WooCommerce
Store Builders★★★★
4.3
WordPress-owned storefronts
Free core (hosting paid)
← Store Builders
See how Shopify compares head-to-head →
Shopify
★★★★★4.7/5The default DTC platform
- Pricing
- $39–$399/mo
- Commission
- N/A
- Cookie window
- n/a
- Last reviewed
- 2026-08-30
Our take
Shopify is the default DTC platform with an unmatched app ecosystem and the highest-converting checkout in the game. Most DTC brands should start here.
Pros
- Best app ecosystem
- Reliable hosting
- Great checkout
- Constant innovation
Cons
- Fees add up (apps + payments)
- Less control than self-hosted
Alternatives to Shopify
BigCommerce
Store Builders★★★★
4.2
Mid-market with native B2B
$29–paid tiers
Wix
Store Builders★★★★
4.0
Drag-and-drop starter
$27–paid tiers
Squarespace
Store Builders★★★★
3.9
Design-led small stores
$23–paid tiers
Ecwid
Store Builders★★★★
4.2
Add a store to any website or social
Free–$99/mo
Shift4Shop
Store Builders★★★★
3.9
Free hosted store with built-in payments
Free (with Shift4 payments) or $29/mo
Volusion
Store Builders★★★★
3.8
Established hosted ecommerce SaaS
$31–$299/mo
Sellfy
Store Builders★★★★
4.1
Sell digital products, subscriptions & merch
$19–$99/mo
Podia
Store Builders★★★★
4.3
Courses, memberships & digital downloads
$33–$89/mo
Frequently asked questions
What is Shopify?
Shopify is a store builders tool for DTC, Shopify and independent e-commerce stores. Shopify is the default DTC platform with an unmatched app ecosystem and the highest-converting checkout in the game. Most DTC brands should start here.
How much does Shopify cost?
Shopify is listed at $39–$399/mo. Vendor pricing changes often — confirm the current rate on the official site before subscribing.
Is Shopify worth it for DTC brands?
Shopify scores 4.7/5 in our hands-on review. Its main strengths: best app ecosystem, reliable hosting, great checkout. The trade-offs to accept: fees add up (apps + payments), less control than self-hosted.
What are the best alternatives to Shopify?
If Shopify is not the right fit, the closest options in our Store Builders shortlist are WooCommerce (4.3/5, Free core (hosting paid)), Podia (4.3/5, $33–$89/mo), BigCommerce (4.2/5, $29–paid tiers). Compare them side by side before you commit.