So, it comes as no surprise that starting an ecommerce business is the superior way to make money online. Whether you work with a dropshipping operation, sell directly to consumers, or run a print-on-demand store, there are a multitude of platforms you can leverage to set you up for success.

Some of the best ecommerce platforms — BigCommerce and WooCommerce — offer extensive features that allow you to feature your products to prospective buyers and generate sales.

The greatest challenge is figuring out which platform your business needs most.

If you want to set up WooCommerce or a BigCommerce store, it’s important to compare the features, pricing, and advantages of each platform.

What is BigCommerce? 

BigCommerce is an all-in-one e-commerce platform suited for users seeking to build an online store without extensive coding knowledge. For new webmasters, it has all the components needed in one place to build a workmanlike website with pizzazz.

BigCommerce is a hosted solution by default, which means you get web hosting services, so you won’t have to get a third-party host. BigCommerce is another ecommerce platforms that can get you up and running simply, especially for those looking for an all-in-one solution.

Key Features of BigCommerce 

A flexible business-based ecommerce solution for SMEs now and in the future Whether you’re beginning with a simple storefront or hoping to expand, BigCommerce has the resources to help you along the way.

Below are some of the key features of BigCommerce:

• Website Builder with Drop and Drag and Mobile Responsive Designs

• A range of free themes, along with customizable ones.

• Inventory management and compatibility with third-party apps

• Single dashboard multi-storefront capabilities

• Free SSL certificates and security features included

• CMS tools, web hosting, and API integrations

• SEO features like custom URLs

• Marketing tools including email hosting and campaign management

• Integration with major marketplaces including Amazon, Walmart, Facebook, and Instagram

• Global sales and shipping support

• Live chat and extensive support resources available

• A WordPress plugin for native integration with existing WordPress sites

This allows businesses with unique needs to easily add functionality and benefits to their stores through third-party app integrations.

BigCommerce Pricing 

The pricing tiers available in BigCommerce cater to the requirements of diverse businesses. And its highly affordable Plus plan starts at $79.00 a month (annual billing). This plan offers marketing tools, up to five storefronts, and payment processing through multiple payment gateways.

For finance-conscious merchants, a Standard plan can be subscribed from $29.00 per month (billed annually), which covers rudimentary features for getting your store to work. As your business expands, you may upgrade to higher-tier plans.

BigCommerce uses a transparent pricing model, charging only a monthly subscription fee with no additional transaction fees.

Who Should Use BigCommerce? 

Best suited for small businesses and starts-up searching for an easy way to create an online store. It’s particularly useful for brick-and-mortar companies such as restaurants or local businesses that hopes to grow their sales online. BigCommerce may be the best option if you value ease-of-use and scalability.

If you consider ease of use and scalability, BigCommerce is an excellent choice. 

What is WooCommerce? 

WooCommerce is an open-source client solution available as a module for WordPress sites. Unlike BigCommerce, it isn’t a standalone website builder or hosting platform. Rather, it builds upon the potential of a WordPress site and makes it possible for users to set up highly customizable online stores.

WooCommerce is the most popular ecommerce platform in the world and is known for its flexibility. It’s a great choice for companies that need control and have distinct needs for their online stores.

Key Features of WooCommerce 

WooCommerce transforms WordPress sites into powerful ecommerce platforms. By leveraging this plugin, you can sell products, manage inventory, and integrate additional features tailored to your business. 

Key features of WooCommerce include: 

• Multi-channel integrations with platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and social media 

• A vast selection of themes and extensions, including no-code block themes 

• Support for multiple payment gateways 

• Marketing tools like email automation, digital ads, coupons, and upsells 

• SEO optimization and blogging tools via WordPress 

• Access to a network of professional agencies for customization assistance 

• Comprehensive support resources, including forums and documentation 

• Paid Woo Express plans for quicker store setup 

• Advanced tools for developers and enterprise-level users 

While WooCommerce offers extensive customization options, it requires some technical knowledge to set up and manage effectively. However, the availability of free themes and a large support community can help simplify the process. 

WooCommerce Pricing 

The WooCommerce plugin itself is free to download and use. However, setting up a WooCommerce store involves additional costs depending on your requirements. These costs may include: 

• Hosting services for your WordPress website 

• Domain name registration and renewal 

• Premium plugins or extensions 

• Paid Woo Express plans (starting at $25.00 per month, billed annually) 

• Customization or development services 

For beginners, Woo Express offers an affordable entry point, with a free trial and an initial cost of $1.00 per month for the first three months. 

Who Should Use WooCommerce? 

WooCommerce is the best for WordPress users and people who are quite tech-savvy and can manage customization. Ideal for businesses that seek total control of their online stores and are ready to invest time into setup and configuration.

WooCommerce is an excellent candidate for anyone looking for a scalable, highly customizable ecommerce platform.

This allows you to choose the platform best suited for your business goals by contrasting features and advantages of BigCommerce and WooCommerce. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your specific use case and technical know-how, as each platform has its own particular strengths.