The 10 Best Ecommerce Website Builders for Prettier Stores
Hey, it’s the list before the list! Here’s a peek at our top 10 ecommerce website builders for your online store out of the 20 total we’ve included.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
One of the more consequential parts of building an ecommerce brand is the design of your online store. A badly designed store is a store that shoppers flee from. Website builders have advanced so much over the years, so that now just about anyone can build a beautiful website.
But, they do more than that. Ecommerce website builders can't just be design tools. They also need to be able to process payments, manage inventory, handle shipping, and enable some level of marketing.
And, with the evolution of website builders came an influx of these tools. Picking the right one for your brand isn't a piece of cake. That is unless you have smart (and handsome) ecommerce experts to help you out (that's us, BTW).
With my expansive knowledge of the ecommerce space and our ingenious software scoring system, we've scientifically identified the best website builders on the market now.
Let's do this thing.
Why Trust Our Ecommerce Website Builders Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing ecommerce software since 2021.
As ecommerce experts ourselves, we know how critical, and how difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different ecommerce use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews.
Learn how we stay transparent & our review methodology.
Comparing the Top 10 Website Builders for Online Stores
Comparison is everything when you are whittling down your options. Here, you’ll see the pricing and feature comparisons for our top ecommerce website builders.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ecwid by Lightspeed Manage all customer orders, including making mass updates and exporting the details to a spreadsheet. | Best for adding ecommerce functionality to established websites | Free plan available | From $19/month | Website |
2 | Shopify See how your store performs as soon as you log in to your account. | Best for managing large amounts of inventory | 3-day free trial | From $29/month (billed annually) | Website |
3 | Squarespace Change the aesthetics of your site to ensure every page fits your brand. | Best for building visually appealing storefronts | 14-day free trial | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website |
4 | 3dcart Get started right away with 3dcart’s responsive themes and styles. | Best for dropshipping | Free demo | From $29/month | Website |
5 | Weebly Choose a responsive theme to get your store started immediately. | Best for subscription-based businesses | Free plan available | From $5/month (billed annually) | Website |
6 | GoDaddy Website Builder Build, preview, and publish your new website straight from the user interface. | Best for ecommerce marketing | Free demo | From $9.99/month (annually) | Website |
7 | Bitrix24 Choose from a variety of professionally designed website templates, including ones for shops, blogs, and landing pages. | Best for team collaboration | Free plan available | From $43/month (billed annually) | Website |
8 | Odoo Monitor accounting metrics to ensure everything is running efficiently. | Best for enterprise resource planning | Free plan available | From $24.90/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
9 | Webador Get free access to tools that can help you build a professional website. | Best for smaller, local businesses | Free plan available | $6/month | Website |
10 | WooCommerce Manage your store’s inventory straight from the WordPress panel. | Best ecommerce plug-in for WordPress | Free to download | Pricing upon request | Website |
The 10 Best Ecommerce Website Builders, Reviewed For You
Now, let’s get to the real stuff. Below, I’ve included reviews of each top ecommerce website builder, including why we picked it, its top features, pros and cons, and screenshots.
Best for adding ecommerce functionality to established websites
Ecwid is an ecommerce tool that allows users to set up product catalogs and add details for each item.
Why I picked Ecwid: It stands alone from most ecommerce website builders because it doesn’t build online stores; its design allows users to add online store functionality to an existing website. It provides you with a widget to add to your site’s HTML code. You can even use the widget to create a store on Facebook and Instagram; it’s also possible to use the widget code to create a mobile store app if you have the technical expertise or a development team.
Ecwid works with organizations of any size that already have a website ready and are looking to start selling online. The widget’s control panel provides everything you need to manage your ecommerce website. It also provides a list of tips to help set up your store, add products, update delivery settings, and implement payment options.
Ecwid Standout Features and Integrations
Features include deep integration with social media platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram, enabling businesses to directly sell products within these platforms. With the ability to tag products in posts and stories, users can turn their social media content into interactive shopping experiences, tapping into the vast user base and engagement potential of these platforms. Plus, Ecwid's advanced tax calculation and compliance feature is noteworthy, especially for businesses navigating complex tax regulations. The system automatically calculates applicable taxes based on the customer's location and the store's location, ensuring accurate tax collection.
Integrations include AfterShip, Stripe, Twilio, WordPress, Wix, Weebly, Yotpo, FreshBooks, Joomla, Mailchimp, 2Checkout, Square Point of Sale, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Almost endless ecommerce features.
- Mobile responsive shopping cart.
- Start with basic website knowledge.
Cons:
- Key elements require payment.
- Free version allows 10 products.
Shopify allows ecommerce stores to sell as many products as they want without any limits or trade-offs.
