By Jill Romford on Monday, 07 April 2025
Category: Business Management

BigCommerce vs. Shopify: Best Online Store Platforms for Small Business

​Running a successful online business starts with choosing the right e-commerce platform that makes it simple for customers to browse, shop, and checkout seamlessly. 

Whether you're selling products or services, your website is the foundation of your digital storefront, and picking the best platform can make or break your growth.

In 2025, small businesses will have more options than ever, but two platforms will stand out as industry leaders: BigCommerce and Shopify. Both offer powerful tools to launch, manage, and scale an online store but cater to different needs and budgets.

The right platform should make it easy to:

For many entrepreneurs, Shopify consulting services (like those from trusted partners such as DigitalSuits) help streamline store setup, customization, and long-term optimization. 

But how does Shopify compare to BigCommerce regarding pricing, features, and flexibility? Which one is the Best Online Store Platform for Small Businesses wanting to implement an e-commerce store?

In this guide, we'll break down each platform's key differences, pros, and cons to help you decide which is the best online store platform for small business success. 

Whether you prioritize ease of use, scalability, or advanced selling features, we'll help you make the right choice for your brand.

Let's dive in.

What us eCommerce?

​Choosing the Right Foundation for Your Business

​The digital revolution has transformed retail, giving small businesses unprecedented access to global markets. No longer constrained by the high costs of physical storefronts, today's entrepreneurs can launch, manage, and scale their businesses entirely online—starting with the right e-commerce platform. The platform you choose will shape everything from your store's design and functionality to checkout efficiency and long-term growth potential.

For small businesses, this decision is critical. 

A well-optimized platform can streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and drive sales, while the wrong choice may lead to technical headaches, unnecessary expenses, or scalability roadblocks. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar setups, where location and foot traffic dictate success, e-commerce success hinges on your digital infrastructure. Your website isn't just a storefront; it's your sales team, inventory manager, and checkout counter.

However, launching an online store involves more than just selecting a platform. Once you've chosen between leading solutions like Shopify or BigCommerce (two of the best online store platforms for small businesses), the next step is integrating seamless logistics. Fast, reliable shipping is non-negotiable for customer satisfaction, and partnering with a cost-effective delivery service ensures your orders reach buyers promptly.

Here's a pro tip: Leverage integrations to save time and streamline operations. 

Many platforms, including Shopify and BigCommerce, sync effortlessly with shipping carriers and fulfillment services—some even offer built-in partnerships.

Whether you're a startup testing the waters or an established brand scaling up, the proper e-commerce foundation—paired with smart logistics—sets the stage for sustainable growth. In the next section, we'll compare Shopify and BigCommerce in depth, helping you decide which platform aligns with your business goals.

Types of e-commerce platforms 

​Understanding the distinctions between software-as-a-service (SaaS) and open-source solutions is crucial when selecting an e-commerce platform.​

SaaS platforms are cloud-based solutions managed by third-party providers. Businesses subscribe to these services, which include hosting, maintenance, and security. This model offers quick deployment and user-friendly interfaces, making it ideal for companies seeking a hassle-free setup. However, customization is often limited to the vendor's options, and ongoing subscription fees are required. ​

Open Source platforms provide access to their source code, allowing businesses to extensively host and modify their online stores. This flexibility enables tailored solutions to meet specific needs. However, it demands significant technical expertise for setup, customization, and maintenance. While the Software may be free, hosting, development, and security costs can accumulate. ​

Key Differences:

Bigcommerce vs Shopify

1. Bigcommerce

Whether you're a growing startup or an established enterprise, BigCommerce delivers a powerful, all-encompassing e-commerce platform packed with enterprise-grade features. 

As a leading open SaaS solution, it combines the best of both worlds: the simplicity and reliability of cloud-based software with the customization freedom of open-source systems.

No Hidden Costs, Unlimited Growth Potential

From seamless omnichannel selling to robust B2B functionality, BigCommerce eliminates technical barriers so you can focus on scaling your business. It's not just a platform—it's a growth partner.

Key Features:

BigCommerce Advantages:

Potential Drawbacks:

Final Verdict

BigCommerce is a powerful all-in-one solution, especially for B2B, wholesale, and high-volume sellers. It includes more built-in features than Shopify, reducing app dependency. However, watch out for rising costs as your sales grow and premium add-ons.

Ideal For: Brands that want enterprise power without enterprise complexity, especially those planning multichannel expansion or needing advanced customization without coding headaches. 

2. Shopify

Perfect for startups and small brands, Shopify Lite stands out as the quickest way to launch a professional online store. Its user-friendly interface and robust app ecosystem make it ideal for entrepreneurs who want to start selling fast while maintaining room to grow.

Why Shopify Works for Small Businesses

Instant Store Setup

Endless Customization:

Omnichannel Selling Made Simple:

Considerations for Growing Brands

Product Limitations:

Scalability Constraints:

Best For: First-time sellers, dropshippers, and brands with straightforward inventories that prioritize ease-of-use over deep customization.

See all features on Shopify's official website

Advantages of Shopify:

Potential Drawbacks:


Our Recommendation
Shopify is ideal for merchants wanting a hassle-free, all-inclusive ecommerce platform. With its free trial and low introductory rate, it's a risk-free way to launch your online store quickly. The extensive app marketplace allows you to add functionality as your business grows.

Perfect for: Entrepreneurs who value ease-of-use and need a complete solution without technical complexity.​

Before a feature-to-feature comparison, it is necessary to know the philosophies of Shopify and BigCommerce.

