Squarespace Vs Shopify: Which eCommerce Platform Is Best for Your Online Store?
So you've got an amazing product or service that you're ready to sell online. Now comes the hard part-picking an ecommerce platform to build your online store. The two biggest players in the run - Squarespace Vs Shopify. You've probably heard good things about both but how do you choose between them? Don't worry, I've got you covered. We've built stores on both platforms, so we know them inside and out. In this guide, I'll compare Shopify and Squarespace head to head based on key factors like pricing, design, features, and more. By the end, you'll know which platform is the best fit for your unique business needs. Let's dive in!
What is Squarespace?
So, what exactly is Squarespace? Put simply, it's an all-in-one website builder. It provides designer templates and an easy-to-use interface so you can quickly create and customize a professional online store or website for your business.
With Squarespace, you don't need any technical or coding skills to get started. You can choose from over 100 modern templates, add your own images and content, and have a website up and running in no time. Squarespace offers ecommerce features like an online store, shopping cart, and secure checkout. You can also use it to build a website to showcase your services, share a blog, or promote your brand.
A major benefit of Squarespace is that it's an end-to-end solution. In addition to the website builder, you get integrated marketing tools, email campaigns, analytics, and 24/7 customer support. Everything is optimized to work together seamlessly under one platform.
Squarespace is ideal for small businesses, freelancers, and service-based companies. The simple yet stylish designs and all-in-one convenience make it easy to establish a professional online presence. If you're looking for an intuitive way to build a stunning website or online store, Squarespace should be at the top of your list.
Give the free trial a spin to see firsthand how simple and satisfying the Squarespace experience can be. You have nothing to lose and an impactful new website to gain.
What is Shopify?
So, what exactly is Shopify? In short, it's an ecommerce platform that lets you easily set up an online store to sell your products. Shopify handles all the technical stuff, from web hosting to payment processing, so you can focus on your business. With Shopify, you get:
• A customizable online store. Choose from hundreds of stylish templates to match your brand. You can also add videos, blogs, and more. • Secure payment processing. Shopify integrates with major payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and more. They handle PCI compliance, so you don't have to worry. • Inventory and order management. Track your inventory, fulfill orders, and manage shipping directly from your Shopify dashboard. • An app ecosystem. Extend the functionality of your store with apps for everything from email marketing to dropshipping. There are thousands of free and paid apps available. • 24/7 support. Shopify's support team is available around the clock to help you with any questions you have about setting up or running your store.
Shopify powers over 1 million businesses worldwide, from small startups to Fortune 500 companies. Shopify has you covered whether you're selling handmade goods, clothing, or digital downloads. They offer plans for every business size and stage.
The best part? You can start a 14-day free trial of Shopify to build a full-featured online store. See how simple it is to get up and running. Once you go live, you'll have access to tons of resources to help grow your business.
If an easy-to-use, all-in-one eCommerce solution sounds appealing, Shopify is worth checking out. They provide a platform that simplifies online selling, allowing you to focus on your products and customers. For eCommerce beginners and experts alike, Shopify is a great choice.
Shopify Vs Squarespace eCommerce: Market Size in the eCommerce world
Shopify currently holds a significant portion of the US eCommerce market, boasting a 28% market share. This dominance is not just a number; it translates into a vast ecosystem of apps, services, and integrations tailored for Shopify users. For businesses, this means more options to enhance store functionality and leverage partnerships with major eCommerce channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Shopping.
Squarespace, while slightly behind in market share at 19% in the US, offers a robust platform known for its design-centric approach. This market presence indicates a strong community and support system for users, as well as continuous improvements and updates to its features.
Both platforms offer free trials, allowing you to experiment and get a feel for their interfaces and capabilities. This hands-on experience can be invaluable in making an informed decision about which platform aligns best with your business goals.