Why I picked Shopify: The platform is excellent at enabling the addition of large amounts of products and managing them effectively. The number of products you can add to your catalog is unlimited, making it an excellent choice when it comes time to scale. Shopify also allows business owners to sell products through various marketplaces, such as eBay, Amazon, and Etsy.
Shopify is a popular choice for users starting an online store because it’s easy to use, especially for those with no technological experience. But larger enterprises can also use it because it is easy to manage significant inventory levels. If you don’t have products to sell yet, Shopify can help because it has integrations with dropshipping marketplaces; you can also find dropshipping partners in the Shopify Apps Market.
Pro Tip: Shopify offers a three-day free trial from their website. But, if you do the proper research, you can find affiliates who offer 14-day free trials.
Shopify Standout Features and Integrations
Features include is its extensive App Store, offering a vast array of third-party applications and plugins that businesses can integrate seamlessly with their stores. This ecosystem empowers users to enhance their store's functionality beyond the core offerings, enabling them to customize and scale their online businesses according to their specific needs. The App Store covers everything from marketing and sales to customer service and inventory management, providing a remarkable level of versatility. Plus, Shopify's abandoned cart recovery feature is a powerful tool that helps businesses recover potentially lost sales. Through automated emails, Shopify prompts customers who have left items in their cart to return and complete their purchase.
Integrations include Chargify, PayPal, Mailchimp, Kissmetrics, QuickBooks, Birdeye, Constant Contact, Heartland Retail, Meta for Business, Privy, Sendinblue, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The platform is very stable.
- Can manage all aspects of an online store.
- Capable of building customizable storefronts.
Cons:
- The free themes are very basic.
- The extra fees can make Shopify expensive.
Squarespace enables store owners to create modern, visually appealing ecommerce stores.
Why I picked Squarespace: Users can customize every element of every page throughout their entire website. No matter your experience level, you can use Squarespace’s intuitive, highly responsive drag-and-drop website builder tool. Squarespace offers you stunning templates and combines them with an excellent inventory system with many features.
Squarespace is an excellent choice for small businesses thanks to its ability to easily get online stores up and running. The platform’s user-friendly content management system can help you operate your new store without needing technical expertise. It also offers built-in SEO features to help you improve your store’s ranking on search engines so you can drive more traffic to your site.
Squarespace Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its emphasis on design aesthetics and provides a unified design framework across its templates. This ensures that users can easily create visually appealing and cohesive websites with consistent typography, color schemes, and overall aesthetics. This is particularly valuable for businesses that prioritize a strong and consistent brand identity throughout their online presence. Plus, Squarespace has a Cover Page Builder, allowing users to create stunning single-page websites, landing pages, or visual introductions. This feature is ideal for highlighting a specific product, promotion, event, or announcement.
Integrations include Mailchimp, Klaviyo, Zendesk Suite, Salesforce, Trello, Xero, ActiveCampaign, Basecamp, Constant Contact, Google Analytics 360, AWeber, ShipStation, Stripe, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 0% transaction fees.
- Intuitive interface.
- Create websites without any coding.
Cons:
- Add-ons can be pricey.
- Limited number of templates.
3dcart is a straightforward online shopping cart that helps retailers sell online.
Why I picked 3dcart: It’s an ideal option for brick-and-mortar stores looking to create an online ecommerce website fast. 3dcart’s built-in features, such as reporting tools, SEO capabilities, and automated email marketing, help store owners establish their online presence quickly. It’s a comprehensive solution for stores looking to fully control their site’s experience.
3dcart offers numerous functionalities that suit medium businesses or larger enterprises. The platform does provide a drag-and-drop building tool to accommodate beginners, but it’s powerful enough to support developers’ and designers’ requirements.
3dcart Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its built-in dropshipping integration, which facilitates seamless collaboration between online stores and dropshipping suppliers. This feature streamlines inventory management, order processing, and communication with suppliers, allowing businesses to efficiently offer a wide range of products without the need to stock inventory themselves. Plus, 3dcart stands out with its advanced SEO tools and built-in blogging capabilities. The platform offers tools for optimizing product listings and category pages for search engines, helping businesses improve their online visibility.
Integrations include Authorize.net, Quickbooks, PayPal, Sellercloud, Shipwire, Stripe, TaxCloud, Meta for Business, Nextopia, Mailchimp, and Google Analytics 360.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extremely scalable.
- No transaction fees.
- Flexible features.
Cons:
- Limited integrations.
- Steep learning curve.
Weebly is a basic ecommerce website builder that provides a drag-and-drop editor to get a website started immediately.
