Best Shopify Alternatives Australia (Free and Paid)!

Are you eager to explore the thrilling realm of e-commerce but find yourself uncertain whether Shopify is the ideal choice for your online business? Worry not because we are here to guide you through the maze of e-commerce platforms, both free and paid, that can compete with Shopify’s offerings.

In this article, we’ll not only introduce you to the top contenders in the e-commerce market but also analyze each platform’s features, pricing structures, customer support, and more. Our in-depth comparisons will empower you to make the most informed decision for your online store’s success, ensuring that you select a platform that aligns with your unique needs and goals.

So, buckle up and join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the best Shopify alternatives available in the e-commerce landscape. Your quest for the ultimate e-commerce solution starts now—let the e-commerce games begin!

Key Takeaways

• Shopify may not fit all budgets or offer advanced features and multi-currency transactions in Australia.
• WooCommerce, Magento, PrestaShop, OpenCart, and osCommerce are the best free Shopify alternatives in Australia.
• BigCommerce, Volusion, Wix, and Squarespace are the best paid Shopify alternatives in Australia.
• It is essential to evaluate your specific business needs, technical knowledge, and budget before making a decision.
• Our comparison table of Shopify competitors’ ease of use, customer support, ease of setup, pricing, and customer ratings on G2 can help you narrow down your options.

Why Consider Shopify Alternatives?

Shopify has been a popular choice for many entrepreneurs looking to build an e-commerce platform. Over the years, it has established itself as a reliable and comprehensive solution for online businesses of all sizes. Its intuitive interface, a wide array of features, and robust infrastructure have made it the go-to choice for many aspiring entrepreneurs.

But businesses often consider Shopify alternatives for better suitability. This is because, despite Shopify’s undeniable strengths, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to e-commerce platforms. Different businesses have unique needs, and certain alternatives may cater more specifically to those needs. As the e-commerce landscape continues to expand and diversify, a growing number of platforms are emerging, each with its own set of advantages and specialties. Consequently, entrepreneurs are increasingly exploring these alternatives to find a platform that aligns more closely with their individual requirements and aspirations.

There are a lot of factors to consider when evaluating Shopify alternatives, including:

Cost Factor

Shopify pricing may not fit all budgets, especially for small or new ventures. While Shopify offers a range of pricing plans to cater to businesses of different sizes, it may not be the most cost-effective solution for everyone. Smaller businesses or startups with limited budgets might find the recurring monthly fees and transaction charges too expensive. In such cases, exploring more affordable alternatives or free, open-source platforms can help entrepreneurs find a better-suited solution without compromising on essential features or functionality.

Limited Customisation

Shopify might not offer advanced or specific features needed by some businesses. Although the platform comes with a variety of built-in themes and customization options, it may not satisfy the requirements of businesses with highly specialized needs. Certain niche industries or unique business models might necessitate more advanced or tailored features that Shopify cannot provide out of the box. In these situations, seeking a platform that offers more flexibility or custom development options can be crucial for achieving a tailored online store experience.

Internationalisation

Shopify’s support for multi-currency transactions might not be optimal. As businesses expand globally, the ability to handle multiple currencies and languages becomes increasingly important. While Shopify does offer some level of support for international transactions, it might not be sufficient or robust enough for businesses with a strong focus on global markets. In such cases, it’s essential to evaluate other e-commerce platforms that provide enhanced multi-currency and multi-language capabilities to ensure a seamless shopping experience for customers worldwide.

Integrations and Extensions

Shopify’s available options may not meet specific business requirements. Shopify boasts a rich ecosystem of integrations and extensions, but they may not always align with a particular business’s unique needs. Certain industries or business models may require specific integrations or add-ons that are not readily available within Shopify’s app store. When this occurs, entrepreneurs should explore other e-commerce platforms that offer a broader range of compatible integrations or more open and flexible API options, enabling seamless connections with essential third-party services and applications.

Additionally, these alternatives allow you to align your platform choice with your business goals for better success.

Shopify Alternatives Australia (Free)

1. WooCommerce

WooCommerce, a highly-rated e-commerce platform, is an ideal Shopify alternative for many entrepreneurs due to its open-source, free-to-use nature. It offers a responsive and mobile-friendly design, allowing users to quickly build sites with sophisticated carts.

Although scalability requires investment in a more expensive version, WooCommerce’s advanced features can be acquired through a one-time payment, unlike Shopify’s monthly premiums. While troubleshooting may not be its forte, WooCommerce can be paired with reliable e-commerce hosting solutions and abandoned cart plugins to enhance your store’s performance. 

Additionally, it enables easy upselling post-sale, letting customers add new products or recommendations with a single click.

