BigCommerce and Shopify are two leading platforms in the website builder category, particularly popular among e-commerce businesses. Designed to facilitate online sales, both tools enable users to create and manage their own online stores with relative ease. Entrepreneurs and businesses often consider these platforms for their robust functionalities, scalability, and extensive support resources.
Main purposes:
- BigCommerce: Primarily focuses on providing a scalable solution for larger businesses that need advanced features and customization options.
- Shopify: Geared towards users of all sizes, offering an easy-to-use interface ideal for newcomers while also supporting sophisticated e-commerce needs.
Key comparison aspects include:
- Features: Analyzing built-in capabilities like payment processing, SEO tools, and marketing integrations.
- Pricing: Evaluating subscription costs and transaction fees to determine overall affordability.
- Ease of Use: Assessing how user-friendly each platform is for beginners and seasoned developers alike.
- Customization: Looking into the flexibility of design templates and app integrations to tailor the online store experience.
- Customer Support: Reviewing the availability and quality of assistance for users encountering issues.
The following sections will delve deeper into these aspects to help users make an informed decision between BigCommerce and Shopify.
BigCommerce VS Shopify: Which tool is the most popular?
| Tool | Review Count | Average Rating | Positive Reviews | Neutral Reviews | Negative Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BigCommerce | 94 | 3.22 | 58 | 4 | 32 |
| Shopify | 110 | 1.24 | 10 | 3 | 97 |
BigCommerce shows higher popularity with 94 reviews and a significantly better average rating of 3.22. In comparison, Shopify has the highest number of reviews at 110 but receives a low average rating of 1.24, indicating considerable dissatisfaction among users. Hence, BigCommerce stands as the more favored tool, while Shopify is viewed less favorably.
BigCommerce and Shopify: Quick Comparison Overview
| Feature | Ahrefs | SEMrush |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Features | – Site Explorer | – Domain Overview |
| – Keyword Explorer | – Keyword Research | |
| – Content Explorer | – Site Audit | |
| – Rank Tracker | – Backlink Analytics | |
| – Site Audit | – Social Media Tools | |
| – Clustering Tool | – Advertising Research | |
| – Backlink Checker | – Organic Research | |
| Target Audience | – SEO professionals | – Marketers & Advertising Specialists |
| – Content marketers | – Small to large businesses | |
| – Agencies | – E-commerce sites | |
| – Bloggers | – Content creators | |
| Main Advantages | – Rich backlink database | – Comprehensive all-in-one tool |
| – Strong focus on SEO tools | – Extensive keyword database | |
| – User-friendly interface | – Great competitor analysis | |
| – Excellent for site audits | – Versatile reporting features | |
| – Strong tracking capabilities | – Advanced PPC research | |
| Core Value Proposition | Detailed SEO analysis and backlink profile tracking, ideal for optimizing website visibility. | A complete digital marketing suite that covers SEO, PPC, and social media analytics for comprehensive strategy development. |
| Ideal Use Cases | – Analyzing competitor backlinks | – Running multi-channel digital marketing campaigns |
| – Finding keyword opportunities | – Tracking pay-per-click strategies | |
| – Performing in-depth site audits | – Monitoring social media performance | |
| – Crafting content strategies based on SEO data | – Conducting market research and analysis |
Most liked vs most disliked features of BigCommerce and Shopify
| Platform | Most Liked Features | Most Disliked Features |
|---|---|---|
| BigCommerce | – User-friendly and easy setup for non-technical users. – Highly praised technical support team. – Customization options with excellent API access and PageBuilder. – Supports B2B and B2C, managing various product types. – Functionalities like inventory management and mobile eCommerce enhance user experience. |
– Minor limitations for managing configurable products requiring custom development. – Lack of geo-targeting and better integration with services like Square and QuickBooks. – Checkout process needs improvement for sales conversion. – Desire for better transparency and tracking in order management. – Some advanced features have a learning curve despite overall ease of use. |
| Shopify | – User-friendly platform that’s easy to navigate. – Wide array of integrated features attractive for new store owners. |
– Frustrations with customer support including long wait times and unhelpful responses. – Problems related to account access, payment holds, and unexpected charges. – Reports of scams involving stores on Shopify and poor platform responsiveness. |
Key Features of BigCommerce vs Shopify
Certainly! Both BigCommerce and Shopify are powerful website builders designed to help businesses create and manage their online stores. Here’s a breakdown of their key features and the benefits they offer to users:
BigCommerce
-
Built-In Features and Scalability
- Benefit: BigCommerce provides a wide range of built-in features, including SEO tools, payment gateways, and product management. This reduces the need for third-party apps, simplifying the setup process.
