Open-source e-commerce software can assist you in creating a robust, adaptable online store. Find out if an open-source solution is suitable for your e-commerce requirements.

If you need a shed in your yard, you have three options: Buy a constructed shed, Hire a contractor or obtain designs and materials to construct your greenhouse.

Using an open-source e-commerce platform is similar to building your shed. The platform, like the shed plans and supplies, has everything you need to build an e-commerce website while also allowing you to personalize it to your specifications. The disadvantage is that working with open-source software necessitates specialized expertise and time.

If you have the technical knowledge—or if you hire a web developer—an open-source e-commerce platform can allow you to build a user-friendly, scalable online store exactly as you envision it.

Contents

1 What is open-source e-commerce?
2 The Final line

What is open-source e-commerce?

Open-source e-commerce refers to software that allows users complete access to its source code. This enables users to tweak and tailor the platform to their requirements. This strategy allows them complete control over the appearance and functionality of their online business. Open-source software is usually free to download and use.

How does open-source e-commerce work?

The first step in using an open-source e-commerce platform is to obtain the source code. Most providers provide direct download links on their websites. However, some providers want you to sign up for free before you can download them. Many platforms, including SourceForge, are available through an online open-source software library.

Using the code to create an online store is where things get more tricky. Some platforms, however, allow users with limited technical skills to configure basic storage. However, taking full use of open-source solutions necessitates web programming skills. Therefore Many organizations engage web developers to make the most of the platform’s possibilities.

Most open-source e-commerce platforms have apps and extensions that add functionality and customization possibilities. You can consider adding an inventory management solution to your website. Users can acquire them from the company’s app marketplace, a multi-vendor marketplace, or a third-party developer. Because open-source software is designed to be customizable, a qualified web developer may tailor the platform to your specific requirements.

Open source e-commerce vs. SaaS e-commerce

E-commerce platforms are typically divided into two categories: open source and software as a service (SaaS). SaaS is a cloud-based software service provider that offers subscription-based access to applications via the Internet. Shopify is an example of a SaaS e-commerce platform, as it offers a hosted solution for managing online stores.

Both of these e-commerce platforms may be used to construct safe, user-friendly online stores, but they have different cost structures, customization choices, and the level of technical knowledge necessary for site setup and upkeep.

Cost

How they are comparable. While open-source software is usually free to acquire and use, establishing and operating an online business on an open-source or SaaS platform will cost money.
How they are distinct. SaaS platforms require a membership fee to utilize their software, which frequently includes apps, extensions, and hosting charges. While open-source software is free, there may be expenses associated with programs, extensions, hosting, and site development.

Customization

How they are comparable. SaaS and open-source platforms enable customization, apps, and extensions.
How they are distinct. In theory, open-source platforms can be infinitely customized as long as you (or a developer) have the necessary technical skills. SaaS platforms include customization options, although they are frequently limited.

Display

How they are comparable. Both SaaS and open-source systems provide customers with many display options to customize the appearance and feel of the user interface. Many have many prebuilt themes, which are effectively front-end website layouts.
How they are distinct. Web developers can modify source code to change any aspect of an open-source platform’s display. In contrast, SaaS solutions enable users with minimum technical skills to personalize displays within predefined constraints.

Security

How they are comparable. Both technologies are intended to help e-commerce businesses protect client data and offer a secure purchasing experience.
How they are distinct. SaaS platforms have built-in security measures and continually monitor and modify the software to keep up with new technologies. Many also provide PCI compliance, which confirms that a website securely handles credit card data. Users of open-source systems must install updates, comply with PCI regulations, and monitor site security.

6 popular open-source e-commerce platforms

WooCommerce
OpenCart
NopCommerce
Magento
Ecwid
Zen Cart

There are various open-source e-commerce platforms available, ranging from basic shopping cart plug-ins to fully integrated front-end and back-end systems.

