestaShop provides a solid open-source solution for those with the technical expertise to manage it. Carefully assess your specific needs and priorities to select the platform that best aligns with your business goals.