According to research, online sales are expected to continue growing, with nearly a quarter of all retail sales projected to happen online by 2026. This highlights the importance of having an ecommerce website for small businesses. The right ecommerce website builder can make it easy for any business, regardless of size, to start selling online. This article will explore the top ecommerce builders that offer ease of use, cost-effective tools, and a seamless online store setup process.
Key Takeaways:
- Ecommerce website builders are essential for businesses looking to tap into the online sales market.
- The right ecommerce builder can offer ease of use and cost-effective tools.
- An ecommerce website builder enables businesses of all sizes to start selling online.
- Online sales are projected to continue growing, making an ecommerce website crucial for small businesses.
- Choosing the right ecommerce builder is important for a seamless online store setup process.
The 6 Best eCommerce Website Builders
After evaluating over 50 different options for building ecommerce websites, six ecommerce website builders emerged as the top choices. These builders cater to the needs of small and medium businesses looking to sell physical products online. The six best ecommerce website builders are Shopify, Square, Ecwid by Lightspeed, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Wix. Each of these platforms offers unique features and benefits that make them ideal for different types of businesses.
What Makes the Best eCommerce Website Builder?
The best ecommerce website builder provides key features that cater to the needs of small and medium businesses. These features include:
- Ease of use: A user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy for businesses to build and customize their online store without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
- Wide range of products: The ecommerce website builder should support the sale of different types of products, whether physical goods, digital products, or services.
- Full-service ecommerce capabilities: It should offer comprehensive features such as shopping cart functionality, secure payment processing, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
- Seamless integration: Integration with essential business tools and apps, such as accounting software, email marketing platforms, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, allows for efficient business operations.
- Affordable pricing options: The website builder should offer flexible pricing plans that align with different budget requirements, ensuring that businesses can find a suitable option without compromising on essential features.
A website builder that meets these criteria can provide businesses with a user-friendly and efficient platform to build their online store and manage their ecommerce operations.
To illustrate the impact of choosing the right ecommerce website builder, consider the following example:
A Case Study: Gadget Galore
Gadget Galore is a small business specializing in electronic gadgets and accessories. Using an ecommerce website builder that prioritizes ease of use, they were able to quickly create a visually appealing online store with customizable templates and a seamless checkout process.
The website builder offered a wide range of product listing options, allowing Gadget Galore to showcase their extensive catalog of gadgets. The integrated inventory management system helped them keep track of stock levels, ensuring customers received accurate information about product availability.
Seamless integration with third-party apps enabled Gadget Galore to streamline their business operations. They integrated an email marketing tool to send personalized promotional offers, a CRM system to manage customer data and preferences, and an accounting software to track sales and expenses.
With affordable pricing options, Gadget Galore was able to find a plan that suited their budget while still offering the necessary features for their ecommerce needs.
Choosing the best ecommerce website builder made a significant difference for Gadget Galore, enabling them to establish a strong online presence, streamline their operations, and drive sales.
Image: An illustration representing the key features and benefits of using an ecommerce website builder.
How to Choose the Right eCommerce Website Building Platform
Choosing the right ecommerce website builder is crucial for the success of your online store. With numerous options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. However, considering a few key factors can help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect platform for your business.
1. Budget: Start by determining your budget for building and maintaining an ecommerce website. Some website builders offer free plans with limited features, while others have monthly or annual subscription fees. Assess your financial resources and choose a platform that aligns with your budget.
2. Features: Consider the specific features you require for your online store. Does your business need inventory management, integrated payment gateways, or mobile-responsive designs? Make a list of must-have features and select a website builder that offers them.
3. Familiarity with Website Builders: Evaluate your comfort level with website builders. If you are new to building websites, opt for user-friendly platforms that provide intuitive interfaces and drag-and-drop functionality. Experienced users may prefer builders with more advanced customization options.
4. Support: Good customer support is essential when building an online store. Look for website builders that offer reliable support through various channels, such as email, chat, or phone. Prompt and knowledgeable assistance can save you time and help resolve any issues that may arise.
5. Analytics: Analyzing your store's performance is crucial for making informed business decisions. Choose a website builder that provides robust analytics tools, allowing you to track sales, traffic, and customer behavior. This data will enable you to optimize your store and drive growth.
