US BUYER’S GUIDE · 5 PRODUCTS

Ecommerce Platforms

Which platform fits your catalog, channels and operating team at the cost of your next growth stage?

Compare storefronts, checkout, catalog operations and extensibility for US merchants, from a first store to complex commerce.

Research desk · Oct 20, 2026 · Methodology

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Highest documented score first. Fit adds up the 28 feature checks below, including AI, across documented plans. Entry price does not include every capability. Unknown evidence appears as a range.

Product / good fit for	Pricing context	Documented fit	Next step
Shopify Merchants seeking a shared catalog across online and retail channels.	$29.00store/month · billed annuallyBasic	86–100/100 documented fit 86% evidence coverage	Full research →
WooCommerce WordPress businesses with a capable technical partner or team.	$0.00core softwareWooCommerce core	80–100/100 documented fit 80% evidence coverage	Full research →
BigCommerce Merchants wanting hosted operations with multiple payment and sales-channel choices.	$29.00month · billed annuallyCore	70–100/100 documented fit 70% evidence coverage	Full research →
Squarespace Creators and smaller brands combining editorial presentation with a straightforward store.	$19.00site/month · billed annuallyBasic	64–100/100 documented fit 64% evidence coverage	Full research →
Wix Small businesses that want a branded website, products and bookings under one interface.	See pricingsite/monthCore or higher	62–100/100 documented fit 62% evidence coverage	Full research →

BEYOND A FEATURE CHECKMARK

How deep does the capability go?

Choose up to 3 for a closer look →

28 weighted checks: core capabilities contribute 32 points and workflow depth contributes 68. AI is included at the weight shown for this category. Expand Evidence for scope and sources, or ask for the same demonstration from each supplier.

Show checksShowing fewer rows does not change the score.