Squarespace Vs Shopify Pricing: Plans, and Transaction Fee
Plan | Shopify | Squarespace |
---|---|---|
Basic/Entry-Level | $29/month: Basic eCommerce features, website, blog, unlimited products, 2 staff accounts | $23/month (Business): Basic website features, 3% transaction fees, unlimited products, website analytics |
Standard/Mid-Tier | $79/month: Everything in Basic, plus 5 staff accounts, professional reports | $27/month (Commerce Basic): No transaction fees, customer accounts, website analytics, advanced eCommerce analytics |
Advanced/High-End | $299/month: Everything in Standard, plus 15 staff accounts, advanced report builder, third-party calculated shipping rates | $49/month (Commerce Advanced): Everything in Commerce Basic, plus abandoned cart recovery, real-time carrier shipping, advanced discounts |
Transaction & Payment Processing Fees: Shopify vs Squarespace eCommerce
Feature | Shopify | Squarespace |
---|---|---|
Payment Fees (Online Transactions) | 2.9% + 30¢ (Basic Plan) | Stripe: 2.9% + 30¢, PayPal: 2.9% + 30¢ |
Additional Fees for External Payment Processors | 2% (Basic Plan) | N/A |
Transaction Fees on Sales | None with Shopify Payments | 3% on Business Plan; None on Commerce Plans |
Fee Reduction for Higher Plans | Reduced fees for higher-tier plans | No transaction fees on higher-tier plans |
Shopify may end up costing a bit more per month but can save you money on transaction fees if you use their payment processor. Squarespace is a bit more affordable to get started with but transaction fees can add up quickly if you have a high sales volume.
For smaller stores just starting out, Squarespace's lower monthly fees may make more financial sense. As your business scales, Shopify's percentage-based fees and broader feature set become more compelling.
Difference between Shopify and Squarespace
Squarespace and Shopify offer similar core features for building an online store, but differ in the specifics.
Feature Category | Shopify | Squarespace |
---|---|---|
Pricing | Generally more expensive, with plans starting at $29/month for Basic. Higher tiers offer more features and lower transaction fees. | Cheaper entry-level plans starting at $23/month for Business. Higher tiers offer more eCommerce features. |
eCommerce Capabilities | Comprehensive tools for eCommerce, including advanced inventory management, shipping, and omnichannel selling. | Basic eCommerce tools suitable for smaller businesses or those selling services and digital content. |
Design and Templates | Professional store design with fewer templates. | Superior design capabilities with a large template library and advanced product display options. |
Apps and Integrations | Extensive app marketplace with thousands of integrations for sales, marketing, fulfillment, and more. | Limited integrations compared to Shopify. Offers some essential integrations and allows custom-coded integrations. |
Payment Processing | Supports a wide range of payment gateways and offers its own Shopify Payments. Additional fees for using external payment gateways. | Primarily uses Stripe and PayPal for payment processing. Additional transaction fees on lower-tier plans. |
Content Management | Adequate tools for content creation, with a focus on eCommerce. | Strong content management capabilities, ideal for bloggers, artists, and content creators. |
SEO and Marketing Tools | Extensive sales and marketing tools available through the app store. | More limited in functionality but offers visually appealing marketing materials. |
Shipping and Fulfillment | Advanced shipping features with special rates and integrations with major carriers. | Basic shipping features with the need for third-party apps for advanced options. |
Online Marketplace Integrations | Native integrations with major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Google. Additional integrations available through the app store. | Native integrations with platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Requires third-party extensions for others like eBay. |
Appointment Booking and Memberships | Requires third-party apps for appointment booking and memberships. | Native appointment booking and members-only areas, suitable for service-based businesses. |
Overall Suitability | Ideal for businesses focused on physical product sales and looking for a comprehensive eCommerce solution. | Better suited for service-based businesses, content creators, and those needing strong design and content management tools. |
Squarespace Vs Shopify: Reviews and Ratings
Shopify and Squarespace have garnered impressive feedback, with Shopify slightly leading the way. Shopify boasts a rating of 4.54 out of 5 stars from over 6,000 reviews, while Squarespace is close behind with 4.56 stars from nearly 3,000 reviews.