"Choosing the right ecommerce website builder is like laying a strong foundation for your online store. Consider your budget, required features, familiarity with website builders, support, and analytics capabilities to make an informed decision."
By carefully considering these factors, you can select an ecommerce website builder that meets your requirements and sets your online store up for success.
Comparison of Key Factors for Choosing an eCommerce Website Builder
| Factors | Budget | Features | Familiarity with Website Builders | Support | Analytics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Square | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ecwid by Lightspeed | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| BigCommerce | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| WooCommerce | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wix | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
How Much Does an eCommerce Website Cost? eCommerce Software Fees
When it comes to building an eCommerce website, understanding the costs involved is crucial for budget planning and decision-making. Several fees need to be taken into account to determine the total cost of an eCommerce website. These fees include:
- Monthly fee for using the eCommerce website builder platform
- Payment gateway fees for processing credit card charges
- Transaction fees for selling products
The monthly fee for an eCommerce website builder platform varies depending on the provider and the features included. Some platforms offer tiered pricing plans based on the size and needs of the business. It is essential to assess the specific features required and choose a plan that aligns with the business's goals and budget.
Payment gateway fees are charged by the financial institutions that handle the secure processing of credit card payments. These fees typically include a combination of a fixed fee per transaction and a percentage-based fee on the transaction amount. The rates may vary depending on the chosen payment gateway provider.
Transaction fees are charges incurred for every sale made on the eCommerce website. These fees are typically a percentage of the total transaction value. Certain eCommerce website builders may offer their own payment processing services, which might waive transaction fees or offer competitive rates.
It is crucial to carefully calculate all the costs involved when selecting an eCommerce website builder to ensure that it fits within the budget and provides good value for money. Comparing the pricing structures and fees of different platforms can help businesses make an informed decision that aligns with their financial objectives and requirements.
Example Comparison Table: eCommerce Website Builders and Associated Fees
| eCommerce Website Builder | Monthly Fee | Payment Gateway Fees | Transaction Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify | $29 - $299+ | Varies (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) | Varies (e.g., 2.4% - 2.9% per transaction) |
| Square | Free - Custom Pricing | Varies (e.g., 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction) | 2.6% - 2.9% per transaction |
| Ecwid by Lightspeed | $0 - $99+ | Varies (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) | Varies (e.g., 2.9% per transaction) |
| BigCommerce | $29.95 - $299.95+ | Varies (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) | Varies (e.g., 2.2% - 2.9% per transaction) |
| WooCommerce | Free - Varies (depending on hosting) | Varies (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) | No additional transaction fees (varies with payment gateway provider) |
| Wix | $23 - $49+ | Varies (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction) | No additional transaction fees (varies with payment gateway provider) |
Note: The pricing indicated in the table is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change. It is advisable to visit the respective website builder's official website for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
Calculating the total cost of an eCommerce website involves considering the monthly fees, payment gateway fees, and transaction fees. By understanding these costs and comparing options, businesses can make an informed decision and choose an eCommerce website builder that not only meets their needs but also fits within their budget.
The Best eCommerce Website Builders at a Glance
The best ecommerce website builders offer a range of features and benefits to help businesses build and manage their online stores. These builders provide easy-to-use platforms, customizable designs, multichannel selling capabilities, integrated payment options, and extensive app marketplaces. Here are the top ecommerce website builders:
1. Shopify
Shopify is a popular ecommerce platform that offers user-friendly website building tools, seamless integration with other business tools, and a wide range of customizable themes. It allows businesses to sell products across multiple channels and provides secure payment options.
2. Square
Square's ecommerce website builder is known for its simplicity and affordability. It offers a complete suite of online selling tools, including inventory management, customer analytics, and secure payment processing.
3. Ecwid by Lightspeed
Ecwid by Lightspeed is a versatile ecommerce platform that seamlessly integrates with various website builders and content management systems. It provides a range of features, such as multilingual support, responsive design, and easy inventory management.
4. BigCommerce
BigCommerce is a comprehensive ecommerce solution that caters to businesses of all sizes. It offers a wide range of built-in features, customizable templates, and robust SEO tools to help businesses grow their online presence.
5. WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a popular plugin for WordPress websites, making it easy to turn any WordPress site into a fully functional online store. It provides a range of extensions and themes, as well as seamless integration with various payment gateways.
