Indian entrepreneurs have plenty of options when it comes to building an online store. Three of the most common picks are Shopify, WooCommerce, and Wix Stores. Each promises ease, apps, and growth — but they differ in fees, SEO power, and integrations. Here’s a head-to-head comparison designed for Indian SMBs and creators.
Key Takeaways
- Shopify is the easiest to set up and comes with UPI/COD support.
- WooCommerce is the most flexible, with INR-friendly hosting options.
- Wix Stores is beginner-friendly but has limited SEO depth.
- Fees differ: Shopify charges subscription + transaction, WooCommerce depends on host, Wix is flat but needs apps.
- GST invoices are available for Shopify and Wix; WooCommerce depends on host.
India Snapshot
- Pricing: Shopify Basic ~₹2,000/month. Wix Stores Business Basic ~₹800/month. WooCommerce core free, hosting from ~₹500/month.
- Payments: Shopify integrates Razorpay, PayU, Cashfree (UPI, EMI, wallets). Wix supports Razorpay but limited e-commerce apps. WooCommerce depends on plugins (most Indian gateways available).
- GST Invoice: Shopify and Wix issue automatically. WooCommerce invoices via host or plugins.
- Support: Shopify 24/7 chat, Wix IST chat, WooCommerce community + host support.
- Speed: Shopify/Wix CDN-backed. WooCommerce depends on hosting provider.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Shopify | WooCommerce | Wix Stores |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease | Easiest setup, all-in-one | Needs hosting + plugins | Beginner-friendly builder |
| Pricing | ₹2k–₹6k/mo | ₹500–₹1.5k hosting+plugins | ₹800–₹1.2k/mo |
| Payments | Razorpay, UPI, EMI, COD | Razorpay, PayU, Cashfree (plugins) | Razorpay basic only |
| Apps | Large App Store | Huge plugin base | Limited apps |
| SEO | Strong, clean | Strongest with plugins | Basic, improving |
| Support | 24/7, India network | Community/host | Chat (IST hours) |
Which One Should You Pick?
- Pick Shopify if you want a quick, reliable store with Razorpay/UPI/COD and minimal fuss.
- Pick WooCommerce if you want control, flexibility, and already run WordPress. It’s also best for SEO-heavy projects.
- Pick Wix Stores if you’re a beginner who wants to test e-commerce cheaply with templates.
Pros and Cons
Shopify
- Pros: Easiest setup, INR billing, GST invoices, full Indian payments.
- Cons: Apps add to monthly costs.
WooCommerce
- Pros: Free core, strong SEO, plugin flexibility, local hosting.
- Cons: Needs tech setup, plugin maintenance, variable costs.
Wix Stores
- Pros: Simple, cheap entry, beginner-friendly templates.
- Cons: Limited SEO depth, fewer integrations, UPI support basic.
Quick Checklist Before Choosing
- Decide if you need speed (Shopify), flexibility (WooCommerce), or simplicity (Wix).
- Check INR billing and GST invoice availability.
- Confirm UPI and COD integrations.
- Estimate long-term app/plugin costs.
- Test SEO performance with demo products.
For Indian SMBs, Shopify is the smoothest option with UPI, EMI, and COD support built in. WooCommerce wins for SEO and customization if you’re comfortable with plugins. Wix Stores is fine for testing or small shops but may not grow as easily.
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