Pros

• High customizability and flexibility due to its open-source nature
• Large community of developers and users providing support
• Seamless integration with WordPress
• Wide range of extensions and plugins are available
• No monthly fees or transaction costs

Cons

• Requires some technical knowledge to set up and maintain
• Limited features compared to some other e-commerce platforms
• Performance may be affected by the quality of hosting and plugins used

Pricing

You can get this for free on WordPress. Nevertheless, expenses may arise from hosting, domain registration, premium themes, and add-ons. The total expenditure will vary based on the user’s unique needs and preferences.

2. Magento

Magento, a widely-known e-commerce platform, was acquired by eBay in 2011 and later by Adobe in 2018. Ideal for established store owners, Magento boasts a vast global community. 

It is considered one of the top Shopify alternatives. Although the content management software is free, hosting, themes, and plugins come at an additional cost. As a CMS platform, Magento emphasizes selling products through an open-source ecosystem, making it an excellent choice for businesses aiming to scale up and expand their reach in the market.

Pros

• Highly customisable and scalable to suit businesses of all sizes
• Large community of developers and users offering support and resources
• Robust set of features and functionality
• Wide range of available extensions and integrations
• SEO-friendly platform to help improve search engine rankings

Cons

• Requires a higher level of technical expertise for setup and maintenance
• Can be resource-intensive, necessitating powerful hosting and optimisation
• The learning curve may be steep for non-technical users
• Some extensions and add-ons can be expensive

Pricing

Magento offers two main editions:

The first one is Magento Open Source. As the name suggests, it is available for free. It is considered one of the best Shopify open source alternatives. On the other hand, Magento Commerce is the premium, cloud-based version of the platform designed for larger businesses and enterprises.

3. PrestaShop

PrestaShop is an attractive Shopify alternative, particularly for budget-conscious e-commerce entrepreneurs. As an open-source platform, it is free to download, although expenses for hosting and domain names still apply.

PrestaShop offers its own marketplace, PrestaShop Addon, where users can download modules and themes. While its themes and templates might not be as impressive as those of its competitors, its usability is on par with Shopify.

Moreover, it supports up to 25 languages and multiple currencies with no additional transaction fees. By collaborating with an experienced PrestaShop developer, users can create an outstanding online store without breaking the bank.

Pros

• User-friendly interface and easy-to-use admin panel
• Highly customisable with a wide range of themes and modules available
• Active community of developers and users providing support
• Free to download and use, with optional paid add-ons and services
• Multilingual and multi-currency support

Cons

• Some technical knowledge may be required for setup and customisation
• Limited built-in features compared to some other e-commerce platforms
• Hosting, domain registration, and premium add-ons can increase costs

Pricing

PrestaShop is a free, open-source e-commerce platform. However, users may incur costs related to hosting, domain registration, premium themes, modules, and any additional customisation or development work. The overall cost will depend on the user’s specific requirements and choices.

4. OpenCart

This open-source platform rivals Shopify with its modern and customisable interface, enabling users to create professional-looking websites tailored to their needs.

Having strong documentation and a sizable user base, OpenCart supports thousands of add-ons and third-party modules, which are highly sought after by e-commerce clients. This versatile platform allows management of multiple online stores through a single backend, although a hosting service is required.

Users can also enhance their stores with various purchasable extensions, making OpenCart a powerful and customisable Shopify alternative.

Pros

• Simple and user-friendly interface
• Easy to set up and maintain with minimal technical knowledge
• Large selection of themes and extensions are available
• Active community of developers and users for support
• Free to download and use, with optional paid add-ons and services

Cons

• Limited built-in features compared to some other e-commerce platforms
• Customisation options may be more restricted than other open-source alternatives
• Hosting, domain registration, and premium add-ons can increase costs
• Performance may be affected by the quality of hosting and plugins used

Pricing

OpenCart is a free, open-source e-commerce platform. However, users may incur costs related to hosting, domain registration, premium themes, extensions, and any additional customisation or development work. The overall cost will depend on the user’s specific requirements and choices.

5. osCommerce

osCommerce, short for “open source Commerce,” is a free Shopify open source alternative that allows users to create and manage online stores. It is one of the pioneers in the e-commerce industry and has powered thousands of online stores worldwide. It is known for its vast selection of add-ons.

Pros

• Highly customisable with a wide range of add-ons available
• Free to download and use, with optional paid add-ons and services
• Long-standing history in the e-commerce industry
• Can handle a large number of products and categories

Cons

• Outdated user interface and design compared to more modern e-commerce platforms
• Requires technical knowledge for setup, customisation, and maintenance
• Limited built-in features compared to some other e-commerce platforms
• Hosting, domain registration, and premium add-ons can increase costs
• Less active development compared to some other open-source platforms

Pricing

osCommerce is a free, open-source e-commerce platform. However, users may incur costs related to hosting, domain registration, premium add-ons, and any additional customisation or development work. The overall cost will depend on the user’s specific requirements and choices.

