Which e-commerce service is best for tech startups?
Hi all,
Starting a discussion to explore which e-commerce platforms work best for tech startups, especially those looking to get a store up and running quickly while keeping dev time and costs manageable. From MVPs to scaling storefronts, tech teams often need flexibility, API access, and reliable integrations.
Below are some of the top-ranked tools from the G2's E-commerce Platforms category:
Early-stage startups often choose Shopify for its quick launch process and extensive app ecosystem. It supports custom domains, checkout flows, and POS if needed. With themes and APIs available, developer teams can iterate on storefront UX while non-technical teams manage product updates and campaigns.
BigCommerce appeals to startups that want more built-in functionality out of the box. It includes native support for headless commerce, robust SEO tools, and multi-storefront management—features useful for startups with global or multi-brand ambitions. The platform also supports custom integrations via GraphQL and REST APIs.
Wix provides an all-in-one platform that’s approachable for startups without a dedicated dev team. With drag-and-drop design, basic store management, and integrated payments, it’s ideal for testing concepts or launching with a simple catalog. The Wix Velo dev platform allows for limited customizations if needed.
Square Online (formerly Weebly)
Square Online works best for startups that also sell offline or at events. It syncs with Square’s POS system and offers free plans to start. While it’s more limited in customization than others on this list, it’s a good fit for product-driven businesses that prioritize simplicity and in-person sales.
WooCommerce is ideal for WordPress-based startups that want full control over their stack. It’s open-source, developer-friendly, and integrates with hundreds of extensions. For teams with hosting in place and coding resources, it’s a flexible and cost-efficient option that scales with your needs.
If you’ve launched or migrated your startup store using one of these tools, what helped you choose? What challenges came up along the way?
