Shopify vs Volusion: The Pros, Cons, and In-Between

Choosing the right eCommerce platform can make or break your online business. With countless options available, it can be a daunting task to find the one that’s just right for you. In this article, we’re going to compare two of the most popular contenders, namely Shopify and Volusion. We’ll look into their features, pricing, services, integration possibilities, and support.  

Shopify vs Volusion: Which one should you choose? Both platforms have their own set of strengths and weaknesses. We aim to provide you with an in-depth analysis of the key factors that can help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re just starting your eCommerce journey or looking to switch platforms, this comparison can provide valuable insight. 

1. Overview of Shopify and Volusion 

As you venture into the world of eCommerce, deciding on the perfect platform can be a daunting task. In the spotlight today, we have Shopify and Volusion, two heavy hitters in the eCommerce platform space. Let’s take a closer look at them.  

1.1. What is Shopify?

Founded in 2006, Shopify is a leading eCommerce platform designed to help businesses set up their own online store. It’s a comprehensive solution, offering everything from website design templates, to inventory management, to customer analytics. With a user-friendly interface and a vast array of plugins and integrations, Shopify has become a favorite among both small businesses and big brands alike.  

1.2. What is Volusion?

Established in 1999, Volusion is another notable name in the eCommerce platform market. Volusion provides a robust feature set with a strong focus on inventory management and analytics. It’s an excellent choice for businesses that have a large number of SKUs or those seeking advanced reporting features. Volusion does, however, have a steeper learning curve compared to Shopify.  

1.3. Key Shopify vs Volusion statistics

When you’re trying to decide between Shopify and Volusion, it can be helpful to look at some key statistics. Both platforms have a lot to offer, but there are some distinct differences that may make one a better choice for your specific needs. 

User base 

• Shopify: Shopify is a giant in the eCommerce platform market, boasting over 1 million businesses from all over the globe.
• Volusion: Volusion, on the other hand, has a much smaller user base, with around 180,000 businesses using its platform.

Note: A larger user base often indicates better reliability and more third-party integrations, but it’s not a definitive measure of quality.

Pricing

Both platforms offer different pricing plans, making it possible for businesses of all sizes to find a plan that suits their budget. However, there are some noticeable differences: 

Platform	Basic Plan	Standard Plan	Advanced Plan
Shopify	$25/month	$65/month	$399/month
Volusion	$31.5/month	$71.1/month	$269.1/month

Both platforms offer a trial period of 14 days.

Transaction fees

• Shopify charges transaction fees ranging from 0.5% to 2% if you use a third-party payment provider.
• Volusion charges transaction fees ranging from 0.35% to 1.25% if you use a third-party payment gateway.

Payment options 

• Shopify offers over 100 different payment gateways. This includes their own payment gateway, Shopify Payments, as well as popular options like PayPal and Stripe.
• Volusion offers around 35 payment gateways. This includes popular options like PayPal and Stripe.

App store

• Shopify offers over 8,000 apps and plugins in their app store.
• Volusion offers over 80 apps and plugins in their app store.

The choice between Shopify and Volusion isn’t a simple one and will largely depend on your specific needs and business goals. But don’t worry, we’re here to help guide you through this decision. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the capabilities, pros, and cons of both platforms to help you make an informed decision.

2. Shopify vs Volusion: Comparing the user interface

Choosing between Shopify and Volusion often hinges on the quality of their respective user interfaces. This is an important aspect to consider as it affects how you interact with the platform on a daily basis, along with how efficiently you can manage your online store.

2.1. Shopify’s user interface: User-friendly from the start

Shopify has widely been acclaimed for its intuitive and user-friendly interface, a feature that sets it apart from many other eCommerce platforms. The clean, modern dashboard is designed to be easily navigable, even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. This makes it incredibly simple for beginners to find their way around and set up their online stores. 

The platform doesn’t just leave you to figure it all out on your own, though. It provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire process of setting up your store. This guide breaks down everything in a straightforward, easy-to-understand manner that makes the process less daunting and more achievable. 

“Shopify’s interface is impressively user-friendly. I was able to set up my store without any technical hitches. It’s definitely the easiest eCommerce platform I’ve used,” says a review on Trustpilot.

But the convenience doesn’t stop at the desktop interface. Shopify also offers a mobile app that allows you to manage your store on the go. With this app, you can monitor your store’s performance, process orders, and respond to customer queries right from your mobile device. 

• User-friendly: Shopify’s interface is designed to be intuitive and easy-to-use, making it a great choice for beginners. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to launch your online store on this platform.
• Step-by-step guide: Shopify provides a comprehensive guide to help you set up your store. This guide breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it less overwhelming for beginners.
• Templates: Shopify offers a wide range of professionally-designed templates, all of which are customizable to your brand.
• Mobile-app: With Shopify’s mobile app, you can manage your store from anywhere. This app gives you the flexibility to run your business on the go, which is a huge advantage in today’s fast-paced world.

