15 Best Sites Similar to Shopify for Building Your Online Store in 2025
15 Best Sites Similar to Shopify for U.S. Entrepreneurs in 2025
So, you’re looking for sites similar to Shopify—maybe you’re starting your first online store or simply hunting for a new platform that offers different pricing, flexibility, or features. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone. Shopify may be one of the most popular ecommerce platforms in the United States, but it’s not the only game in town.
In fact, there’s a whole universe of websites like Shopify that cater to various business sizes, technical skills, and niche needs. Some are cheaper, others more flexible, and a few even offer features Shopify doesn’t. This article is your ultimate guide to discovering the best alternatives to Shopify. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to make a smart, strategic decision for your online business.
Platform | Best For | Strengths | Open Source | Pricing (Monthly) | Unique Feature |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shopify | General ecommerce | Ease of use, app ecosystem | No | $39+ | Built-in POS & marketing tools |
WooCommerce | WordPress users | Customization, free core plugin | Yes | Free + hosting | Full WordPress integration |
BigCommerce | Growing enterprises | No transaction fees, SEO features | No | $39.95+ | Multichannel integration |
Wix | Beginners, creative brands | Drag-and-drop, design templates | No | $27+ | Simple AI tools |
Squarespace | Creatives, portfolios | Beautiful designs, all-in-one | No | $23+ | Built-in blogging |
Ecwid | Adding store to any site | Plug-and-play with existing websites | No | Free/$15+ | Embeddable cart |
Magento | Large enterprises | Flexibility, deep customization | Yes | Free + dev costs | Enterprise-level features |
Shift4Shop | Budget-conscious businesses | Free plan with built-in tools | No | Free/$29+ | Advanced SEO features |
Volusion | Product-heavy stores | Inventory & reporting | No | $35+ | Built-in analytics |
PrestaShop | Developers & coders | No license fee, large module library | Yes | Free + hosting | Developer-driven extensions |
Sellfy | Creators selling digital goods | Easy setup, digital delivery | No | $29+ | Subscription options |
Zyro | Fast setup | AI features, low cost | No | $11.99+ | AI writing tools |
Webflow | Designers, agencies | Custom CMS, no-code builder | No | $29+ | Visual front-end control |
Weebly | Local shops & restaurants | Square POS integration | No | Free/$12+ | Easy in-store sync |
OpenCart | Multi-store operations | Free, customizable | Yes | Free + hosting | Multi-store setup |
Shoplazza | International merchants | Mobile-first, multilingual | No | Varies | Global ecommerce tools |
1. Why Look for Sites Similar to Shopify?
Before diving into the list, it’s worth asking: why are so many people seeking out sites like Shopify?
- Pricing concerns: Shopify’s monthly fees and app costs can add up.
- Limited customization: Unless you’re tech-savvy or hire a developer, you may feel constrained.
- Checkout restrictions: Shopify Payments is mandatory in some cases, and alternatives come with added fees.
- Niche needs: Some businesses need tools or integrations Shopify doesn’t offer.
Whether you’re looking for websites similar to Shopify that are more affordable or more developer-friendly, this guide has got you covered.
2. What to Look For in Shopify-Type Websites
When exploring websites like Shopify, keep these criteria in mind:
- Ease of Use: Drag-and-drop builders or intuitive dashboards.
- Cost Structure: Monthly fees, transaction fees, and app costs.
- Customization Options: Can you edit themes or code freely?
- Feature Set: Built-in SEO, analytics, integrations, multi-channel selling.
- Support Quality: Availability of customer service and documentation.
3. Top 15 Sites Similar to Shopify (2025 List)
Here’s a deep dive into 15 Shopify-type websites tailored for U.S.-based entrepreneurs.
Platform | Best For | Key Strengths |
---|---|---|
WooCommerce | WordPress users | Highly customizable, free core plugin |
BigCommerce | Scaling businesses | Native features, no transaction fees |
Wix eCommerce | Design-focused beginners | Stunning templates, drag-and-drop builder |
Squarespace | Creatives and portfolios | Beautiful designs, integrated features |
Ecwid | Adding store to any site | Embeds in existing websites |
Magento (Adobe) | Large-scale enterprise | Powerful, open-source |
Shift4Shop | Budget-conscious merchants | Free plan, built-in features |
Volusion | Inventory-heavy stores | Inventory & analytics tools |
PrestaShop | Developers and coders | Open-source, no licensing fees |
Sellfy | Digital products & creators | Simple setup, digital delivery |
Zyro | Fast and simple setup | AI tools, affordability |
Webflow | Designers and advanced users | Custom CMS, pixel-perfect design |
Weebly by Square | Local businesses and stores | Easy POS integration |
OpenCart | Multi-store management | Free, developer-friendly |
Shoplazza | Global ecommerce | Multilingual, mobile-first |
These platforms represent a range of websites similar to Shopify—from drag-and-drop simplicity to complex, enterprise-level customization.
