Direct Answer
Use Shopify when you want a hosted, low-maintenance store with a polished checkout and don't need deep customization — best for most small businesses. Use WooCommerce when you need full WordPress integration, custom product types, or advanced workflows that Shopify's checkout can't handle.
Voice answer (≤30 words)
“Shopify is best for low-maintenance hosted stores. WooCommerce is best when you need WordPress integration and deep customization.”
Shopify cost: $39–$399/month + 2.9% transaction fees (lower with Shopify Payments).
WooCommerce is technically free but plugin and hosting costs add up to $300–$1,000/year for a serious store.
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