Selecting the appropriate platform to launch your online business is essential if you’re new to the eCommerce space. Shopify has positioned itself as an all-inclusive and user-friendly solution for both new and experienced business owners. However, is it truly worthwhile for novices? To determine whether this is the best option, let’s examine the platform’s features, earning potential, alternatives, and expenses.
Do People Make Money on Shopify?
Absolutely. Many entrepreneurs have turned their Shopify stores into successful businesses. However, like any business, success on this depends on your effort, product quality, marketing strategies, and ability to meet customer demand. Some of the ways people make money on Shopify include:
- Dropshipping: Selling products without holding inventory.
- Print on Demand: Offering customized items like T-shirts or mugs.
- Selling Digital Products: Such as eBooks, courses, or software.
With the right niche and strategy, you can grow a profitable business on Shopify.
What Are Some Alternatives to Shopify for Beginners?
While Shopify is popular, some beginners may find it beneficial to explore other options:
- WooCommerce: Ideal for WordPress users, WooCommerce is a free plugin that offers more flexibility. However, you’ll need hosting and domain services separately.
- BigCommerce: Known for its scalability, BigCommerce offers similar features to this but includes more built-in tools, which may be appealing for beginners.
- Squarespace: Easier for design-focused businesses, Squarespace offers stylish templates with simple eCommerce functionalities.
Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses, so choosing the right one depends on your needs.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Shopify for Beginners?
Here’s a quick breakdown of Shopify’s pros and cons:
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Easy to set up and manage.
- Scalable: Shopify grows with your business, offering features for both small startups and larger enterprises.
- Mobile Optimization: All Shopify stores are optimized for mobile users.
Cons:
- Cost: Shopify’s monthly fees can be steep for beginners, especially with added costs for premium themes and apps.
- Customization Limits: While Shopify is easy to use, highly customized features may require additional coding knowledge or the use of paid apps.
What is Its Cost for a Beginner?
Shopify offers three main pricing tiers:
| Basic | Shopify | Advanced | Plus |
| For solo entrepreneurs | For small teams | As your business scales | For more complex businesses |
| $39 | $105 | $399 | $2,300 |
There’s also a free 3-day trial, which lets you explore the platform before committing to a paid plan. Beginners will likely start with the Basic plan, but costs can rise as your business grows due to add-ons and premium apps.
Conclusion
Shopify is undoubtedly worth considering for beginners due to its simplicity, comprehensive features, and scalability. However, it’s important to evaluate your specific business needs, budget, and long-term goals before committing to any platform. While this is a powerful tool, alternatives like WooCommerce and BigCommerce might be better suited for those seeking more flexibility or lower initial costs.
If you’re just starting your freelancing journey, Shopify might be the ideal way to manage your eCommerce business. And if you’re looking to expand your freelance business, don’t forget to check out platforms like Wiraa, a 0% commission freelancing platform that helps professionals manage their careers.