1. WooCommerce

WooCommerce is a free, open-source e-commerce platform that integrates with WordPress websites. The program is popular among online businesses. It powers 29% of all online retailers globally.

Integrating WooCommerce with the WordPress content management system does not require any web development experience, but changes do require knowledge of the PHP programming language.

WooCommerce’s features include:

Over 1,200 themes
Product sorting
Tax calculation
Built-in payment processing
Inventory management
Over 800 extensions
Customer support for WooCommerce products

2. OpenCart

OpenCart is a tiny open-source e-commerce platform based in Hong Kong that uses PHP as its programming language. Like WooCommerce, OpenCart allows non-technical users to create a basic storefront using one of the company’s themes.

OpenCart follows a “core plus extensions” paradigm, with fewer built-in capabilities than most competitors. Most e-commerce store owners still need to download many extensions to suit their requirements. The company’s strong developer community helps to build a library of over 13,000 extensions.

OpenCart’s built-in features include:

Over 2,700 themes
Over 20 integrated payment gateways
Multi-storefront management
User roles
Unlimited products and product categories
Product filters and sorting
Multi-currency support
Integrated shipping
Recurring orders

3. NopCommerce

NopCommerce, a free open-source e-commerce platform based in Russia, caters to small and medium-sized enterprises as well as enterprise customers. NopCommerce is built on ASP.Net, a server-side scripting language developed by Microsoft that uses the C# programming language, making it popular among firms that employ other Microsoft technologies.

NopCommerce provides two download alternatives: a source code version for developers seeking complete customization and one-click installation options for users with less technical knowledge.

NopCommerce’s features include:

Content management system
Over 1,500 integrations
Mobile-responsive interface
Multi-storefront management
Omnichannel selling
Headless functionality
SEO-friendly design
Over 150 developers, hosting, and technology partners

4. Magento

Magento is Adobe Commerce’s popular open-source e-commerce platform, with a wide variety of built-in functionality. The Magento Marketplace has over 3,000 free and paid extensions for organisations needing more customised functionality.

Magento has a higher learning curve than most popular open-source platforms. Users with low technical skills will need to hire a web developer to fully utilize the site. Magento’s programming language is PHP.

Adobe Commerce’s open-source platform, Magento, includes:

Content management system
Analytics and Reporting
Catalog management
SEO-optimization tools
Inventory management system
Multi-tier pricing
Mobile-optimized storefront
International currencies accepted

5. Ecwid

Ecwid is a free open-source shopping cart integration that can be added to an existing website. Ecwid is developed in PHP, thus some technical knowledge is required to combine it with an existing website.

Ecwid collaborates with more than 50 payment suppliers and several POS systems. The free edition supports two product categories, up to ten items, and a single-page e-commerce site. Larger businesses require one of three monthly premium options, beginning at $15.

Ecwid’s built-in features include:

Tax management
Subscription management
Language detection

6. Zen Cart

Zen Cart is a free PHP-based shopping cart integration tool. Zen Cart, like Ecwid, requires technical knowledge to integrate with a current website. Zen Cart’s built-in storefront is also less user-friendly than many of its competitors, making it a better choice for business owners who intend to engage a web developer for customization rather than those searching for a simpler solution.

Zen Cart uses a core-plus-extensions model and includes over 2,000 free and paid add-ons.

The built-in features include:

Supports multiple languages
Accepts multiple currencies
SEO tools
Reporting and analytics
Customer group pricing

The Final line

Open-source e-commerce platforms offer unparalleled flexibility and adaptability, making them ideal for enterprises with unique requirements and technical expertise. Although they require more time and knowledge than SaaS choices, they provide full control over your store’s design, features, and security. Platforms such as WooCommerce, OpenCart, and Magento can help you establish a strong, scalable online store that is tailored to your specific needs. Choosing the right platform is determined by your technical expertise and long-term e-commerce goals, ensuring that your online store evolves in unison with your business.

6 Best Open Source Ecommerce Platforms in 2025 – Updated