When looking for the best e-commerce platform for creating a website from scratch without coding, while being cost-effective, high-performing, and secure, there are several top contenders to consider. Here’s a detailed comparison of the most suitable platforms:
Best E-Commerce Platforms for Creating a Website from Scratch
1. Shopify
Overview: Shopify is a leading e-commerce platform that allows users to create and manage online stores without needing coding skills.
Cost:
- Basic Plan: Starts at $39 per month
- Shopify Plan: $105 per month
- Advanced Plan: $399 per month
- Shopify Plus: Custom pricing for enterprise-level needs
Key Features:
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy-to-use drag-and-drop builder.
- Built-In Hosting: Includes reliable and secure hosting.
- Integrated Features: Includes payment processing, inventory management, and shipping.
- Themes and Customization: Professional themes and customization options.
- Security: PCI compliance for secure transactions.
- Performance: High uptime and fast loading speeds.
Why It’s Recommended: Shopify is ideal for beginners and established businesses due to its ease of use, integrated features, and robust support system.
2. Wix eCommerce
Overview: Wix is a versatile website builder that offers e-commerce features with a user-friendly interface.
Cost:
- Business Basic: $27 per month
- Business Unlimited: $32 per month
- Business VIP: $59 per month
Key Features:
- Drag-and-Drop Builder: Simple interface for creating your store.
- Templates: Wide range of e-commerce templates.
- Hosting Included: Comes with hosting and SSL certificate.
- Integrated Features: Payment processing, inventory management.
- App Market: Access to various apps for additional features.
Why It’s Recommended: Wix is cost-effective and easy to use, with a variety of templates and features suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
3. BigCommerce
Overview: BigCommerce is a comprehensive e-commerce platform designed for scalability and growth.
Cost:
- Standard Plan: $39 per month
- Plus Plan: $105 per month
- Pro Plan: $399 per month
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
Key Features:
- Built-In Features: Advanced e-commerce features for SEO, marketing, and shipping.
- Scalability: Suitable for businesses of all sizes.
- Security: PCI-compliant and includes SSL certification.
- Performance: Reliable uptime and performance.
Why It’s Recommended: BigCommerce offers advanced features and scalability for businesses looking to grow and expand.
4. Squarespace
Overview: Squarespace is known for its design-oriented approach and ease of use.
Cost:
- Business Plan: $23 per month
- Basic Commerce: $27 per month
- Advanced Commerce: $49 per month
Key Features:
- Design Focused: Beautiful design templates and drag-and-drop builder.
- Hosting Included: Includes hosting and security features.
- Integrated Features: Basic e-commerce functionality, with options to upgrade for more features.
Why It’s Recommended: Squarespace is a great option for users who prioritize design and aesthetics for their online store.
5. PrestaShop
Overview: PrestaShop is a free, open-source e-commerce platform with extensive features.
Cost:
- Free Core Platform: No cost for the core software.
- Add-Ons: Cost for themes, modules, and hosting.
Key Features:
- Highly Customizable: Extensive themes and modules available.
- Free Software: Core platform is free to download and use.
- Scalable: Suitable for businesses of all sizes.
- Security: You will need to manage your own security and updates.
Why It’s Recommended: PrestaShop is ideal for those who want a customizable and cost-effective solution, though it requires more hands-on management compared to hosted platforms.
Learn more about PrestaShop and get started with resources from PrestaTuts.com.
Platform Comparison Summary
| Platform | Best For | Cost | Ease of Use | Features | Security | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify | Comprehensive e-commerce needs | $39 – $399+ per month | Very Easy | Integrated features, 24/7 support, high performance | PCI-compliant, SSL | Excellent uptime |
| Wix eCommerce | Simple, low-cost e-commerce solutions | $27 – $59 per month | Very Easy | Drag-and-drop builder, integrated features | SSL included | Good performance |
| BigCommerce | Growth and scalability | $39 – $399+ per month | Easy to Moderate | Advanced features, high scalability | PCI-compliant, SSL | Excellent performance |
| Squarespace | Design-focused stores | $23 – $49 per month | Easy | Beautiful templates, basic e-commerce features | SSL included | Good performance |
| PrestaShop | Free, customizable e-commerce solutions | Free core platform, add-ons cost | Moderate to Hard | Extensive customization, free core platform | Self-managed | Good performance |
Choosing the Best Platform for Your Needs
- Best for Beginners: Shopify and Wix eCommerce are the easiest for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces and integrated features.
- Best for Design and Aesthetics: Squarespace excels in design and is a great choice if aesthetics are a top priority.
- Best for Advanced Features and Growth: BigCommerce offers advanced features for businesses looking for scalability.
- Best for Customization and Cost-Effectiveness: PrestaShop provides a free core platform with extensive customization options but requires more hands-on management.
Additional Resources
- PrestaShop: Explore features and download the platform.
- PrestaTuts.com: Get started with expert guides, tutorials, and resources for setting up a successful PrestaShop store.
Summary
To start an e-commerce website from scratch without coding, Shopify and Wix eCommerce are the most cost-effective and user-friendly options. For those looking for advanced features and scalability, BigCommerce is highly recommended. If you’re looking for a free and customizable solution, PrestaShop is a strong contender, and PrestaTuts.com can help you with the setup and management of your PrestaShop store.