How to choose an ecommerce platform
A framework for comparing storefronts by total cost, control and the work you want to own.
David KrugHead of ContentDavid KrugHead of ContentEcommerce Platforms
Your storefront is a product decision and a financial one. Compare the total cost before you launch.
Editor's take
By David Krug, Head of ContentThe short answer on ecommerce platforms.
Your storefront is a product decision and a financial one. Compare the total cost before you launch. We compared 255 options on value, features, ease of use, support and reputation. PayJunction leads the 2026 ranking for integrations and transparency. Payline Data is the strongest alternative for high-risk and specialty merchants.
Start with the ranking, then read the full review of the provider that fits your priorities. Every score is weighted, dated and reviewed before publication.
Where are you in the store build?
Choose the path that matches your decision. We will take you to the shortlist, the review or the guide that answers it.
01
Start selling
Browse storefronts · 8 02Choose the storefront before you compare payment processors.
Take payments
Browse payments · 6 03Compare rates, chargebacks and the checkout experience.
Print on demand
Browse print on demand · 6 04Match the product and fulfillment model to the store.
Scale
Compare CRM Add CRM, email and support before the next growth spurt.
Browse every ranking
Grouped by the decision, so you can go straight to the right shortlist.
Payments
6 rankings
17 Best Payment Processing Companies of 2026
PayJunction: Integrations and transparency
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Payment Processing Companies for Ecommerce in 2026
PayJunction: Integrations and transparency
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Payment Processing Companies for High-Risk in 2026
Payline Data: High-risk and specialty merchants
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Payment Processing Companies for Restaurants in 2026
PayJunction: Integrations and transparency
10.0Rave score
Read the rankingStorefronts
8 rankings
17 Best Ecommerce Platforms of 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for B2B in 2026
BigCommerce: Growing catalogs and B2B
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Digital Products in 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Dropshipping in 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the rankingShow all 8 in storefronts
12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Handmade in 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for International Sales in 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Small Business in 2026
Shift4Shop: US small business
9.2Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Ecommerce Platforms for Subscriptions in 2026
Shopify: Serious stores of any size
9.2Rave score
Read the rankingPrint on demand
6 rankings
17 Best Print on Demand Companies of 2026
Prodigi: Global print network
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Print on Demand Companies for Artists in 2026
Redbubble: Passive marketplace sales
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Print on Demand Companies for Etsy Sellers in 2026
Merchize: Custom packaging
10.0Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Print on Demand Companies for Hoodies in 2026
CustomCat: Fast US apparel
10.0Rave score
Read the rankingFrom shortlist to sign-up, in four steps.
01
Build the shortlist
Start with Ecommerce Platforms for B2B in 2026 and the top three picks.
Open the ranking 02Compare the trade-offs
Use the comparison table to weigh price, terms and the features you will actually use.
Compare the options 03Read the full review
Read the full BigCommerce review before you rely on the score alone.
Read a review 04Check the fine print
Confirm the current price, contract, cancellation terms and eligibility at the source.
See the methodReviews
Full reviews of the providers we track in this section.
9.2Best for scaling
8.6Best for b2b sellers
7.6US small business
7.4Best for high-volume brands
7.1Best overall
6.5Add a store to a site
Guides
Practical advice for the decisions in this section.
David KrugHead of Content