Squarespace vs. Shopify

Choosing the right platform for your online business is super important, and the decision can definitely not be made with a one-size-fits-all approach. Squarespace and Shopify are two prominent players in the field, each offering unique features and capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between the two so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and business goals:

EASE OF USE:

One of the key factors to consider when selecting an e-commerce platform is ease of use. Squarespace is known for its user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The drag-and-drop functionality allows users to create visually appealing website content without extensive coding knowledge. On the other hand, Shopify, while still user-friendly, may have a steeper learning curve due to its more extensive feature set - don’t worry, this is where we can help you!

DESIGN AND CUSTOMISATION:

Both Squarespace and Shopify offer a range of professionally designed templates that can be customised to fit your brand. Squarespace excels in providing visually stunning templates, with a strong focus on aesthetics. However, Shopify's theme store offers more flexibility and a wider variety of options, including both free and premium themes. Additionally, Shopify allows for more advanced customisation through coding.

E-COMMERCE FEATURES:

When it comes to e-commerce features, Shopify is a powerhouse and undoubtedly your best option for selling product. It is specifically designed for online selling and provides a comprehensive suite of tools for inventory management, order processing, and payment gateways. Squarespace, while capable, doesn’t match Shopify's extensive e-commerce capabilities. Shopify also has a vast app store where users can integrate third-party apps to enhance functionality.

SEO AND BLOGGING:

Squarespace is known for its SEO-friendly features, including clean URL structures and the ability to customise meta tags. It also includes a built-in blogging platform, making it suitable for content marketing. Shopify, while still SEO-friendly, may require some additional effort for optimisation. However, it does offer a robust blogging platform and integrates well with various content marketing strategies.

The right choice depends on your specific business needs and future scalability requirements. Squarespace is an excellent option for those seeking simplicity, beautiful design, and ease of use - it’s my go-to for client’s wanting to display their work through imagery - interior designers, photographers, stylists and bloggers. Shopify on the other hand, shines for ecommerce businesses that require advanced features and scalability. 

Still unsure? Or think you may be on the wrong platform? We have migrated many clients over from WooCommerce, Wix and Squarespace to Shopify, and promise it is a totally stress-free process! Find out how we can help you here and get in touch to chat it through with us!