- Unique Aspect: It’s particularly known for its scalability, making it a great choice for growing businesses that anticipate rapid growth or high-volume sales.
-
Multi-Channel Selling
- Benefit: Users can sell across multiple platforms (e.g., Amazon, eBay, Facebook) directly from their BigCommerce store, expanding their reach and sales opportunities.
- Unique Aspect: BigCommerce offers robust integrations with various marketplaces, which can enhance sales strategy without needing additional plugins.
-
Advanced SEO Features
- Benefit: Built-in SEO tools help optimize product pages and content, improving search engine rankings and increasing organic traffic.
- Unique Aspect: BigCommerce supports custom URLs, advanced metadata, and other SEO best practices right out of the box, making it easier for users to implement effective SEO strategies.
-
No Transaction Fees
- Benefit: BigCommerce allows users to keep more of their profits by not charging additional transaction fees, even when using third-party payment processors.
- Unique Aspect: This is a significant advantage for businesses that may work with multiple payment providers to cater to customer preferences.
-
Robust Reporting Tools
- Benefit: Detailed analytics and reporting features help users track sales, customer behavior, and product performance, enabling informed decision-making.
- Unique Aspect: Unlike many competitors, BigCommerce provides advanced reporting capabilities even in lower-tier plans, which can benefit small businesses without overwhelming them.
Shopify
-
User-Friendly Interface
- Benefit: Shopify offers an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for users of all technical backgrounds to create and customize their online store.
- Unique Aspect: The platform is particularly praised for its ease of use, making it accessible to those without technical skills or experience in eCommerce.
-
Extensive App Store
- Benefit: Users can enhance their store’s functionality by choosing from thousands of apps in the Shopify App Store to add features like email marketing, inventory management, and customer service tools.
- Unique Aspect: The vast app ecosystem allows for extensive customization, though it requires some consideration of costs for premium apps.
-
Mobile Optimization
- Benefit: Shopify themes are designed to be mobile-responsive, ensuring a seamless shopping experience on smartphones and tablets, which is crucial for today’s mobile shoppers.
- Unique Aspect: Shopify places a significant emphasis on mobile commerce, making it easy for businesses to cater to users who predominantly shop on mobile devices.
-
Built-In Payment Processing
- Benefit: Shopify Payments comes integrated, simplifying the payment process and allowing users to avoid additional fees from third-party payment gateways.
- Unique Aspect: This built-in feature makes it simple for merchants to get started without worrying about integrating different payment systems.
-
24/7 Customer Support
- Benefit: Shopify provides round-the-clock support via chat, email, or phone, ensuring that users can receive assistance whenever they encounter issues.
- Unique Aspect: Their robust customer support is a standout feature, as many users feel empowered knowing help is readily available at any time.
Conclusion
Both BigCommerce and Shopify provide unique advantages for users looking to build an online store. BigCommerce stands out for its scalability, built-in features, and powerful reporting tools, making it ideal for businesses expecting high growth. On the other hand, Shopify thrives on user-friendliness, extensive customization options, and a strong focus on mobile commerce, which can attract those new to eCommerce or those seeking flexibility through third-party apps. Depending on the specific needs of a business, each platform offers distinctive benefits that cater to different types of users.
