Easy eCommerce Website Builders That Won't Make You Blow Your Lid

Best E-commerce Website Builders of 2024 – So Good They Blew Our Mind

Starting an online store can feel like venturing into unknown territory, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. But guess what? Setting up a digital shop doesn’t have to be a headache. Our team dove headfirst into the world of e-commerce website builders, so you don’t have to wade through a sea of free trials before finding a solid service provider. We’re here to cut through the noise and guide you straight to the good stuff.

Here’s the deal: We’ve tinkered with, tested, and thoroughly vetted various e-commerce platforms. Our goal? To arm you with the inside scoop on which builders make setting up your online store a breeze — even if you’re new to the game.

And we’re not just throwing names at you. We’ve analyzed everything from user-friendly interfaces to pricing plans that won’t break the bank. Plus, we’ve sifted through heaps of customer reviews to ensure our recommendations aren’t just impressive on paper but shine in real-world scenarios too.

Whether you’re counting pennies, dreaming of a store that looks professionally designed without hiring a designer, or want a platform that’s as easy to use as your favorite smartphone app, we’ve got your back. Our lineup of e-commerce website builders is curated with the first-time entrepreneur in mind, offering straightforward solutions that get you from “I have an idea” to “I’m making sales” without the unnecessary detours.

So, you’re ready to turn your entrepreneurial dream into a reality, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s dive into the best e-commerce website builders that make setting up an online store so easy it’s mind-blowing.

Here are the best e-commerce website builders of 2024

shopify eCommerce site builder

1. Shopify

Imagine you’re ready to turn your dream into a thriving online store. You’ve heard of Shopify, right? Let’s break it down:

Shopify is like the Swiss Army knife of e-commerce platforms. It’s designed to support everyone from next-gen entrepreneurs to the world’s biggest brands.

What makes it stand out?

It’s all about making commerce better for everyone. From the moment you start your free trial, you’re on a path to bring your vision to life with tools that are as easy to use as your favorite smartphone app — no need for coding skills here — just your ambition and maybe a good cup of coffee.

Shopify isn’t just about launching an online store but crafting a complete shopping experience. From customizable themes that require zero coding to a drag-and-drop interface that makes store setup a breeze, it’s clear why users across the board express satisfaction.

Beyond the storefront, Shopify excels with its comprehensive sales channels, allowing you to sell online, in person, and anywhere between. And with Shop Pay, you’re equipped with a checkout experience to convert browsers into buyers.

Marketing tools, centralized operations management, and an extensive app marketplace underscore Shopify’s commitment to your success. While sifting through reviews, it’s crucial to distinguish between feedback targeting Shopify and that directed at businesses using Shopify. This distinction reveals a user base that’s overwhelmingly happy with the platform.

However, when diving into customer reviews, there’s a catch worth mentioning. Not all negative feedback is about Shopify’s platform. Often, it’s targeted at businesses using Shopify.

This distinction is crucial because, digging deeper, you’ll find that Shopify users are generally thrilled with the platform. It’s user-friendly, packed with features, and backed by amazing support. Keeping this in mind ensures you get a fair picture of what Shopify truly offers: a comprehensive, approachable platform for launching and growing your online store.

Key Takeaways on Shopify

  • User-Friendly Design Tools: Build your store easily with Shopify’s drag-and-drop interface and customizable templates. No coding needed.
  • Online & In-Person Selling: Extend your reach by selling online, in-person, and everywhere in between with Shopify’s integrated sales tools and fast, reliable checkout.
  • Extensive App Marketplace: Boost your store’s functionality with a wide range of Shopify App Store apps catering to all your business needs. In other words, want your site to do something? There’s an app for that.
  • Built-In Marketing and SEO Tools: Attract and engage customers with Shopify’s SEO, social media marketing tools, and email campaigns, all designed to help your business grow.
  • Centralized Business Management: Manage your business effortlessly with Shopify’s centralized tools for inventory, payments, and insights, keeping everything running smoothly.

Pricing

Plans start at $39 per month.

