Shopify vs Squarespace: Which E-commerce Platform is Right for You?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Pricing and Plans
   • 2.1 Shopify Pricing
   • 2.2 Squarespace Pricing
3. Design and Templates
   • 3.1 Squarespace Templates
   • 3.2 Shopify Templates
4. Features and Tools
5. Help and Support
6. App Store and Extensions
7. E-commerce Platform Comparison
   • 7.1 Easy Management
   • 7.2 Small Business Options
8. Conclusion

Shopify vs Squarespace: A Comparison of Popular E-commerce Platforms

In the world of online business, two names often come up when it comes to building an e-commerce website: Shopify and Squarespace. Both platforms offer a range of features and tools to make the process of creating and managing an online store easier. But which one is the right choice for your next web shop? In this Shopify vs Squarespace review, we will compare and evaluate these platforms in terms of pricing, design, features, support, and more. So, let's dive in and explore what each platform has to offer in more detail.

2. Pricing and Plans

2.1 Shopify Pricing

Shopify offers various pricing plans to cater to the different needs of its users. The plans start from around $30 per month, which includes unlimited storage space and bandwidth. However, Shopify recently introduced a 50% discount for the first year, allowing users to start their online store for as low as $15 per month. While the discounted price is temporary, it can save you around $180 in the first year. Shopify's plans come with advanced tools like reporting, analytics, lower transaction fees, and staff accounts, making it a comprehensive solution for e-commerce businesses.

2.2 Squarespace Pricing

Squarespace's e-commerce options start from the second e-commerce plan, as the first one is only suitable for simple websites. The plans offer unlimited storage space and bandwidth, along with a free domain name for one year. The starting price for selling on Squarespace is $23 per month, making it slightly more expensive than Shopify. However, after renewals, Squarespace becomes a bit cheaper. The more expensive plans on Squarespace also offer additional features like abandoned cart recovery, advanced shipping, and subscription selling.

3. Design and Templates

When it comes to design, both Shopify and Squarespace offer a range of templates to choose from. Squarespace boasts around 110 templates, with a focus on style and aesthetics. On the other hand, Shopify may seem limited with only nine templates initially. However, Shopify also offers over 60 premium templates that can be purchased, as well as a third-party market with a wide range of design options. In terms of overall template quality, Squarespace shines with its visually appealing and sleek designs. Shopify, though limited in quantity, focuses on functionality and ease of use.

3.1 Squarespace Templates

Squarespace templates are known for their elegance and attention to detail. If you are aiming for a visually striking and stylish website, Squarespace offers a great selection of templates to choose from. The drag-and-drop controls in Squarespace's website editor give you the freedom to create unique designs by placing elements anywhere on the page. Additionally, Squarespace offers a wide variety of elements to choose from, giving you more options to customize your website.

3.2 Shopify Templates

While Shopify may have a smaller selection of templates, they are designed with e-commerce functionality in mind. Shopify's templates are focused on helping you create a working online store efficiently. Although you do not have as much freedom in terms of placement and customization as Squarespace, the predefined structure of Shopify templates streamlines the process of building a functional and professional web store. You can still add eye-catching designs and colors to your Shopify store, saving time and effort in the design process.

4. Features and Tools

Both Shopify and Squarespace offer a comprehensive set of features and tools required for successful e-commerce operations. They provide essential e-commerce features such as inventory management, payment gateways, order fulfillment, and SEO optimization. While Shopify offers more advanced tools like reporting, analytics, and multiple locations, Squarespace focuses on providing in-house solutions for SEO and marketing. Both platforms have extensive help and support systems, with Shopify offering 24/7 support options and Squarespace offering email support and live chat.

5. Help and Support

One of the great aspects of both Shopify and Squarespace is the level of help and support they offer to their users. Each tool and feature on both platforms comes with explanations, checklists, and video instructions, making it easier for users to navigate and utilize the available resources. Both platforms have active communities where users can seek assistance and share their experiences. Shopify's 24/7 support options, including live chat, email, and phone support, give users access to immediate assistance. Squarespace offers email support and live chat but lacks phone support.

6. App Store and Extensions

Both Shopify and Squarespace offer app stores and extensions to enhance the functionality of your online store. Squarespace's app store features a selection of important extensions such as Printful, MailChimp, and SEO tools. However, Squarespace falls behind Shopify when it comes to the number of available extensions. Shopify's app store boasts over 7,000 different extensions, offering a wide range of add-on features. It is important to note that some extensions come with additional fees.

7. E-commerce Platform Comparison

7.1 Easy Management

Shopify and Squarespace each have their approach to store management. Squarespace's online store management tools may feel a bit more restrictive compared to Shopify, which is primarily focused on e-commerce. However, Squarespace provides smoother and more robust tools in certain areas, while Shopify offers a wider range of advanced third-party tools. The choice between the two platforms depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

7.2 Small Business Options

For small businesses, Shopify offers a more straightforward and tool-oriented approach, making it an efficient choice for building an online store. Squarespace, on the other hand, places greater emphasis on design and style, allowing you to create a unique website that reflects your brand. If you prioritize style and want to invest time in building something unique, Squarespace is the platform to explore. If you prefer a more efficient store setup and management process, Shopify is the better option.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, both Shopify and Squarespace are excellent platforms for building an online business or selling products. Each platform offers user-friendly tools, a robust set of features, and affordable options for businesses of all sizes. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each platform based on your specific needs and preferences. Shopify is a strong choice for its efficiency and comprehensive tools, while Squarespace excels in design and customization. Ultimately, the best e-commerce platform for you will depend on your individual requirements and goals.

Highlights

• Shopify and Squarespace are popular e-commerce platforms for building online stores.
• Both platforms offer a 14-day free trial to test out their features.
• Shopify starts from $30 per month, while Squarespace starts from $23 per month.
• Squarespace has around 110 templates, while Shopify has nine templates initially, but offers over 60 premium templates.
• Shopify focuses on functionality, while Squarespace emphasizes style and design.
• Both platforms offer essential e-commerce features and tools for managing an online store.
• Shopify has advanced tools like reporting and multiple locations, while Squarespace offers in-house solutions for SEO and marketing.
• Shopify has a larger app store with over 7,000 extensions, while Squarespace has a more limited selection.
• Squarespace offers email and live chat support, while Shopify has 24/7 support options including live chat, email, and phone.
• Choosing the best platform depends on individual requirements and preferences, with Shopify being more tool-oriented and Squarespace focusing on design and customization.