If you already know WordPress, it’s natural to wonder whether Shopify will feel easier, harder, or just different. The short answer is: Shopify may feel easier at first, but more limiting over time – especially if you’re used to WordPress flexibility. There are other ways to reduce the maintenance requirements of a WordPress website, and in general just be easier, without reducing flexibility and customization – like using UltimateWB.
Here’s a detailed comparison.
Related: What Makes UltimateWB Easier to Use Than WordPress
Why Shopify Might Feel Easier at First
Shopify is a fully hosted platform, which means:
- Hosting is included – though this convenience comes with some trade-offs, which we’ll cover below.
- Security and updates are handled automatically
- E-commerce features are built in from day one
If you’re coming from WordPress + WooCommerce, Shopify’s setup can feel refreshingly simple. You don’t need to:
- Choose hosting
- Install WordPress
- Add and configure multiple plugins
For beginners or those who just want to get a store online quickly, Shopify often feels more streamlined.
Related: Is WooCommerce Safe? Drawbacks and Security Risks You Should Know
Why Shopify Might Feel Harder If You Know WordPress
Once you move past the initial setup, Shopify can start to feel restrictive – especially if you’re comfortable with WordPress.
Common friction points for WordPress users:
- Limited customization without apps
- Monthly fees for basic features
- Restricted hosting flexibility – you can’t scale or customize your server, and switching hosts means starting over
- Less control over SEO and site structure
- Theme edits require Shopify’s Liquid language
Related: Why So Many Businesses Are Switching from Hosted Platforms to Self-Hosted Builders
WordPress users are used to controlling:
- Page layouts
- URLs
- Plugins and integrations
- SEO behavior
- Backend logic and server choices
These restrictions show how convenience can come at a cost – something to consider when choosing your platform.
Related: Signs Your Website Builder Isn’t as Customizable as You Think
Why a Customizable Website Builder is the Key to Unique Branding
WordPress vs Shopify: Ease Depends on Your Goals
- Speed and simplicity: Shopify feels easier
- Customization and control: WordPress offers extensive flexibility, but UltimateWB provides the same flexibility with less complexity
- Scaling without ongoing app costs: Shopify may feel limiting, though WordPress plugins can add up too: Do you really own your WordPress website?
WordPress is harder – for both maintenance and setup. Once configured, many experienced WordPress users find it more powerful and flexible than Shopify.
UltimateWB vs WordPress vs Shopify: Which Platform Is Right for You?
If you want the ease of Shopify but with more control and flexibility, UltimateWB is a strong alternative.
With UltimateWB:
- E-commerce features are built in
- Full customization and flexibility, just like WordPress, but simpler to manage
- You’re not locked into expensive apps
- You’re not locked into a specific host – choose UltimateWB web hosting plans for free install/update services, or host on your own server.
- You keep full control over layout, SEO, and features
For users familiar with WordPress who want simplicity without giving up flexibility, UltimateWB often feels like the best balance.
Related: Why WordPress Users Are Switching to UltimateWB: 10 Data-Driven Reasons
Final Answer
If you’re familiar with WordPress:
- WordPress offers full control and flexibility, but requires more setup and maintenance.
- Shopify may feel easier initially, but harder once you need deeper customization.
- UltimateWB combines ease and control, giving you the best of both worlds.
With UltimateWB, you get all the flexibility of WordPress, but with simpler management and less maintenance hassle.
Related: How to Find a Website Builder with Low Maintenance Requirements
Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.