PHP opensource eCommerce platforms have revolutionized the online shopping ecosystem. They provide a holistic infrastructure including all the tools required to start your own eCommerce business. In this article, we will compare the best PHP eCommerce platforms in 2025 so you can make an informed decision.
PHP Opensource eCommerce platforms simplify web development for users across the skill spectrum. So, if you want a cost-effective way to build an eCommerce brand, we have just what you need. Continue reading to compare the key features, pros, and cons of each platform to find one that best suits your needs.
How to Find the Best Opensource eCommerce Platforms in 2025?
With dozens of opensource eCommerce platforms on the market, finding the best one is challenging. So, let’s walk you through the primary factors to consider when comparing top-rated eCommerce solutions.
Identify Your Business Needs
Different eCommerce platforms cater to unique verticals. Therefore, you must ensure your shortlisted solution meets your business needs. Additionally, evaluate your marketing strategies to check if the platform aligns with your business goals and interests.
Check User-friendliness
If you are just starting a business, it’s imperative to keep the costs down. Hence, unless you plan to hire a professional developer to design and maintain your online store, you must be able to do it all yourself. Hence, opt for an eCommerce platform with a linear learning curve and clear instructions.
Evaluate Scalability and Customizability
As your business expands, your preferred eCommerce service must keep up. So, find a platform that provides add-on services at reasonable costs. You should also consider upgrading to an unlimited bandwidth dedicated server for an optimum user experience.
Analyze the Payment Modes
Offering multiple payment methods can improve user experience. So, ensure your preferred eCommerce platform supports a diverse range of payment gateways, including wire transfers, debit/credit cards, mobile banking, eWallets, coupons, and more.
Test Customer Support
Robust customer support can make all the difference between a successful and a failed online store. Therefore, you must ensure the shortlisted eCommerce platform offers multiple support channels, including live chat, email, voice call, etc.
6 Best PHP Opensource eCommerce Platforms Compared
Here are the top six opensource eCommerce platforms written in Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP). We highlighted their key features, pros, and cons to help you choose better.
Magento
Magento, now Adobe Commerce, is one of the most popular opensource eCommerce platforms on the market. It’s built using a PHP-based framework, which allows the platform to scale with your business. It has multiple extensions for added functionalities. You can download and install Magento themes and plugins from the marketplace.
Key Features
- Sell Anywhere: Let your customers shop anywhere, any time, and however they want with multichannel shopping solutions managed from a single dashboard.
- Manage and Deliver: Personalize end-to-end shopping experiences and boost order value and conversion rate.
- Measure and Optimize: Personalize user experience in real-time by gathering actionable insights and tailored performance recommendations.
Pros
- Highly customizable and scalable eCommerce platform
- One of the best Shopify alternatives
- Built-in SEO solutions for higher SERP rankings
Cons
- It has a steep learning curve
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is one of the best PHP eCommerce platforms in 2025. The tool is part of the WordPress ecosystem and integrates flawlessly with third-party WP plugins and themes. WooCommerce also offers add-ons such as POS plugins and multivendor extensions for greater functionality.
Key Features
- User-friendly Interface: Being part of the WordPress ecosystem, WooCommerce has a user-friendly interface, Elevate Your Website with Managed Dedicated Servers
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Pros
- Integrates easily with popular WordPress page builders
- Doesn’t require programming knowledge
- Tons of paid and free themes and extensions are available
Cons
- Does not work outside the WordPress environment
Drupal
Drupal is a popular opensource CMS written in PHP. It offers comprehensive tools for building elaborate eCommerce stores and is ideal for enterprise use as it offers unparalleled security. Furthermore, the Drupal developer community is famous for being helpful and supportive of new users. Plus, the platform offers plenty of third-party integrations for a range of services and is compatible with popular Drupal hosting services.
Key Features
- Security: Keep customer data safe from unauthorized access and malicious attacks around the clock.
- Accessibility: Localize your content for a global audience with built-in tools and easy integrations.
- Marketing Automation: Supercharge your marketing campaigns by automating and scheduling routine tasks.
Pros
- Highly customizable platform offering third-party integration
- Access built-in SEO tools to boost reach
- Active community support
Cons
- Unsuitable for beginners
Joomla
Joomla is an excellent PHP-based CMS that can be used to build functional and stunning eCommerce websites. The platform offers comprehensive solutions from SEO to inventory management and everything in between. All you need is a robust Joomla hosting plan to unlock the platform’s full capability.
Key Features
- Flexible Solutions: Joomla has thousands of third-party plugins in the Extensions Directory for added functionality.
- SEO-friendly: From metadata and keywords to menu creation and more, the platform offers diverse tools for optimizing your online store.
- Highly Secure: The platform offers a range of security measures, including SSL encryption two-factor authentication, etc., to safeguard user data.
Pros
- The platform is heavily customizable
- User-friendly for beginners and experienced web developers
- Excellent community support
Cons
- Some plugins have a steep learning curve
PrestaShop
PrestaShop is a popular PHP-based eCommerce platform that adapts to your business’s changing needs. It offers several intuitive features including downloadable products, on-page checkout, one-page checkout, cross-selling, and more. The platform also supports add-ons for enhanced functionality. Here are its key features.
Key Features
- Complete Control: Get total control over your online store and all the data for an enhanced business experience.
- Customizable Interface: PrestaShop has thousands of modules and themes to help you customize your online store at will.
- Scalable Solutions: From entrepreneurs to established business leaders, Prestashop’s eCommerce solutions can be tailored to your needs.
Pros
- More affordable than rivals
- Easy to install and customize
- Has all the essential eCommerce features built-in
Cons
- Limited support is available
OpenCart
OpenCart is a PHP opensource eCommerce shopping platform. It is beginner-friendly and has all the features you need to set up an online store. You don’t need prior experience or technical know-how to use OpenCart. Therefore, it is ideal for standalone online stores.
Key Features
- Powerful Store Management: Enjoy built-in SEO and store management features such as product, customer, order management, etc.
- Add-on Extensions: Expand the functionality of your online store with add-on plugins.
- Robust Support Network: Enjoy unlimited support from trained professionals and a dedicated user community.
Pros
- Easy to use and manage for beginners
- Multiple inventory management options
- Offers over 13,000 modules and themes
Cons
- Limited payment gateway options
Conclusion
That concludes our list of the best opensource eCommerce platforms on the market. Each platform offers unique perks and functionalities and is ideal for different industries. We recommend you identify your business goals before choosing your ideal eCommerce platform.
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FAQ
Which is the best opensource eCommerce platform for beginners?
WooCommerce is ideal for beginners due to its ease of use, WordPress integration, and extensive plugins.
How much does an eCommerce platform cost?
Open-source platforms are free, but the cost of hosting, themes, and plugins can add up annually.
How do I find the best opensource eCommerce platform?
You must evaluate the ease of use, support, scalability, and required features to choose the platform best suited to you.
How long does it take to launch an eCommerce store?
It can take anywhere from a few days to weeks depending on setup complexity, platform choice, and customizations.
Are opensource eCommerce platforms SEO-friendly?
Yes, most platforms offer SEO tools to optimize product pages and URLs.
How much money should I spend on an eCommerce platform?
Ideally, you should spend as little as possible when starting a business. You can purchase add-on extensions as your business grows and needs change.
Is WordPress good for eCommerce websites?
Yes, WordPress combined with WooCommerce is ideal for building eCommerce stores.
