Creating a free online store can be a challenging task due to the limited options available on the market. In this article, we'll thoroughly explore the best platforms for creating a free online store and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Get ready to dive into the world of online stores without spending any money.
Square Online: A feature-packed free plan
Square, known for its innovative mobile card readers, has expanded its presence in the e-commerce world with Square Online. Powered by Weebly technology, it offers a free plan that includes notable features. While ease of use and efficient sales channel management are strong points, limited customization and transaction fees can be challenges.
Mozello: For small online stores
This Lithuanian company offers the ability to create online stores in multiple languages for free. While its editor may lack the desired fun and flexibility, it does offer 500 MB of storage, SSL security, and the ability to sell up to five products. However, its focus on physical products and lack of card payment options may limit its appeal.
WebStarts: A Generous Free Plan
Known for its website builder, WebStarts allows you to add an online store for free. With 1 GB of space and the ability to sell physical and electronic products, its free plan is generous. However, the lack of SEO options and somewhat outdated interface may be points to consider.
Weebly: One of the easiest online store builders
Weebly, originally from the United States, is a popular tool with outstanding e-commerce features. With the ability to sell unlimited products, SSL included, and a flexible blog, Weebly is easy to use, but its lack of support for offline payments and limited availability in the United States can be disadvantages.
FreeWebStore: Numerous payment processors
FreeWebStore stands out for its widespread acceptance, with half a million users. It offers the ability to sell up to 20 products with no transaction fees, but its complex backend and limitation to physical products can be challenging. Furthermore, the lack of availability in Spanish can limit its accessibility.
Strikingly: Modern and Responsive Templates
Strikingly presents itself as a great option for building your brand and conquering the world. While it offers modern, responsive templates, its limitation to selling a single product for free and its limited template selection can be significant constraints.
MyOnlineStore: Multilingual Sites
This young Dutch company stands out for its modern and responsive templates, varied payment options, and ability to create websites in multiple languages. However, the lack of SSL, a limited selection of templates, and expensive payment plans may be disadvantages to consider.
Ecwid: Powerful features
Ecwid offers a unique approach as an e-commerce plugin that can be added to any website. With powerful features even in its free version, such as the ability to sell 10 products and more than 20 payment processors, Ecwid stands out for its ease of use and SSL integration.
WooCommerce + WordPress with free hosting
For those familiar with WordPress, WooCommerce offers a powerful solution. However, the need for an existing website and the technical complexity can be challenging. While it offers SSL integration and elegant product presentation, a good understanding of WordPress is required.
Final Considerations:
While creating a free online store can be an option to test your business, it's important to keep in mind limitations, such as the lack of a custom domain, the presence of ads, and the potential lack of key features. Additionally, SEO can be affected due to the lack of custom domain names and the limited functionality of most free online stores. Ultimately, for a long-term business, it's recommended to consider paid options that offer better features and customization. However, for beginners and learners, creating a free online store is a great option.