Wix vs Shopify: Which website builder is better for ecommerce?

Wix and Shopify are two of the best website builders for ecommerce in 2025. Both let you build an online store without needing to code. But there are clear differences in ecommerce power and flexibility.

Wix is best for small to medium businesses looking for an easy-to-use and affordable solution with basic commerce features. Shopify is geared toward larger stores that want advanced features and scalability. Finding the best ecommerce builder is all about matching features to your goals, so this guide will help you get down to the brass tacks of each platform before you make your decision.

Wix vs Shopify: A detailed breakdown

Wix vs Shopify: Features

When you compare ecommerce features, Shopify pulls out all the stops. It offers powerful product management, global inventory sync, built-in automation, and advanced analytics. There’s a marketplace packed with apps, plus top-tier payment and shipping integrations, even for wholesale and B2B. Plus, AI-driven design tools and smart storefronts make Shopify super flexible.

Wix, meanwhile, delivers reliably well for smaller sellers. You get 2,000+ templates, easy drag-and-drop editing, multichannel sales, subscriptions, and strong SEO tools. Wix supports digital goods, a robust media library, and custom checkout, but its advanced ecommerce options are more limited. Both platforms have mobile-optimized design and strong security.

Shopify wins for features if you need high-end ecommerce tools, especially for scaling businesses or selling internationally. Wix is better for boutiques or creative brands looking for a simple yet stylish storefront.

Wix vs Shopify: Ease of use

Wix is built for beginners. You can launch a store in minutes thanks to its user-friendly editor, simple setup assistant, and clear dashboard. There’s no coding, and everything can be personalized right from your browser. Wix relies heavily on visual editing and AI support, with labeled options and helpful prompts. Even so, its deep feature set sometimes clutters the interface, which may slow down editing or overwhelm absolute newcomers.

Shopify feels more complex up front. The signup process is longer and sometimes confusing, especially for first-timers. After that, though, daily usage is straightforward, inventory, orders, and shipping are simple to manage. Shopify’s drag-and-drop block editor and mobile responsiveness are top-tier once you’re over the initial learning bump. You also get instant access to automation and smart reporting tools.

For pure simplicity, Wix is the clear winner. For sellers who like more control or those who aren’t afraid of a short learning curve, Shopify takes the edge.

Wix vs Shopify: Support

Wix and Shopify both offer solid support.

Wix provides 24/7 live chat, email, and phone callbacks for all users (with priority for higher plans). Most issues are sorted quickly through live chat, and the help center is always available. Some advanced questions or phone support may have wait times depending on language and region, but response rates are excellent.

Shopify also has 24/7 support via live chat, email, and phone. A global help center packed with guides, forums, and FAQs backs up human agents. Shopify even integrates AI-powered chat and support apps for fast troubleshooting. Free trial users get access too, but there are extra perks for paid plans like specialist channels for technical and developer questions.

Shopify wins here for reliability, speed, and depth. Wix is great for everyday needs, but its support ecosystem is less robust for high-volume sellers and technical challenges.

Wix vs Shopify: Pricing and plans

Wix pricing is straightforward. There's a time-restricted free trial and a forever-free plan with limited features, which is great for test runs while you get your sea legs. Paid plans range from $17/month to $159/month, billed annually. Features scale up with price: higher tiers unlock advanced ecommerce tools, extra storage, and priority support. What we love is no hidden fees or renewal spikes, so budgeting is simple.

Shopify starts with a 3-day free trial, then offers a month at $1, and paid plans kick in after starting at $29/month. Advanced plans offer more staff accounts, inventory locations, and lower transaction fees. Shopify has a Starter tier (for basic online presence) and a Plus tier for enterprise sellers (with custom integrations and priority support). Pricing varies by region, but overall, Shopify is pricier, especially once you start adding paid apps or custom integrations.

Wix wins for small business budgets. Shopify is better for serious sellers who need more advanced tools and scalability, just expect a steeper monthly bill especially with transaction charges if you use third-party payment gateways.

Wix vs Shopify: Final verdict

Wix and Shopify are both excellent, but they serve different needs. Wix stands out for its simple setup and affordable prices. It’s perfect for personal brands, creatives, and small stores. Shopify is the powerhouse for bigger shops, advanced sales, and global ambitions. If you want to grow fast or sell thousands of products, Shopify’s tools can’t be beat.

Our advice: choose Wix for an easy start on a tight budget and pick Shopify if you need deep ecommerce features and room to scale.

Wix vs Shopify: FAQs