Running an ecommerce business is an exciting venture that allows you to showcase your products to a global audience. As you embark on this journey, it’s crucial to think about the future of your business and the tools you will need to succeed. One of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right ecommerce platform to build and manage your online store. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which platform is best suited for your business.
In this article, we will compare the top 11 ecommerce platforms for starting an online business in 2024. Each platform offers unique features and pricing plans, so it’s essential to consider your business plan and goals as you evaluate each option.
### What is an ecommerce platform?
An ecommerce platform is a software solution that enables businesses to create and manage online stores, handle inventory, process payments, and engage in marketing activities. The best ecommerce platforms provide merchants with the tools they need to design unique websites and grow their businesses as they evolve.
Here’s an overview of the top 11 ecommerce platforms for 2024 to help you make an informed decision:
### 1. Shopify
Shopify is the world’s leading ecommerce platform, offering self-hosted software that empowers businesses to sell products online. With features for website design, product management, and shipping, Shopify supports businesses of all sizes. From starting a business from home to expanding into an international brand with physical storefronts, Shopify provides a comprehensive solution for online selling. Plans start at $29 per month when billed annually, and the platform offers over 100 mobile-friendly themes, integrated payment processing, and multichannel selling capabilities.
### 2. Wix
Wix is a versatile drag-and-drop website builder that offers customizable templates and web hosting. While you can build a basic website for free, accessing the ecommerce features requires an upgrade to a paid plan. Wix lacks some native ecommerce features, such as inventory management tools, but integrates with third-party apps for additional functionality. Plans start at $29 per month when paid annually, and the platform has a G2 rating of 4.2.
### 3. BigCommerce
BigCommerce offers web hosting and customization options for ecommerce stores, with features for international selling, SEO, and marketplace integration. While favored by enterprise-level companies, some users find the platform less flexible and user-friendly compared to others. Plans start at $29 per month when billed annually, and the platform integrates with Google Shopping, Facebook, and other sales channels. BigCommerce has a G2 rating of 4.2/5.
### 4. Adobe Commerce (formerly Magento)
Adobe Commerce is a powerful, non-hosted ecommerce platform designed for developers and large businesses seeking customization. Plans offer custom pricing based on business needs, but the platform lacks out-of-the-box features for multichannel selling and international transactions. Adobe Commerce has a G2 rating of 4/5.
### 5. WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free, open-source plugin that transforms WordPress websites into online stores. Ideal for those familiar with WordPress, WooCommerce offers integrated sales channels and payment providers. However, the platform’s add-on structure can be challenging for merchants to manage, with costs for additional features and hosting. WooCommerce has a G2 rating of 4.4.
### 6. Squarespace
Squarespace is a user-friendly website builder that offers ecommerce capabilities with higher-tier plans. Starting at $28 per month when paid annually, Squarespace includes inventory tracking, subscription product sales, and the option to add a Shopify Buy Button for secure checkout. The platform has a G2 rating of 4.4/5.
### 7. Big Cartel
Big Cartel is a fully hosted ecommerce platform designed for artists and makers, offering a straightforward approach to online selling. With a free plan for up to five product listings, Big Cartel is ideal for small-scale businesses. Paid plans start at $12 per month, but the platform’s limited features may not suit all merchants. Big Cartel has a G2 rating of 4.2/5.
### 8. Square Online
Square Online, formerly Weebly, is an ecommerce platform for small businesses that integrates with Square’s payment solutions. Plans start at $29 per month when paid annually, with a free option available. Square Online offers mobile-first store designs and extensive free features, but lacks advanced ecommerce capabilities. The platform has a G2 rating of 4.2/5.
### 9. Shift4Shop
Shift4Shop is a simple tool for creating online stores, offering a straightforward setup and mobile-friendly design. Plans start at $29 per month, with the option for free ecommerce builder for existing users. Shift4Shop integrates with eBay, Amazon, and Facebook for sales channels, but lacks a mobile app and native POS system. The platform has a G2 rating of 3.9/5.
### 10. Volusion
Volusion is one of the oldest ecommerce platforms, established in 1999, designed for small businesses. Plans start at $35 per month when paid annually, with features for creating online stores without unnecessary complications. However, Volusion does not support digital product sales and lacks a mobile app, integrated sales channels, and native POS. The platform has a G2 rating of 3.2/5.
### 11. OpenCart
OpenCart is a free, open-source ecommerce platform that is simple to set up and manage. With over 13,000 modules and free themes, OpenCart allows users to create and manage multiple stores with a dashboard for important metrics. The platform is self-hosted and has a G2 rating of 4.3/5.
### Choosing an ecommerce platform: Features checklist
When selecting an ecommerce platform, it’s essential to consider the features that will best support your business goals. Here are some key features to look for in an ecommerce platform:
– Secure, reliable checkout and payment gateways
– Online and offline selling options
– AI assistance for product descriptions and customer support
– Hosting environment for performance and security
– Inventory management and shipping capabilities
– Marketing and customer growth tools
– Security features for data protection
– Business and financial management tools
– 24/7 customer support for assistance
### Choosing an ecommerce platform: Business needs
In addition to features, consider your business needs and future plans when selecting an ecommerce platform:
– Know your costs and budget accordingly
– Find a platform that aligns with your business model
– Consider B2C vs B2B ecommerce platform requirements
– Think about your future business plans and scalability
– Explore funding options and support services for growth
### What types of ecommerce platforms are there?
There are two main types of ecommerce platforms: hosted (cloud) and self-hosted. Hosted platforms like Shopify provide built-in hosting and automatic updates, while self-hosted platforms require users to manage their own hosting and technical maintenance. Hosted platforms offer convenience and security, while self-hosted platforms provide more customization and control.
In conclusion, choosing the right ecommerce platform is a crucial decision for your online business. Each platform offers unique features and benefits, so it’s essential to evaluate your business needs and goals before making a decision. Whether you’re a startup looking for an easy-to-use platform or an established business seeking customization and scalability, there is an ecommerce platform that will meet your requirements. Start selling online with confidence by selecting the best ecommerce platform for your business.