How we review & rank eCommerce platforms

Research, then compare

Our initial platform guides use desk research of official provider product pages, supported by the comparison resources listed below. We do not present these summaries as hands-on tests or customer review aggregates.

Our five platform scoring criteria

Each platform receives an editorial score from 1 to 10 for each criterion. The published overall score is the arithmetic average, shown to one decimal place. A score of 10 indicates a particularly strong fit within this shortlist, not a guarantee or a measured benchmark.

• Ease of use: accessibility of setup and everyday store management.
• Selling tools: catalogue, checkout, orders and channel capabilities.
• Design flexibility: control over storefront presentation and customisation.
• Growth potential: integrations and options for more complex needs.
• Value & ownership: likely cost considerations and operational responsibility.

Ratings and rankings are editorial judgements. Rankings also consider the breadth of businesses a platform suits; the order is not simply a sort by score. The best option for a specific business can differ from our overall first pick.

What to verify yourself

Confirm current pricing, plan limits, regional payment options and integrations with the provider before buying. We avoid fixed price promises because billing terms and promotions change.

Commercial relationships

Some outbound links are affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you buy through them. See our affiliate disclosure.

Research references

• Shopify product information
• Wix eCommerce
• Squarespace commerce
• BigCommerce
• WooCommerce
• Ecwid
• Wix platform comparison and illustration source
• Pradeep Singh’s platform shortlist and affiliate links
• Wise UK platform guide
• Printful dropshipping guide

Help us keep the guides useful

If you spot something that has changed, send us the page and an official source. Initial research: 30 October 2026.