Is Shopify Better Than GoDaddy?

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Shopify and GoDaddy are two powerful website builders. They have been around for many years and share some similarities and differences. 

For instance, if you say GoDaddy is better because it allows you to own a domain name, Shopify also does that.

Another point people also bring up is that Shopify helps them build profitable eCommerce platforms. But if you look at it some other way, GoDaddy’s website builder can serve almost the same purpose.

So which is better? It depends on preference. However, it would be best if you were clear on how both website builders operate and can help you achieve your goals. 

Luckily, in this guide, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about Shopify and GoDaddy. So continue reading.

What is Shopify?

Is Shopify Better Than GoDaddy

Shopify is an eCommerce platform that allows users to create and manage an online store.

 With Shopify, online merchants can sell digital or physical products across websites, marketplaces, and social media.

With features like; 

  • 90+ customizable store-front designs
  • 4000+ APIs and plugins 
  • Unlimited product listing and management
  • Multi-payment options for customers
  • Easy payment processing
  • Analytics and marketing tools
  • Marketing automation
  • Point-of-sale (POS) in-store services for local customers
  • More shipping options for International customers
  • And 24/7 customer service 

It’s no wonder that many business owners find it attractive.

In addition, its built-in drag-and-drop feature means you require no coding knowledge to build your online store.

What is GoDaddy?

Is Shopify Better Than GoDaddy

GoDaddy is a domain name registrar and web-building platform. 

So, you can get a domain name, web hosting plan, and website builder all in one platform.

Some of the features offered include;

  • 20+ customizable store-front designs
  • Product listing and inventory tracking
  • Payment processing – limited to Paypal, Apple pay, and square
  • Shipping – USPS or UPS – It also provides options for free shipping, flat-rate or weight-based shipping
  • Pick up in-store options for local customers
  • Customer Service

Most users, however, consider it to be more suited to small businesses even though it is less expensive.

Is Shopify better than Godaddy?

Yes, it is. 

But then, it depends on your business needs and how either option satisfies them.

Small business owners find GoDaddy satisfactory because it is less expensive – prices are within the range of; $16.99/mo to $29.99/mo.

Although it offers less bandwidth, and limited payment and shipping options, it is easy to set up.

However, if you require a bigger store and more tools to scale your business, Shopify is your best bet. 

Why is Shopify better?

Shopify stands out because it offers all-around value specifically for eCommerce.

It offers ease of use, marketing and analytics, product database, shipping, and customer support.

Let’s examine each closely.

1. Ease-of-use

Shopify has over 90+ themes you can customize to suit your storage needs. Furthermore, it offers 4000+ APIs and plugins to add unique features and functions and give you more control.

An outstanding feature is its easy drag-and-drop in-built tool that helps users build professional stores without coding experience.

You can create seamless layouts and integrate useful plugins like printful, smartseo, promo.com, product reviews, etc. 

2. Marketing and Analytics

Shopify has in-built SEO and marketing tools for social media and blogs through Google, Facebook ads, and more.

You would also have access to analytics tools to track your marketing efforts and manage your results.

3. Product database

Shopify Plus supports unlimited product listing and database management with its unlimited bandwidth feature.

Ultimately it resolves the challenge of scalability.

You can increasingly update your products. And easily track inventory from your physical or online store seamlessly, without data loss.

4. Shipping

 Shopify offers more shipping options in partnership with DHL, USPS, and several third-party shipping companies.

Consequently, this helps you give your customers more shipping options when making a purchase and reduces your bounce rate – meaning customers leaving your site.

5. Customer support

Shopify offers 24/7 customer support across; email, live chat, and over the phone.

They also offer support on their associated social media accounts.

Shopify vs. GoDaddy pricing

Shopify offers its basic plan at $26/mo, Shopify plan at $71/mo, and advanced plan at $266/mo.

Transaction fees are charged according to the plan you choose. But are usually within the range of 2-3%.

The good news is that you can try Shopify to see if it is right for you for free for three (3) days – no credit card details are required.

Conversely, GoDaddy offers four plans, but only two support eCommerce.

The Commerce plan costs $16.99/mo while the Commerce plus $29.99/mo when charged annually.

It is important to note that only the Commerce and Commerce Plus plans support eCommerce on Godaddy.

Pros of using GoDaddy 

Here are a few things to consider. GoDaddy offers;

  • Quick website builder for small businesses
  • Less expensive plans
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Requires no coding knowledge to set up

Cons of using GoDaddy

While GoDaddy might be a good option for small businesses to consider.

There are a few points not to ignore;

  • Few store-front themes and customization options
  • Inconsistent customer support
  • Very basic design

Pros of using Shopify 

Here are a few options that you get with Shopify;

  • Customize your online store with zero coding experience
  • Promote and sell your products on multiple sales channels, all from within Shopify
  • Access to point-of-sale service with inventory tracking, staff management, and more. 
  • Track your sales, orders, and analytics
  • Get 24/7 support via email, and live chat on all Shopify plans

Cons of using Shopify

As great as Shopify sounds, there are a few discouraging things to be aware of;

  •  Transaction fees are separately attached and can cost up to 2% on each transaction. It adds up to a pretty penny for businesses that generate lots of sales.
  • The pricing per plan can be expensive and discouraging for some users. 

FAQs

Can you switch from GoDaddy to Shopify?

Yes, you can. 

You can transfer a domain registered with Godaddy directly to Shopify. Here is how to;

 Go to your Shopify admin, click on “Domains” then select “Transfer Domain” 

Once you enter your domain name and follow the prompts, the transfer process begins.

Is GoDaddy good for small businesses?

Yes, It is.

It is a good place to start. It is quite easy to use and offers simple features at a reasonable price.

Does Shopify take a percentage of sales?

Yes, it does.

Shopify charges transaction fees, but it depends on the plan you purchase.

 These fees are typically within the range of 2–3 percent per online transaction.

Conclusion

So which is better, Shopify or GoDaddy? If your focus is to build a profitable eCommerce platform, Shopify is better. This is because it has lots of beginner-friendly themes, in-apps, and features that are easy to use.

Big brands like SKKN by Kim, Tesla, and Hasbro also host their eCommerce platforms on Shopify, so there are no questions about how reliable the platform is.

On the other hand, GoDaddy is better if you’re on a very tight budget or manage a small or mid-sized business. The brand is one of the oldest domain registrars. But they also have an easy-to-use eCommerce website builder that is functional and low-priced.

This guide has highlighted the pros and cons of Shopify and GoDaddy so that you can make the best decision for yourself.

Thanks for reading.

Need more guides to build your e-commerce store? See more here on WebsiteBuilder101.