Why I picked Weebly: The platform is famous for its straightforward drag-and-drop editor that can help you start an online store without any technical knowledge. It’d powered by Square, which means that store owners will have features that will help them manage their inventory, implement coupons, capture leads, and add unlimited products. Weebly makes it easy for entrepreneurs to develop an online presence and get started with a polished ecommerce website.
Weebly is best for small and medium businesses looking to create a small online store without losing themselves in technical elements. It offers a user-friendly interface, easy setup, and several free template designs for those working with a limited budget. It allows you to spend more time operating your business and less time determining how everything works.
Weebly Standout Features and Integrations
Features include is its drag-and-drop page layout system with the concept of 'sections.' This intuitive feature allows users to easily add and arrange content elements within predefined sections on their web pages. This streamlines the design process and provides users with greater flexibility in creating visually appealing and organized layouts. Plus, Weebly stands out with its integrated membership and subscription capabilities. Users can create members-only areas on their websites, offering exclusive content, products, or services to subscribers. This is particularly beneficial for businesses or creators who want to generate recurring revenue through subscriptions or provide premium content to loyal customers.
Integrations include AWeber, Jotform, PayPal, Privy, Jotform, Constant Contact, Easyship, Shore, ShipStation, Schedulista, Eventbrite, Appy Pie, Donorbox, and Booqable.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Paid plans are highly affordable.
- Good SEO settings.
- Create websites with excellent functionality.
Cons:
- Not many themes available.
- No live support.
GoDaddy Website Builder enables businesses to create and market their online store with built-in intelligent marketing tools.
Why I picked GoDaddy Website Builder: The platform’s marketing tools help you track your website’s performance after launching. GoDaddy’s Digital Marketing Suite allows you to manage your online business listings, email campaigns, and social media posts from one location. The marketing tools will automatically review your site and optimize it for various search engines.
GoDaddy Website Builder helps businesses operate their ecommerce store as soon as possible and start selling. The setup is straightforward; it requires answers to two fundamental questions: your store type and its name. You’ll have a basic design to get started based on your business category; from there, you can begin customizing to match your brand.
GoDaddy Website Builder Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its Smart Learning System, which utilizes AI and machine learning to provide personalized suggestions and insights to improve users' websites. This dynamic feature guides users on optimizing their website design, content, and performance based on their specific goals and industry. Plus, GoDaddy InSigh is a unique feature that provides users with actionable insights and recommendations derived from analyzing their website, online presence, and industry trends. This includes advice on improving search engine visibility, social media engagement, and overall online performance.
Integrations include Stripe, Shippo, vcita, LiveAgent, Microsoft 365, WordPress, LiveChat, PayPal, Google Business Profile, Rippling, Elfsight, ProveSource, and AppStrand.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers wide variety of templates.
- Excellent customer support.
- Straightforward store development process.
Cons:
- Higher plans are expensive.
- Some add-ons are costly.
Bitrix24 is a combination of tools that make it easy for teams to communicate effectively.
Why I picked Bitrix24: The platform has everything you need to collaborate and communicate throughout your entire company. Each team member can access all company messages, documents, calendars, leads, and contacts. You can also set permissions for specific content to ensure each team member only sees what they need to see.
Bitrix24 is an excellent option for start-ups and small business teams who are looking for efficient CRM tools. As soon as you start using the platform, you have access to tools that help you plan marketing campaigns, perform excellent customer support, and help your human resources department manage the office.
Bitrix24 Standout Features and Integrations
Features include an integrated online booking and scheduling system, allowing businesses to accept appointments, reservations, and bookings directly through their website. This feature is particularly valuable for service-oriented businesses, consultants, and professionals who need to manage their schedules and client interactions efficiently. Plus, Bitrix24's website builder includes social intranet and collaboration features, enabling businesses to create private social networks for their teams. This unique aspect facilitates internal communication, document sharing, task management, and project collaboration.
Integrations include Miro, Jira, 3CX, RingCentral, Pipedrive, Jotform, Stripe, Boss Insights, Desktop.com, Zendesk, Microsoft 365, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive CRM tool.
- Secure online communications.
- Tracks tasks for team members.
Cons:
- Expensive pricing.
- Support is hard to reach.
Odoo is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) tool that helps ecommerce stores manage various aspects of their organization.
Why I picked Odoo: The platform provides ecommerce stores with enterprise resource planning tools to handle various accounting, inventory, marketing, and customer relationship management processes. The ecommerce website builder tools allow you to build a custom site with its drag-and-drop editor. The marketing tools automatically optimize your new site to help it rank on search engines.
Odoo works best for large businesses, but any organization can implement its features to enhance its operations. It provides a fully integrated app suite that scales with you as you grow - just add new apps and users as your business expands. If your company has multiple departments, Odoo provides communication features that help your teams avoid typical problems, such as extra inventory in your warehouse.
