There are numerous challenges associated with operating an online store. The biggest challenge is choosing the best platform for your store. You have a wide range of options, all of which claim themselves as the finest. Several platforms appear to be unique.
Widely popular platforms include PrestaShop, WooCommerce, and Shopify. Each one offers a different strategy for developing your online store. Here’s a closer look at how each of them might work for you.
Shopify
You have a variety of options with Shopify for selling your products online. Facebook integrations, a POS system, and a hosted online store are all on the list. If you’re just starting off, this platform is perfect for you. This can be your best choice if you don’t want to be slowed down by technical difficulties.
Pros
With Shopify, getting started is quick and simple. Technical expertise is not required with this platform because it has been designed that way.
Extremely social media friendly You may already be aware of the crucial role social media plays in contemporary e-commerce. You may sell using Shopify through platforms like your personal Facebook store or Facebook Messenger.
You can change how your store looks. You have the choice to alter the appearance of your store if you so desire. Both free and premium themes are available. On all types of devices, your business will be responsive and display properly.
Cons
There is a cost involved. Shopify is a premium service even though it offers a 14-day free trial.
It can’t be hosted on your server. With the secure hosting, you can point a domain name to your Shopify store, but not on your own. If you like to have complete control over your store, that can be disappointing.
WooCommerce
The most well-known e-commerce framework in the world might be WooCommerce. It is designed to function with WordPress. This might be the best option if you’re searching for something you can modify to meet your needs. This is an excellent approach to start up an online store if you currently use WordPress.
Pros
Perfect for those who are already comfortable with WordPress. WooCommerce is a perfect match for WordPress, the most widely used CMS today.
You can enhance the functionality. To add additional functionality, you can choose to hire a developer. Numerous scripts, both free and paid, can be integrated into WooCommerce.
It is available for free use right away. There aren’t any charges or membership fees. Simply download it, set it up, and you’re ready to go!
Cons
A WordPress website has to be hosted. If you’re just getting started, that may be quite difficult.
Some level of technical expertise is required. You will probably require a developer’s assistance at some point. However, don’t worry about that at first. You should have no trouble finding some assistance as your store expands.
PrestaShop
PrestaShop is a free and open-source online store platform. You are not required to pay anything to download or use it. It is designed for those who value starting quickly and with flexibility.
Pros
The script is open to modification and expansion. You can directly access the underlying code because it is open-source. In other words, you can alter as needed. You are able to design the ideal online store as a consequence to meet your requirements.
It’s totally free. A hosted solution that is ready to use can be purchased. You can purchase a hosted package from a PrestaShop web hosting partner if you don’t want to get technical.
Cons
You require your own hosting. PrestaShop will require hosting on your server. As was already mentioned, you can purchase hosting services from a PrestaShop partner.
A certain amount of technical knowledge is required. To assist you with the installation, a developer might be necessary. When issues come up, you could also require someone to handle the technical side.