The two options will simplify e-commerce but will do so in ways that impact usability, cost, and future space for growth.

When comparing BigCommerce and Shopify, it's essential to consider their features, pricing, and ideal use cases to determine the best fit for your online store. 

Below is a comprehensive comparison: 

​Feature ​BigCommerce ​Shopify
​Pricing ​- Standard: $29.95/month
- Plus: $79.95/month
- Pro: $299.95/month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing		 ​- Basic: $29/month
- Shopify: $79/month
- Advanced: $299/month
- Plus: Custom pricing
​Transaction Fees​No transaction fees ​0.5% to 2% per transaction unless using Shopify Payments
​Sales Limits​- Standard: Up to $50,000/year
- Plus: Up to $180,000/year
- Pro: Up to $400,000/year		​No sales limits
​Staff Accounts​Unlimited ​2 to 15, depending on the plan
​Abandoned Cart Recovery​Available on Plus and higher plans ​Available on all plans
​SEO Capabilities​Full URL customization; robust SEO features ​Limited URL customization; strong SEO features
​Themes and Design​12 free themes; paid themes range from $150 to $399 ​9 free themes; paid themes range from $100 to $350
​App Store​Approximately 1,346 apps ​Over 8,000 apps
​Customer Support​24/7 support via chat and email; phone support on Plus plan ​24/7 support via chat, email, and phone
​Ideal Use Cases​- Businesses seeking extensive built-in features
- Companies aiming to avoid transaction fees
- Stores requiring advanced SEO capabilities		​- Entrepreneurs desiring ease of use and quick setup
- Businesses looking for a vast app ecosystem
- Stores planning to scale rapidly without sales limits

Key Considerations for Your Online Store

​Launching an e-commerce store is about more than just selling products—it's about creating a seamless shopping experience that reaches customers wherever they prefer to shop. 

The right e-commerce platform doesn't just facilitate transactions; it provides a complete ecosystem to manage, grow, and optimize your business.

From web hosting and inventory management to payment processing and shipping integrations, selecting the right platform requires careful evaluation. 

Here are the most critical factors to consider:

1. Robust Security Features

As online shopping grows, so do security risks. Your platform must prioritize customer data protection with:

2. Built-In SEO Tools

Since most shoppers begin their journey on search engines, your platform should support SEO optimization with:

3. Mobile-Optimized & Responsive Design

With 46% of shoppers using smartphones during their purchase journey (Google, 2022), your store must deliver a flawless experience across all devices. A responsive design ensures your site automatically adapts to desktops, tablets, and mobile screens without requiring separate versions.

4. Scalability for Growth

Even if you're starting small, your platform should grow with your business. Look for:

5. Omnichannel Selling Capabilities

Modern shoppers expect a unified experience across social media, marketplaces, and your website. Choose a platform that integrates with:

Which Platform is Right for Your Business? 

​Factor ​Shopify ​ BigCommerce
​Ease of Use ​ Beginner-friendly ​ More complex but feature-rich
​Customization​ Extensive app marketplace ​ More built-in features
​SEO​ Requires apps for advanced SEO ​ Strong native SEO features
​Pricing​ Strong native SEO features ​ No transaction fees, revenue-based tiers
​Scalability​ Great for startups & mid-sized brands ​ Ideal for high-volume sellers
​Best For​ Businesses looking for flexibility & ease of use ​ Large businesses needing built-in features
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    • Wrapping up

    The decision between BigCommerce and Shopify is based on your business requirements. 

    Shopify's ease of use and flexibility make it the best option for small and medium-sized businesses, while BigCommerce high-end seller features are designed for high-volume merchants.

    For companies that require professional services with Shopify consulting, companies like DigitalSuits give tailored services to optimize online stores, enhance user experiences, and result in e-commerce success.

    In the end, both websites have good weapons to aid businesses succeed in a competitive e-commerce environment — the secret is finding the one that aligns with your business strategy and growth plan.

    FAQ: BigCommerce vs. Shopify – Top Questions Answered

    1. Which is cheaper for small businesses: Shopify or BigCommerce?

    Shopify's basic plan starts at 29/month, while Big Commerce's Standard plan begins at 29/month, while Big Commerce's Standard plan begin sat 29.95/month. However, BigCommerce includes more built-in features (like abandoned cart recovery), while Shopify often requires paid apps for advanced functionality—potentially increasing costs.

    2. Which platform is easier to use for beginners?

    Shopify wins for simplicity with its intuitive drag-and-drop editor and beginner-friendly setup. BigCommerce has a steeper learning curve but offers more built-in tools, reducing long-term app dependencies.

    3. Can I sell on social media with both platforms?

    Yes! Both integrate with Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Shopify has a slight edge with its "Shop" app and smoother Instagram Shopping setup, while BigCommerce offers stronger multi-channel selling for eBay, Amazon, and Walmart.

    4. Which platform is better for SEO?

    BigCommerce has stronger native SEO features (automated sitemaps, URL customization). Shopify requires apps like Yoast for similar optimization. Both support blogs, but BigCommerce's built-in tools save time. 

    5. How do transaction fees compare?

    Shopify charges 0.5–2% transaction fees unless you use Shopify Payments. BigCommerce has zero transaction fees on any payment gateway—a major cost-saver for high-volume sellers.

    6. Which scales better for fast-growing businesses?

    BigCommerce excels with unlimited products, variants, and API calls. Shopify caps variants (100 SKUs/product) and throttles API requests, making BigCommerce better for complex catalogs or rapid scaling.

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