2.2. Volusion’s user interface

Volusion offers a complex interface that can be challenging for eCommerce beginners. Despite this, it provides a wealth of features and customization capabilities. Its dashboard provides detailed analysis of your store’s performance, from sales to customer behavior. This comprehensive reporting makes it easy to track your business growth. 

• Detailed interface: Volusion takes the cake when it comes to a feature-rich interface. From the aesthetic details to the practical elements, the customization options are nearly endless.
• Templates: Volusion’s templates are professionally designed, but there are fewer options compared to Shopify. Although, they are fully customizable.
• Comprehensive dashboard: The dashboard is a hub of information, providing a thorough rundown of your store’s performance. It’s like having a business analyst in your pocket, always ready to give you an update on your store’s progress.

Some users have reported finding the dashboard less intuitive and a little behind the times when compared with its competitor Shopify. 

In summary, if you prefer a simple, clean, and user-friendly interface, Shopify could be the better option. However, if you want a more detailed interface with comprehensive insights and customization options, Volusion might be your go-to choice. Remember, the best platform ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

>>> Learn more: Stan Store vs Shopify: A Complete Digital Storefront Showdown

3. Features: What they offer

When comparing Shopify vs Volusion, it’s important to understand the unique features each platform offers. Both platforms are designed to help you create a successful online store, but they offer different sets of features that can impact your business operations. 

3.1. Shopify features

As a key player in the eCommerce arena, Shopify has carved out a niche for itself with a plethora of features that cater to a wide range of online businesses, from small startups to large corporations. Let’s delve into these features and see how they can contribute to your business growth. 

• Online storefront: Shopify provides an intuitive platform to create a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate online store. It offers a multitude of themes, both free and paid, that you can customize to reflect your brand’s identity.
• Product management: Shopify simplifies the process of adding, editing, and organizing products in your store. It supports multiple variants of a single product based on size, color, material, and other factors.
• Shopping cart: The shopping cart feature is secure and customizable, supporting over 100 different payment gateways. It also allows you to set shipping rates and taxes based on your preferences.
• Mobile optimization: Recognizing the growing trend of mobile shopping, Shopify stores are fully optimized for mobile devices. This ensures a seamless shopping experience for your customers, no matter what device they’re using.
• SEO and marketing tools: Shopify includes a suite of SEO and marketing tools to help you drive traffic to your store, increase conversions, and boost sales. It also integrates with major social media platforms for a comprehensive marketing strategy.
• Analytics: Shopify offers in-depth analytics to monitor your store’s progress. It allows you to track sales, customer behavior, and other key metrics to help you make informed business decisions.
• App integration: Shopify’s app marketplace offers a massive selection of third-party apps that can enhance your store’s functionality. Whether you need help with inventory management, customer support, or email marketing, there’s an app for that.
• 24/7 support: Shopify offers round-the-clock customer support to resolve any issues you might encounter while running your online store. You can reach out to their team via phone, email, or live chat.

In a nutshell, Shopify is brimming with features designed to simplify your eCommerce journey and pave the way for your success. However, it’s essential to remember that every business is unique, and what works for one may not necessarily work for another. Hence, you should carefully evaluate these features in the context of your business needs before making a choice.

3.2. Volusion features 

Delving deeper into our Shopify vs Volusion comparison, let’s shift our focus to the features offered by Volusion. This eCommerce platform is rich in features meant to help you build an online store that is both visually appealing and functional. It gives you the ability to manage and customize your eCommerce store according to your business needs. 

• Product management: With Volusion, you can add unlimited products, manage inventory, track stock levels, and set up special pricing rules. It also allows you to create product variants and options, making your store flexible and versatile.
• Payment and shipping: Volusion supports a wide range of payment gateways for seamless transactions. It integrates with top shipping carriers to automate shipping rates and labels, which is a boon for businesses that ship physical products.
• Mobile responsive: All Volusion themes are mobile responsive, ensuring your store looks great on all devices. This is especially important considering the increasing trend of mobile shopping.
• Marketing tools: Volusion offers a suite of marketing tools, including SEO features, social media integration, newsletters, and discount codes. This can help you drive traffic and boost sales.
• Customer support: Volusion provides 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email. It also offers a comprehensive knowledge base and video tutorials for self-help.

However, despite these impressive features, it’s important to note that Volusion lacks in certain areas compared to Shopify. For instance, Volusion does not offer a blogging platform, which is a major setback for businesses that rely on content marketing. 

Overall, considering the features of Volusion in our Shopify vs Volusion debate, it’s clear that Volusion can be a good choice for small to medium businesses looking for an easy-to-use platform with essential eCommerce features. However, for larger businesses or those needing advanced features and customization, other options, such as Shopify, may be more fitting.

4. Ways to source and ship products

When it comes to managing your online store, sourcing and shipping products efficiently is crucial. Both Shopify and Volusion provide unique features and partnerships that can simplify these processes for you. 

4.1. Shopify: Sourcing and shipping products 

When it comes to sourcing and shipping products, Shopify brings a lot to the table. The platform has developed a plethora of features and services that streamline this critical aspect of eCommerce. Let’s delve into the details. 

