Shopify vs. WooCommerce: What Works Best in Pakistan?

When launching your e-commerce store, the first big decision is choosing a platform. In 2025, two of the most popular options are Shopify and WooCommerce — but which one should you pick, especially if you’re in Pakistan?

Let’s compare them side by side to help you make the best choice.

1. What Are They?

Shopify:
A fully hosted e-commerce platform. You pay a monthly fee, and Shopify takes care of everything — hosting, security, updates, and more.

WooCommerce:
A free plugin for WordPress that lets you turn your website into a store. You manage your hosting and more, but have full control.

2. Setup & Ease of Use

Shopify:

• Very beginner-friendly
• Drag-and-drop interface
• Setup in less than a day

WooCommerce:

• More technical (especially in the beginning)
• Requires WordPress setup and hosting
• More flexible, but less beginner-friendly

Verdict:
Shopify wins for beginners. WooCommerce is better if you’re tech-savvy or already use WordPress.

3. Payment Gateways in Pakistan

Shopify:

• Supports PayFast (Pakistani gateway)
• Integrates with 2Checkout, PayPal, etc.
• Easy to connect digital wallets like JazzCash via 3rd-party apps

WooCommerce:

• Supports JazzCash, EasyPaisa, PayFast, and more via plugins
• You can manually configure bank transfers or COD

Verdict:
Both support Pakistani payment options, but WooCommerce offers more local flexibility.

4. Costs

Shopify:

• Monthly plans start at around $29 (plus transaction fees)
• Apps and themes may add extra costs

WooCommerce:

• Free plugin
• Pay only for hosting, domain, and any premium plugins or themes

Verdict:
WooCommerce is cheaper upfront. Shopify is more predictable in pricing.

5. Customization & Scalability

Shopify:

• Limited control over back-end customization
• Great app ecosystem
• Easier to scale quickly

WooCommerce:

• Full control and customization
• Huge number of plugins and themes
• Ideal for long-term, custom projects

Verdict:
WooCommerce gives you more freedom. Shopify is simpler for scaling fast.

6. Support & Community

Shopify:

• 24/7 customer support
• Extensive tutorials and help docs

WooCommerce:

• Large open-source community
• Support depends on your hosting or paid plugins

Bottom Line:

• Shopify is great for those who want to get started quickly with minimal hassle.
• WooCommerce is perfect for those who want control, flexibility, and cost-efficiency.

Final Words

Both platforms work great in Pakistan — the best one depends on your experience level, budget, and business goals. If you want to launch fast and focus on marketing, go with Shopify. If you want full control and already use WordPress, choose WooCom merce.

“Whether you choose Shopify or WooCommerce, AAQAF can support you with setup and provide professional services at very affordable rates.”