Odoo Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its seamless integration with its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Users can effortlessly manage various aspects of their business, including inventory, sales, invoicing, and more, all within the same platform they use for website creation. This comprehensive integration streamlines business operations and data management. Plus, Odoo's modular architecture stands out, allowing users to customize their websites and business processes by selecting and integrating specific modules. Users can choose from a wide range of modules that cater to their unique needs, whether it's ecommerce, CRM, project management, or human resources.
Integrations include Pipedrive, Ring Central, Boss Insights, Desktop.com, Nextcloud, UniTalk, Salesforce, Mailchimp, Microsoft 365, Google Analytics, HubSpot CRM, and Microsoft Teams.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- System works on mobile devices.
- Enterprise-level features.
- Web-based system.
Cons:
- System can be slow.
- Steep learning curve.
Webador is an ecommerce site builder that helps beginners easily create adequate online stores.
Why I picked Webador: The vendor focuses on helping beginners create an online store they’re happy to share and sell products. Webador provides an intuitive editing interface that can help you get started immediately. The platform offers some self-help resources, such as their getting started guide, to help you develop your store without any help.
Webador is an excellent option for beginners, but it’s good enough for businesses of any size. All premium plans come with a free domain name; you can also import a domain name and link it to your new site. It also helps you start driving traffic to your new site by creating a listing on Google and Google Maps.
Webador Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its integration with local business listings. Users can easily create and manage their business profiles on platforms like Google My Business, enhancing their online visibility in local searches. This feature is particularly valuable for small businesses looking to attract local customers and improve their local SEO. Plus, Webador's built-in online booking system is a unique feature that allows users to accept appointments and reservations directly through their websites. This is especially useful for service-oriented businesses, freelancers, and professionals who want to offer convenient booking options for their clients.
Integrations include Google Analytics 360 and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Includes many trusted payment platforms.
- Excellent user interface for beginners.
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- No app market.
WooCommerce is an open-source WordPress plug-in that adds ecommerce features to a website.
Why I picked WooCommerce: The vendor built WooCommerce specifically for users who prefer to create an ecommerce store on WordPress quickly. If you’re already familiar with WordPress’s interface, you can make a site using one of the over 800 pre-made templates with the plug-in. Each theme comes with a drag-and-drop builder that allows you to customize each theme to align with your brand.
WooCommerce is an excellent choice for businesses of any size who have much experience with WordPress because it can take time to monetize, scale, and add products and additional payment gateways. But you can access a large community of developers if you want to use WooCommerce and wish to make advanced changes to your site. You can extend the platform’s functionality with the thousands of add-ons and extensions available.
WooCommerce Standout Features and Integrations
Features include a vast extension ecosystem with a wide range of add-ons, plugins, and integrations that users can choose from to enhance their online stores. This enables businesses to customize their e-commerce functionality according to their specific needs, whether it's advanced shipping options, payment gateways, product variations, subscription models, or other specialized features. Plus, one of WooCommerce's strengths is its large and active community of users, developers, and contributors. This community provides a wealth of resources, including forums, documentation, tutorials, and plugins developed by third-party experts.
Integrations include Affirm Payments, Amazon Pay, Facebook, GoCardless, Google Analytics, PayPal, ShipStation, Stamps.com, Stripe, and other tools you already use.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Friendly, responsive support.
- Adaptable to user’s requirements.
- Basic out-of-the-box functionality.
Cons:
- Adding certain features isn’t free.
- Requires previous WordPress knowledge.
Other Options
Here are a few more best website builder options that didn’t make the best ecommerce website builders list:
- Wix
For ease of use
- BigCommerce
For growing ecommerce stores
- Adobe Commerce
For multichannel experiences.
- Zyro
For simplifying ecommerce operations.
- PrestaShop
For deploying large-scale online stores.
- Web.com
For all ecommerce needs.
- Volusion
For business tools and professional services.
- Selz
For marketing and tracking sales.
- Big Cartel
Shopping cart platform for artists.
- Cafe24
For starting a store in minutes.
Our Selection Criteria for Ecommerce Website Builders
Choosing the right ecommerce website builder can set the stage for your online success—or leave you frustrated with limitations. With so many platforms available, it’s crucial to evaluate them against key criteria to ensure they align with your business goals and needs.
Based on extensive research and hands-on testing, here’s how we weigh the criteria to guide you to the best choice:
Core functionality (25% of total weighting score)
These are the non-negotiable features every ecommerce website builder must offer.
- Website customization: Look for flexible design options, including drag-and-drop editors, customizable templates, and full control over your storefront’s appearance.
