Choose Shopify if...
You care about Online stores
It starts at $39/mo and scores 4/5 for SEO fit.
Comparison guide
Shopify vs BigCommerce
A practical side-by-side comparison for people deciding which platform fits their budget, SEO needs, setup comfort, and automation plans.
Ecommerce Platforms Ecommerce Platforms Updated from structured tool data
Best overall
Shopify
Stronger combined score across ease, SEO, and automation.
Best for budget
Shopify
Lower starting price in this comparison.
Best for SEO
Shopify
Higher SEO fit score in the current dataset.
Best for beginners
Shopify
Higher ease-of-use score.
Choose BigCommerce if...
You care about Growing stores
It starts at $39/mo and scores 4/5 for SEO fit.
Choose neither if...
You need a different fit
Neither is perfect if you need a different category or a more specialized workflow.
Best cheaper alternative: WooCommerce
Best free alternative: WooCommerce
Data table
Side-by-side comparison
| Metric | Shopify | BigCommerce |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Ecommerce Platforms | Ecommerce Platforms |
| Starting price | $39/mo | $39/mo |
| Pricing model | Monthly subscription | Monthly subscription |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of use | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| SEO score | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Automation score | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Quick verdict
The short answer
Shopify for ease of use and app ecosystem. BigCommerce for built-in features without app dependency.
Choose Shopify when:
- ✓You want the easiest possible setup and the largest app ecosystem.
- ✓You plan to sell in-person with POS.
- ✓You want access to the most themes and design options.
- ✓You prefer Shopify Payments (no transaction fees with their processor).
Choose BigCommerce when:
- ✓You want zero transaction fees regardless of payment processor.
- ✓You need built-in features without paying for apps (product ratings, faceted search).
- ✓You sell in multiple currencies and need native multi-currency support.
- ✓You have a large catalog (1000+ products) and need strong built-in catalog management.
Key differences that matter
- Shopify charges transaction fees (0.5-2%) unless you use Shopify Payments. BigCommerce has zero transaction fees on all plans.
- BigCommerce includes more features natively (ratings, faceted search, multi-currency). Shopify requires paid apps for these.
- Shopify has 8,000+ apps. BigCommerce has ~1,000 — fewer but you need fewer because more is built-in.
- Shopify is easier to set up and use for beginners. BigCommerce has a steeper learning curve.
- Shopify has better brand recognition and more third-party integrations. BigCommerce is less known but equally capable.
Common misconceptions
- ⚠BigCommerce is not dying — it powers major brands and continues to grow.
- ⚠Shopify is not always cheaper — once you add apps, BigCommerce total cost is often lower.
- ⚠Both handle high-volume stores — neither is only for small businesses.
Real cost breakdown
- 💰Shopify: $39/mo (Basic) + apps ($50-200/mo) + transaction fees (if not using Shopify Payments).
- 💰BigCommerce: $39/mo (Standard) + fewer apps needed. No transaction fees.
- 💰At scale: BigCommerce often costs less because you pay fewer app subscriptions.
Bottom line
Which one should you pick?
Pick Shopify if you want the easier setup. Pick Shopify if search-focused publishing and SEO control matter more. If the budget is the biggest constraint, start with Shopify and check real upgrade costs before committing.
Next step
FAQ
Which is cheaper, Shopify or BigCommerce?
Shopify has the lower starting price in the current PlatformPick dataset. Always verify current pricing on the official site.
Which is better for SEO, Shopify or BigCommerce?
Shopify has the higher SEO fit score in this comparison.
Last verified
May 25, 2026
Data source
Data is compiled from official product websites, public pricing pages, product documentation, and PlatformPick editorial review.
Pricing disclaimer
Starting prices may exclude add-ons, renewal pricing, usage limits, taxes, transaction fees, and annual billing requirements. Always verify details on the official site before buying.
Official site check
Official site links are included so you can verify current pricing, limits, and terms. See something outdated? Contact us and we will review the page.