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Shopify vs Square Online
Square Online is cheaper to start with than Shopify.
Our verdict
Start with Square Online if you want to launch quickly with less setup. Choose Shopify when you need more control and are willing to spend time or money to get it.
Shopify
From $39/moThe fastest credible path to selling physical products online.
- Checkout, tax and shipping handled
- Huge app ecosystem
- Reliable at scale
- Monthly cost plus app costs add up
- Content pages are not its strength
Square Online
Free plan availableFree storefront that pairs with Square payments and in-person sales.
- Free to start
- Same system as in-person sales
- Simple setup
- Less design and app flexibility
- Weaker for large catalogs
| Shopify | Square Online | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $39/mo | Free plan available |
| Transaction fee | 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction | None |
| Level | standard | budget |
| Best for | Product businesses with inventory and shipping. | Local sellers who also take payments in person. |
| Price checked | August 2026 | August 2026 |
Prices are entry-plan estimates and exclude transaction fees. Providers change pricing without notice — confirm before you buy. Some outbound links may earn us a commission, which never affects our verdict. Read the disclosure.
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