Sourcing products

• Shopify Oberlo: Shopify comes with a built-in app called Oberlo which allows you to source thousands of products from suppliers all around the world. It’s a dropshipping model, so you only pay for what you sell.
• Integration with wholesalers: Shopify integrates with a number of wholesale platforms like Spocket and Wholesale2B, empowering you to source products directly from manufacturers and suppliers.
• Custom product options: Shopify allows you to add custom products, giving you the ability to sell unique items, handmade products, or services.

Shipping products

• Shopify Shipping: This is a built-in feature that provides discounted shipping rates from USPS, DHL Express, UPS, and Canada Post. It also automates the process of generating and printing shipping labels.
• Third-party shipping rates: Shopify enables you to display calculated shipping rates from third-party carriers or apps at checkout.
• Dropshipping: With apps like Oberlo, you can ship products directly from the supplier to the customer, reducing your shipping and storage costs.

Shopify’s sourcing and shipping capabilities are robust and versatile, designed to accommodate various business models and product types. Whether you’re looking to sell physical products, digital goods, or services, Shopify provides you with the tools to manage your inventory and fulfill orders efficiently.

Overall, sourcing and shipping products on Shopify is a streamlined process. The platform offers a host of integrations and tools designed to make these aspects of your eCommerce venture as simple and cost-effective as possible.

4.2. Volusion: Sourcing and shipping products 

When it comes to sourcing and shipping products, Volusion provides a solid platform that will cater to your eCommerce business needs. 

Volusion does not have a built-in system for sourcing products. Therefore, you’ll need to source your products from suppliers, whether those are wholesale, dropshipping, or manufacturers. This allows you to have full control over your supply chain, tailoring it to fit your specific business model. It’s a more hands-on approach, but it can be ideal for those who prefer to control every aspect of their business. 

On the other hand, Volusion’s shipping system is quite comprehensive. They offer real-time shipping rates from a variety of carriers, including UPS, USPS, FedEx, and DHL. This ensures that your customers always have an accurate estimate of their shipping costs before they finalize their purchase. 

As for shipping settings, you can choose whether to offer free shipping, flat-rate shipping, or shipping based on weight or price. Plus, with the Volusion’s advanced shipping features, you can even set up shipping rates based on the customer’s location. This is a major advantage for businesses operating in multiple regions or countries. 

Furthermore, Volusion integrates with a range of fulfillment services, including Amazon Fulfillment, ShipStation, and ShippingEasy. These integrations give you the flexibility to outsource your shipping process, if that better suits your business model. 

So, in terms of sourcing and shipping products, Volusion offers robust shipping options but leaves the sourcing up to you. This may be a pro or a con, depending on your perspective and the specific needs of your eCommerce business.

5. Shopify vs Volusion: SEO and marketing tools compared

When it comes to selecting an eCommerce platform, the SEO and marketing tools available can significantly impact your store’s visibility and customer reach. Here, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison of Shopify’s and Volusion’s SEO and marketing tools to help you make an informed decision. 

5.1. Shopify SEO and marketing tools 

When it comes to enhancing your online store’s visibility, Shopify provides a range of SEO and marketing tools that are both powerful and user-friendly. From boosting your search engine ranking to executing successful marketing campaigns, Shopify has got you covered. 

Key SEO features of Shopify

• Meta title and description editing: Increase visibility and click-through rates from search engine result pages
• URL handle editing: Optimize your website URLs, making them more readable and SEO-friendly
• Image alt tag editing: Improve website accessibility and providing SEO benefits
• Automatic XML sitemap generation: Ensure efficient indexing of your site by search engines, contributing to better SEO results

Shopify also offers a variety of marketing tools to help boost your online store’s sales. From email marketing integrations to social media advertising, Shopify provides a comprehensive suite of options to promote your products and reach a larger audience. 

Shopify’s marketing tools

• Email marketing integrations: Maintain valuable customer relationships and drive repeat business
• Social media advertising: Promote your products on popular social platforms, reaching a wider audience
• Discount and coupon codes: Attract new customers and reward loyal ones
• Customer reviews: Boost your credibility and improve conversions

In conclusion, when you’re weighing up Shopify vs Volusion, remember that Shopify offers a comprehensive suite of SEO and marketing tools to optimize your online store’s visibility and attract more customers. Whether you’re a newbie or an eCommerce veteran, Shopify’s tools are designed to support your business growth.

5.2. Volusion SEO and marketing tools 

As an eCommerce entrepreneur, you understand just how vital SEO and marketing tools are to the success of your online store. In the great debate of Shopify vs Volusion, we now turn our attention to Volusion’s offerings in this department. Are they capable of giving your eCommerce business the boost it needs?

Volusion has a dedicated SEO management section right in your dashboard. Here, you can effortlessly edit metadata, including title tags and meta descriptions, which helps to drive organic traffic to your site. It’s also straightforward to add alt text to your images, boosting your on-page SEO efforts. 

