The Best Ecommerce Platforms for 2026

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Are you looking for a simple eCommerce builder platform that allows you to create beautiful websites without having to spend hours learning code? Then look no further.

There are a variety of popular ecommerce platforms available, such as Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce, each with significant industry prominence. Ecommerce software and ecommerce software platforms are comprehensive solutions that enable online businesses to sell products, manage operations, and enhance marketing efforts.

It’s a fact that 89% of consumers begin their shopping process with a search engine. When it comes to eCommerce, those percentages are even higher with

So regardless if you’re a small business owner looking to get started in the eCommerce space, or part of a national brand, your decision in choosing the right eCommerce platform can make all the difference between buying ad traffic and an increase in conversion rates.

The best eCommerce builders allow you to focus on selling instead of coding. Most ecommerce platforms provide essential tools for building an online store, managing marketing and sales, and integrating features like order tracking and automated sales tax.

The best ecommerce software platforms offer a wide range of features, usability, and integration capabilities, making them top options for businesses of all sizes. They also provide tools to easily manage inventory, track orders, and optimize conversions.

In this article, we’ll show you some of the best eCommerce platforms out there, and compare other best ecommerce platforms to help you find the right fit for your needs.

When considering pricing and features, many platforms operate on a monthly fee basis, while some offer a free plan to help businesses get started. It’s important to align your choice of platform with your overall business model and business goals.

Most ecommerce platforms support selling both physical and digital products, offer various payment methods, and allow you to track inventory efficiently.

What is an eCommerce Platform?

An eCommerce platform is a website builder that allows you to create an online store. There are many different ecommerce platforms available, each with unique features and benefits to suit various business needs. Some platforms are open source ecommerce platforms, offering flexibility and customization, while others are hosted solutions that handle much of the technical work for you. You can use these platforms to sell products from a single location or multiple locations.

The eCommerce platforms listed below are the best of their kind and will help you get your business off the ground quickly and easily. Some, like Magento and WooCommerce, are open source platforms, giving you access to the source code and community support for customization. Others, like Shopify and BigCommerce, are hosted ecommerce platforms that provide managed services and enterprise plans for large businesses.

Some platforms offer a full ecommerce solution, supporting multi channel selling, multi currency selling, and integration with various payment gateways and payment providers. Transaction fees and additional transaction fees are important considerations when comparing platforms, as they can impact your overall costs. Community support is a key benefit for open source platforms, while enterprise plans are available for large businesses seeking advanced features. Certain platforms are ideal for small and medium businesses, while others are better suited for medium businesses or large businesses with more complex needs.

Platforms like Ecwid and WooCommerce can be integrated into an existing website, existing site, or existing WordPress site, transforming a WordPress website into an online store with the help of a WordPress plugin. Maintenance costs can vary depending on whether you are managing your own online store with an open source platform or using a hosted solution. Choosing the right platform can help streamline business operations and support your business as it grows.

1. Shopify

Shopify is a cloud-based eCommerce platform that allows merchants to sell their products online through their own website. This means no need to build your own shopping cart or payment gateway system. Instead, they provide everything you need to get started selling online right away.

They have a robust feature set that includes inventory management, shipping tools, product reviews, SEO features, marketing tools, analytics, and much more. In addition to being easy to use, they offer a wide range of integrations to help you connect your store to other services like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Google Shopping, etc.

The all in one eCommece platform best for small businesses.

2. BigCommerce

BigCommerce is an open-source commerce software solution that enables businesses to create powerful online stores.

Their platform offers a variety of features including unlimited websites, mobile apps, email marketing, social media integration, and more. BigCommerce supports multi currency selling, making it a strong choice for international businesses.

The platform also provides enterprise plans tailored for large-scale or high-revenue businesses. You can manage multiple stores from a single dashboard, streamlining business operations.

BigCommerce offers robust inventory management tools, allowing users to track inventory across multiple locations. Integration with various payment gateways and payment providers supports a wide range of payment methods for customers.

They are known for offering great customer service and having a large community of users, providing strong community support. When considering costs, BigCommerce’s pricing structure includes transaction fees and may involve additional transaction fees depending on the payment provider. Their users are always ready to lend a hand if you run into any issues.

This platform offers many features including customer management tools and marketing automation features so that you can make sure your brand stays top of mind with customers even after they’ve purchased something from you previously.

