Shopify is widely praised for its user-friendly interface, sleek themes, and eCommerce features. However, its monthly cost (starting at $39) and transaction fees can be a barrier for beginners. If you’re looking for free eCommerce platforms that offer similar functionality—like product listings, payments, and order management—there are several powerful Shopify alternatives that come at zero or minimal cost, especially for small-scale sellers.
Whether you’re launching a clothing brand, digital product store, or dropshipping business, these platforms help you sell without breaking the bank.
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1. WooCommerce (WordPress Plugin)
WooCommerce is a free, open-source plugin that turns any WordPress site into a full online store. You can list products, collect payments, manage inventory, and integrate marketing tools—all without platform fees.
You only pay for hosting and optional premium extensions.
Best for: Sellers who want full control and already use WordPress.
2. Ecwid (Free Plan)
Ecwid is a plug-and-play eCommerce tool that works with any website—WordPress, Wix, Weebly, or even social media. Its free plan supports up to 5 products, basic shopping cart features, and Facebook Shop integration.
It’s ideal for first-time sellers or service providers.
Best for: Small product catalogs and selling on existing sites.
3. Square Online
Square Online offers a completely free plan for building a store with Square’s payment processing. You can sell unlimited products and access tools like order tracking, pickup/delivery options, and SEO.
You only pay the transaction fee (2.9% + 30¢ per order).
Best for: Restaurants, retail stores, and in-person sellers using Square POS.
4. Big Cartel (Free Plan)
Big Cartel is made for independent makers and artists, offering a forever-free plan with up to 5 products. It includes custom domains, inventory tracking, and basic design themes.
No hidden fees or commissions.
Best for: Artists, crafters, and small product shops.
5. Weebly by Square
Weebly (now owned by Square) offers a drag-and-drop website builder with built-in eCommerce tools. The free plan allows basic storefront functionality, including product pages and payments.
While you can’t use a custom domain on the free plan, it’s enough to launch.
Best for: Beginners building a store and site from scratch.
6. Sellfy (Free with Pay-As-You-Go Option)
Sellfy lets you sell digital and physical products, print-on-demand items, and subscriptions. While the free tier allows limited product listings, it’s great for creators who want to test before committing.
It’s clean, fast, and beginner-friendly.
Best for: Digital product sellers and creators wanting fast setup.
7. Wix eCommerce (Free Builder)
Wix allows free website creation and eCommerce testing. You can design your store with templates and add products, but you’ll need a paid plan to accept payments.
Still, the free plan is perfect for testing your concept.
Best for: Users wanting design freedom and visual editing.
8. Strikingly (Free eCommerce Pages)
Strikingly offers a free plan that supports one product per site, making it perfect for single-product sellers or personal brands. You can use their one-page builder and collect payments via Stripe or PayPal.
Best for: Minimalist stores or landing pages for one product/service.
9. Payhip
Payhip is a simple tool to sell digital downloads, subscriptions, or courses. It includes a storefront, checkout, VAT handling, and affiliate options—all for free.
They take a 5% fee per transaction on the free plan, with no monthly fee.
Best for: eBook writers, coaches, and course creators.
10. PrestaShop
PrestaShop is a robust, open-source eCommerce solution you can host on your server. It supports product catalogs, shipping, payments, and customization at an enterprise level.
It’s free to use but requires your own hosting and technical know-how.
Best for: Advanced users and businesses seeking a scalable, self-hosted option.
Choosing the Best Free Shopify Alternative
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Want full customization? → Go with WooCommerce or PrestaShop
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Need a simple plug-and-play store? → Try Ecwid or Square Online
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Selling digital products or services? → Use Sellfy or Payhip
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Launching a minimalist or one-product site? → Check Big Cartel or Strikingly