- Inventory management: Tools to track stock levels, manage SKUs, and sync inventory across multiple sales channels.
- Payment processing: Support for multiple payment gateways, including credit cards, digital wallets, and alternative payment methods like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL).
- Security features: Built-in SSL, PCI compliance, and regular security updates to protect customer data and transactions.
- SEO and marketing tools: Integrated tools for optimizing search engine visibility, creating promotions, and managing email marketing campaigns.
Additional standout features (25% of total weighting score)
What extra value does each platform offer beyond the basics?
- Advanced analytics: Detailed reporting and insights into sales, customer behavior, and marketing performance.
- Multichannel selling: The ability to sell seamlessly across various platforms like Amazon, eBay, and social media channels from one central dashboard.
- Customer relationship management (CRM): Built-in CRM tools to track customer interactions, segment audiences, and personalize marketing efforts.
- App ecosystem: Access to a wide range of third-party apps and integrations that expand functionality—from accounting tools to shipping solutions.
- Mobile optimization: Fully responsive design and mobile apps for managing your store on the go.
Usability (10% of total weighting score)
Is the platform user-friendly and intuitive?
- User interface (UI): A clean, modern design that’s easy on the eyes and helps users navigate without frustration.
- Ease of use: Simplified setup and daily operations with clear instructions and minimal technical jargon.
- Mobile usability: Responsive design that ensures your store looks great and functions smoothly on all devices.
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score)
How quickly can you get started with the platform?
- Training and resources: Access to comprehensive tutorials, webinars, and guides to help you get up to speed quickly.
- Implementation support: Pre-built templates and best practices that streamline setup and minimize the learning curve.
Customer support (10% of total weighting score)
How dependable and accessible is the support?
- Availability: Responsive customer support available through live chat, phone, and email—ideally 24/7.
- Community and resources: Active user forums, regular updates, and webinars to keep you informed and supported.
Value for money (10% of total weighting score)
Is the platform worth the investment?
- Pricing models: Transparent and competitive pricing that scales with your business without surprise fees.
- Cost vs. benefits: Evaluate the features you get at each pricing tier and how they contribute to your overall business goals.
Customer reviews (10% of total weighting score)
What are other users saying about the platform?
- User satisfaction: High ratings and positive feedback from businesses of all sizes, indicating reliability and effectiveness.
- Praise for specific features: Look for consistent praise in areas that matter most to you, whether it’s ease of use, customer support, or powerful integrations.
By evaluating ecommerce website builders against these criteria, you can pinpoint the solutions that not only meet your current needs but also empower your business to grow and thrive in the competitive online marketplace.
What is an Ecommerce Website Builder?
An ecommerce website builder is a platform that lets you create, launch, and manage an online store without needing to touch a single line of code.
It’s your go-to solution for building a professional-looking website, adding products, and accepting payments—all in one place.
These platforms are designed to handle the heavy lifting, from secure checkouts to mobile optimization, so you can focus on what actually matters: selling your products.
Whether you’re starting a side hustle or running a full-scale operation, an ecommerce website builder helps you establish a digital storefront quickly and efficiently.
In short, it’s a fast-track to getting your business online, minus the tech headaches.
How to Choose an Ecommerce Website Builder
Picking the right ecommerce website builder is like choosing the perfect pair of shoes—fit matters, and the wrong choice will leave you limping.
Here’s how to make sure your platform supports your stride:
- Clarify your goals. Are you launching a side hustle that needs to be live yesterday, or building a scalable powerhouse to dominate your niche? Quick launchers might prioritize simplicity (hello, Wix), while growth-focused brands need advanced features like those in Shopify or BigCommerce.
- Know your tech limits. Be honest about your comfort level. If the thought of HTML gives you hives, go for intuitive drag-and-drop options. If you (or someone on your team) loves tinkering under the hood, platforms like WooCommerce or Shopify can deliver more customization.
- Prioritize design freedom. Your website is your digital storefront, so make it stunning—or at least functional. For pixel-perfect aesthetics, check out Squarespace. If you’re less concerned about winning design awards and more focused on functionality, Shopify or BigCommerce might be your speed.
- Plan for growth. Think beyond today’s needs. If you’re aiming for global domination (or just a really busy holiday season), choose a platform that can scale without breaking a sweat. Shopify and BigCommerce handle high traffic and large inventories with ease.
- Look for integrations. Your website builder shouldn’t live in a bubble. Ensure it syncs seamlessly with your email marketing, CRM, and payment gateways. Bonus points for platforms that offer app marketplaces or native integrations with tools you already love.
- Budget smartly. Pricing plans aren’t always as straightforward as they seem. Watch for hidden costs like transaction fees, premium plugins, or paid themes. A $23 plan might seem great—until you realize you’re paying extra for every feature you actually need.
