If you’re selling handmade, vintage, or custom goods, chances are you’ve thought about Etsy and Shopify. Both platforms can help you reach customers, but they work in very different ways.
So which one is right for your business? Let’s break down the pros and cons of Etsy and Shopify — and help you decide whether to stick with one, or use both.
Etsy: Marketplace Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Built-in audience: Millions of shoppers already search Etsy every day.
- Easy to start: Low setup cost and beginner-friendly.
- Trust factor: Buyers trust Etsy for handmade, unique items.
❌ Cons:
- High fees: Listing + transaction + payment fees add up quickly.
- Limited branding: Your shop always looks and feels like “Etsy.”
- Algorithm control: Your visibility depends on Etsy’s search rules, not you.
Shopify: Ecommerce Platform Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Full ownership: Your domain, your branding, your customer data.
- Scalability: Built for growth, with apps for subscriptions, bundles, and more.
- Marketing freedom: Run SEO, email campaigns, ads, and social selling on your terms.
❌ Cons:
- Monthly fee: Plans start at $39/month (plus payment fees).
- Traffic is on you: Unlike Etsy, Shopify doesn’t bring a built-in audience — you’ll need to market.
- Learning curve: More tools = more setup time.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
- Choose Etsy if… you’re just starting, want exposure to a built-in audience, and don’t mind marketplace fees.
- Choose Shopify if… you’re ready to build a long-term brand, scale beyond Etsy’s limits, and control your customer journey.
- Choose both if… you want to use Etsy for discovery while running Shopify as your main store.
The best platform depends on your stage and goals. Etsy is great for getting started, while Shopify is built for growth. Many sellers find that using both together creates the perfect balance — Etsy for new eyes, Shopify for long-term sales.
FAQs
Is Etsy cheaper than Shopify?
At first, yes — but as your sales grow, Etsy’s fees can cost more than Shopify’s monthly plan.
Can I use both Etsy and Shopify?
Yes — many sellers keep Etsy for discovery and run Shopify for branding and repeat sales.
Which is better for beginners?
Etsy is easier to start with, while Shopify gives you more long-term growth potential.
Do I own my customer data on Etsy?
No — Etsy controls customer emails and info. On Shopify, you fully own your customer list.
Can I migrate from Etsy to Shopify later?
Absolutely. You can start on Etsy and move to Shopify when you’re ready to scale.
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