If contemplating the establishment of an online store and seeking a swift, hassle-free process without the need for coding or web hosting, the hosted e-commerce platforms highlighted in this article present optimal solutions. [Video Embed]
A hosted e-commerce platform is a software as a service (SaaS) that provides hosting for online stores. Such platforms offer specialized features tailored to e-commerce, including payment integration, inventory management, robust server technology, and expertise in web-based transaction compliance and security.
Typically, e-commerce web hosting is best suited for individuals or small to medium-sized businesses with limited e-commerce development expertise.
Compared to self-hosted options like Magento and Open Cart, the primary drawback of using a hosted e-commerce platform is the reduced level of control over the online store, which includes limitations in customization.
This article will explore the top ten best hosted e-commerce platforms available.
[Image of Shopify]
Shopify is a widely used hosted e-commerce platform known for its intuitive admin interface, enabling store owners to manage inventory and customize their online store without coding knowledge. Shopify recently introduced a service that allows POS operations through mobile devices, integrating seamlessly with the store for unified inventory management.
Pricing begins at $14/month for the Starter plan, though it’s recommended for serious online sellers to upgrade to the Basic plan at $29/month, offering 1 GB storage, unlimited products, and a 2.0% transaction fee.
[Image of BigCommerce]
BigCommerce is a strong competitor to Shopify, offering a reliable and versatile platform. It hosts over 55,000 online stores with combined sales exceeding $4 billion. BigCommerce provides a range of free and paid store apps, with pricing starting at $29.95/month, including 3 GB of file storage and a 1.0% transaction fee.
[Image of Volusion]
Volusion is one of the top three hosted e-commerce solutions, alongside Shopify and BigCommerce. They claim to have generated over $16 billion in combined sales for their hosted stores, boasting over 900 features and offering additional services like conversion rate optimization for $899. Pricing starts at $15/month, with up to 100 products, unlimited storage, and no transaction fees.
[Image of X-Cart Cloud]
X-Cart Cloud is a PHP shopping cart software that runs on a hosted platform. Similar to WordPress.com, it offers a variety of free and paid modules to extend the online store. Their more expensive plans include a POS system module for managing both brick-and-mortar and online inventory. Pricing starts at $15/month, allowing up to 100 products, 1 GB storage, and 10 GB bandwidth with no transaction fees.
[Image of Big Cartel]
Big Cartel caters to the creative industry, hosting over 500,000 online stores, predominantly for jewelry, fashion, music, and arts. Pricing starts at $9.99/month, with up to 25 products and no transaction fees, or a free plan for up to 5 products.
[Image of 3dcart]
3dcart offers a variety of e-commerce features, including Bitcoin acceptance and a loyalty program. Pricing begins at $16.99/month, with up to 200 products, unlimited storage, and no transaction fees.
[Image of PinnacleCart]
PinnacleCart has an impressive client list, including HBO, Discovery Channel, and the Miami Heat. It integrates with third-party apps and offers pricing starting at $29.95/month, including 1 GB of storage, 2 GB bandwidth, and no transaction fees.
[Image of Yahoo! Ecommerce]
Yahoo! E-commerce provides a robust e-commerce solution with integration capabilities, starting at $26/month (annual billing), including up to 1,000 products, 5 GB storage, 150 GB bandwidth, and a 1.5% transaction fee.
[Image of Wix Online Store Builder]
Wix, a popular DIY website builder, has entered the e-commerce space with the Wix Online Store Builder. Pricing starts at $19.90/month, with 20 GB storage and 10 GB bandwidth.
[Image of Storenvy]
Storenvy is distinct from other hosted e-commerce platforms, as it includes the online store in their marketplace/network of brands. Pricing is free, but a custom domain costs $5/month.
Hosted e-commerce platforms streamline the process of self-hosting an online store, but they do come with the trade-off of less control and ownership. My top picks are Shopify and BigCommerce, both offering user-friendly features, excellent documentation and support, and a strong reputation in the hosted e-commerce space.
[Resource List]