BigCommerce vs Shopify Pricing Comparison
| Feature | BigCommerce | Shopify |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription Prices | ||
| Standard | $29.95 | $39 |
| Plus | $79.95 | $105 |
| Pro | $299.95 | $399 |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Custom pricing |
| Annual Subscription Discounts | 10% off annual plans | 10% off annual plans |
| Free Trial | 15-day free trial | 3-day free trial |
| Credit Card Rates | 2.9% + 30¢ (Standard) | 2.9% + 30¢ (Basic) |
| Features Comparison | ||
| – E-commerce Features | Unlimited products, file storage, and bandwidth | Unlimited products, file storage, and bandwidth |
| – Sales Channels | Sell on various platforms including eBay, Facebook | Sell on multiple channels including social media |
| – Payment Gateways | Supports over 65 payment gateways | Supports over 100 payment gateways |
| – Reports & Analytics | Basic reporting with standard plan; advanced reporting in higher tiers | Detailed reports available with higher tiers |
| – Staff Accounts | 1 account for Standard; 2 for Plus; 5 for Pro | 2 accounts for Basic; 5 for Shopify; unlimited for Advanced |
| – Abandoned Cart Recovery | Standard feature in all tiers | Available on all tiers |
| – Built-in SEO Tools | Extensive SEO features in all plans | Basic SEO functionality on all plans |
| – Shipping Options | Comprehensive, including real-time shipping quotes | Advanced shipping options with additional fees |
| Main Differences in Offerings | ||
| – Targeted Businesses | Primarily aimed at B2B and enterprise-level businesses | Ideal for smaller businesses and startups |
| – Customization | More customizable with built-in features | More user-friendly interface, but less flexibility |
| – Support | 24/7 support via phone, chat, and email | 24/7 support via phone, chat, and email |
This table outlines the main pricing tiers and offerings of BigCommerce and Shopify. Each platform has its strengths, making them suitable for different business types and sizes.
Support Options Comparison: BigCommerce vs Shopify
| Support Feature | BigCommerce | Shopify |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | Available for customers on paid plans. Response times are generally quick. | Available for all customers. Often has fast response rates. |
| Phone Support | Available during business hours for all paid plans. Not available for free trial users. | Available 24/7 for all customers. Includes support for various regions. |
| Documentation | Comprehensive help center with articles, guides, FAQs, and advanced topics. Continuously updated. | Extensive help center with detailed articles, tutorials, and FAQs. Wide range of topics covered. |
| Webinars/Tutorials | Offers recorded webinars and tutorials for users. Regularly updated content available. | Provides live and recorded webinars, tutorials, and an extensive library of resources covering various aspects of platform usage. |
This comparison illustrates that both BigCommerce and Shopify offer solid support options, but Shopify provides more extensive 24/7 phone support and a wider array of live resources, while BigCommerce has a strong emphasis on organized documentation and quick live chat support for paid users.
Unique Features of BigCommerce Vs Shopify
| Feature | BigCommerce | Shopify | Added Value | Decision Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scalability | Advanced built-in features to handle a large number of SKUs without performance issues | Scales with apps but may require additional integrations | Provides seamless growth without additional costs | Ideal for businesses expecting rapid expansion |
| Multi-Channel Selling | Direct sales integration across various channels (e.g., Amazon, eBay) | Apps available for multi-channel selling | Simplifies the management of sales across platforms | Essential for brands wanting to maximize reach |
| Advanced SEO Tools | In-depth SEO capabilities with automatic sitemap generation | Robust but more reliant on apps for advanced features | Enhances online visibility and search rankings | Crucial for businesses focusing on organic traffic |
| No Transaction Fees | No fees on any plan, keeping revenue intact | Transaction fees for external payment gateways | Maximizes profit margins, especially for high volume | Critical for cost-conscious businesses |
| Customization | Open API for deep integration and customization | User-friendly but may limit deep customizations | Allows businesses to tailor the platform to specific needs | Important for businesses requiring extensive features |
| B2B Commerce Features | Advanced features for B2B sales, including customer segmentation and pricing levels | Less focus on B2B features without third-party apps | Supports businesses engaged in B2B transactions | Key for companies targeting both B2B and B2C markets |
| Staging Environment | Built-in staging environment for testing changes | Staging can be set up, but typically requires apps | Reduces risk when making changes | Valuable for maintaining site integrity |
| Shipping Integration | Extensive shipping options including carrier calculations | Good shipping options but more app-dependent | Offers customers accurate shipping costs during checkout | Important for customer satisfaction and conversion rates |
| Abandoned Cart Recovery | Robust features to recover cart abandonment | Effective but may require third-party apps | Increases sales opportunities through re-engagement | Essential for boosting conversion rates |
The comparison highlights unique features that distinguish BigCommerce and Shopify from conventional website builders. Such features provide added value crucial for businesses seeking growth, effective sales strategies, and enhanced customer experiences, making them pivotal considerations for choosing between these platforms.