Ecommerce Platforms features for all 5 products
Feature / base weight	Shopify 86–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities32 / 32 pts10/10 checks with established status Workflow depth54–68 / 68 pts13/18 checks with established status	WooCommerce 80–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities32 / 32 pts10/10 checks with established status Workflow depth48–68 / 68 pts10/18 checks with established status	BigCommerce 70–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities26.4–32 / 32 pts8/10 checks with established status Workflow depth43.2–68 / 68 pts9/18 checks with established status	Squarespace 64–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities29.6–32 / 32 pts9/10 checks with established status Workflow depth34.4–68 / 68 pts7/18 checks with established status	Wix 62–100/100 documented fit Core capabilities29.6–32 / 32 pts9/10 checks with established status Workflow depth32.8–68 / 68 pts7/18 checks with established status
Core capabilityStorefront design tools4 points · Create or customize the customer-facing storefront.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The hosted storefront can be created and customized. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence WordPress themes and code support storefront customization. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Responsive hosted storefront design is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Templates and site editing support storefront design. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Visual design tools build the hosted storefront. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityProduct catalog management4 points · Manage products, product details and merchandising.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Product catalog management is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The documented store product supports product catalog management. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Product and merchandising tools are provided. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The ecommerce product supports product merchandising. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Catalog management is documented in the commerce offering. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkVariant-level product options5.6 points · Maintain product options or variants with their own price, SKU or stock attributes. Ask for a demonstration Create two variants and show their separate SKU, price or inventory values. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Product CSV records include variants and variant-level pricing, SKU and inventory fields. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Product CSV definitions include variable products and variant-specific attributes. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Variants carry their own price, dimensions, weight and stock levels. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Products support option variants with their own price and stock settings. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence The product model includes variants with SKU, pricing and stock data. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkBulk catalog import and export6.4 points · Import and export product catalog records using a supported bulk file workflow. Ask for a demonstration Export products, change a field, and import the changes without recreating each item. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Products can be exported, edited and reimported using CSV; some metafields are excluded. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence The Product CSV Import Suite imports and exports product data; extension setup applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Modern catalog CSV import/export updates products, SKUs, prices and inventory in bulk. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Products can be exported and imported using supported CSV formats. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Store products export to CSV and can be reimported with updated fields. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityStore checkout4 points · Provide a checkout flow for the online store.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The store includes Shopify checkout. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Checkout flows are part of the core commerce offering. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The platform includes single-page checkout. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Online store checkout is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Online payment checkout requires a commerce-enabled paid plan. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityPayment-provider connections4 points · Connect supported providers or payment methods to store checkout.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Shopify Payments and supported payment connections are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Multiple payment-provider integrations are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Supported wallet and payment-provider connections are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Checkout connects to supported payment processors. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Payment acceptance is limited to the eligible paid commerce plans. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkAbandoned checkout recovery5.6 points · Recover abandoned carts or checkouts through a supported reminder or recovery link workflow. Ask for a demonstration Abandon a checkout and show the configured recovery message and link. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Recovery emails include a link to the customer abandoned checkout. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence The Abandoned Cart Recovery extension sends follow-up recovery messages. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Abandoned Cart Saver sends recovery emails when enabled for the customer and store. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence Abandoned checkout recovery sends a configurable email when enabled. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported5.6 / 5.6 pts Evidence An automation can email customers after an abandoned cart. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkPartial order refunds6.4 points · Refund selected items or part of an order amount. Ask for a demonstration Refund one line of an order and show the remaining order balance. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Orders support repeated partial refunds up to the original total. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Refunds support selected quantities and partial amounts; gateway compatibility determines automatic payout. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Refunds can target selected products, quantities or a custom order amount. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence Partial refunds are supported; inventory is not automatically restocked for partial refunds. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–6.4 / 6.4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: partial order refunds. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityInventory tracking3.2 points · Track stock or available product quantities.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Inventory management is part of the platform. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Advanced inventory workflows can require extensions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Inventory-location scope depends on the selected plan. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Built-in inventory management is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Inventory synchronization is documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityOrder & shipping operations3.2 points · Manage orders and supported fulfillment or shipping workflows.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Order and shipping tools support fulfillment. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Shipping and advanced operational workflows can require extensions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The reviewed compact record does not establish specific order and shipping operations. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Built-in shipping tools support store order operations. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Order and shipping-label workflows are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkPartial or split fulfillment4.8 points · Fulfill part of an order while preserving unfulfilled items or separate shipment records. Ask for a demonstration Ship one item now and show the second item still awaiting fulfillment. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Fulfillment orders can be split, with a distinct split event exposed to workflows. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence WooCommerce Shipping supports separate shipments containing selected order products. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Each shipment specifies order products and quantities, supporting separate shipment records. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: partial or split fulfillment. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Store order management distinguishes unfulfilled and partially fulfilled delivery orders. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkInventory adjustment trace4.8 points · Inspect a history or log of stock adjustments or order-related inventory movements. Ask for a demonstration Change a stock quantity and show the dated adjustment or movement record. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence Every stock adjustment creates an inventory history record. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The Multi-Location Inventory extension records quantity changes in product stock history. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: inventory adjustment trace. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: inventory adjustment trace. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4.8 / 4.8 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: inventory adjustment trace. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityApp or extension ecosystem2.4 points · Extend the store using supported applications, extensions or plugins.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The Shopify App Store extends the platform. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The platform offers an extension marketplace and open-source customization. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Marketplace, payment and POS connections extend the platform. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Extensions and companion products expand store functionality. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The platform documents applications and connected sales channels. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityCommerce API2.4 points · Access or manage commerce records through a documented developer API.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Developer APIs are documented. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The REST API creates, retrieves, updates and deletes individual or batched orders. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The REST Management API exposes commerce resources including customers, checkout orders and cart records. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Commerce APIs manage products, inventory, orders and transactions with permission controls. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The eCommerce Orders API can search, create, update and cancel store orders. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkCommerce event webhooks3.2 points · Notify integrations of order, product or inventory events through documented webhooks. Ask for a demonstration Update an order or product and show its event delivered to an integration. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Order, product, refund and fulfillment webhooks notify integrations. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Configured webhooks deliver commerce events and retain delivery logs. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Webhooks report order, refund, shipment and inventory events. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Commerce APIs include webhook notifications for connected applications. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Product-updated webhooks notify integrations of catalog changes. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkScoped API access4 points · Limit a commerce integration using explicit API permissions or scopes. Ask for a demonstration Give an app product read access and show that an unrelated write operation is denied. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence The reviewed documentation does not establish this specific workflow: scoped api access. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence REST API keys bind a user and read, write or read/write permissions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence OAuth scopes distinguish order modification from read-only access. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence API keys grant selected resource permissions such as orders, inventory and transactions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence API operations require the intersection of app scopes and user permissions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityAI product or storefront content2.4 points · Generate or improve product content or the storefront using AI.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Sidekick supports store creation and content tasks. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence AI Product Advisor proposes catalog improvements and allows accepted changes to be reverted; public-beta plugin setup applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Companion catalog assistance does not, on its own, establish generated product or storefront content. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Blueprint and Squarespace AI draft content and a website starting point. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Wix AI can generate a storefront starting point and draft website content. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Core capabilityAI answers from store data2.4 points · Ask AI questions or obtain analysis grounded in orders, customers or inventory.	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Sidekick uses store context for business assistance. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The documented MCP extension exposes actual orders, products and reports to an external AI assistant; integration setup applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence Companion analyzes store information and answers merchant questions. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence The reviewed AI documentation does not establish analysis of live commerce records. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.4 / 2.4 pts Evidence AI site creation does not establish answers grounded in live order or inventory data. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkReview AI store changes3.2 points · Review, edit or approve AI-generated store content or changes before they are applied. Ask for a demonstration Ask AI to change a product and show the approval or editing step before publication. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Sidekick highlights proposed changes and requires review before saving orders or drafts. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence The documented MCP extension can require confirmation before AI actions; external assistant setup applies. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Companion previews proposed changes and applies them only after approval. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence Generated AI text can be reviewed and edited before it is added to site content. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported3.2 / 3.2 pts Evidence AI website content is editable in the site editor before publication. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkAI answers from store records4 points · Answer business questions using actual catalog, order, inventory or store analytics data. Ask for a demonstration Ask AI about a product or sales result and show the store records used. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Sidekick answers using actual sales, customers, product and order records. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence The MCP extension exposes actual orders, products and reports to connected AI assistants. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Supported4 / 4 pts Evidence Companion uses catalog and store analytics context for questions and charts. Official documentation · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence AI content generation is documented; answers grounded in live store records were not established. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source	Not verified0–4 / 4 pts Evidence AI site creation is documented; store-record-based analytical answers were not established. Not verified · Oct 15, 2026Source
Depth checkTrack stock transfers between locations2.5 points · Demonstrate: Track stock transfers between locations. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Track stock transfers between locations. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Transfers track stock movement between locations. Shopify Admin inventory transfers; fulfilment setup requirements apply. Global capability evidence; local plan availability and interface language are not inferred. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkSet payment terms on draft orders2.5 points · Demonstrate: Set payment terms on draft orders. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Set payment terms on draft orders. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkTrack supplier purchase orders and receipts2.5 points · Demonstrate: Track supplier purchase orders and receipts. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Track supplier purchase orders and receipts. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkIssue and redeem customer store credit2.5 points · Demonstrate: Issue and redeem customer store credit. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Issue and redeem customer store credit. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Customers can receive and redeem store credit. Customer store credit; customer-account and staff-permission requirements apply. Global capability evidence; local plan availability and interface language are not inferred. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkTest checkout without a live charge2.5 points · Demonstrate: Test checkout without a live charge. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Test checkout without a live charge. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Test gateways simulate checkout without real transactions. Client transfer stores; test gateway only, with documented gift-card/store-credit and draft-order exclusions. Global capability evidence; local plan availability and interface language are not inferred. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkRefund without automatically restocking damaged goods2.5 points · Demonstrate: Refund without automatically restocking damaged goods. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Refund without automatically restocking damaged goods. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Supported2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence Restocking is optional when refunding an order. Order refund workflow; permitted staff can select whether to restock. Global capability evidence; local plan availability and interface language are not inferred. Official documentation · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkSell preorders with explicit fulfilment timing2.5 points · Demonstrate: Sell preorders with explicit fulfilment timing. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Sell preorders with explicit fulfilment timing. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source
Depth checkDeduct bundle component stock on sale2.5 points · Demonstrate: Deduct bundle component stock on sale. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. Ask for a demonstration Demonstrate: Deduct bundle component stock on sale. State the plan, limits and behaviour on failure. Use a test order with two stock locations. A scenario to run with the supplier; not a completed product test.	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source	Not verified0–2.5 / 2.5 pts Evidence This specific check has not been verified. Missing evidence does not mean the capability is absent. Ask for a demonstration in the proposed plan. Not verified · Oct 21, 2026Source