With Volusion, you can generate an XML sitemap for your store to serve as a roadmap for search engines. This helps Google and other search engines understand the structure of your site, making it easier for them to crawl and index your pages. 

• Marketing tools: Volusion provides a variety of marketing tools designed to help you promote your eCommerce store. These include affiliate marketing features, email newsletters, customer reviews, and social media integrations.
• SEO reports: With Volusion, you can easily track your SEO performance. The platform provides comprehensive SEO reports that give you insights on your organic traffic, top performing keywords, and more.
• Mobile optimization: In today’s digital age, it’s essential your website is mobile-friendly. Volusion ensures your site is optimized for mobile devices, enhancing your SEO since Google prioritizes mobile-optimized sites in search results.

One area where Volusion could improve is its blogging capabilities. Unlike Shopify, Volusion doesn’t have a built-in blog feature. Creating regular blog content is a proven SEO strategy, driving more organic traffic to your site. However, you can still integrate a third-party blog platform like WordPress with your Volusion store, but it might require some technical know-how. 

6. Security features compared: Which platform is more secure?

When it comes to online commerce, security is a top concern for both merchants and customers. A reliable platform will safeguard your business and customer data, ensuring transactions are safe and trustworthy. But which comes out on top when comparing Shopify vs Volusion in terms of security? 

6.1. Shopify Security 

When you’re running an eCommerce business, security is a paramount concern. You’re not only responsible for your own information but also the sensitive data of your customers. Here’s where Shopify truly shines. 

SSL certificate 

All Shopify stores come with a 128-bit SSL certificate at no additional cost. This means that the data between your customers’ browser and your site is encrypted. This not only protects your customers’ details but also helps to build trust as visitors can see your site is secure. 

PCI-DSS Level 1 compliant 

Additionally, Shopify is certified Level 1 PCI-DSS compliant. This means it adheres to the highest standards of server compliance. This level of certification is required for businesses that process over 6 million transactions per year, so you can be assured that Shopify takes security very seriously. 

24/7 monitoring 

Shopify also offers 24/7 monitoring to ensure the security of your online store. They have a dedicated security team that is constantly monitoring and responding to any potential threats. This means you can focus on running your business without having to worry about the safety of your online store. 

Automatic updates

With Shopify, you don’t have to worry about running outdated software. Shopify automatically rolls out updates to ensure your store is always running the latest and most secure version of their platform. 

6.2. Volusion Security 

When it comes to eCommerce, security is an essential factor to consider. The safety of your online store directly impacts your business reputation and customer trust. Let’s delve into the security features of Volusion. 

Volusion takes security seriously, providing a secure and reliable environment for both the eCommerce business owner and their customers. It features a range of robust security measures to protect your online store from cyber threats. 

• SSL certificates: Volusion provides SSL certificates to ensure your website is secure, and transactions are encrypted. SSL certificates not only protect sensitive data but also boost your website’s ranking on search engines.
• PCI compliance: Volusion is PCI certified, meaning it adheres to the standards set by the Payment Card Industry to secure credit card information. This compliance reassures customers that their financial information is safe.
• Data protection: Volusion employs high-level data security measures, including regular backups and secure data centers, to prevent data loss or breaches.

While these security features are highly commendable, one downside is that SSL certificates are not included in the Basic pricing plan. You would need to purchase it separately, which could be a potential drawback when considering Volusion. 

Note: Always consider the total cost, including additional features like SSL certificates, when choosing an eCommerce platform.

In the Shopify vs Volusion debate, it’s evident that both platforms prioritize security. However, Shopify includes SSL certificates in all its plans, making it a more cost-effective option for new or small businesses. 

If you’re contemplating between Shopify and Volusion, weigh these security considerations in your decision-making. Both platforms have their strengths, and your choice will largely depend on your specific business needs and budget.

7. Shopify vs Volusion: Third-party services and integrations

When choosing an eCommerce platform, it’s important to consider the third-party services and integrations that are available. These integrations can enhance your online store’s functionality and provide additional tools to help manage, market and grow your business. 

7.1. Shopify integrations

When it comes to running an eCommerce business, the tools and integrations at your disposal can make a significant difference. Shopify stands out in this aspect with a robust marketplace of over 8,000 apps that can help automate your tasks, boost sales, and streamline your operations. Let’s delve a little deeper into Shopify’s integrations and understand how they can benefit your online store. 

Social media platforms

Shopify provides seamless integrations with leading platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon. This means you can easily manage your multi-channel retailing, keeping track of all your orders, inventory, and customer details in one place. You can also leverage these platforms’ massive user bases to increase your brand visibility and reach a wider audience.

Marketing tools

Another noteworthy aspect of Shopify’s integrations is the extensive range of marketing tools available. From email marketing platforms like Mailchimp to SEO tools like Yoast, Shopify has got you covered. You can even integrate with Google Analytics 4 to get detailed insights into your website traffic and user behavior, helping you make informed decisions for your business.

Shipping and logistics

One of the significant advantages that Shopify offers over Volusion is its wide array of shipping and logistics integrations. You can connect with major shipping carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS, which allows you to offer real-time shipping rates to your customers. Shopify also integrates with dropshipping solutions like Oberlo, giving you a hassle-free method to source and ship products.