Most frequently asked questions about BigCommerce vs Shopify
What are the main differences between Shopify and BigCommerce?
Shopify is primarily praised for its user-friendly interface and vast app ecosystem, making it ideal for newcomers. BigCommerce, on the other hand, shines in its built-in features, which provide a more robust solution without the need for numerous apps. As one review noted, ‘BigCommerce feels like it has more built-in tools, while Shopify makes it easy to customize with apps.’
Which platform is better for SEO?
BigCommerce generally receives higher marks for SEO capabilities, with built-in functionalities that cater to advanced users. A user reported, ‘BigCommerce’s SEO features are on point, making it easier to optimize without extra plugins.’ In contrast, Shopify does offer decent SEO tools but leans on third-party apps for enhanced functionalities.
How do the pricing plans compare?
Shopify and BigCommerce have similar pricing structures, but BigCommerce is often noted for providing more features at the same price. As one comparison highlighted, ‘BigCommerce’s entry-level plan includes features you’d pay extra for on Shopify.’ However, Shopify offers a more extensive app marketplace, which can lead to additional costs.
Is one platform easier to use than the other?
Shopify is widely regarded as the more intuitive option, especially for beginners. A customer remarked, ‘I found Shopify’s interface much easier to navigate; setting up my store was a breeze.’ Conversely, while BigCommerce is powerful, some users commented that it can feel overwhelming at first due to its multitude of features.
How do Shopify and BigCommerce handle payment gateways?
Shopify supports a multitude of payment gateways but incentivizes users to stick with Shopify Payments to avoid transaction fees. BigCommerce, meanwhile, allows more freedom with gateways without additional fees. A user’s perspective: ‘With BigCommerce, I can use various payment options without feeling penalized, unlike with Shopify.’
Which platform offers better customer support?
Both platforms receive mixed reviews on customer support. Shopify is often praised for its responsive support team, with a user stating, ‘I got quick responses from Shopify’s support when I had issues.’ BigCommerce also provides good support, but some users reported longer wait times, explaining, ‘I had to wait longer for a resolution with BigCommerce than I did with Shopify.’
Do Shopify and BigCommerce support multi-channel selling?
Both platforms support multi-channel selling, but Shopify tends to integrate more seamlessly with platforms like Amazon and Facebook. A reviewer noted, ‘Shopify made it easy for me to connect to my social media stores quickly.’ BigCommerce does support multi-channel selling but may require additional setup to connect.
Which offers better inventory management?
BigCommerce often comes out on top in inventory management capabilities, particularly for businesses with large catalogs. A user stated, ‘BigCommerce’s inventory features are robust and really helped us manage our stock effectively.’ Shopify provides decent inventory management but might necessitate additional apps for more complex needs.
What are the design options like in Shopify and BigCommerce?
Shopify is known for its visually appealing templates and ease of customization. As one user articulated, ‘Shopify’s themes are gorgeous and very customizable.’ BigCommerce also offers templates, but users sometimes describe them as less modern: ‘I found BigCommerce’s designs to be somewhat outdated compared to Shopify’s sleek options.’
Which platform is better for scalability?
BigCommerce is frequently cited as better for scalability, particularly for larger online businesses seeking advanced features. A reviewer mentioned, ‘BigCommerce has the tools we need to grow our store without limitations.’ Meanwhile, Shopify is considered adequate for smaller businesses that plan to scale but may hit limitations as they grow.