6. Wix
Wix is a user-friendly website builder that also offers ecommerce capabilities. It provides an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, customizable templates, and a range of add-ons to help businesses create stunning online stores.
These ecommerce website builders cater to businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. They offer customizable solutions to meet specific business needs, making it easier than ever to set up and manage an online store.
Our Methodology
The research for this article was conducted by extensively evaluating over 50 different options for building ecommerce websites. The focus was on platforms that best fit the needs of small and medium businesses, especially those newly exploring selling online or selling physical products. The evaluation process included reviewing key features, customer reviews, pricing, ease of use, and customer support. The six best ecommerce website builders were selected based on these criteria.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Key features: We examined the features offered by each ecommerce website builder and assessed their relevance to small and medium businesses.
- Customer reviews: We considered the feedback and experiences shared by businesses and users who have used these website builders.
- Pricing: We analyzed the cost-effectiveness of each platform, taking into account the value provided in relation to the pricing.
- Ease of use: We evaluated the user-friendliness and accessibility of the website builders to ensure they are suitable for businesses with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Customer support: We assessed the quality and responsiveness of customer support offered by each platform, as prompt assistance is crucial for businesses.
Based on a comprehensive analysis of these factors, the six best ecommerce website builders emerged as the top choices:
| Ecommerce Website Builder | Key Features | Customer Reviews | Pricing | Ease of Use | Customer Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
| Square | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
| Ecwid by Lightspeed | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
| BigCommerce | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
| WooCommerce | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
| Wix | ✔️ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 💲💲 | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | ✔️ |
Note: The symbols represent the ratings for each factor, with ✔️ indicating high performance or positive attribute.
Conclusion
Building an ecommerce website is crucial for businesses aiming to capitalize on the expanding online sales market. By choosing the right ecommerce website builder, businesses can effortlessly establish an online store, showcase their products, accept payments, and efficiently handle inventory and shipping. When it comes to ecommerce website builders, Shopify, Square, Ecwid by Lightspeed, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Wix stand out as the top choices for businesses of all sizes. These platforms offer a wide range of features, user-friendly interfaces, and cost-effective tools, making them ideal for online store setup.
When selecting an ecommerce website builder, businesses must consider their specific requirements and budget. Each platform offers unique advantages, so it's crucial to assess which features align best with the business's needs. From customizable designs to multichannel selling capabilities, integrated payment solutions, and extensive app marketplaces, these builders provide solutions tailored to meet a variety of business needs. By carefully evaluating their needs and choosing the right ecommerce website builder, businesses can easily establish a successful online presence.
As online sales continue to grow, businesses cannot overlook the importance of having an ecommerce website. With the help of user-friendly and cost-effective ecommerce website builders, businesses can effectively compete in the online market and reach a wider customer base. Whether it's a small startup or a large enterprise, the top ecommerce website builders provide the necessary tools and features to drive online store success. Embracing the power of ecommerce is essential for businesses to thrive in the digital age and maximize their growth potential.
FAQ
What are the key factors to consider when choosing an ecommerce website builder?
When choosing an ecommerce website builder, it is important to consider factors such as budget, desired features, familiarity with website builders, customer support, and analytics capabilities.
What are the costs associated with building an ecommerce website?
The costs of building an ecommerce website include the monthly fee for using the platform, payment gateway fees, and transaction fees for selling products. These costs vary depending on the platform and payment options chosen.
What features do the best ecommerce website builders offer?
The best ecommerce website builders offer features such as ease of use, the ability to sell a wide range of products, full-service ecommerce capabilities, seamless integration with other business tools and apps, and affordable pricing options.
Which ecommerce website builders are considered the best?
The top ecommerce website builders are Shopify, Square, Ecwid by Lightspeed, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Wix. These builders offer unique features and benefits that make them ideal for different types of businesses.
How do I choose the right ecommerce website building platform?
When choosing an ecommerce website building platform, consider factors such as your budget, desired features, comfort level with website builders, customer support, and analytics capabilities.
How do I evaluate the cost of an ecommerce website?
To evaluate the cost of an ecommerce website, consider the monthly fee for the platform, payment gateway fees, and transaction fees. Calculate these costs to ensure they fit within your budget and provide good value for money.