Table 1. Comparison of Free Shopify Alternatives in Australia

Best Shopify Alternatives Australia (Paid)

Paid e-commerce platforms often provide a more comprehensive set of features, better performance, and dedicated support, making them more suitable for businesses with complex requirements or those looking for a fully managed solution.

1. BigCommerce

BigCommerce is a renowned Shopify competitor, making it an ideal e-commerce platform for larger businesses seeking a seamless experience and the flexibility of a drag-and-drop editor. While the platform offers stunning themes, only seven free options are available, necessitating additional spending for premium themes.

Despite its slightly slower load times compared to other platforms, BigCommerce boasts advanced content-marketing features and numerous built-in features, reducing app store expenses compared to Shopify. BigCommerce caters to businesses with varying product quantities and revenue generation, allowing for tailored e-commerce solutions.

Pros

• Extensive built-in features, reducing the need for additional apps or extensions
• User-friendly interface and easy-to-use admin panel
• Highly scalable, making it suitable for businesses with ambitious growth plans
• Robust API for custom integrations and development
• No transaction fees for using external payment gateways

Cons

• Pricing can be higher than some other e-commerce platforms
• Limited free themes available
• Some users may find the platform’s extensive features overwhelming

Pricing

It has four pricing packages, you can choose from the following:

• Standard: $29/month, including all basic features for small businesses
• Plus: $79/month, including additional marketing tools and features for growing businesses
• Pro: $299/month, including advanced features, higher API limits, and priority support for established businesses
• Enterprise: Custom pricing based on individual business requirements, including custom features, priority support, and API resources

2. Volusion

Volusion is a popular Shopify alternative, serving as a cloud-based shopping cart for over 200,000 businesses. Particularly favoured by smaller companies seeking growth, Volusion’s convenient one-click checkout feature enhances the customer experience. The platform offers a broad array of plugins and features for seamless integration into online stores, making it especially well-suited for shipping businesses.

Moreover, users should be well-versed in managing shipping costs to maximise the benefits of Volusion’s e-commerce solution. With its robust functionality and user-friendly features, Volusion stands out as a reliable choice among e-commerce platforms.

Pros

• User-friendly interface, making it easy for users with little technical knowledge to set up and manage their online stores
• Comprehensive built-in features, reducing the need for additional apps or extensions
• Responsive themes available for better mobile compatibility
• No transaction fees for using the platform
• Dedicated support and resources for users

Cons

• Limited customisation options compared to more flexible e-commerce platforms
• Does not offer a free plan or free trial for users to test the platform
• Bandwidth limits and overage fees can increase costs for businesses with high traffic volume
• Some users have reported issues with platform updates and feature changes

Pricing

You can choose from four pricing options, including:

• Custom: Custom pricing for businesses with specific requirements, features, and support for unlimited products
• Business: $299/month
• Professional: $79/month
• Personal: $35/month

3. Wix

Wix is a widely popular Shopify alternative, serving as an all-in-one website builder for creating websites, blogs, and online stores. With its mobile app, users can manage their stores on the go, while Wix Email Marketing streamlines promotional efforts. Boasting over 100 templates, a variety of apps, customisable themes, and an intuitive editor, Wix caters to both beginners and advanced users.

The platform offers two site setup methods: ADI, an automated assistant, and Wix Editor, a drag-and-drop interface for full user control. But, Wix may not be ideal for large stores due to potential limitations in site navigation as the site expands.

Pros

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface suitable for users with limited technical knowledge
• Extensive library of templates and customisation options
• Comprehensive built-in features, reducing the need for additional apps or extensions
• Scalable plans to suit businesses of different sizes and requirements
• Dedicated support and resources for users

Cons

• Limited customisation and extensibility compared to more advanced e-commerce platforms
• Some users report difficulties with SEO optimisation
• Sales features are only available with the higher-priced plans

Pricing

Pricing plans of Wix include:

• Basic: $17/month
• Unlimited: $25/month
• VIP: $35/month

4. Squarespace

Squarespace is an ideal choice for those seeking a visually stunning and user-friendly platform for their online business with a smaller product catalogue. With the availability of an impressive website-building tool and a variety of templates, Squarespace allows you to create a top-notch online store with minimal effort. 

Users can gain access to unlimited pages, blogs, galleries, contributors, a free domain, and more. Moreover, it’s worth noting that Squarespace only supports PayPal and Stripe for online payments. While primarily celebrated for its design capabilities, Squarespace also offers marketing features and integrations, including AdWords, MailChimp, and Amazon Affiliates tracking.