ERP and accounting

Shopify can seamlessly integrate with numerous ERP and accounting systems, which can significantly streamline your eCommerce operations. Notable integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, and Netsuite. These integrations facilitate real-time synchronization between Shopify and the ERP or accounting systems, enhancing efficiency in financial management, inventory control, and order fulfillment. However, maintaining these integrations might require technical expertise from both Shopify and your ERP provider.

Shopify API

Shopify’s REST-based API lets developers read and write data to stores and access key platform functionalities. Their comprehensive developer access allows data manipulation across products, orders, and customers.

Key Shopify integrations 

• MailChimp – for email marketing
• Google Analytics – for tracking store performance
• Facebook Pixel – for tracking customer behavior
• QuickBooks – for accounting and finance management

7.2. Volusion integration

Payment gateways

Volusion supports a variety of payment gateways. You can offer your customers many options for payment, including PayPal, Stripe, and Amazon Pay.

Shipping and dropshipping providers

Volusion integrates with a number of shipping and dropshipping providers, including FedEx, UPS, and DHL. This wide range of integrations helps streamline product sourcing and shipping.

Social media integration

Volusion enables integration with several social media plugins. This feature allows you to effectively engage with your customers on various social media platforms.

Marketing and analytics tools

Volusion offers an extensive suite of marketing and analytics tools, including SEO tools and Google Analytics. These tools allow you to optimize your store for search engines and track your store’s performance.

API access

Volusion’s API access allows developers to build custom integrations. This feature offers additional customization options to suit your business needs but is only available in their higher-tier plans.

Overall, Volusion’s broad range of integrations can significantly enhance your store’s functionality and help you provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers. However, you should consider the costs associated with these integrations, as some may require additional fees.

Key Volusion integrations

• Constant Contact – for email marketing
• Google Shopping – for product listing ads
• Amazon & eBay – for multi-channel selling
• QuickBooks – for accounting and finance management

In conclusion, both Shopify and Volusion offer a variety of integrations that can enhance your eCommerce store’s functionality. If you are looking for a larger app marketplace and more payment options, Shopify might be the better choice. However, if your needs are more specific and you prefer a simpler interface, Volusion could be a great fit.

8. Shopify vs Volusion: Pricing plans compared

If you’re considering Shopify vs Volusion as your eCommerce platform, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is the pricing. Both platforms offer different pricing structures, each with its own set of features and services. So, let’s compare the pricing plans of both. 

8.1. How much does Shopify cost?

Shopify offers three main pricing plans: Basic Shopify, Shopify, and Advanced Shopify. They cost $29, $79, and $399 per month, respectively. Each plan offers an increasing number of features and capabilities. 

• Basic Shopify: This includes all the basics for starting a new business. You get two staff accounts, 24/7 support, sales channels, manual order creation, discount codes, free SSL certificate, and abandoned cart recovery.
• Shopify: Apart from the Basic Shopify features, you get five staff accounts, gift cards, professional reports, and lower credit card fees.
• Advanced Shopify: This is best suited for scaling your business. In addition to Shopify features, you get 15 staff accounts, advanced report builder, third-party calculated shipping rates, and the lowest credit card fees.

Shopify also offers Shopify Starter ($5/month) for selling on social media, Retail ($89/month) for selling online and offline, and Shopify Plus for high-volume merchants and large businesses. The price for Shopify Plus is not listed and requires talking to their consultant team.

Look for other options, check free

8.2. Volusion pricing 

Volusion offers four main pricing plans: Personal, Professional, Business, and Prime, which cost $31.5, $71.1, $269.1, and custom pricing per month, respectively. Each plan is designed for different business sizes and needs. 

• Personal: This plan is perfect for smaller businesses. It includes online selling essentials, responsive themes, secure checkout, 24/7 support, and social media integration.
• Professional: Apart from Personal plan features, you get access to ratings and reviews, newsletters, phone orders, and customer loyalty plan.
• Business: This plan caters to businesses that need advanced features. It includes all features of Professional, along with priority support, Amazon & eBay integration, API access, and dedicated success team.
• Prime: This is a custom plan for enterprise-level businesses. It offers all Business plan features, and more, depending on your business needs.

8.3. Shopify vs Volusion: A closer look at free trials 

Both Shopify and Volusion aim to provide their potential users with an opportunity to explore their platforms before making any financial commitment. Let’s take a deeper dive into each one. 

Shopify Free Trial 

With Shopify’s 14-day free trial, you have full access to all the features and tools offered in their basic plan. This includes the ability to set up an online store, unlimited product listings, access to Shopify’s point of sale (POS) system, and more. The free trial does not require any credit card details, allowing you to explore the platform risk-free. 

Volusion Free Trial 

Just like Shopify, Volusion’s 14-day free trial doesn’t require any credit card information. During this trial period, you can explore the platform’s features, such as product management, payment gateway integration, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. However, the access may be limited compared to the full subscription plans. 