Understanding how to choose correctly will do you a bunch of good going into these reviews. Your eyes are now honed for what to look for. You've already got a shortlist here, so now find the right one of these top 10.
Key Features of Ecommerce Website Builders
Not all ecommerce website builders are created equal. The best ones don’t just help you build a website—they arm you with the tools to sell, scale, and stay ahead of the competition.
Here’s what to look for:
- Drag-and-drop simplicity. You’re busy running a business, not a web design firm. A good builder lets you set up a polished store in hours, not days, with intuitive tools anyone can master.
- Mobile responsiveness. Over half of online shoppers are on their phones. Your website should look flawless whether viewed on a desktop, tablet, or that weirdly cracked iPhone 7 your cousin still uses.
- Multilingual and multicurrency support. Planning to go global? Look for platforms that can translate your site and adjust prices based on where your customers are shopping. Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce are pros at this.
- AI-powered personalization. The future is here, and it’s powered by AI. Features like dynamic product recommendations, automated upsells, and even AI-generated product descriptions can boost sales without breaking a sweat.
- SEO and marketing tools. Even the best site is useless if no one can find it. Platforms with built-in SEO optimization, email marketing tools, and social media integration will help you drive traffic and stay top of mind.
- Performance and scalability. Fast-loading pages and the ability to handle traffic spikes (like Black Friday madness) aren’t negotiable. Look for platforms that invest in scalable, cloud-based infrastructure.
- Top-tier security. You need SSL encryption, PCI DSS compliance, and fraud detection baked in. Customers won’t stick around if their credit card data ends up on the dark web.
- Third-party integrations. From accounting tools to CRMs and shipping software, the right platform will play well with others. Bonus points if it has an app marketplace for easy plug-and-play functionality.
- Inventory and order management. Whether you’re shipping a dozen handmade candles or managing thousands of SKUs, a solid inventory system saves you from overselling (and the awkward emails that follow).
- Customer support. Because when something breaks at 2 a.m., you need answers now. Platforms with 24/7 support via chat, email, or phone are the real MVPs.
When evaluating ecommerce website builders, think of these features as your checklist. The more boxes a platform ticks, the less you’ll stress—and the more you’ll sell.
Benefits of Using an Ecommerce Website Builder
Running an online store doesn’t have to be a nightmare of code and costly developers. Ecommerce website builders make it easier, faster, and more efficient to turn your products into profit.
Here’s why they’re the secret weapon for modern businesses:
- Quick setup, faster sales. Skip the months-long web development process. With pre-designed templates and intuitive tools, you can go from idea to live site in a weekend—sometimes faster.
- Cost-effective. Hiring a developer to build a custom site can cost tens of thousands of dollars. An ecommerce builder gives you professional results at a fraction of the cost (and without those awkward invoice surprises).
- AI-powered efficiency. Many platforms now come with built-in AI tools for product recommendations, customer segmentation, and even content creation. That’s less time spent micromanaging and more time spent growing.
- Global reach. With multilingual options, currency converters, and international shipping integrations, selling across borders is no longer a logistical headache.
- Scalability. Whether you’re starting small or bracing for a tidal wave of orders, top platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce are built to grow with you. Handle high traffic, add unlimited products, and keep things running smoothly.
- Optimized for all devices. Your customers are everywhere—on desktops, phones, and tablets. Ecommerce builders ensure your site looks sharp and works perfectly, no matter the screen size.
- Built-in marketing tools. Email campaigns, abandoned cart recovery, SEO optimization—these platforms include tools to attract customers and keep them coming back.
- Ironclad security. Rest easy knowing your site is protected with SSL encryption, PCI DSS compliance, and fraud prevention. Trust is non-negotiable in ecommerce.
- Simplified inventory management. Automatically track stock levels, update products, and sync across channels, so you’re not scrambling to reconcile orders manually.
- Professional support when you need it. From 24/7 customer support to expert services for customizations, you’re never left hanging when challenges arise.
Ecommerce website builders give you everything you need to succeed in one neat package. They’re efficient, affordable, and adaptable—so you can focus on growing your business, not fixing your website.
Trends in Ecommerce Website Builders for 2025
Ecommerce is constantly evolving, and website builders are no exception. Now, platforms are racing to keep up with changing consumer expectations, new technologies, and the demand for seamless online experiences.
Here’s what’s shaping the future of ecommerce website builders:
- AI taking the lead. From AI-generated product descriptions to dynamic pricing models and personalized shopping experiences, artificial intelligence is becoming a must-have. Expect to see even more intuitive tools that help you automate mundane tasks and boost sales.