4. Comparison: Shopify vs. Other Ecommerce Platforms
Feature/Platform | Shopify | BigCommerce | WooCommerce | Wix | Squarespace |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cost (monthly) | $39+ | $39.95+ | Free (plus hosting) | $27+ | $23+ |
Open-source | No | No | Yes | No | No |
SEO Tools | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good |
Ease of Use | Excellent | Good | Moderate | Excellent | Excellent |
Customization | Medium | High | Very High | Medium | Medium |
This comparison makes it clear why entrepreneurs explore sites like Shopify—to match tools with their unique needs.
5. Pros and Cons of Using Companies Similar to Shopify
Pros:
- Broader pricing flexibility
- Potentially fewer fees
- More freedom with hosting and customization
- Some platforms offer niche-specific features
Cons:
- Learning curve on open-source platforms
- May require external hosting or developer help
- Not all platforms offer 24/7 support
6. Who Should Use Websites Like Shopify?
- Small businesses needing affordable alternatives
- Design-focused brands wanting visual customization
- Tech-savvy users preferring open-source platforms
- Local businesses that want integrated POS
Choosing the right sites similar to Shopify depends on your business model, goals, and budget.
7. Unique Features Found in Shopify-Type Websites
- Multilingual support (Shoplazza)
- Built-in blogging tools (Squarespace)
- AI content creation (Zyro)
- Multi-channel selling (BigCommerce)
- POS integrations (Weebly, Square)
If you’re looking for specific features Shopify doesn’t emphasize, exploring companies similar to Shopify can yield big rewards.
8. SEO and Marketing on Platforms Similar to Shopify
SEO remains essential regardless of the platform. Here’s how sites like Shopify handle it:
- Meta Titles and Descriptions: Customizable on most platforms
- Schema Markup: Available on WooCommerce, BigCommerce
- Blogging Capability: Strong with Squarespace, Wix, WordPress
- Built-in Analytics: Available on most websites similar to Shopify
Always check if your preferred platform supports plugins or apps to enhance SEO and marketing.
9. Sites Similar to Shopify for Niche Stores
- For digital creators: Sellfy, Gumroad
- For restaurants: Wix Restaurants, Square Online
- For fashion brands: Shopify, Squarespace
- For tech products: BigCommerce, Magento
- For info products or memberships: Podia, Kajabi
Not all ecommerce needs are the same. That’s why platforms similar to Shopify vary so widely.
10. How to Migrate from Shopify to a Similar Platform
- Export your products and data (CSV, XML)
- Choose your new platform and import data
- Set up design and features
- Redirect URLs and test site speed
- Launch and monitor for issues
Migration can be complex, but many companies similar to Shopify offer onboarding services or plugins.
11. Final Tips for Choosing the Best Shopify-Type Website
- Start with a free trial
- Test backend ease-of-use
- Read customer reviews
- Compare mobile performance
- Factor in scalability
1. What are the best sites similar to Shopify for small businesses?
If you’re a small business looking for affordable and flexible ecommerce solutions, several sites similar to Shopify stand out. WooCommerce is a great choice for WordPress users due to its open-source nature and free base plugin. Wix eCommerce is perfect if you want easy design control, while Shift4Shop provides robust built-in features at no monthly cost (just payment processing fees). These websites like Shopify cater to businesses seeking lower overhead, design flexibility, and easy management—without sacrificing essential ecommerce capabilities.
2. Are there any sites similar to shopify that are completely free to use?
Yes, there are a few websites similar to Shopify that offer free plans. Shift4Shop is one such platform providing a completely free plan for U.S.-based businesses, although it requires using their payment processing system. Ecwid also offers a free plan that allows you to add ecommerce to an existing site. While these shopify type websites may have limitations on features or bandwidth, they are excellent entry points for entrepreneurs who want to start without upfront investment.
3. Which companies similar to Shopify support digital product sales?
If you’re selling eBooks, music, photography, or other digital goods, Sellfy is one of the best websites like Shopify tailored for digital creators. Gumroad and Payhip also offer strong tools for selling digital products and subscriptions. These platforms provide built-in features for file delivery, licensing, and customer access control—often better optimized for digital sales than Shopify itself. For creators, choosing platforms similar to Shopify but focused on digital goods leads to better user experience and automation.
4. What’s the easiest sites similar to Shopify for beginners?
Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly top the list of user-friendly sites like Shopify. Their drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-designed templates make setting up an online store incredibly simple—even for those with no technical background. While Shopify is known for usability, these shopify type websites provide an even more visual, guided experience. Many beginners find these platforms to be less intimidating and more affordable compared to Shopify’s monthly cost plus app expenses.
5. Which sites similar to shopify offer better SEO features?
If SEO is your main focus, you may find BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Shift4Shop offer more advanced tools than Shopify out-of-the-box. These platforms provide deeper control over metadata, schema markup, canonical tags, and URL structures. Shopify does offer solid SEO support, but you might need paid apps for advanced functions. If you want SEO baked into your ecommerce setup, consider these companies similar to Shopify with robust SEO infrastructure.
