Bigcommerce vs Shopify: Pros and Cons
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Pros of Shopify
- Better credit card rates
- Better and cheaper templates
- Better add-ons and apps
- Integration with Pinterest and other platforms
- Pros of BigCommerce
- Better out-of-the-box features
- Abandoned cart functionality
- Partnerships with Alibaba
- Cons of Shopify
- Need for third-party apps
- Fees for using third-party payment gateways
- Larger user base leads to more support and resources
- Cons of BigCommerce
- Selling limits on the basic plan
- Smaller user base leads to fewer apps and integrations
- Benefits of both Shopify and BigCommerce
- Pricing
- Customizable templates
- Import and export features
- Built-in blogging systems
- Upgrade support
- Conclusion
- Get started with Shopify or BigCommerce
Shopify vs. BigCommerce: A Comprehensive Comparison
With the ever-growing popularity of online stores, choosing the right e-commerce platform can make all the difference in the success of your business. Two major contenders in the market are Shopify and BigCommerce. In this article, we will dive deep into the pros and cons of each platform, so you can make an informed decision on which one is best suited for your online store.
Pros of Shopify
When it comes to Shopify, there are several pros that set it apart from its competitors.
Better Credit Card Rates
One of the key advantages of Shopify is its better credit card processing fees. This means that by choosing Shopify, you can save more money on transaction costs and increase your profitability.
Better and Cheaper Templates
The visual appeal of an online store is crucial in attracting and retaining customers. Shopify offers a wide range of high-quality and cost-effective templates compared to BigCommerce. This allows you to create a visually stunning and professional-looking website without breaking the bank.
Better Add-ons and Apps
Shopify boasts an extensive library of add-ons and apps that enhance the functionality and user experience of your online store. From customer ratings to upselling features, Shopify has a wide selection of add-ons that can be easily integrated into your store. This allows you to customize your store according to your specific needs and offer a seamless shopping experience to your customers.
Integration with Pinterest and Other Platforms
Shopify seamlessly integrates with various platforms, including Pinterest. This integration provides a significant advantage as it allows you to tap into the massive user base of Pinterest and market your products more effectively. Having the ability to sell products directly through platforms like Pinterest can greatly expand your reach and drive more sales.
Pros of BigCommerce
While Shopify has its strengths, BigCommerce also offers a compelling set of advantages for online store owners.
Better Out-of-the-Box Features
BigCommerce comes with a robust set of out-of-the-box features, including gift cards and real-time shipping quotes. Unlike Shopify, where some of these features require additional payments, BigCommerce provides them right from the start. This allows you to create a feature-rich store without the need for third-party apps or additional expenses.
Abandoned Cart Functionality
BigCommerce excels in its abandoned cart functionality, which helps you recover potentially lost sales. With built-in features such as automated cart recovery emails, you can remind customers about their abandoned carts and encourage them to complete their purchase. This feature can significantly increase your conversion rates and revenue.
Partnerships with Alibaba
BigCommerce has forged a strategic partnership with Alibaba, the largest wholesale marketplace in the world. This partnership enables easy integration and streamlined inventory management, giving you access to a wide range of suppliers and products from around the globe. If you're looking to source products from Alibaba, BigCommerce provides a seamless and efficient solution.
Cons of Shopify
Despite its strengths, Shopify does have a few downsides that need to be considered.
Need for Third-Party Apps
While Shopify offers a solid set of features, some advanced functionalities require the use of third-party apps. This can add complexity and additional costs to your online store. Depending on your specific requirements, you may find yourself relying heavily on third-party apps, which may not always integrate seamlessly with Shopify.
Fees for Using Third-Party Payment Gateways
Although Shopify provides its own payment gateway, if you choose to use a third-party gateway, additional fees may apply. While this may not be a significant concern for many, it's worth considering if you plan on using a specific payment gateway that does not align with Shopify's offerings.
Larger User Base Leads to More Support and Resources
Shopify boasts a larger user base compared to BigCommerce. This popularity translates into a vast pool of resources, support forums, and communities dedicated to helping users understand and optimize their Shopify stores. The breadth of knowledge and assistance available for Shopify users can be a distinct advantage when troubleshooting issues or seeking guidance.