- Headless commerce on the rise. Headless architecture—where the backend (managing products, orders, etc.) is decoupled from the frontend (your site design)—is gaining traction. It allows businesses to build highly customized storefronts while still leveraging the power of ecommerce platforms.
- Focus on global selling. With cross-border ecommerce booming, platforms are stepping up their game with multilingual support, region-specific payment options, and tools to simplify international shipping. The world is your market, and website builders are making it easier to tap into.
- Sustainability features. Consumers are demanding transparency about sustainability. Platforms are rolling out tools to help merchants showcase eco-friendly practices, calculate carbon footprints, and highlight green shipping options.
- Enhanced mobile experiences. Mobile-first is no longer a trend; it’s the standard. Builders are optimizing for mobile even further, ensuring fast loading times, better UX, and seamless checkouts designed for small screens.
- Integration with new sales channels. From TikTok shops to augmented reality (AR) integrations, website builders are finding new ways to help you sell wherever your customers hang out. Multi-channel selling has never been easier or more essential.
- Performance and scalability upgrades. With ecommerce traffic surging during peak events like Black Friday or Singles’ Day, platforms are investing in cloud infrastructure to ensure your site stays up and running—even when thousands of people hit “Add to Cart” at once.
- Customer-centric tools. Builders are incorporating features like loyalty programs, advanced CRM integrations, and post-purchase communication tools to improve the customer experience and boost retention.
- Advanced analytics. Data is king, and ecommerce platforms are enhancing their reporting tools to give you deeper insights into customer behavior, sales trends, and performance metrics—without needing a degree in data science.
Ecommerce Website Builders: Customer Support Showdown
When you're diving into ecommerce, having a support system that actually shows up when you need it is pure gold.
I’ve whipped up this concise table to give you the lowdown on each platform’s support options—covering everything from live chat and phone support to self-help resources and the inevitable pros and cons.
Check out which builder not only looks great and sells like hotcakes but also has your back when the going gets tough. Enjoy the read!
Platform | Support details | Self-help & resources | Key pros/cons |
---|---|---|---|
Ecwid by Lightspeed | Live chat (24/7 on paid plans), email, forum; prompt for premium users | Knowledge base, video tutorials, blog | + Fast responses for premium users – Limited free plan support |
Shopify | 24/7 live chat, email, phone; always-on support | Comprehensive help center, tutorials, guides, KB | + Multiple channels – Phone support quality can vary |
Squarespace | Email and live chat (business hours) | Detailed KB, video tutorials, community forums | + Excellent self-help – Limited live chat on weekends |
3dcart | Phone, email, live chat; 24/7 on many plans (response times vary) | Robust KB and video library | + Multiple contact options – Dated interface, inconsistent responses |
Weebly | Email; live chat on higher-tier plans; limited phone support | Comprehensive help center, FAQs, step-by-step guides | + User-friendly support center – Live chat not available on all plans |
GoDaddy Website Builder | 24/7 phone, live chat (peak hours), email | Extensive KB, video guides, community forums | + 24/7 phone support – Live chat responses can be hit-or-miss |
Bitrix24 | Email, phone, ticket system, forum; business hours for free users, extended for premium | Detailed manuals, tutorials, active forum | + Rich documentation – Free plan may see slower responses |
Odoo | Email, phone (enterprise), ticketing; standard business hours (priority for enterprise users) | In-depth documentation, community forums, video tutorials | + Extensive docs and community – Support quality varies by plan |
WooCommerce | Community forums; email for licensed users; third-party developer channels | Vast documentation, tutorials, developer guides | + Excellent community backing – Inconsistent direct support |
Webador | Email and live chat (business hours; responses within 24 hours) | Basic KB, FAQs, helpful blog articles | + Intuitive for local businesses – Limited channels outside business hours |
BigCommerce | Phone, email, live chat, forum, social media; 24/7 support | Extensive KB, video tutorials, community forums, blog | + Reliable 24/7 support – Occasional long hold times on phone |
Wix | Email support, callback service, tickets; phone support on premium plans | Comprehensive KB, video tutorials, Wix Forum | + Great self-help resources – Limited phone support availability |
Cost & Pricing of Ecommerce Website Builders
When selecting an ecommerce website builder, you'll encounter a variety of price points, each tailored to serve businesses of different sizes, needs, and budgets.
Several factors influence the pricing of ecommerce website builders, such as:
- Customization options
- Number of products
- Built-in marketing tools
- Hosting included
- Security features
- International selling capabilities
- Scalability
- Support options
- Transaction fees
Small businesses may not need all available features, allowing them to choose a lower pricing tier that meets their needs. Conversely, enterprise businesses often require a comprehensive feature set, making higher-priced plans more cost-effective.