WHAT WE MEASURE

The criteria behind the score.

The established 20 checks contribute 80 points. Eight new operational checks contribute 20 points. AI checks are included in their own group and are excluded when AI priority is set to zero. These assess documented capability scope, not measured performance. Adjust group priorities in the comparison tool.

See the complete calculation →

Storefront & catalog 20%
Product structure and editing must fit how you merchandise.
Checkout & payments 20%
A reliable purchase flow and suitable payment options are central.
Orders, inventory & fulfillment 16%
Manage the sale after checkout, including stock and returns.
Apps, APIs & customization 12%
Extensions and custom interfaces affect flexibility and maintenance.
AI creation & commerce assistance 12%
Separate copy generation, business analysis and approved operational actions.
Operational detail 20%
Specific workflow, integration and control checks beyond the established rubric.

THE PRACTICAL BUYER’S GUIDE

How to choose ecommerce platforms.

An ecommerce platform must do more than produce an attractive homepage. Your decision connects catalog structure, checkout, payments, inventory, fulfillment, returns, marketing and finance. A hosted platform reduces some operational work; an open-source stack gives more control but requires someone to own hosting, updates and extensions. Compare the workflow and total cost at your expected sales volume, not only today's subscription. Pricing can include sales thresholds, additional provider fees or paid extensions. AI creation tools can speed setup and content, but the quality of the catalog and the reliability of order operations still determine the customer experience.

Start with catalog and fulfillment complexity

Create a representative product set with variants, bundles or subscriptions if you sell them. Add a promotion, a partial shipment, a return and an item that is available in a store but not in the warehouse. Ask each vendor to demonstrate the exact flow and identify paid extensions. If you sell wholesale, include account-specific terms and catalog requirements rather than assuming a B2B label covers them. Test the storefront on a phone and check how staff update content without development help. The right platform should fit the people who will run the catalog every week.

Build a growth-sensitive cost model

Use the same order count, gross merchandise value, average ticket and payment mix for each option. Include subscription, processing, platform fees, themes, apps, shipping tools and maintenance. Verify whether sales volume can trigger an automatic plan change and whether particular payment providers incur additional charges. For an open-source option, budget hosting, backups, security updates and extension compatibility work. Separate a one-time implementation cost from recurring operations. A plan that is inexpensive at launch may change substantially at the next sales threshold, so include a second scenario that represents a successful year.

Give AI a bounded merchandising job

Try product descriptions, image preparation, navigation changes or a question about sales performance. Check the factual accuracy of generated claims, variants, dimensions and return terms before publication. If an assistant can change store settings or create campaigns, inspect how it asks for approval and how changes can be reversed. Distinguish native features from external plugins and their separate costs. AI is useful when it reduces a repeatable task while preserving control over the storefront. It is not evidence that the platform has the inventory, checkout or integration behavior your business requires.

What changes the total cost?

Subscription and sales-volume thresholds, payment processing and platform-provider fees.
Paid apps, themes, fulfillment tools, B2B capabilities and marketing usage.
Implementation, hosting or maintenance, migrations and integration ownership.

Where purchases go wrong

Choosing by visual templates before testing orders, returns and catalog structure.
Repeating old pricing claims after plan names or payment-provider fees change.
Treating open-source licensing as zero operating cost or AI-generated copy as verified product data.

Bring these questions to the demo

Can we run our complex product, order and return examples without hidden extensions?
What changes in the bill when sales volume doubles or we add another channel?
Which payment-provider fees and checkout restrictions apply to our plan?
Can we inspect and undo AI-generated content or operational changes?

Questions buyers ask

Is a hosted platform better than open source?

Neither model wins universally. Hosted platforms package infrastructure and standard operations; open source can give greater control but needs maintenance ownership. Compare the required workflow, extension risk and internal skills, then budget the complete operating model.

What does a no-transaction-fee claim mean?

Read the current conditions carefully. Payment processing remains a separate cost, and platform fees may depend on provider, plan or order type. Use the live official schedule and your actual provider mix rather than an old comparison headline.

Can AI build a store that is ready to sell?

It can accelerate layout and content, but a merchant still needs to verify product facts, payment setup, shipping, returns and order handling. Test a complete purchase and refund before launch. AI assistance is one capability within a broader operating system.