TL;DR

Shopify’s great for first-timers who want to sell everywhere, from online to face-to-face. It comes packed with all the tools you’ll need, plus an awesome app marketplace that lets you snap on whatever extra features your heart desires, all without needing to be a tech whiz.

wix eCommerce website platform

2. Wix eCommerce

Next up, let’s talk about Wix eCommerce. If you’ve ever thought building an online store could be as simple as creating a presentation, Wix is here to prove you right. Our team took it for a spin, and here’s the lowdown:

Wix stands out for its sheer ease of use and flexibility. It’s perfect if you’re starting out and want to get your store online without getting bogged down in technical details. With Wix, you start with a template and customize it to your heart’s content, dragging and dropping elements exactly where you want them. And yes, we mean exactly where you want them. It’s that intuitive.

But don’t let its simplicity fool you. Wix is loaded with powerful features. From an extensive app market that lets you add functionality to your site to built-in SEO tools that help your store get found online, Wix doesn’t skimp on the essentials. Their pricing plans are transparent and scalable, meaning you can start small and grow without switching platforms.

However, while exploring what users had to say, we noticed a pattern: Wix is a hit with creatives and small business owners who prioritize design flexibility and ease of use. Some users wish for more advanced e-commerce features as their businesses grow. It’s something to keep in mind as you plan your online empire.

Key Takeaways on Wix

  • Drag-and-Drop Simplicity: With Wix, setting up your store is as easy as dragging and dropping elements where needed. No coding necessary.
  • Design Freedom: Start with a template and make it truly yours. Wix offers unparalleled customization options for those who care about standing out.
  • Scalable Pricing Plans: Begin with what you need and scale up as your business grows. Wix’s transparent pricing means no nasty surprises.
  • Growing App Market: Extend your site’s functionality with ease. Whether it’s booking systems or online menus, there’s likely an app for that.
  • SEO Friendly: Wix doesn’t just help you build a store; it helps people find it with built-in SEO tools designed to boost your visibility online.

Pricing

Get the basics starting at $16 per month.

TL;DR

Wix eCommerce is ideal for first-time entrepreneurs who want a mix of simplicity, design freedom, and the ability to scale. If you’re starting with a strong visual brand and want the flexibility to customize every inch of your site, Wix could be the perfect canvas for your online business.

Squarespace website and online store builder

3. Squarespace

Squarespace turned out to be a real eye-opener for us. If you’re diving into e-commerce and want your store to look like it’s been designed by a top-notch designer without hiring one, Squarespace is your go-to. Here’s why we fell for it.

The design templates? Stunning. We made our test store look unique and professional with just a few clicks. And the best part is you don’t need any design skills to make your site look good. Squarespace has this intuitive drag-and-drop interface that makes customization a breeze.

But Squarespace isn’t just a pretty face. We found its e-commerce tools quite advanced. Setting up products, managing your inventory, and processing orders felt seamless. Plus, with built-in SEO tools and social media integrations, getting the word out about your store is straightforward.

One thing to note is that while Squarespace offers a smooth start and has plenty of features for a budding business, if you plan to scale up to a very large operation, you might find yourself looking for more advanced tools.

Key Takeaways on Squarespace

  • Designer-Quality Templates: Get that professionally designed look immediately, making your brand stand out.
  • Drag-and-Drop Ease: Customize your site without any tech headaches. It’s all about clicking, dragging, and dropping.
  • Solid E-commerce Features: From product uploads to inventory management, everything you need to start selling is at your fingertips.
  • Built-In Marketing Tools: SEO and social integrations will help you attract and engage customers from day one.
  • Simple Scaling: Squarespace grows with you, offering the essentials for expanding your business smoothly.

Pricing

Plans start at $23 per month.

TL;DR

Squarespace is a dream for first-timers focused on branding and design, offering an all-in-one platform that’s as easy to use and comes with everything you need. It’s perfect for those who want to make a big visual impact with their online store right from the start.

volusion eCommerce website builder

4. Volusion

Diving into Volusion, we discovered it’s packed with everything you need right out of the box, making it super easy for you, especially if you’re starting out. Here’s the scoop based on our deep dive into the platform.