Fortunately, many ecommerce website builders offer multiple tiers, enabling scalability as your business grows.
Here's a breakdown of the common plan options and their pricing in the ecommerce website builder market. This overview highlights which type of business each plan is generally best for, though you should always evaluate your specific needs.
Plan comparison table for ecommerce website builders
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features Included | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Free | $0 | Limited product listings, basic templates, basic SEO tools, transaction fees on sales, branded domain. | Hobbyists, solopreneurs |
Basic | $10 - $30/month | Custom domain, website hosting, basic templates, product listings, basic SEO tools, simple analytics, email support. | Small businesses, startups |
Professional | $40 - $70/month | All Basic features, premium templates, marketing tools, improved SEO capabilities, advanced analytics, chat support. | Growing businesses, SMEs |
Advanced | $100 - $200/month | All Professional features, advanced analytics, customer segmentation, abandoned cart recovery, priority support. | Medium to large businesses |
Enterprise | $300+/month | All Advanced features, custom integrations, full customization, dedicated support, training, enterprise-grade security. | Large enterprises |
When considering an ecommerce website builder, software buyers should weigh their current business needs against their future growth plans.
Ultimately, the choice of an ecommerce website builder plan should align with your business goals, budget, and the level of control and customization you require.
Ecommerce Website Builders FAQs
You’ve got questions still, I’m sure. We’re curious animals, it’s only natural. We guessed at the questions you have, then answered them. Hope we’re right!
Which ecommerce website builder offers the best value for money?
For most small to mid-sized businesses, Wix offers great value, with plans starting at $23/month. Squarespace is also a strong option, especially for design-focused brands, starting at $16/month. Shopify and BigCommerce are pricier, starting at $29/month, but they offer extensive features that justify the cost, especially as your business scales. Weebly is the most budget-friendly, starting at just $10/month, making it a solid choice for smaller operations.
Are there any hidden fees or long-term costs with ecommerce website builders?
While most platforms are transparent with pricing, keep an eye on potential extras. Shopify charges transaction fees unless you use Shopify Payments, and additional apps can add to the cost. BigCommerce avoids transaction fees but can get pricey with higher-tier plans. Wix and Squarespace have straightforward pricing, though premium features and integrations might increase your total spend. Always consider the full cost, including potential add-ons, to avoid surprises down the line.
How scalable are most ecommerce website builders as my business grows?
If scalability is a top concern, Shopify and BigCommerce are your best bets. They’re built to handle everything from small stores to large enterprises with extensive product catalogs and high traffic volumes. Wix and Squarespace are fantastic for smaller businesses but might feel restrictive as your business expands. Consider starting with a platform that won’t limit you as you grow to avoid the hassle of switching later.
What integrations do ecommerce website builders typically offer?
Top ecommerce builders like Shopify and BigCommerce excel in offering a wide range of integrations, from CRM systems and email marketing tools to accounting software. Wix and Squarespace also offer substantial integrations, though they might not be as extensive as Shopify’s. Ensure the builder you choose connects seamlessly with the tools you already use or plan to use, so your operations remain smooth and efficient.
Can I make an ecommerce website for free?
Yes, you can create an ecommerce website for free, but with some limitations. WooCommerce is a popular free option, though it’s a WordPress plugin, so you’ll need to manage hosting costs separately. Weebly and Webador also offer free plans, but they often come with restrictions, such as limited features, the platform’s branding on your site, and capped product listings. Free options are great for getting started, but upgrading to a paid plan may be necessary as your business grows to unlock more robust features and remove branding restrictions.
Other Ecommerce Website Tool Reviews
An ecommerce website is a great starting point but obviously that won’t be the be-all-end-all of your ecommerce software toolkit.
If you are just starting out (which I assume to be true, since you’re in the website design phase), you will also want to consider:
- Ecommerce Platforms
- Ecommerce Tools
- Landing Page Builders
- Shopify Alternatives & Competitors
- Headless Ecommerce Platforms
- B2B Ecommerce Platforms
- Easiest Ecommerce Platforms
Build An Ecommerce Website That Works
Don't chance it on your ecommerce store's design and operations. The very success of your brand can depend on what website builder you choose to throw your lot in with.
Whether a technical newbie or a developer at heart, there's a website builder that will allow you to make your ecommerce store rival your absolute faves.
It’s predicted that by 2040, 95% of all purchases will be through ecommerce. So, it would make sense to build an effective website design that potential customers will love and keep coming back to.
If you want to learn other ways to operate your ecommerce website efficiently, sign up for our newsletter. Here, you’ll get the top insights from top thinkers in the ecommerce industry that you can implement in your business.