BigCommerce is another common choice among small businesses looking to get started selling online quickly. Like Wix and Squarespace, BigCommerce offers both free trials and affordable plans starting at around $29/month (and going up from there). The platform has extensive functionality and support options available as well. This makes it one of our top picks when it comes to e-commerce platforms.

BigCommerce is great for small businesses looking to scale.

3. Ecwid

Ecwid is a cloud-based eCommerce solution that allows merchants to sell their products directly from their websites or mobile apps. What makes it unique is its ability to integrate with other platforms such as Facebook, Google Shopping, Amazon, eBay, and PayPal.

Ecwid was founded in 2010 and has since grown into a global company with offices in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and South Africa. The company currently employs over 400 employees across these locations.

Ecwid offers a comprehensive suite of features that allow businesses to manage their inventory, customers, orders, shipping, payments, and much more. For example, they offer a robust API (application programming interface) that enables third-party developers to build applications that interact with Ecwid.

The all in one eCommece platform best for small businesses.

4. Magento (Now Adobe Commerce)

Magento is an eCommerce platform designed specifically for business owners looking to launch an online storefront. Magento is available as both an open source ecommerce platform (Magento Open Source) and a premium solution called Magento Commerce.

Magento Commerce Cloud is a cloud-hosted, managed version of the platform, making it a strong choice for large businesses seeking advanced features, scalability, and dedicated support. Magento is also well-suited for medium businesses and large businesses due to its robust scalability and advanced features like multi channel selling and multi currency selling.

With its user-friendly interface and advanced features, this platform has been around since 2010 and has over 200,000 active installations today. As an open source platform, Magento offers extensive customization options and flexibility, but this also means it comes with a steep learning curve, requiring technical expertise for setup and customization. Community support is a key benefit for Magento users, providing access to user forums and collaborative problem-solving. Maintenance costs should be considered, as they can vary depending on whether you choose the open source version, which may require more hands-on management, or the cloud-hosted Magento Commerce Cloud, which includes managed services.

It’s built on PHP and uses MySQL for database storage. One of the best things about Magento is that it comes with a free trial option. You can download the software from their official site and give it a test drive before deciding whether or not to purchase a license.

Best for enterprise businesses looking to go online.

5. Shift4Shop

Shif4Shop is an e-commerce platform that allows users to create their own stores. It is simple to use and offers many customization options. The user interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it very easy to learn and start selling products.

Shift4Shop supports multiple payment gateways and payment providers, enabling various payment methods for customers, including credit cards, Paypal, Google Checkout, and others.

The platform allows you to sell both physical and digital products, and you can efficiently track inventory across different product types.

Advanced features include multi channel selling and multi currency selling, supporting international business operations and sales integration. Shift4Shop has a high level of security and comes with a free trial period. Community support is available through user forums and peer assistance.

With Sift4Shop, you get a wide range of templates and themes to choose from. It is possible to personalize the site by adding images and text. It’s possible to sell products from any country. You can also optimize the site for search engines. It is possible to integrate social media networks into the site. Offering discounts, running store promotions, and driving traffic to your online store is possible.

Shift4Shop offers different pricing plans based on the number of users and the number of products you want to sell. Prices range from free to $229 per month, and the platform is transparent about transaction fees and additional transaction fees, which is important for aligning with your business model and business goals.

You can run store promotions through discounts to drive traffic to your site.

6. Squarespace

Squarespace is a great platform for anyone who wants to set up an e-commerce website but doesn’t have any experience in coding. It’s one of the easiest platforms to use, and it’s extremely affordable. You can get started for under $10/month with a free trial.

This platform offers one-click payment processing, easy set-up and design customization. Squarespace supports multiple payment gateways and payment providers, enabling customers to use various payment methods like PayPal and Square. You can efficiently track inventory for both physical and digital products, making it a full ecommerce solution for different business models.

The platform allows you to sell both physical and digital products, including subscriptions and digital downloads. When considering costs, Squarespace charges transaction fees on certain plans, and it’s important to review if there are any additional transaction fees depending on your chosen payment provider.

The user interface is intuitive and easy to use, supporting seamless store management and customization. Squarespace also offers 24/7 customer support and provides community support through user forums and peer collaboration, so if something goes wrong on your site, they’ll help fix it right away.

Squarespace is a great choice for selling online if you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-use platform. It’s easy to set up and doesn’t require any coding knowledge to get started. Squarespace also integrates with popular shopping carts like Shopify and BigCommerce, making it easy to expand your business by adding more products or services.

