Starting an e-commerce business is exciting, but it also comes with many decisions. One big question is whether to use Shopify or your website. Both options can help you sell products online, but which one is better for your business? Let’s explore the differences and find out which is more optimized for you!
What is Shopify?
Shopify is an e-commerce platform that helps you create an online store quickly. It’s easy to use and has all the tools you need to run your store, such as payment gateways, inventory management, and website themes.
Fact: Over 4.4 million websites use Shopify as of 2024!
What is an Own Website?
An own website is a custom-built website. You can either use platforms like WordPress or code your website from scratch. This option gives you more control over design and features, but it can take more time and effort to set up.
Shopify vs Own Website: The Key Differences
Let’s break down the differences between Shopify and your website:
1. Ease of Use
- Shopify: Very easy to use, even for beginners. You don’t need to know how to code. Shopify guides you through the setup process with templates, making it quick to start.
- Own Website: Requires more technical knowledge. If you use WordPress, you need to understand plugins and themes. Coding a website from scratch is even more complex.
Tip: If you’re new to e-commerce, Shopify is the easiest way to get started.
2. Cost
- Shopify: Offers plans starting at $39/month, but there are transaction fees. The higher your sales, the more fees you’ll pay. However, everything is bundled into one package, making budgeting easier.
- Own Website: The cost depends on your hosting service, domain name, and any additional tools or plugins. This can sometimes be cheaper in the long run but requires more maintenance.
"While Shopify offers convenience, a custom website can be cost-effective for tech-savvy business owners."
3. Customization
- Shopify: Limited to the templates and features Shopify provides. If you want more customization, you might need to hire a Shopify Development Partner to modify the site.
- Own Website: Full control over the design, features, and functionality. You can add any custom feature you like, such as unique payment methods or user experiences.
Note: If your business has special needs, building your website offers the most flexibility.
4. Security
- Shopify: Comes with built-in security features like SSL certificates and PCI compliance. You don’t need to worry about managing the security yourself.
- Own Website: You are responsible for securing your site. This means installing SSL certificates and ensuring your site is protected against hackers.
Fact: Shopify is fully PCI compliant, meaning it meets high-security standards for payment processing.
5. Maintenance
- Shopify: Shopify handles all the technical stuff like updates and security patches. This means you can focus on running your business.
- Own Website: You need to manage the technical side, including updates and bug fixes. This can take time or require a developer.
Tip: If you don’t have a tech team, Shopify can save you time and headaches.
Shopify vs Own Website: SEO
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your store rank higher on Google. Let’s see how Shopify and vs own website compare:
Shopify SEO
Shopify comes with built-in SEO tools. You can easily add meta titles, descriptions, and alt text for images. However, Shopify doesn’t offer as much flexibility for advanced SEO customization. You might need to hire a Shopify Development Partner for more complex SEO work.
Own Website SEO
With your website, especially on platforms like WordPress, you have full control over SEO. You can install SEO plugins and customize every detail to rank higher on search engines.
Websites with proper SEO get 50% more traffic than those without!
Tip: If SEO is a big part of your business strategy, a custom website offers more control over how you optimize your store for search engines.
Shopify vs Own Website: Mobile Responsiveness
Today, most online shoppers use their mobile phones. So, your website needs to look good and work well on mobile devices.
Shopify Mobile Responsiveness
All Shopify themes are designed to be mobile-friendly, meaning your store will look good on any device without needing extra effort.
Own Website Mobile Responsiveness
You’ll need to make sure that your website is mobile-friendly by using responsive design or coding. This might take extra time, but you can create a custom mobile experience.
Also Read - Step-by-Step Guide to Convert Shopify Store to Mobile App In 2024
Shopify vs Own Website: Payment Methods
The way you accept payments is important for running an e-commerce store.
Shopify Payments
Shopify has a payment system called Shopify Payments. It’s easy to set up, and it accepts most major credit cards. However, there are transaction fees if you use third-party payment gateways like PayPal.
Own Website Payments
On your website, you can integrate any payment gateway you want. There are no platform-imposed fees, but you may still need to pay the payment processor (like PayPal or Stripe).
Shopify vs Own Website: Customer Support
When running an online store, things can go wrong, and having good customer support is important.
Shopify Support
Shopify offers 24/7 customer support. You can contact them via chat, phone, or email if you have any issues. Shopify also has a large knowledge base where you can find answers to common questions.
Own Website Support
If you build your website, customer support depends on your hosting provider or developer. You may have to wait longer to get help, especially if you rely on a developer for technical issues.
Shopify’s support team is one of the top-rated in the industry, with a satisfaction score of 85%.
FAQS
1. What is Shopify?
- Shopify is a platform that helps you create an online store easily. You can sell your products without needing to know how to code. It has all the tools you need to manage your store in one place.
2. What is your website?
- An own website is a custom-built site that you create yourself or hire someone to build for you. You have complete control over how it looks and works, but it may require more effort to set up.
3. Is Shopify easy to use?
- Yes! Shopify is very easy to use. You can get started quickly, even if you are a beginner. It provides templates and guides to help you along the way.
4. How much does Shopify cost?
- Shopify plans start at $39 per month. You may also pay transaction fees based on your sales. It's good to check the latest prices on their website.
5. Can I customize my Shopify store?
- Yes, you can customize your Shopify store! However, if you want more advanced changes, you might need to work with a Shopify Development Partner.
Conclusion
So, what’s the final verdict on Shopify vs its website? It depends on your business needs.
If you want a quick, easy setup and don’t want to worry about technical details, Shopify is the best choice. With Shopify, you can start selling in no time, and the built-in features save you from hiring developers.
If you need complete control over your website’s design and features, and you’re comfortable with more technical work, then building your website is a more flexible solution.
Tip: Consider your budget, time, and technical skills when deciding which option is best for your e-commerce store.
Ready to launch your online store? At Tameta Tech, we’re your trusted Shopify Development Partner! We make it easy for you to create a fantastic Shopify store that fits your needs. Let us help you sell more and grow your business. Contact us today to get started!
In the end, both Shopify and your own website have their pros and cons. A Shopify Development Partner can help you get the most out of Shopify if you need custom features or want to scale your store quickly.