First off, managing your inventory with Volusion is a walk in the park. The platform is intuitive, helping you keep tabs on your products without breaking a sweat. This is a lifesaver for newcomers who might initially find online retail a bit daunting.

The real game-changer, though, is Volusion’s analytics. Trust us, the insights you get about your store’s performance are gold. It’s like having a business coach showing you exactly where your customers are clicking, what they’re buying, and what’s not flying off the digital shelves. This kind of data is invaluable, helping you tweak your store to perfection.

Payment options? Volusion’s got you covered with a variety of secure methods. We found this flexibility great for ensuring every customer finds their preferred way to pay, making the checkout process as smooth as butter.

Now, about scaling up—Volusion’s pricing plans are designed to grow with you. You start with what you need, and as your store picks up steam, you can easily move to a plan that suits your growing business without any hiccups.

Key Takeaways on Volusion

  • No-Fuss Setup: Volusion comes loaded with all the e-commerce essentials, so you can hit the ground running without piecing together a bunch of apps or plugins.
  • Slick Inventory Management: Keeping your stock in check is straightforward, a big plus when juggling everything else.
  • Insightful Analytics: The platform gives you a clear view of how your store is doing, with actionable insights that are easy to understand and act on.
  • Flexible Payments: Offering many payment options makes you more likely to turn browsers into buyers.
  • Ready to Grow: Volusion’s plans can keep pace as your business expands, offering more features and capabilities when needed.

Pricing

Plans start at $35 per month.

TL;DR:

For anyone stepping into the e-commerce arena for the first time, Volusion offers a solid foundation that’s easy to start and even scale. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive, all-in-one platform that lets you focus on what you do best — selling your products and growing your brand.

bigcommerce eCommerce website builder

5. BigCommerce

We recently got our hands dirty with BigCommerce Essentials and came away pretty impressed. It’s carved out as a strong contender if you’re eyeing the e-commerce arena without wanting to dive deep into the technical side. Here’s what stood out to us.

Right off the bat, BigCommerce feels like it’s built with growth in mind. The platform scales with your business, which means you start with what you need and expand as you grow—no need to switch platforms midway. This is huge for peace of mind.

Setting up shop? It’s pretty straightforward. BigCommerce walks you through the process, making it feel less like rocket science and more like piecing together a puzzle. The variety of customizable templates helps a lot, allowing your brand to shine without needing a degree in design.

Now, onto sales features – they’re comprehensive. Whether you’re looking to sell on Facebook, Instagram, or through Google Shopping, BigCommerce hooks you up with all the necessary integrations. Plus, their checkout process is optimized to boost conversions, which could mean more sales ringing in.

But what really got us nodding was the analytics. BigCommerce breaks down your store’s performance in a digestible and actionable way. This data is gold for first-timers — it’s like having a built-in advisor pointing out where you’re shining and where you can improve.

Key Takeaways on BigCommerce Essentials

  • Scalable: Grows with your business, from startup to empire, without skipping a beat.
  • User-Friendly Setup: Guides you through building your store with customizable templates and handy walkthroughs.
  • Sales-Boosting Features: Integrates with major social and shopping platforms, plus a conversion-optimized checkout.
  • Powerful Analytics: Offers clear insights into your store’s performance, helping you make informed decisions.
  • Support and Community: Provides 24/7 support and access to a community of fellow merchants and experts.

Pricing

Plans start at $39 per month.

TL;DR

BigCommerce Essentials is a solid pick for first-timers who want a blend of simplicity, power, and scalability. If you’re planning to grow your business and want a platform that keeps pace while providing in-depth insights and support, BigCommerce could be the perfect match for your e-commerce journey.

shift4shop ecommerce website builder

6. Shift4Shop

After taking Shift4Shop for a spin, we’re pretty excited to tell you about it. This platform might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of e-commerce, but it’s a hidden gem, especially for those looking for an all-inclusive package. Here’s the breakdown of our hands-on experience.