Squarespace is a great choice for selling online for ease of use.

7. Wix

Wix is another option that lets you create an online store without needing any technical skills.

It offers its users a lot of options for customization, so if you want to make your site look unique, it can be done on this platform. The user interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making store management straightforward.

Wix supports multiple payment gateways and payment providers, enabling customers to use various payment methods like PayPal and Square. You can efficiently track inventory for both physical and digital products, making it a full ecommerce solution for different business models and business goals.

The platform allows you to sell both physical and digital products seamlessly. When considering costs, Wix charges transaction fees and may apply additional transaction fees depending on the payment provider you choose.

Community support is available through user forums and peer assistance, helping users solve issues and optimize their stores. The downside is that Wix only works with big brands, so it might not be the best choice for smaller businesses or startups that don’t have the resources to pay for premium hosting services.

Like Squarespace, Wix offers a free trial and plans that start at about $8/month. There are plenty of themes to choose from, and you can even add your own HTML code if you want more flexibility with how your site looks and operates.

Wix is another great option if all you need is a basic online store. Wix makes it easy to create a professional-looking store without any coding experience required. Just choose a template and customize it however you like.

Offers a lot of customization to make your store look unique.

Ecommerce Platform Design and Customization

When it comes to building a successful online store, design and customization are key factors that set your brand apart.

The best ecommerce platforms offer a variety of customization options, allowing you to create an online store that truly reflects your business identity. Whether you’re looking for a drag-and-drop builder, custom themes, or flexible templates, there’s an ecommerce platform to match your needs.

Platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce stand out for their extensive libraries of customizable themes and templates, making it easy for anyone even those without technical knowledge nto launch a professional-looking online store.

If you want even more control, open source solutions like Magento provide advanced customization options, though they may require more technical expertise to unlock their full potential.

On the other hand, user-friendly platforms like Wix offer intuitive interfaces and pre-designed templates, perfect for those who want to get started with just a few clicks.

It’s also essential to ensure your ecommerce platform supports mobile-friendly and responsive design. With most online shoppers browsing and buying from their phones, your online store needs to deliver a seamless shopping experience across all devices.

The right ecommerce platform will balance ease of use, customization options, and mobile optimization, helping you create an online store that not only looks great but also converts visitors into loyal customers.

Ecommerce Platform Security

Security is a top concern for any ecommerce business, and choosing the right ecommerce platform can make all the difference in protecting your customers and your reputation.

The best ecommerce platforms are built with robust security features, such as SSL certificates for encrypted transactions, PCI compliance for safe payment processing, and two-factor authentication to keep accounts secure.

Hosted ecommerce platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce take much of the security burden off your shoulders by providing automatic updates, regular security patches, and dedicated security teams.

This means you can focus on growing your online store, knowing that your platform is working behind the scenes to keep your data safe.

In contrast, open source platforms like Magento and WooCommerce offer greater flexibility and control, but require you to take a more hands-on approach to security managing updates, monitoring for vulnerabilities, and implementing best practices yourself.

When evaluating ecommerce platforms, look for those that prioritize security and offer comprehensive support in case of any issues. Regular updates, strong encryption, and a proactive approach to security are essential features of the best ecommerce solutions, ensuring your online store remains a safe place for customers to shop.

Ecommerce Platform Analytics and Reporting

Understanding how your online store is performing is crucial for making informed business decisions. The best ecommerce platforms come equipped with powerful analytics and reporting tools that give you a clear picture of your sales, customer behavior, and marketing effectiveness.

Platforms like Shopify and Adobe Commerce offer advanced analytics features, including customer segmentation, sales funnel tracking, and conversion rate optimization. These insights help you identify what’s working, spot opportunities for growth, and fine-tune your marketing strategies.

For those who want even deeper insights, integrating third-party apps like Mixpanel or Klaviyo can unlock advanced customer segmentation and personalized marketing automation, driving even greater results.

When choosing an ecommerce platform, consider the level of analytics and reporting you need. Some platforms, such as WooCommerce, provide basic reporting out of the box, while others offer more comprehensive dashboards and customizable reports.

By leveraging the right analytics tools, you can optimize your online store, improve customer experiences, and boost your bottom line.

