Not every business owner finds Shopify to be the right fit, and that’s okay. Whether it’s due to pricing, limited customization, or needing something simpler or more flexible, there are now better options available. In 2025, more platforms have emerged, offering tools that cater to your needs—without making you feel boxed in. And the best part? Some of them cost way less than you’d expect.
If you're selling ebooks, digital prints, music, or videos, Sellfy is an excellent choice. It skips the technical complexities and lets you start selling in minutes. You don’t need coding knowledge, and it comes with built-in marketing tools like discount codes and email campaigns. The platform is clean, easy to understand, and doesn’t overwhelm you with too many settings.
For digital creators who felt Shopify required too many apps to get basic things done, Sellfy is a refreshing alternative.
BigCommerce provides room to grow without relying on third-party apps for basic features. Many functionalities that require apps on Shopify—such as multi-currency support, advanced shipping settings, and built-in SEO tools—are included by default here.
If you've outgrown Shopify or feel like you're constantly paying more to add small features, BigCommerce might be what you're looking for. It integrates with most major tools and handles traffic spikes efficiently.
For sellers who prioritize aesthetics, Squarespace is the go-to option. It’s known for its clean, minimal themes that look polished right out of the box. It works great for small brands, selling physical or digital goods, or offering services.
If you care about how your site feels to visitors and don't want to spend hours editing layouts, Squarespace gets the job done with less hassle.
This one surprises most people: Shift4Shop offers a full online store without monthly fees—provided you use their payment processor. It's a great deal, especially for those just starting and wanting to test things out.
It includes all basic features and some advanced ones like abandoned cart recovery and built-in blog support. You'll need to spend time setting it up, but it won't require constant purchases of extras.
If you already have a blog or portfolio site and don’t want to rebuild it from scratch just to sell a few products, Ecwid is perfect. It allows you to add a store to almost any site—whether it’s built on WordPress, Wix, or something else.
It's simple to install, mobile-friendly, and doesn't force you to switch platforms. This is ideal for freelancers, creators, or service providers who want a small shop on the side.
Wix has evolved beyond just portfolio websites. Its e-commerce features have strengthened over the years, making it a solid option for small to mid-sized shops. The drag-and-drop builder is intuitive, and there’s much freedom in how your site can look.
Wix includes many features by default, reducing the need for separate apps. For those tired of managing too many add-ons on Shopify, Wix offers a smoother experience.
If you’re based in the UK, you’ll likely appreciate Shopwired. It’s tailored for local sellers, with features that align with UK tax systems, couriers, and laws. But it’s not just for the UK—international stores use it too.
It’s clean, quick to set up, and you won’t spend hours updating a product or changing a layout. Many small businesses find it less intimidating than Shopify’s app-heavy setup.
Webflow isn’t for everyone, but if you’re familiar with design or want your site to look exactly as you envision, this platform gives you control. You can build highly customized layouts without being confined to a fixed theme.
It also includes e-commerce features for selling physical and digital products. Webflow is more flexible than Shopify, especially for those tired of its limitations. Be prepared for a learning curve, though.
If you already use Square for payments at a physical shop or booth, this is a natural fit. Square Online lets you build an online store that syncs with your physical inventory, reducing errors and management time.
For those selling in-person at markets, pop-ups, or small stores, it’s a practical choice. While it may not match Shopify in every advanced feature, it’s more straightforward if you’re already using Square.
WooCommerce offers the most freedom but also demands the most effort. It’s a plugin that turns any WordPress site into a store, granting full control over its operation, tools, and functionality.
If you're already using WordPress or like the idea of owning your site completely (without platform fees), WooCommerce is a strong pick. However, you’ll be responsible for updates, hosting, and maintenance.
Shopify isn’t the only way to sell online anymore. For many sellers, it’s no longer the easiest or most cost-effective option. Whether you need better design freedom, fewer fees, or something tailored for digital products, these alternatives cover all the bases. You’re not stuck—and that’s what matters.