Comparison 2026

Shopify vs WooCommerce

A detailed, side-by-side comparison. Features, pricing, and our verdict to help you choose.

Reviewed by the Ikaroa team | Last updated: March 2026

Quick Verdict

Shopify edges ahead overall with a rating of 4.5/5. However, both platforms excel at different things. Read on for the full breakdown.

At a Glance

S

Shopify

4.5/5

Shopify is the world's leading e-commerce platform, powering millions of online stores globally. It provides everything needed to start, run, and grow an online business, from website building and product management to payment processing and shipping. Known for its ease of use and extensive app ecosystem.

From: £24/month

Best for: Businesses wanting the easiest, most complete e-co...

Full review →
W

WooCommerce

4.1/5

WooCommerce is a free, open-source e-commerce plugin for WordPress. It powers over 25% of all online stores globally, offering unlimited customisation through WordPress themes and plugins. While the core plugin is free, costs come from hosting, themes, and extensions. Ideal for businesses wanting full ownership of their store.

From: £0 (free)

Best for: WordPress users and developers wanting fully custo...

Full review →

Feature Comparison

FeatureShopifyWooCommerce
Free PlanNoYes
Starting Price£24/month£0 (free)
Our Rating4.5/54.1/5
Mobile AppYesLimited
Email MarketingNoNo
AutomationLimitedLimited

Pricing Comparison

Shopify Pricing

Basic£24/month
Shopify£59/month
Advanced£289/month

WooCommerce Pricing

Core Plugin£0 (free)
Hosting RequiredFrom £5/month
ExtensionsVaries

Pros & Cons

Shopify

Pros

  • +Easiest e-commerce platform to use
  • +Massive app ecosystem (8,000+ apps)
  • +Excellent payment processing (Shopify Payments)

Cons

  • -Transaction fees if not using Shopify Payments
  • -Monthly costs add up with apps

WooCommerce

Pros

  • +Free core plugin (open source)
  • +Unlimited customisation potential
  • +Massive extension marketplace

Cons

  • -Requires technical knowledge or developer
  • -Hosting, security, and updates are your responsibility

Our Verdict

Both Shopify and WooCommerce are solid options, but they serve different needs. Choose Shopify if you need Businesses wanting the easiest, most complete e-commerce pla. Choose WooCommerce if you need WordPress users and developers wanting fully customisable, s.

Our Pick

Consider Open Doors Instead

Why choose between Shopify and WooCommerce? Open Doors gives you the best features of both in one platform, starting at just £97/month with unlimited contacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shopify better than WooCommerce?

It depends on your needs. Shopify scores 4.5/5 while WooCommerce scores 4.1/5. We recommend evaluating both against your specific requirements.

Which is cheaper, Shopify or WooCommerce?

Shopify starts at £24/month, while WooCommerce starts at £0 (free).

Can Ikaroa help me set up Shopify or WooCommerce?

Yes. We implement both platforms regularly. We handle data migration, configuration, team training, and ongoing support.

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Ikaroa Partners

Claim a special deal on Shopify or WooCommerce

Our team has implemented both Shopify and WooCommerce for clients. We can help you decide based on your specific needs and get you set up with an exclusive partner deal.

Claim Special Deal