Ecommerce Platform Future Trends and Innovations

The world of ecommerce platforms is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and trends shaping the way businesses sell online. Staying ahead of the curve means choosing an ecommerce platform that not only meets your current needs but also positions your online store for future growth.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming ecommerce by enabling platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce to deliver personalized customer experiences, predict sales trends, and streamline inventory management.

Augmented reality (AR) features, available on platforms such as WooCommerce and Magento, are creating immersive shopping experiences that engage customers and drive conversions.

Social commerce is another major trend, with platforms like Instagram and Facebook integrating ecommerce features that allow businesses to sell directly through social media. This opens up new channels for customer engagement and expands your reach beyond traditional ecommerce sites.

When selecting the best ecommerce platform for your business, consider how well it adapts to emerging trends and technologies. Look for platforms that invest in innovation, offer flexible ecommerce features, and provide scalability to support your growth.

By choosing a future-ready ecommerce solution, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver exceptional customer experiences and stay competitive in the ever-changing world of online shopping.

Launch your Online Store

The best eCommerce platforms are all packed with a variety of features and integrations. The first question you should ask yourself is what kind of store you want to build.

Do you want to focus on general merchandise or niche items? Do you want to sell physical or digital products? Your answers will help make your decision a lot easier.

Different ecommerce platforms offer a range of features and benefits, so it’s important to compare other ecommerce platforms and other hosted ecommerce platforms to find the best fit.

Some platforms provide a full ecommerce solution, supporting multi channel selling and the ability to sell both physical and digital products.

When choosing a platform, consider your business model and business goals to ensure the platform aligns with your strategy and growth plans. Ecommerce websites can be built using open source platforms or hosted solutions, each with its own pros and cons.

You can also create your own online store with advanced features, customization, and integration with various payment methods. Be sure to consider the ability to track inventory, manage transaction fees, additional transaction fees, maintenance costs, and the monthly fee as part of your decision-making process.

If you’re starting from scratch, BigCommerce and Shopify both offer affordable solutions that can be set up in a matter of hours. If you’re worried about security, BigCommerce and Volusion are top picks for their secure payment processing

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to picking an eCommerce platform. While some platforms are more suitable for certain types of stores, all of them can help you create a professional online storefront that your customers will enjoy.

Just be sure to research different options beforehand, and decide what’s most important to you in an eCommece platform. Once you do, finding an eCommerce platform shouldn’t be too hard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best ecommerce platforms for small businesses?

For small businesses, platforms like Shopify, Wix, Ecwid, and BigCommerce are excellent choices due to their ease of use, affordability, and robust ecommerce features tailored to smaller operations.

How do I choose the right ecommerce platform for my business?

Choosing the right ecommerce platform depends on your business goals, budget, technical expertise, and the features you need. Consider factors such as ease of use, customization options, payment processing capabilities, scalability, and customer support.

What is the difference between hosted and open source ecommerce platforms?

Hosted ecommerce platforms are managed solutions where the provider handles hosting, security, and maintenance, making them easier for beginners. Open source platforms provide access to the source code, allowing for extensive customization but requiring more technical knowledge and self-management.

Are there ecommerce platforms that support selling both physical and digital products?

Yes, most of the best ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and Squarespace, support selling both physical and digital products seamlessly.

What are transaction fees and how do they affect my ecommerce business?

Transaction fees are charges applied by some ecommerce platforms or payment gateways for processing payments. These fees can impact your profit margins, so it’s important to understand the fee structure of your chosen platform and payment provider.

Can I integrate my ecommerce store with social media platforms?

Many ecommerce platforms offer integration with social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, allowing you to sell products directly through these platforms and expand your reach.

How important is SEO for an ecommerce platform?

SEO features are crucial for improving your online store’s visibility in search engine results, driving organic traffic, and increasing sales. Look for platforms that offer strong SEO capabilities such as customizable meta tags, clean URLs, and mobile optimization.

Is it possible to customize the design of my online store?

Yes, most ecommerce platforms provide a variety of themes and customization options. Open source platforms offer the highest level of design flexibility, while hosted platforms offer easy-to-use drag-and-drop builders and pre-designed templates.

What kind of support can I expect from ecommerce platforms?

Support varies by platform; hosted platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce typically offer 24/7 customer support via chat, phone, and email. Open source platforms rely more on community support, forums, and documentation, with paid support available through third-party providers.

Can I manage inventory and orders efficiently with these platforms?

Yes, the best ecommerce platforms include robust inventory management and order tracking features, helping you streamline business operations and provide a seamless shopping experience for customers.