9. Transaction fees

Transaction fees can be a significant factor in deciding between Shopify and Volusion. These fees act as a percentage cut from every sale you make, and depending on your sales volume, they can add up quickly. Let’s delve into the transaction fees for both platforms. 

9.1. Shopify transaction fees 

With Shopify, the transaction fees vary depending on the pricing plan you choose. If you opt to use Shopify Payments, the platform’s integrated payment gateway, you won’t have to pay any transaction fees. However, if you prefer to use a third-party payment gateway, transaction fees apply. Here’s a quick rundown: 

• Basic Shopify: 2.0% per transaction
• Shopify: 1.0% per transaction
• Advanced Shopify: 0.5% per transaction

9.2. Volusion transaction fees 

Just like Shopify, Volusion also offers a no-extra-fee policy if you opt for Volusion Payments. However, if you decide to go with an alternative payment gateway, here’s how the charges will play out:

• 1.25% for Personal Plans
• 0.65% for Professional Plans
• 0.35% for Business Plans

In conclusion, when considering transaction fees in the Shopify vs Volusion debate, Volusion appears to offer a better deal.

10. Customization and scalability

When it comes to choosing the right eCommerce platform for your business, considering customization and scalability aspects is crucial. Your decision between Shopify vs Volusion may hinge on these factors. So, let’s dive in to better understand how these two platforms stack up. 

10.1. Shopify: Customization and scalability

When it comes to customization and scalability, Shopify stands tall among the crowd. This platform offers a wide range of tools and features that make it a favorite among many online retailers. Let’s delve deeper into what Shopify offers in terms of customization and scalability. 

Customization

Shopify provides a robust set of customization options. Whether you are a programming novice or an experienced developer, Shopify can cater to your needs. The platform offers over 70 professional themes, with both free and premium options available, enabling you to achieve the look and feel that best suits your brand. Additionally, the Shopify Theme Store provides a range of customizable themes curated by world-renowned designers. 

But what if you want to go beyond the available themes and tailor your store exactly to your liking? Shopify has you covered. With access to a fully featured HTML and CSS editor, you can modify your store’s code to create a truly unique online presence. Moreover, Shopify’s Liquid templating language allows you to customize every aspect of your storefront. 

Scalability

Shopify excels in the scalability department as well. As your business grows, Shopify grows with you. You can start with the basic plan and upgrade to more comprehensive plans as your store expands. These plans offer increasing levels of functionality to accommodate your growing business. 

One of Shopify’s greatest strengths is its ability to handle high traffic volumes. Even during peak shopping times, your store remains stable and fast, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for your customers. In addition, Shopify’s extensive app marketplace allows you to add features and functionality to your store as you need them, further enhancing your store’s scalability. 

In conclusion, whether you’re looking at customization options or scalability, Shopify provides a flexible and scalable solution that can adapt to the needs of any business, regardless of size or complexity.

10.2. Volusion: Customization and scalability

One of the integral aspects that sets Volusion apart in the Shopify vs Volusion debate is its focus on customization and scalability. With a diverse range of features, it’s designed to adapt and grow with your eCommerce business. 

Volusion provides a robust set of built-in features to customize your online store. These include a range of design templates, an intuitive drag-and-drop website builder, and a comprehensive set of product and inventory management tools. It’s worth noting that while Shopify also offers similar features, Volusion’s functionality can be more tailored to specific business needs. 

Customization features

• Design templates: Volusion offers more than 45 professionally designed themes. This allows you to create a unique and aesthetically pleasing online store.
• Website builder: The drag-and-drop website builder is user-friendly, making it easy even for beginners to set up their online store.
• Product and inventory management: Volusion provides a comprehensive range of tools to manage your products and track your inventory. This includes bulk product import, product variant pricing, and stock level alerts.

Scalability

Volusion stands out in terms of scalability. As your business grows and your needs change, Volusion’s cloud-based platform has the capacity to scale with you. Its top-tier plan supports unlimited products and includes all of the platform’s advanced features. This makes it an ideal choice for larger businesses with high volume sales. 

However, we must also address the fact that Volusion does have fewer integrations and plugins compared to Shopify. This could potentially limit its scalability in the long run, especially if your business requires specific third-party tools. Also, Volusion’s absence of a mobile app could be a drawback for some eCommerce owners looking to manage their store on the go. 

In conclusion, while Volusion provides excellent customization features and scalability options, it’s important to thoroughly evaluate your specific business needs when deciding between Shopify and Volusion. If you require a wide range of integrations or the ability to manage your store from a mobile device, Shopify might be the better option.

11. Support and resources

When it comes to customer support and resources, both Shopify and Volusion make a commendable effort to ensure that their users receive the help they need. However, there are distinctive aspects that might make one more appealing to you than the other. 

11.1. Shopify support and resources 

Shopify’s support hub is available 24/7, offering assistance via email, live chat, and phone. This round-the-clock service ensures that you can get help whenever you might need it, irrelevant of your geographical location or timezone. Moreover, Shopify’s robust community forum is a fantastic place to engage with other users, share insights, and find answers to common queries. 