Shopify Reviews
Shopify has been lauded for its robust ecommerce capabilities, competitive pricing, and supportive customer service. Users frequently commend its user-friendly interface, comprehensive blogging and SEO tools, and the vast array of app integrations.
However, it's not without its challenges. Some users mention a steep learning curve for newcomers and occasional software glitches that require re-login or refresh to view sales stats.
Squarespace Reviews
Squarespace, on the other hand, is celebrated for its aesthetically pleasing templates and intuitive drag-and-drop builder, making it a hit for those seeking a visually stunning online presence. Its no-transaction-fee policy is another significant draw. Users appreciate the platform's ability to launch an attractive website with minimal fuss quickly.
Yet, some users point out areas for improvement. Compared to Shopify, Squarespace is perceived to have limited eCommerce functionality and customization options. The support system, while helpful, is sometimes viewed as less robust than Shopify's.
The Verdict
In essence, both platforms shine in their respective strengths. Shopify emerges as a powerhouse in ecommerce features and user-friendliness, while Squarespace is the go-to for visually appealing, easy-to-set-up websites. The choice between Shopify and Squarespace ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. The best approach? Experiment with both platforms through their free trials to gauge which aligns best with your business vision.
Pros and Cons of Squarespace Vs Shopify
Pros of Shopify
Shopify is a comprehensive eCommerce solution, particularly for businesses that sell physical products. Its strengths lie in:
- Advanced Inventory Management: Shopify's system allows you to monitor stock levels across various locations, alerting you when it's time to restock, thereby minimizing the risk of overselling.
- Discounted Shipping Rates: You can access reduced shipping rates from major carriers with Shopify. This feature enables you to offer your customers attractive free shipping options or pass on the savings to them.
- Multi-Channel Selling: Shopify simplifies selling across different platforms, including social media and online marketplaces. You can manage all these sales channels directly from your Shopify dashboard, broadening your market reach efficiently.
Cons of Shopify
However, Shopify does have its drawbacks, particularly for smaller businesses or those just starting out:
- Complexity for Small Stores: The platform's extensive features and customization options can be overwhelming for smaller businesses, presenting a steep learning curve.
- Higher Transaction Fees: For low-volume stores, Shopify's transaction fees, coupled with a starting monthly subscription fee of $29, can be a significant expense.
- Limited Service-Based Business Features: Shopify is primarily geared towards ecommerce, necessitating third-party apps for service-based functionalities like appointment booking or membership areas.
Pros of Squarespace
Squarespace is more suited for smaller stores and service-oriented businesses, offering:
- User-Friendly Interface: With a simpler and more intuitive interface, Squarespace is more accessible for beginners, featuring a less steep learning curve.
- Integrated Service and Ecommerce Features: It's an all-in-one platform where you can sell products, manage appointments, create memberships, and more, without needing additional plugins.
- Affordable for Small Stores: Starting at $12 monthly with modest transaction fees and no monthly minimums, Squarespace is budget-friendly for small-scale operations.
Cons of Squarespace
On the flip side, Squarespace may not be the best fit for growing or larger ecommerce businesses:
- Limited Advanced Ecommerce Features: Compared to Shopify, Squarespace falls short in areas like inventory management, shipping options, and multi-channel selling.
- Dependency on Third-Party Apps: For functionalities like social media selling, return management, and marketplace integration, you'll need external apps.
- Scalability Issues: As your business expands, you might find Squarespace's capabilities limiting, potentially necessitating migrating to a more comprehensive platform like Shopify.
Shopify or Squarespace: Which platform is better for your Business - A checklist
When deciding between Squarespace and Shopify for an online store, consider what matters for your business needs.
For product-based businesses, Shopify may be better suited. Its built-in features like inventory management, shipping, and omnichannel selling make operational tasks more seamless.
You can easily keep track of stock levels, print shipping labels, offer local delivery and in-store pickups. Shopify also provides access to special shipping rates and the ability to sell on social media platforms and marketplaces.
On the other hand, service-based businesses may prefer Squarespace. Its appointment booking feature and members-only website sections are ideal for businesses selling services, subscriptions, or digital goods. Although Squarespace offers basic inventory management and local pickup, you'll need third-party apps for more advanced options. However, Squarespace can be an easy, affordable way to build an elegant website to showcase your business.
Before choosing either platform, take advantage of their free trials to see which you prefer. Build a basic website using both services. See which platform feels most intuitive and has the features you need built-in versus requiring third-party apps. Your business needs and budget will ultimately determine whether Shopify or Squarespace is the right eCommerce solution for you.
Squarespace Vs Shopify: Choosing the Right Platform for Your Business - A Checklist
When deciding between Squarespace and Shopify for your online business, consider the following factors:
- Nature of Your Business
- Do you sell physical products primarily?
- Are you focused on services or digital products?
- Technical Expertise
- Are you comfortable with a steeper learning curve for more customization ?
- Do you prefer a more user-friendly, straightforward platform ?
- Budget Constraints
- Is your budget flexible enough for higher monthly fees and transaction costs?
- Are you looking for a more budget-friendly option with lower upfront costs?
- Ecommerce Features and Scalability
- Do you need advanced ecommerce features like extensive inventory management?
- Is scalability a priority as your business grows?
- Design and Customization Needs
- Are you seeking highly customizable templates and design freedom?
- Is a simple, elegant design with less customization sufficient for your needs?
- Multi-Channel Selling and Marketing
- Do you plan to sell across multiple platforms like social media and marketplaces?
- Is integrated marketing and SEO a priority for your online presence?
- Customer Support and Community
- Do you require 24/7 customer support?
- Is access to a large community of users and developers important for you?
- Payment Processing and Fees
- Are you prepared for variable transaction fees depending on the payment processor?
- Do you prefer a straightforward fee structure?
- Trial and Testing
- Have you tried the free trials to get a hands-on feel of each platform?
Conclusion:
If you're starting a smaller operation or a service-based business and need a user-friendly platform with lower upfront costs, Squarespace is an excellent choice. Its simplicity and elegant designs make it ideal for those who want to quickly establish an online presence without the need for extensive ecommerce functionalities.
On the other hand, if your business revolves around selling physical products and you anticipate the need for scalability, advanced features, and multi-channel selling, Shopify is the way to go. Its robust ecommerce capabilities, customizable templates, and extensive app ecosystem cater to growing businesses seeking more control and expansion.
Ultimately, the decision to pick one from Squarespace Vs Shopify, hinges on your specific business model, growth plans, technical comfort, and budget. Utilize the free trials, weigh your priorities, and choose the platform that aligns best with your business vision and goals. Remember, the right platform is the one that not only meets your current needs but also supports your future growth.
FAQs
1. Which is better, Squarespace or Shopify?
Shopify is typically better for dedicated eCommerce needs with more advanced features, while Squarespace is ideal for visually appealing websites with basic e-commerce functionality.
2. Does Shopify work with Squarespace?
Shopify and Squarespace are separate platforms. However, you can integrate Shopify's eCommerce features into a Squarespace site using Shopify's Buy Button.
3. Can Squarespace be used for eCommerce?
Yes, Squarespace can be used for e-commerce and offers basic online store functionalities, suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
4. Can you use Shopify with Squarespace?
Yes, you can use Shopify with Squarespace by embedding Shopify's Buy Button on your Squarespace site, combining Shopify's eCommerce capabilities with Squarespace's design.
5. Is it worth it to sell on Squarespace?
Selling on Squarespace is worth it if you prioritize design and simplicity over advanced eCommerce features. It's ideal for small-scale online stores.
6. What's cheaper, Shopify or Squarespace?
Squarespace generally offers lower pricing plans than Shopify, making it a more budget-friendly option for basic eCommerce needs.
7. Can I sell internationally on Squarespace?
Yes, you can sell internationally on Squarespace. It supports multiple currencies and languages, though its international eCommerce capabilities may not be as extensive as Shopify's.