10 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Startups to Launch Their Store in 2025
December 16, 2024
Ramin Popal
The excitement can be overwhelming when you first launch your online store. But as you prepare to open your digital doors, you’ll likely feel overwhelmed by the number of decisions you must make. Choosing an ecommerce platform can feel daunting, as these tools will power every aspect of your business. But don’t stress! This guide will introduce you to the best ecommerce platforms for small businesses and startups to help you confidently launch your store in 2025.
As you read through this list, consider using the AI Store Builder’s AI store builder to help you get started. This easy-to-use tool enables you to create a fully functional online store in hours without technical skills.
What Are E-commerce Platforms?
E-commerce platforms are software solutions that enable businesses to create and manage online stores. They provide the tools necessary to showcase products, process payments, track inventory, and manage customer interactions—all in one place.
Platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce offer ready-made tools for building a store without requiring advanced technical skills. This eliminates the need for custom coding and makes online retail accessible to everyone, from tech-savvy entrepreneurs to beginners.
E-commerce platforms simplify the complexities of running an online store, allowing startups to focus on growing their business instead of worrying about technical hurdles.
Two Types of E-commerce Platforms for Startups: SaaS and Self-Hosted
There are two main types of e-commerce platforms: self-hosted platforms and software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms.
Self-Hosted Platforms: Control and Customization
Self-hosted platforms require users to set up and maintain their servers. They are highly customizable, making them ideal for businesses needing specific features or complete control over their store’s design and functionality. For example, WooCommerce is a self-hosted solution built for WordPress users. It offers extensive customization, but you’ll need to manage hosting, updates, and security yourself.
Best for Tech-savvy startups with unique requirements or businesses with a WordPress site.
SaaS Platforms: User-Friendly and Hassle-Free
The provider hosts and manages SaaS platforms, meaning businesses don’t have to worry about server maintenance or technical updates. They are user-friendly and designed for ease of use. For example, Shopify is a SaaS platform that handles hosting, security, and updates, offering a wide range of pre-built themes and apps.
Best for Startups looking for a simple, hassle-free way to launch their store.
Key Takeaway: Understanding the differences between self-hosted and SaaS platforms helps startups choose a solution that aligns with their technical capabilities, budget, and business goals.
Why E-commerce Platforms Are Essential for Startups
For startups, e-commerce platforms provide a cost-effective and scalable way to enter the online market. They eliminate the need for extensive development and reduce the time it takes to launch a store.
Benefits for Startups
Ease of Use: Platforms like Shopify and Wix are designed intuitively, enabling entrepreneurs to create a professional store without experience.
Built-in Tools: Most platforms come equipped with marketing tools, payment gateways, and analytics features, saving startups the cost and hassle of integrating these separately.
Cost-Effectiveness: SaaS platforms offer subscription plans tailored to different budgets, making it easy for startups to start small and scale as they grow.
Global Reach: Many platforms support international sales, multiple languages, and currencies, allowing startups to tap into a worldwide market.
Shopify is a leading all-in-one e-commerce platform that caters to businesses of all sizes. It simplifies online store creation with its easy-to-use interface, robust app ecosystem, and 24/7 support.
Features
Drag-and-drop store builder with professional themes
Integration with various sales channels (Instagram, Facebook, Amazon)
Abundant third-party apps for extended functionality
Best For
Startups seeking a user-friendly platform with scalability and extensive support.
Example
A fashion startup can use Shopify to integrate their store with Instagram, manage inventory, and launch marketing campaigns effortlessly.
2. Wix: The E-commerce Solution for Creatives
Wix is a versatile website builder with an intuitive drag-and-drop editor that now extends its capabilities to e-commerce. It’s ideal for beginners with limited technical knowledge.
Features
Customizable templates tailored to online stores
Integrated payment gateways and shipping options
Built-in marketing tools, including email campaigns and SEO
Best For
Creative entrepreneurs prioritize aesthetics and ease of use.
Example
A handmade jewelry startup can quickly set up a visually appealing store and manage promotions directly within the Wix platform.
3. BigCommerce: The E-commerce Solution for Growth
BigCommerce offers robust tools for scaling businesses. It’s a highly flexible platform that provides advanced features for managing extensive inventories and growing catalogs.
Features
Built-in SEO and analytics tools.
Multi-channel integration with social media, marketplaces, and POS systems
No transaction fees, even with third-party payment gateways
Best For
Startups with high growth ambitions and large product catalogs.
Example
An electronics startup can use BigCommerce to handle its extensive inventory, integrate multiple sales channels, and optimize for SEO.
4. Adobe Commerce (formerly Magento): The Customizable E-commerce Solution
Adobe Commerce is an open-source platform for businesses requiring advanced customization and scalability. It’s ideal for startups with technical expertise or access to developers.
