Shopify vs Other Platforms: Which is Best for Your Business?
Thinking of starting an online store but not sure which platform to choose? You’re not alone — it's one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when launching your eCommerce business. Whether you're just starting out or ready to upgrade to something more professional, choosing the right platform can seriously impact your success.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between Shopify and other popular website builders, highlight what makes Shopify a top choice, and help you figure out if it’s the best fit for your business.
Not All Platforms Are Created Equal
Let’s get real — not all website platforms are built with online selling in mind.
Shopify: Built for Selling
Shopify is purpose-built for eCommerce. Every feature is designed to help you sell online easily, manage your products, accept payments, and grow your business. It's not just a website builder that happens to let you sell — it's an eCommerce powerhouse from the ground up.
WordPress (WooCommerce)
WordPress is hugely popular for content-heavy sites like blogs or portfolios. While you can add eCommerce functionality through WooCommerce, it requires plugins, custom setups, and ongoing maintenance. It’s flexible, yes — but often not the easiest ride for small businesses without a tech team.
Wix & Squarespace
Both are user-friendly and great for getting something online quickly — especially if visuals and simplicity are your focus. But when it comes to serious selling, Shopify tends to win. Wix and Squarespace’s eCommerce tools are more limited in terms of scalability, integrations, and inventory features.
What Type of Store is Shopify Best For?
If your business is product-based — whether you sell one item or hundreds — Shopify is ideal. It works brilliantly for:
- Retail brands with physical products (fashion, beauty, wellness, homeware)
- Subscription-based businesses
- Drop-shipping stores
- Start-ups ready to scale
- Businesses selling across multiple channels (e.g. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.)
Plus, if you’re planning on growing your store, Shopify scales with you. Add more products, staff accounts, advanced marketing tools — and you’re good to go without needing a full rebuild.
Features That Set Shopify Apart
Let’s take a closer look at the good stuff. Here’s why Shopify often comes out on top:
- Super simple setup – Even non-techies can build a professional store
- Mobile-friendly design – Most shoppers browse on mobile, and Shopify handles that beautifully
- Built-in payment gateways – No fussing around with external setups
- Inventory management – Easily manage large or small product ranges
- Scalability – Whether you're making 10 sales or 10,000, it can handle itApp integrations galore – Connect your email marketing, shipping tools, loyalty programs and more
- SEO-friendly – Tools that help your customers find you online
- 24/7 support – Access help whenever you need it
The Shopify Experience with Us
At Creative Web Designs, we’re not just fans of Shopify — we live and breathe it. We use it exclusively to create professional, eye-catching, and high-converting online stores.
Why? Because it works. It’s reliable, powerful, and our clients love how easy it is to use once their store is set up.
From theme customisation and mobile optimisation to full store setups and ongoing support — we’ve helped loads of Kiwi and International businesses turn their Shopify dreams into reality.
So, Is Shopify Right for You?
If your business is all about selling products online, Shopify is hands down one of the best platforms to choose. It’s intuitive, secure, flexible, and packed with features that help you grow. Compared to other platforms, Shopify is more focused, less fiddly, and scales with your success.
Ready to Build Your Shopify Store?
We’re here to help. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need a Shopify refresh, we can take care of the whole process — with friendly, expert support every step of the way. Let’s talk Shopify – contact us today.