Shift4Shop is quite the powerhouse, offering a surprisingly comprehensive end-to-end e-commerce solution. One thing that really stands out is its offer of a free end-to-end e-commerce plan for U.S. customers using Shift4 Payments. This could be a game-changer if you’re mindful of startup costs but don’t want to compromise on features.

The platform’s built-in features are extensive. From advanced SEO tools that help your store rank higher in search results to useful marketing tools, including email campaigns and social media integration, Shift4Shop doesn’t skimp on the essentials needed to attract and retain customers.

Inventory management and order processing are straightforward and intuitive. Plus, the platform supports various payment processors, giving you and your customers flexibility at checkout. And if customization is your thing, Shift4Shop offers a surprising depth, allowing you to tweak your site to match your brand perfectly.

However, the real kicker for us was the level of support and resources available. The 24/7 customer service is top-notch, and the extensive knowledge base makes it easy to find answers or get help when needed.

Key Takeaways on Shift4Shop

  • Cost-Effective for U.S. Users: The free plan for those using Shift4 Payments is an incredible value, offering a rich feature set without the monthly fees.
  • Comprehensive Feature Set: From SEO to marketing, inventory, and beyond, Shift4Shop is loaded with everything you need to run a successful online store.
  • Flexible Payment Processing: Supports a wide array of payment processors, ensuring you can offer the best options to your customers.
  • Customization Galore: Tailor your site to your heart’s content, ensuring your brand shines through in every detail.
  • Excellent Support: Round-the-clock customer service and a wealth of resources mean you’re well-supported every step of the way.

Pricing

Plans start at $29 per month.

TL;DR:

Shift4Shop offers a compelling package for entrepreneurs looking to dive into e-commerce without diving into their savings. It’s a turnkey platform that scales with your business, backed by support that makes you feel like a pro, even if you’re starting out. If you’re after a comprehensive solution that leaves no stone unturned, Shift4Shop deserves a spot at the top of your list.

WooCommerce eCommerce website builder

7. Woo

WooCommerce was a bit of a revelation for us. It’s the perfect match for those already cozy with WordPress or who love the idea of tailoring every tiny detail of their online shop. Here’s the lowdown on our experience with it.

Being a free WordPress plugin makes WooCommerce a budget-friendly choice. But don’t let the price tag fool you. It’s an incredible eCommerce tool. Thanks to the vast selection of themes and plugins, we could customize our test store to the nth degree.

The community around WooCommerce is something else. Whenever we hit a snag or needed ideas, there was always a forum or blog post to help us. Plus, managing products and handling orders is integrated into your WordPress dashboard, making for a seamless workflow.

However, keep in mind that with great power comes a bit of complexity. You’ll be managing your hosting, security, and backups, or you’ll need to partner with a managed WordPress hosting provider who can handle those aspects for you.

Key Takeaways on WooCommerce

  • Cost-Effective: Starting for free, you can keep costs low while accessing a powerful platform.
  • Unmatched Customization: Tailor every aspect of your store with the extensive WordPress ecosystem.
  • Community Support: A vast community of users and developers ready to offer help and advice.
  • Seamless Integration: Works within your WordPress site, offering a unified backend experience.
  • Scalability: As your business grows, WooCommerce grows with you, handling everything from a single product to a full-fledged online store.

TL;DR

WooCommerce is a heavyweight for those who want to get their hands dirty and have complete control over their online store’s look, feel, and functionality. It’s especially great for those already familiar with WordPress, offering a seamless extension to your website into the realm of e-commerce. But it’s not turnkey. It might not be a good fit if you’re uncomfortable building a WordPress site.

Pricing

WooCommerce is free, but you must buy a domain name (about $15/year) and hosting service (about $25 monthly) from a third-party provider. It’s not exactly straightforward.


ebook cta

Editor’s Note: Want more handpicked content to help you build your business? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter.