Comparison · Ecommerce platforms
Shopify vs WooCommerce: which is better in 2026?
Shopify ranks higher in our list of ecommerce platforms (#1 against #2, score 93.5 against 91.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
Choose Shopify if you want
Hosted stores that need checkout and apps quickly.
Hosted store, checkout and a large app store in one service, with the most ready-made features here. Fees on third-party payment providers are higher on lower plans, and stores cannot move to self-hosting.
Choose WooCommerce if you want
Owners who run WordPress and want open-source control.
Free open-source plugin with the most control over code and data, provided the owner handles hosting and upkeep. Its extension marketplace is broad, but costs rise with add-ons and a managed host, unlike the hosted platforms above.
The main differences
- WooCommerce is open source; Shopify is not.
- WooCommerce can be used for free; Shopify requires payment.
Side by side
 Shopify |  WooCommerce | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 93.5 | 91.0 |
| Rank in list | #1 of 8 | #2 of 8 |
| Price | SubscriptionPlans from $19 per month; 3-day free trial | Free and open sourceFree core plugin; hosting and paid extensions cost extra |
| Free to use | No | Yes |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Platforms | WebWeb | WebSelf-hostedWeb, Self-hosted |
| Made by | Shopify | Automattic |
| Hosting | Vendor-hosted | Owner's WordPress host |
| Headless option | Yes | No |
| Extensions | Shopify App Store | Hundreds of extensions |
| Best for | Hosted stores that need checkout and apps quickly | Owners who run WordPress and want open-source control |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Shopify vs WooCommerce
- Is Shopify better than WooCommerce?
- Shopify ranks higher in our list of ecommerce platforms (#1 against #2, score 93.5 against 91.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Shopify is best for: hosted stores that need checkout and apps quickly. WooCommerce is best for: owners who run WordPress and want open-source control.
- Which is cheaper, Shopify or WooCommerce?
- Shopify: Plans from $19 per month; 3-day free trial. WooCommerce: Free core plugin; hosting and paid extensions cost extra.
- Do Shopify and WooCommerce run on the same platforms?
- Shopify supports Web. WooCommerce supports Web, Self-hosted.