Independent editorial decision framework sourced from the linked provider documentation; we have not performed a direct hands-on benchmark or verified all plan offers. Check current official terms.
Hosted store versus self-managed stack
Shopify integrates a hosted store and administration workflow. WooCommerce is a commerce plugin for WordPress and depends on a suitable WordPress environment. These are fundamentally different operating models; first decide who manages software updates, hosting and backups.
Verify payments in your country
Local payment processors, payout currencies, cross-border restrictions and subscription selling features vary. Confirm what is officially supported for your legal business location before using a provider price table to select a store.
Build a complete ownership budget
For Shopify, check subscription tier, transaction rates, paid apps, theme extras, shipping services and taxes. For WooCommerce, add hosting, security, backups, paid plugins, developer time and payment processor fees. A free plugin does not mean a free running store.
Perform a checkout trial before migration
Create a sample product, variant, discount, tax rate and shipping region; then run a test order and refund in the appropriate test environment. Confirm access to customer and order exports and what happens if you close the subscription.
Understand what this comparison does not prove
This is an editorial decision checklist, not a timed speed test, uptime study or guarantee of transaction fees. Verify current plan documentation and perform your own representative checkout testing.
Editorial guidance informed by the public sources below. Product features, pricing and availability may change; always verify the live offer.
Match website tools to your project.
Consider the website you want to build, your budget, editing skills and long-term costs before selecting a provider.
Ready to check the official options?
Review current products and checkout terms on the official websites of the platforms covered in this guide.
Official links only — no affiliate tracking is active.