6. Can I migrate my store from Shopify to other ecommerce platforms?
Absolutely. You can migrate your products, customers, and orders using CSV exports or third-party tools like Cart2Cart or LitExtension. Most sites similar to Shopify have import features or offer migration assistance. Whether you’re moving to WooCommerce, BigCommerce, or Wix, the key steps include exporting your Shopify data, setting up your new platform, importing content, and redirecting URLs to avoid SEO loss. Migration is manageable and often worthwhile for better pricing or flexibility.
7. What are the cheapest sites similar to shopify with high-quality features?
Shift4Shop, Ecwid, and Zyro stand out as some of the most cost-effective sites like Shopify. Shift4Shop offers a free plan with zero monthly fees. Ecwid’s free tier lets you add a store to any website. Zyro is known for its AI-powered features and starts as low as $11.99 per month. These websites similar to Shopify balance affordability and functionality, making them great choices for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
8. Do sites similar to shopify support in-person sales or POS systems?
Yes, many sites like Shopify now offer POS (Point of Sale) integration. Square (via Weebly) is the most well-known alternative, ideal for local shops needing in-person transactions. BigCommerce and WooCommerce also offer POS integrations via plugins or apps. These Shopify type websites make it easy to sync inventory, sales, and customer data between your online store and physical location—something that’s critical for omnichannel selling.
9. Which platforms are best for high-volume stores similar to Shopify Plus?
For high-volume stores, BigCommerce Enterprise, Magento (Adobe Commerce), and Shoplazza are strong Shopify Plus alternatives. These platforms are designed to handle large product catalogs, global selling, and advanced integrations. Magento is open-source and infinitely customizable but requires developer support. BigCommerce offers scalable cloud infrastructure with no transaction fees. If you’re running a fast-growing business and need more control and scalability, look beyond basic websites like Shopify and into enterprise-grade companies similar to Shopify.
10. Are there Shopify alternatives better suited for designers or developers?
Absolutely. Webflow and Magento are popular among designers and developers looking for more creative or technical freedom. Webflow provides visual design control and CMS flexibility, while Magento allows for backend customization and advanced ecommerce features. These platforms are less beginner-friendly but offer unparalleled creative freedom—ideal for businesses with in-house design or developer resources. Compared to Shopify’s more templated structure, these sites similar to Shopify offer full design expression.
11. Do sites like Shopify offer support for multilingual and international stores?
Yes, many websites similar to Shopify now support global ecommerce. Shoplazza is designed for multilingual, mobile-first ecommerce. BigCommerce and WooCommerce also offer international payment gateways, currency converters, and shipping options. While Shopify supports multiple languages, some store owners find better localization features on these companies similar to Shopify, especially when expanding to Europe or Asia.
12. Are open-source ecommerce platforms better than Shopify?
Open-source platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, OpenCart, and PrestaShop offer complete control over your store—but they come with added responsibilities. You’ll need to manage hosting, security, and updates. However, these Shopify type websites give you the flexibility to customize every aspect of your ecommerce experience. They’re perfect for tech-savvy entrepreneurs who want full ownership, or businesses with developers on staff.
13. How do websites like Shopify handle app integrations?
Shopify has an extensive app marketplace, but platforms similar to Shopify also offer great integration options. BigCommerce supports native integrations with Amazon, Facebook, and Google Shopping. WooCommerce has thousands of plugins, thanks to its WordPress base. Wix and Squarespace also offer app markets, though more limited. If you’re switching to websites like Shopify, be sure to check app availability for payment, marketing, and shipping tools you depend on.
14. Which sites similar to shopify are best for print-on-demand businesses?
For print-on-demand, WooCommerce (with Printful or Printify), BigCommerce, and Wix work well. These platforms integrate easily with print-on-demand services, allowing you to offer custom products with automated order fulfillment. Shopify is widely used for print-on-demand, but these websites similar to Shopify provide equal or better support depending on your needs. If you’re in the U.S. targeting a print-on-demand niche, all these companies similar to Shopify offer the integrations you need.
15. How do I choose the best platform similar to Shopify for my business?
Start by listing your business priorities: budget, product type, design control, payment gateways, and marketing features. Then compare platforms using trial accounts or side-by-side feature tables. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned seller, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Websites like Shopify each have pros and cons, so choose based on what supports your growth. From easy-to-use drag-and-drop builders to developer-friendly open-source platforms, the ecommerce world is full of powerful Shopify type websites designed to meet your goals.
Conclusion
Shopify may be a top-tier ecommerce solution, but it’s not the only one. From WooCommerce to BigCommerce, from Squarespace to Sellfy, there are countless sites similar to Shopify that might suit your unique business goals better.
If you’re in the United States and seeking better pricing, more freedom, or specific features Shopify lacks, explore the options above. Every platform listed here offers something distinct—your job is to align those features with your needs.
Ready to explore ecommerce platforms similar to Shopify? Try a few free trials and see what clicks. Drop your favorite alternatives in the comments or contact us if you need a personalized recommendation.