Choosing the right tech is a crucial step in your e-commerce development journey. Among the most popular options, Shopify and a custom tech stack using Laravel with React stand out. But which one is better to bring in business?
Today, we are going to explain both options to help you decide which one to consider while building your e-commerce store, whether you choose Shopify store development or a custom tech stack, Laravel Development with React.
Shopify: Fast, Reliable, and Beginner-Friendly CMS Platform.
If you are not hiring any technical person and want to manage everything by yourself, then you should run Shopify stores. It is a fully hosted platform designed for merchants who don’t want to get in the hustle of hiring a tech person for their brand or e-commerce website.
Advantages of Shopify
- Easy & Quick Setup: Launch your store in just a few hours, but with a basic design.
- No Coding Required: No need to hire the tech person, you can customise with drag and drop themes.
- Hosting Included: SSL, PCI compliance are built-in with the Shopify plan
- App Store Ecosystem: Thousands of apps to expand functionality, but here you need a tech person to properly integrate them.
- Great for Beginners: Perfect for non-technical founders.
Disadvantages of Shopify
- Limited Customisations: You’re restricted by what Shopify allows you because you are using a third-party platform.
- Monthly Fees & App Costs: Subscription fees can add up to the third-party apps cost, too. Most apps offer paid features only, while free versions include limitations only.
- Platform Lock-In: Migrating to the other platform isn’t a simple process. It is almost not possible without redesigning the website.
- Transaction Fees: Every transaction incurs a small amount of fee unless and until we use Shopify Payments.
Well, Shopify Stores are best for startups, dropshippers, and businesses looking for fast, hassle-free ecommerce web development.
Laravel with React: Flexible and Customisable E-commerce Platform
If you want to go beyond the basic ecommerce functionality, and looking for the fully customised ecommerce platform, a combination of Laravel (backend ) and React (frontend) is a option to choose.
Adavantages of Laravel + React:
- Total Flexibility: Create any feature or business logic you need.
- Modern UI/UX: React allows smooth, dynamic front-end experiences.
- Scalable Architecture: You choose your hosting and optimize performance.
- API Ready: Integrate with third-party tools, CRMs, or mobile apps easily.
- Complete Ownership: No recurring platform fees.
Disadvantages of Laravel + React:
- Longer Time to Launch: Development can take weeks or months.
- Requires Technical Expertise: You’ll need skilled developers.
- Ongoing Maintenance: You’re responsible for security, updates, and hosting.
- Higher Initial Investment: Custom development isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it if you need it.
Best For: Enterprises, marketplaces, or businesses with complex needs requiring advanced web development solutions.
Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, your decision depends on your business model, goals, and available resources.
- Choose Shopify if you want a ready-made solution with fast deployment and minimal technical overhead.
- Choose Laravel + React if you need a high-performing, scalable, and fully customized solution that supports your long-term growth.
Need Expert Help?
At Shade Technologies, we specialize in both Shopify development and custom Laravel e-commerce solutions. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your online store, our team can help you choose and build the right platform tailored to your needs.
Let’s talk about how we can support your e-commerce development goals.