Features
Highly customizable with open-source flexibility
Support for multi-store operations and international commerce
Advanced analytics for in-depth business insights
Best For
Startups aiming for global operations and requiring unique store features.
Example
A tech startup launching products internationally can benefit from Adobe Commerce’s multi-language and multi-currency support.
5. WooCommerce: The Budget-Friendly E-commerce Option
WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin that transforms any WordPress site into an online store. It’s highly customizable and integrates smoothly with existing WordPress sites.
Features
Free to install with extensive plugin options
Unlimited products and order management
Scalable with hosting and third-party services
Best For
Entrepreneurs already familiar with WordPress or seeking a budget-friendly option.
Example
A small bookstore with a WordPress blog can use WooCommerce to add e-commerce functionality and sell books online.
6. Squarespace: The Design-Oriented E-commerce Platform
Squarespace combines stunning design templates with essential e-commerce features, making it a favorite among creatives and small businesses.
Features
High-quality, customizable templates
Built-in email marketing and blogging tools
Integration with social media platforms
Best For
Startups that emphasize design and storytelling to sell their products.
Example
A photography business can use Squarespace to showcase a portfolio while offering prints and digital downloads.
7. Big Cartel: The Simple E-commerce Solution for Artists
Big Cartel is a simple platform designed for artists, makers, and small businesses selling a limited number of products.
Features
Free plan for stores with up to 5 products
Customizable themes with minimal effort
No transaction fees
Best For
Creative entrepreneurs are managing a small product range.
Example
An indie clothing designer can use Big Cartel to sell exclusive, handmade items.
8. Square Online: The E-commerce Platform for Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Square Online integrates smoothly with Square’s payment and POS systems, making it an excellent option for businesses with both online and offline sales.
Features
Free plan with basic online store capabilities
Automatic inventory sync with Square POS
Built-in tools for curbside pickup and delivery
Best For
Brick-and-mortar startups are expanding online.
Example
A coffee shop can use Square Online to sell merchandise and offer local product delivery.
9. Shift4Shop (formerly 3dcart): The Affordable E-commerce Solution
Shift4Shop is a feature-rich e-commerce platform for startups seeking affordability without compromising functionality.
Features
Free access with Shift4 payment processing
Built-in SEO, abandoned cart recovery, and CRM tools
Over 50 customizable themes
Best For
Cost-conscious startups are looking for an all-in-one solution.
Example
A startup selling fitness gear can use Shift4Shop to create a professional store with minimal upfront costs.
10. Volusion: The E-commerce Platform for Inventory Management
Volusion offers an intuitive platform with essential e-commerce tools, including inventory management and payment processing.
Features
Integrated analytics for real-time insights
Easy product management and order processing
Responsive templates for mobile optimization
Best For
Startups prioritizing inventory management and customer experience.
Example
A gadget startup can use Volusion to manage stock levels and streamline order fulfillment efficiently.
AI Store Builder: The Quickest Way to an Online Store
At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes. We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
A tech gadget store can emphasize unique features like battery life, compatibility, and portability.
5. Set Up Payment and Shipping Options
Providing flexible payment and shipping choices can reduce cart abandonment rates.
How to Do It
Offer multiple payment methods (e.g., credit cards, PayPal, and Buy Now, Pay Later options).
Partner with reliable shipping providers and clearly outline shipping costs and timelines.
Example
An international art store can use multi-currency payment processors and display shipping options tailored to different regions.
6. Leverage Marketing Strategies
Effective marketing drives traffic to your store and increases sales.
How to Do It
Run social media campaigns targeting your ideal customer.
Use email marketing to engage returning visitors with personalized offers.
Invest in paid ads for quick visibility.
Example
A pet supply store can run Instagram ads featuring cute pets using their products, appealing to animal lovers.
7. Test and Launch
Testing ensures your store is ready for customers and free of technical issues.
How to Do It
Conduct beta tests with a small audience to identify any bugs or usability issues.
Use analytics tools to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) like bounce rates and load times.
Example
A food delivery startup can test its order process to ensure smooth transactions before launching publicly.
8. Monitor Performance and Iterate
Continuous improvement helps your store adapt to changing customer needs and market trends.
How to Do It
Tools like Google Analytics can track visitor behavior and sales performance.
Gather customer feedback to improve the shopping experience.
Example
If customers frequently abandon their carts, consider revising your checkout process to make it more user-friendly.
AI Store Builder: The Quickest Way to an Online Store
At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes. We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
Get Your Store Built for you in Less Than 10 Minutes Today
Starting an online business can feel overwhelming. There are many decisions to make, from your business structure to your marketing plan. Building a store even takes time, just to prepare for the real work of launching your business. AI Store Builder cuts out the time it takes to make an online store, so you can skip right to running your business. At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes.
We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
.png)
%20(1).png)