Furthermore, Shopify provides a comprehensive resource center that includes how-to guides, tutorials, and free online webinars. There’s also Shopify University, a platform stocked with educational videos and lessons intended to help users maximize their eCommerce potential. 

Note: Shopify’s support and resource offerings are inclusive with all subscription plans. There are no additional charges for accessing these services.

11.2. Volusion support and resources 

Volusion, on the other hand, offers support via phone, chat, and email, but it’s only available from Monday to Friday, 7 am to 10 pm CST, and on weekends from 9 am to 9 pm CST. This might limit users in different time zones or those who prefer working outside conventional office hours. 

Volusion’s resources are quite thorough. They offer a knowledge base filled with articles, guides, and how-to videos, plus a community forum for users to share experiences and advice. They also provide one-on-one consultations with their team of eCommerce experts, which can be particularly helpful for those new to the online selling scene. 

Note: Volusion’s personalized consultation services are an added cost and are not included in the standard subscription packages. Make sure to consider this when calculating your expected expenses.

In conclusion, both Shopify and Volusion provide high-quality support and resources to their users. The choice between Shopify vs Volusion in this aspect highly depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you value round-the-clock assistance and a rich pool of self-learning resources, or you prefer personalized consultations with experts during business hours, both platforms have a lot to offer.

12. Pros and cons: Shopify vs Volusion

When it comes to choosing an eCommerce platform, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Let’s take a closer look at Shopify and Volusion, comparing their respective pros and cons. 

12.1. Pros and Cons of Using Shopify

If you’re considering setting up an eCommerce store, Shopify is likely on your shortlist of platforms to consider. Shopify has made a name for itself as a robust, reliable, and user-friendly eCommerce solution. 

Pros of using Shopify

• Intuitive and user-friendly interface: Shopify is renowned for its clean, easy-to-use dashboard. Even if you’re a novice, you’ll find setting up and running your online store a breeze with Shopify’s intuitive interface.
• Extensive app marketplace: With over 8,000 apps and plugins available, Shopify provides you with endless ways to customize and enhance your online store.
• 24/7 customer support: Shopify offers round-the-clock customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat. This ensures you get the help you need, whenever you need it.
• SEO-friendly: Shopify stores are designed to be search engine-friendly, helping your store rank higher in search results and attract more organic traffic.
• Multiple sales channels: Shopify allows you to sell your products not only on your online store but also on multiple other channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon, broadening your reach.

Cons of using Shopify

• Additional transaction fees: Unless you’re using Shopify Payments, Shopify charges additional transaction fees on each sale, which can eat into your profits.
• Cost of apps and plugins: While Shopify’s app marketplace is extensive, many essential apps and plugins are not free. The cost of these additions can quickly add up and increase your overall operating costs.
• Limited customization options: Shopify’s customization options are somewhat limited compared to other platforms like Magento. This can make it harder for you to create a unique look and feel for your website.

12.2. Pros and cons of using Volusion

When considering Volusion in the “Shopify vs Volusion” debate, there are several attributes that make it a viable choice for your eCommerce enterprise. While it has its own set of advantages, it’s essential to acknowledge that there are some drawbacks as well. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect with Volusion. 

Pros of Using Volusion

• Advanced eCommerce features: Volusion excels in offering a range of advanced eCommerce features, such as product variants, reviews, rich text product descriptions, and more.
• Comprehensive reporting tools: Volusion provides detailed analytics and reporting tools that give you insight into your store’s performance and customer behavior.
• Quality of support: Volusion offers a wealth of support options, including 24/7 phone and chat support, as well as a robust knowledge base, making it easier for you to solve any potential problems.

Cons of using Volusion

• Limit on products: Depending on your pricing plan, Volusion limits the number of products you can sell on your online store. This can be a hindrance for larger businesses.
• Additional cost for SSL certificate: Unlike Shopify, Volusion does not include a free SSL certificate. This crucial security feature comes at an additional cost.
• Limited free themes: While Volusion does offer some free themes, the selection is limited. Premium themes come at a cost, which may not be affordable for all businesses.
• Missing blogging functionality: Volusion lacks built-in blogging functionality, a feature that many eCommerce entrepreneurs find valuable for SEO and engagement purposes.

13. Shopify vs Volusion: Which one is more suitable for your business?

When it comes to choosing between Shopify and Volusion, it’s all about understanding what your business needs are. They both offer fantastic eCommerce platforms, but they shine in slightly different areas. Let’s delve into the specifics of both to help you make a more informed decision. 

13.1. Shopify: Best for growing businesses 

Shopify proves itself as a robust platform for growing businesses. It offers a wide range of integrations, themes, and templates that can be customized to suit your brand’s aesthetics. Not only does it provide various ways to source and ship products, but it also offers a diverse set of plugins to streamline your eCommerce operations. 

