Getting Down to Business: Shopify vs. Square

For you, the fresh entrepreneur, entering the world of eCommerce can be as daunting as stepping onto an alien planet without a guide. Luckily you've found one in me. (By the way, do help yourself to the cosmic coffee over on the Astral break table). To better navigate your way through the eCommerce universe, let's start at the beginning: Shopify or Square?

Shopify: Blast Off with Powerful eCommerce Tools

If you’re on a mission to launch a full-fledged online shop, Shopify might be your rocket ship of choice. Shopify is an all-in-one solution that allows you to create an online store, accept payments, and manage all your products. It's an amenity-packed resort in the eCommerce galaxy, offering 24/7 customer service, shipping arrangements, gift cards, product import/export features, and even the ability to set up an in-person point-of-sale system.

Square: Efficient, User Friendly, and Down-to-Earth

If Shopify is your resort away from home, then consider Square your quaint charming cottage by the sea. Square lets you set up a free online store that syncs with your inventory and your social media to help you sell immediately. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. Amid this humble abode are powerful features, including options for invoices, appointments, and digital receipts. Plus, with its user-friendly interface, setting shop would be as easy as preparing a cup of cosmic coffee.

Deducting the Rates: Understanding the Costs

Let’s talk numbers (But don't worry, we won't dive into quantum algebra). Shopify offers a range of plans from a Lite plan at $9 per month up to an Advanced plan for $299 per month. Now, before you gasp at the difference in costs, remember that higher-level plans come with additional features like lower credit card rates and better shipping discounts. On the other hand, Square operates primarily on a pay-per-transaction basis; therefore, you won't see monthly fees for its basic services. However, advanced features and add-ons might come with a price, so you need to be mindful of this as you set up your online store. As you can see, your choice greatly depends on the size of your footprint in the eCommerce world.

Going Mobile: Platform Compatibility

Why limit to desktops when you can potentially reach customers cruising on their smartphones? Shopify and Square, thankfully, both understand this. They offer app versions that let you manage your business from the palm of your hand. Ah, can you smell the fresh aroma of cosmic coffee brewing as you check your sales in the early morning?

Shopify vs. Square: Examining Customer Support

In terms of customer support, Shopify offers 24/7 via chat, email, or phone. It's like having an interstellar travel companion ready to lend a helping hand. Square, however, only provides customer service from 6 am to 6 pm PT, Monday through Friday. So, it might not be there to keep you company during your late-night product explorations.

1%er Takeaway

So there you have it, two well-stacked platforms to kickstart your eCommerce journey. Choosing between Shopify and Square is like deciding between a space resort and a charming little cottage, between a well-packed spaceship and an efficient, user-friendly shuttle. Your decision will depend on what you need, what you want, and how much you're willing to invest in your eCommerce venture. Remember, every step you make in the eCommerce realm could potentially lead to exponential growth. Even cosmological expeditions start with a single step. As a growing business ready to embark on an eCommerce adventure, why not partner with Sellery Digital? We have the tools and expertise to help you maximize your growth potential in the eCommerce universe. Let us be your trusty co-pilot in this journey to the stars and beyond.