Cons of BigCommerce
While BigCommerce has several benefits, there are also a few downsides to take into account.
Selling Limits on the Basic Plan
One limitation of BigCommerce is the selling limit imposed on the basic plan, which restricts sales to a maximum of fifty thousand dollars. If your business experiences rapid growth or if you anticipate high sales volumes, this limitation can become restrictive. It's crucial to evaluate your sales projections and choose a plan that aligns with your long-term goals.
Smaller User Base Leads to Fewer Apps and Integrations
Compared to Shopify, BigCommerce has a smaller user base. As a result, there may be fewer apps and integrations available for BigCommerce users. While BigCommerce offers a range of native features, you may find that some specific functionalities you desire are not readily available. It's important to carefully assess the available apps and integrations to ensure they meet your business requirements.
Benefits of Both Shopify and BigCommerce
Both Shopify and BigCommerce offer numerous benefits that contribute to their popularity among online store owners.
Pricing
Both platforms offer affordable pricing plans, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes. You can choose a plan that suits your specific needs and scale as your business grows.
Customizable Templates
Both platforms offer a wide range of customizable templates, allowing you to create a unique and visually appealing online store. With drag-and-drop editors and extensive theme customization options, you can add your branding and tailor the design to align with your business identity.
Import and Export Features
Both platforms provide an import and export feature that allows you to manage your products, inventory, and other data more efficiently. This feature enables you to upload and update information using CSV files, saving you valuable time and effort in manual data entry.
Built-in Blogging Systems
Shopify and BigCommerce both include built-in blogging systems, allowing you to create and publish content alongside your products. While these blogging systems may not be as feature-rich as dedicated blogging platforms, they offer a convenient way to engage with your audience and improve your search engine rankings.
Upgrade Support
Both platforms offer dependable support services to address any issues or concerns you may encounter. From technical assistance to general inquiries, you can rely on their support teams to provide prompt and helpful responses.
Conclusion
After carefully evaluating the pros and cons, it is clear that Shopify emerges as the winner in this comparison. With its better credit card rates, extensive library of add-ons, and larger user base, Shopify offers a more compelling overall package for online store owners. However, it's essential to consider your specific business needs and requirements before making a final decision. Whether you choose Shopify or BigCommerce, both platforms provide powerful tools to support the growth and success of your online store.
Get started with Shopify or BigCommerce today to unleash the true potential of your e-commerce business.
Highlights
- Shopify offers better credit card rates, cheaper templates, and more robust add-ons and apps.
- BigCommerce comes with superior out-of-the-box features, including gift cards and abandoned cart functionality.
- Shopify integrates with Pinterest and other platforms more seamlessly than BigCommerce.
- Both platforms have customizable templates, import/export features, built-in blogging systems, and reliable support services.
- Shopify emerges as the winner in this comparison, but the final choice depends on specific business needs and preferences.
FAQ
Q: Can I switch from Shopify to BigCommerce or vice versa?
A: Yes, it is possible to migrate from one platform to the other. However, the process can be complex and may involve data transfers, design adjustments, and third-party app integrations. It's recommended to consult with experts or utilize professional migration services to ensure a smooth transition.
Q: Do I need coding skills to use Shopify or BigCommerce?
A: While coding skills are not essential, having a basic understanding of HTML and CSS can be beneficial for customizing your store's design. Both platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and intuitive tools that enable non-technical users to build and manage their online stores easily.
Q: Can I sell internationally with Shopify or BigCommerce?
A: Yes, both platforms offer multi-currency support and allow you to sell internationally. However, it's important to consider additional factors such as local taxes, shipping regulations, and language translations when expanding your business globally.
Q: Can I use my own domain name with Shopify or BigCommerce?
A: Absolutely! Both platforms offer the option to use your existing domain name or purchase a new one through their domain services. This allows you to maintain your brand identity and create a professional online presence.
Q: Can I try Shopify or BigCommerce before committing?
A: Yes, both platforms offer a 14-day free trial, allowing you to explore their features and functionalities before making a decision. This trial period allows you to test various aspects of the platforms and determine which one aligns best with your business goals.
Note: The article may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to sign up for Shopify or BigCommerce, you will receive a free one-on-one consulting session to help you kickstart your online store.