13.2. Volusion: Best for small to medium enterprises

Volusion, on the other hand, is a great fit for SMEs that require a more straightforward approach to eCommerce. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive eCommerce toolkit, Volusion can make the process of setting up an online store relatively stress-free. 

14. Monthly costs for small businesses: Shopify vs Volusion

Choosing between Shopify vs Volusion, it’s essential to understand the potential financial commitment associated with each platform. Let’s break down the monthly costs for small businesses considering plan charges, the number of SKUs, orders per month, marketing and SEO plugins, hosting and maintenance fee, and other potential costs. 

14.1. Shopify

• Basic plan: Shopify’s most inexpensive plan is $29 per month.
• SKUs and order management: Shopify does not charge additional fees for inventory or order management.
• Marketing and SEO plugins: The average cost of premium Shopify plugins ranges from $10 to $50 per month.
• Hosting and maintenance: Hosting is included in the Shopify plan, and there are no additional charges for maintenance.

On average, a small business could expect to spend approximately $39 to $79 per month on Shopify, excluding any transaction fees. 

14.2. Volusion 

• Personal plan: Volusion’s lowest-priced plan costs $31.5 per month, a bit more expensive than Shopify.
• SKUs and order management: Volusion’s Personal plan allows for 100 products but does come with an additional bandwidth usage fee.
• Marketing and SEO Plugins: The cost of SEO and marketing plugins is not included in Volusion’s pricing and can range from $10 to $50 per month.
• Hosting and maintenance: Hosting is included in Volusion’s plan cost, but additional costs may arise for maintenance and troubleshooting.

A small business might anticipate a monthly cost ranging from $41 to $81, excluding transaction fees and potential overage fees for Volusion. 

Note: The above estimates do not take into account any transaction fees, which can vary based on your chosen payment gateway.

14.3. Additional costs 

Both platforms may also come with additional costs for customizations, advanced features, or professional services. These costs can vary greatly depending on your specific needs. It’s also crucial to consider the time cost of setting up and managing your eCommerce store, which can be significant, especially without prior experience. 

14.4. Summary

Here’s a table summarizing the costs associated with each platform: 

	Shopify	Volusion
Monthly Subscription	$29-$299	$31.5-$269.1
Transaction Fees	0-2%	0-1.25%
Marketing plugins	Free to $79/month	Free to $99/month
Additional costs	Plugins monthly fees Order syncs from marketplaces	Plugins monthly fees

Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best. Consider what you’re getting for your money and whether it provides value to your business. Both Shopify and Volusion have their strengths and weaknesses, so make your choice based on your specific needs and budget.

15. Monthly costs for large businesses

For large businesses that handle a high volume of orders and require a robust inventory, the Shopify vs Volusion debate becomes particularly important. Both platforms offer attractive features for such businesses, but costs can differ significantly. Let’s dive into the details. 

Aspect	Shopify	Volusion
Plan cost	$299/month (Shopify Advanced)	$269.1/month (Volusion Business)
Large inventory (100,000 SKUs)	No additional cost	Additional cost based on SKU count
High volume transactions (100,000 orders)	No transaction fees if using Shopify Payments 0.5% per transaction if using third-party payment	No transaction fees if using Volusion Payments 0.35% per transaction if using third-party payment
Credit card commissions	2.4%-2.9% plus 30¢	Not disclosed
Marketing plugins	Varies: Free to $79/month	Varies: Free to $99/month
Hosting and maintenance	Included in plan	Included in plan

16. Conclusion

After a thorough examination of both platforms, it becomes clear that Shopify and Volusion each have their own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different types of businesses. Let’s take a quick glance at the main takeaways from our detailed comparison: 

Features	Shopify	Volusion
Pricing	Three main plans: Basic Shopify ($29/month), Shopify ($79/month), and Advanced Shopify ($299/month)	Four main plans: Personal ($31.5/month), Professional ($71.1/month), Business ($269.1/month), and Prime (custom pricing)
Payment	Offers its own payment gateway: Shopify Payments along with integration with over 100+ external payment gateways	Offers its own payment gateway by Stripe
Free trial	Offers a 14-day free trial	Offers a 14-day free trial
Fulfillment	Features options like dropshipping through Oberlo, and has multiple fulfillment centers	Offers dropshipping through integrations but has limited options for fulfillment centers
Marketing	Offers a wide range of services, including SEO, marketing tools, and robust analytics	Offers good marketing tools and analytics but no blogging features
Plugins	Extensive integration with more than 8,000 third-party apps and services	Has fewer integration options, with around 80 third-party apps
API access	Well-documented RESTful API and GraphQL API, allowing developers to build and integrate custom applications and services for businesses	RESTful API that is less comprehensive compared to Shopify, with fewer capabilities and less documentation
Support	24/7 customer service via phone, email and live chat	Customer service is not available 24/7, but offers support via phone and ticket system

In conclusion, if you are looking for a platform with a wide range of features, integrations, and robust customer support, Shopify may be your best bet. However, if your needs are simpler and you don’t require as many integrations or services, Volusion might be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between Shopify vs Volusion should align with your business needs, budget, and preferences.

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17. FAQs