Pros

• Beautiful, responsive templates with a strong emphasis on design
• Easy-to-use drag-and-drop editor
• Integrated e-commerce functionality
• Built-in SEO tools and analytics
• Mobile-friendly editing capabilities
• Excellent customer support

Cons

• Limited customisation compared to other platforms
• No app store for third-party extensions
• Not the best option for large-scale e-commerce businesses
• Higher learning curve for those unfamiliar with web design

Pricing

You can select one of the following offers from Squarespace:

• Personal (annual plan): $16/month
• Personal (monthly plan): $23/month 
• Business (annual plan): $23/month 
• Business (monthly plan): $33/month
• Basic Commerce (annual plan): $27/month
• Basic Commerce (monthly plan): $36/month
• Advanced Commerce (annual plan): $49/month
• Advanced Commerce (monthly plan): $65/month

5. Big Cartel

Big Cartel is an ecommerce platform specifically designed for artists and creatives who want to sell their unique products online. With a focus on simplicity and ease of use, Big Cartel provides a platform for small businesses, makers, and independent artists to showcase their work and sell their creations without the complexities of larger ecommerce platforms.

Pros

• Simple and user-friendly interface, perfect for beginners
• Specifically designed for artists and creatives
• Allows for a more personal, branded experience
• Offers a free plan for those just starting out

Cons

• Limited in terms of scalability and advanced features
• Not suitable for larger businesses or stores with a diverse product range
• Fewer integrations and extensions compared to other platforms
• Limited payment gateway options

Pricing

Big Cartel offers four pricing plans:

• Free plan: Allows for up to 5 products, limited features, and basic customisation
• Platinum plan: $9.99/month, up to 50 products, additional features, and customisation options
• Diamond plan: $19.99/month, up to 500 products, full access to features and customisation

Table 2. Comparison of Best Paid Shopify Alternatives in Australia

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Shopify Alternative for Your Business

These are the most crucial factors that you need to take into account when choosing a Shopify alternative:

Consider Your Business Size and Goals

One of the first things to consider is the size of your business and your goals. For example, if you are just starting out and have a limited budget, a free or low-cost option may be the best fit. On the other hand, if you are an established business with a large inventory, you may need a more scalable platform.

Identify Your Priorities

Different e-commerce platforms offer different features and capabilities. It’s important to identify what your priorities are and what features are most important to your business. This could include ease of use, customisation options, marketing tools, payment gateways, shipping options, and more.

Evaluate Customer Support and Community Resources

The quality of customer support and community resources can make a big difference in your experience with an e-commerce platform. Look for platforms that offer dedicated support and resources, as well as active online communities where you can ask questions and get help from other users.

Assess the Platform’s Scalability for Future Growth

Finally; it’s important to consider how scalable the platform is for future growth. Can it accommodate a growing inventory and increasing traffic? Is it easy to add new features and integrations as needed? These are important factors to consider if you plan to grow your business over time.

By following these steps and doing your research, you can choose the best alternative to Shopify for your business and set yourself up for success in the world of e-commerce.

Final Thoughts

There are several excellent Shopify alternatives in Australia, catering to businesses with diverse needs, budgets, and technical expertise. Whether you’re seeking a free, open-source option like WooCommerce or Magento, or you prefer a paid solution like BigCommerce, Volusion, Wix, or Squarespace, the options are plenty.

While Shopify has gained popularity in the e-commerce space, these alternatives provide better pricing, customisation, and features tailored to the unique needs of Australian businesses. By carefully considering factors like cost, customisation, internationalisation, and integrations, you can find the best platform to launch and grow your online store.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Free Alternative to Shopify?

You can use WooCommerce, a free WordPress plugin, as an alternative to Shopify. It enables users to develop an online store on the WordPress platform and provides comparable features to Shopify at zero cost. But, to access specific functionalities, users may need to purchase additional plugins and themes.

Is there an Australian equivalent to Shopify?

Yes, there are Australian equivalents to Shopify, such as Wix (paid) and WooCommerce (free). Wix is a website builder with e-commerce capabilities that offers similar features to Shopify, like website building, inventory management, and order processing.

In contrast, WooCommerce is a no-cost, open-source e-commerce plugin for WordPress that empowers users to construct an online store with WordPress and furnishes comparable features to Shopify. Both Wix and WooCommerce are well-liked choices among Australian businesses for their e-commerce sites.

Is Shopify Better than WooCommerce?

Determining the superior option hinges on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. Shopify is a hosted solution that delivers a user-friendly experience, simplifying the process of setting up and maintaining an online store, especially for beginners. On the other hand, WooCommerce presents more customisation possibilities and is free to utilise, but it necessitates greater technical knowledge and upkeep.

Why is Magento Better than Shopify?

Magento is often considered better than Shopify for larger businesses or those requiring more advanced features and customisation. Magento is an open-source platform that offers more flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to build complex and highly customised online stores. But, it requires more technical expertise and can be more challenging to set up and manage compared to Shopify.