WooCommerce
by Automattic
The most popular open-source eCommerce plugin for WordPress.
The Engine of WordPress eCommerce
WooCommerce isn't just a plugin; it's the most popular eCommerce platform on the planet, powering over 20% of all online stores. Acquired by Automattic (the creators of WordPress) in 2015, it is the de-facto standard for selling on WordPress.
Ownership Matters
Because you own the code and data with WooCommerce, you are never at the mercy of a platform closing your account or hiking transaction fees. This is its biggest advantage over Shopify.
Key Features
- Product Flexibility: Sell physical goods, digital downloads, subscriptions, appointments, or memberships.
- Payment Processing: Comes with PayPal, bank transfer, and COD built-in. WooCommerce Payments (Stripe) is easily added.
- Shipping Options: Configure zones, flat rates, or connect to live carrier rates (USPS, FedEx, DHL).
- Tax Calculations: Automated tax calculations available via WooCommerce Tax.
Performance & Scalability
A common myth is that WooCommerce "doesn't scale." This is false. We have seen stores with 50,000+ products run smoothly, provided they have good hosting.
Hosting Requirements
Do not run WooCommerce on $3/month shared hosting. You need a host that offers object caching (Redis) and high PHP worker limits, like Kinsta or WP Engine.
Comparison: WooCommerce vs. Shopify
This is the biggest question new store owners ask.
| Feature | WooCommerce | Shopify |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $0 (Hosting extra) | $29/mo + |
| Transaction Fees | 0% | 2.0% (unless using Shopify Payments) |
| Customization | Unlimited (Code access) | Limited by Theme |
| Maintenance | High (Updates/Security) | None (Managed) |
The "Hidden" Costs
While the core plugin is free, a professional store often requires paid extensions:
- Subscriptions Plugin: ~$199/yr
- Bookings Plugin: ~$249/yr
- Premium Theme: ~$59-$79
However, unlike SaaS platforms, these are usually annual flat fees, not a percentage of your revenue.
Final Verdict
If you want control and low ongoing costs, WooCommerce is the winner. It allows you to build exactly the store you want without platform restrictions. However, be prepared to handle (or hire someone for) the technical maintenance.
Our Review
WooCommerce is the undisputed king of WordPress eCommerce. It transforms a standard website into a fully functional online store for free, though extensions can get expensive.
Pros
- Completely free open-source core
- Infinite customization (you own the data)
- Massive library of extensions and themes
- Seamless integration with major payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal)
- Developer-friendly with robust REST API
Cons
- Requires decent hosting (can be heavy)
- Premium extensions can be expensive
- Steeper learning curve than Shopify
- You are responsible for security and backups