Shopify vs. WooCommerce: Which Platform is Best for Selling in India?

So, you want to sell online. Whether it's clothing, electronics, or handmade crafts, the first question is always the same: Where do I build my store?

The two heavyweights are Shopify and WooCommerce. Both are great, but they serve different needs.

1. The Cost Factor

• Shopify: You pay a monthly "rent" (starts around ₹2,000/month) plus a commission on every sale. It adds up quickly.

• WooCommerce: It is free, open-source software. You only pay for hosting (which is much cheaper) and you keep 100% of your profits.

2. Ease of Use

• Shopify: Very easy. It’s "plug and play." If you are not tech-savvy and just want to start selling tomorrow, this is a good choice.

• WooCommerce: Requires a bit more setup, but it gives you unlimited freedom. You own the store completely.

3. Indian Payment Gateways

Both platforms support Razorpay, PhonePe, and Paytm. However, WooCommerce allows for more custom checkout flows, which is great if you want to offer specific "Cash on Delivery" (COD) rules—like adding a ₹50 fee for COD orders.

4. Customization

• Shopify: You are limited to their themes and apps. If you want a specific feature, you often have to pay monthly for a plugin.

• WooCommerce: Since it runs on WordPress, the customization options are endless and usually free or one-time costs.

Our Verdict

• Choose Shopify if you want convenience and don't mind paying monthly fees.

• Choose WooCommerce if you want full control, lower long-term costs, and SEO flexibility.

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