Shopify and Square are two popular e-commerce platforms that offer a range of tools for businesses to sell their products online. Both platforms have their own unique set of features, pricing plans, and pros and cons. In this article, we will compare Shopify and Square to help you decide which platform is best for your business.

Pros of Shopify:

• Wide range of customizable templates and themes to choose from, making it easy to create an online store with a professional appearance.
• Extensive set of features and tools to manage your online store, including inventory management, payment processing, marketing, and shipping.
• Strong third-party app ecosystem, allowing you to extend the functionality of your store with additional features and integrations.
• Solid customer support, with 24/7 live chat and phone support, as well as a comprehensive knowledge base.

Cons of Shopify:

• Higher pricing plans compared to some other e-commerce platforms, with the basic plan starting at CAD $38 per month.
• Transaction fees for using a third-party payment processor, which can add up for businesses with high sales volume.

Pros of Square:

• Affordable pricing plans, with the basic plan starting at just $0 per month.
• Integration with a range of in-person sales tools, including point-of-sale systems and card readers, making it a good option for businesses with a physical storefront.
• Easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface for managing your online store.
• Strong reputation for payment processing, with support for a wide range of payment types and low fees.

Cons of Square:

• Limited selection of templates and themes, which may not offer as much customization as some other platforms.
• Fewer features and tools compared to Shopify, with a focus on basic e-commerce functionality.
• Customer support may not be as comprehensive as some other platforms, with limited live chat and phone support.

In summary, both Shopify and Square are solid e-commerce platforms with their own set of pros and cons. Shopify offers a wider range of features and tools, but at a higher price point, while Square is more affordable but may not offer as many features. The right platform for your business will depend on your specific needs and budget.

By Alice Bowyer | January 19th, 2023

Sources:

https://www.shopify.com/ca/pricing

https://squareup.com/ca/en/online-store/plans