WordPress (WooCommerce) vs Shopify
For ecommerce the real choice is usually WooCommerce (on WordPress) versus Shopify. Shopify is a hosted, all-in-one store; WooCommerce turns WordPress into a store you fully control. Here is how they stack up for a UK business selling online.
| Criterion | WooCommerce | Shopify |
|---|---|---|
| Control & customisation | Full control over checkout, data and features | Constrained by Shopify's framework |
| Content + commerce together | Best-in-class blogging and content alongside the store | Blogging is basic |
| Transaction fees | None beyond your payment gateway | Extra fees unless using Shopify Payments |
| Ease of setup | Needs a developer to do properly | Fast to launch out of the box |
| Maintenance burden | You (or I) manage updates and hosting | Fully managed by Shopify |
| Ongoing platform cost | Hosting + maintenance, no revenue share | Monthly plan plus app subscriptions |
| Scalability for complex catalogues | Handles complex products and rules | Great for standard catalogues |
Which should you choose?
Shopify is excellent if you want to launch fast with minimal technical involvement and your catalogue is fairly standard. WooCommerce wins when you need deep customisation, content and commerce tightly integrated, no transaction fees, or complex product logic — but it needs to be built and maintained properly. If you value control and long-term cost efficiency, WooCommerce is the stronger platform, and it is where I focus my ecommerce work.
Talk through your projectFrequently asked questions
Does WooCommerce cost less than Shopify?
Over time, often yes. WooCommerce has no revenue-share transaction fees and no forced monthly platform plan — you pay for hosting and maintenance. Shopify's monthly plans and paid apps add up as you grow.
Is WooCommerce harder to maintain than Shopify?
It requires more hands-on maintenance since it is self-hosted, which is exactly what a care plan is for. In exchange you get full control and no platform lock-in.
Can you move my Shopify store to WooCommerce?
Yes. I migrate Shopify stores to WooCommerce with care for products, customers, orders and SEO, so the switch protects your rankings and revenue.
Let's scope your WordPress project
Start with the free Lead Leak Walkthrough, then get a fixed-price proposal, so you know exactly what you're paying for before anything starts.
I keep 6 walkthrough slots a week so each one gets proper prep. Best fit for established UK businesses with a site that needs to perform.
- 1
Free 30-minute walkthrough
I look at your site before we speak. We go through your goals and what's getting in the way.
- 2
Fixed-price proposal
Scope, timeline and cost in writing, so you know the full price before any work starts.
- 3
Build and handover
Delivered, tested and documented, with support available after launch.