This article contains affiliate links. If you sign up through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Shopify vs Squarespace for Small Business: Which One Fits?
Squarespace is known for polished, design-led websites. Shopify is known for running online stores. Both can sell products, so the real question is which one matches the kind of business you're building.
How they compare
| Shopify | Squarespace | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Commerce | Design and content |
| Templates | Store-focused themes | Elegant templates for many site types |
| Product catalogue | Handles large and growing catalogues | Comfortable with smaller catalogues |
| Add-ons | Very large app store | Smaller set of built-in tools and extensions |
| Selling in many places | Strong options for social, marketplaces and in person | More limited |
Features and prices change, so check both official sites for the current details.
Squarespace may suit you if…
- You're a photographer, designer, coach or studio and sell a few items alongside your main work
- A beautiful site with little setup time matters most
Shopify may suit you if…
- Products are at the heart of your business
- You want room to grow your catalogue and sales channels
- You want to add specific features later with apps
Compare Shopify's current plans
Before you commit
Both offer a way to try before you pay. Use the trial to add three real products, set up shipping and place a test order. How that feels will tell you more than any comparison table.
Want a list of what to set up during your trial? See our setup checklist.
Based on publicly available information. We don't receive anything from Squarespace, and we may earn a commission from Shopify. See our disclosure.