Alternatives to Etsy

E-commerce has completely changed the way we shop, whether it’s for clothing and gadgets or simple groceries. Offering unparalleled convenience for both businesses and consumers, users can make purchases with just a few clicks.

Not only that, but they have the opportunity to explore a vast array of products without geographical limitations. This means that consumers can purchase goods from all over the world, allowing them access to global markets. And, on top of that, businesses are able to expand potential markets dramatically, selling to more people than ever before.

Indeed, for small businesses and independent creators alike, e-commerce platforms provide a critical bridge to allowing passion projects to be transformed into thriving professional business ventures.

Since online shopping started to become a thing, it’s now become a very normal part of daily life. From general marketplaces to niche platforms that cater to specific industries or crafts, these websites offer users tailored solutions that are able to meet a diverse range of needs.

So, whether you’re looking for a website to sell vintage goods, handmade items or custom goodies, the options for e-commerce platforms are virtually endless.

One of the most recognised names in this industry is Etsy, a platform particularly well known for connecting creators with buyers who are on the hunt for personalised items.

The good news, however, is that Etsy isn’t the only option – in fact, there are plenty of other platforms that provide unique features opportunities and benefits.

 

Top Alternatives to Etsy

 

With the general progression of tech, and CRM (customer relationship management) platforms in particular, there are now plenty of options that are excellent for e-commerce purposes. Etsy has long been a favourite in this regard, but depending on what you’re looking for, there are loads of different options to choose from.

 

1. Shopify

 

 

 

2. Wix

 

 

Wix was launched in 2006 and is headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel. This website builder is specifically geared towards combining ease of use with powerful e-commerce functionality. It’s particularly well known for its drag-and-drop interface that allows users to create customised online stores without coding skills.

Wix supports features like product galleries, secure payment options and SEO tools too, making it an excellent choice for small businesses and also individuals venturing into online retail. Today, it has more than 200 million users worldwide.

 

3. SquareSpace

 

 

Since its establishment in more than two decades ago in 2003, Squarespace has become a popular platform for building beautifully designed websites. Based in New York, SquareSpace is known for its sleek and modern templates and it’s particularly suited for creatives and small businesses seeking a visually appealing online presence.

Its e-commerce tools include product management, secure payment processing and marketing features like email campaigns. Squarespace also offers robust blogging and portfolio capabilities, making it ideal for entrepreneurs blending content with commerce, as many do these days.

 

 

4. IndieMade

 

 

IndieMade is a niche platform founded in Chicago in 2009, focusing on serving independent artists and creators. Combining tools for professional portfolio building and e-commerce functionality, IndieMade supports a range of features including blogs, custom domains and product galleries. Indeed, it caters to those who want to find a simple, straightforward to sell handmade, personalised or artistic creations.

The platform is renowned in particular for its affordable pricing and simplicity. Thus, it’s become an attractive option for those wanting to grow their online presence in a way that’s simple and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

 

5. Bonanza

 

 

Established in 2008 in Seattle, Bonanza is a marketplace that’s designed for sellers prioritising ease of use and affordability. It provides users with tools for creating listings and marketing products with minimal effort, making it an attractive alternative to larger marketplaces that are far more complicated to use and maintain.

Bonanza’s standout feature is its integration capabilities, allowing sellers to sync products with platforms like eBay, Etsy and Amazon. With a focus on handmade goods, collectables and unique items, Bonanza has cultivated a dedicated and loyal community of buyers and sellers.

 

6. Ecwid

 

 

Founded in 2009 in Ulyanovsk, Russia, Ecwid stands out as a plug-and-play e-commerce solution and these days, it’s headquartered in the United States.

Short for “e-commerce widget,” Ecwid allows users to seamlessly integrate online stores into existing websites or social media platforms. It supports multi-channel selling, including on Facebook, Instagram and marketplaces like Amazon.

The combination of these integration options along with other features – including real-time shipping rates, inventory management and mobile-responsive design, among other things – makes Ecwid a versatile and budget-friendly choice for businesses looking to expand their digital footprint.

 

7. GoImagine

 

 

Founded in 2020 in Massachusetts, GoImagine is a socially conscious e-commerce platform that donates all its profits to charity, setting it apart from most other companies in the industry. Targeted at handmade and artisan sellers, it provides a space for creators to reach ethically minded buyers.

The platform features straightforward listing tools, low fees and a mission-driven approach that prioritises community impact over corporate profits. GoImagine is a unique choice for sellers who want to align their business with philanthropic values, providing opportunities that are hard to come by other means.

 

8. Red Bubble

 

 

Redbubble is an Australian global marketplace that was founded in 2006 and is intended for use by independent artists. The platform enables artists to upload their designs, which are then printed on demand onto a variety of products, including clothing, home decor and accessories.

Serving a very niche target market, Redbubble handles all production, shipping and customer service, allowing artists to focus on creating. With a community of over 700,000 creators, Redbubble offers a low-barrier entry for artists to monetise their work and reach an international audience.

 

9. eBay

 

 

Possibly the most well-known e-commerce website around the world, eBay is generally considered one of the pioneers of the industry. It was initially launched as an online auction site, and over the years, it’s evolved to become a global marketplace to connect millions of buyers and sellers all around the world.

eBay supports a broad and diverse range of products – from new and used items to rare finds and collectables, the platform caters to both businesses and individuals.

Some of its features include fixed-price listings, bidding and seller tools intended for inventory management and analytics. Operating in more than 190 markets worldwide, eBay is still one of the top choices for anybody looking to buy or sell a wide variety of goods in a secure, well-established and reputable environment.

 

10. Big Cartel 

 

 

Big Cartel was founded in 2005 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and it’s an e-commerce platform tailored to independent artists and small businesses. Known for its simplicity and affordability, it offers a user-friendly way to create and manage online stores without requiring technical expertise.

Big Cartel supports customisable themes, product management and integration with tools like PayPal and Stripe for secure payment processing. With a focus on creativity and individuality, it’s an excellent choice for creators looking to sell handmade goods, art or niche products in a professional yet approachable online space.