BigCommerce vs Shopify in Singapore: Which eCommerce Platform Wins?

Both platforms dominate the global eCommerce space, with Shopify powering over 4.8 million live stores worldwide and BigCommerce supporting more than 60,000 active merchants, but their strengths, pricing, and features differ, especially when it comes to meeting the needs of Singapore’s unique market. This guide compares BigCommerce and Shopify in depth, covering everything from ease of use to local payment gateways and shipping integrations, so you can make the right choice for your business.

Highlights

• BigCommerce vs Shopify is a top decision for Singapore merchants seeking scalable and profitable online stores.
• Shopify focuses on ease of use and fast setup, while BigCommerce offers advanced features without relying heavily on third-party apps.
• Local factors like SGD pricing, payment integrations (GrabPay, PayNow), and shipping solutions can determine the best fit for your store.

Overview of BigCommerce and Shopify

When comparing BigCommerce vs Shopify, it’s important to understand that both platforms have carved out strong reputations in the global eCommerce space,  but they approach online selling in very different ways.

BigCommerce: Built for Scalability and Feature-Rich Selling

BigCommerce is often regarded as the more robust, enterprise-focused platform. It comes with a wide range of built-in features that are ready to use right out of the box, eliminating the need for multiple third-party apps. This approach not only reduces operational complexity but also helps lower long-term costs.

Key capabilities such as advanced product filtering, multi-currency support, B2B functionalities, and in-depth analytics are included in its core offering. These make it an attractive option for larger retailers and fast-growing businesses in Singapore who require scalability, customization, and flexibility. BigCommerce is especially popular among brands that want greater control over their store’s infrastructure and prefer a platform that can adapt to complex workflows without relying heavily on external integrations.

Shopify: User-Friendly and Fast to Market

Shopify, in contrast, has built its reputation around user-friendliness and rapid deployment. Designed with simplicity in mind, Shopify allows merchants to set up a professional-looking online store with minimal technical expertise. Its drag-and-drop editor, library of professional themes, and intuitive dashboard make it a top choice for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore that value speed, ease of use, and quick market entry.

One of Shopify Plus’s biggest strengths is its enormous app marketplace, which offers thousands of integrations for marketing automation, inventory management, shipping, and more. However, many advanced features require premium apps, which can increase monthly costs over time. Despite this, Shopify remains an excellent choice for entrepreneurs, boutique retailers, and businesses that want to launch quickly and scale at their own pace.

Platform Preferences in the Singapore Market

In Singapore, both platforms enjoy strong adoption but serve slightly different audiences. Shopify tends to attract SMEs and first-time online sellers, while BigCommerce appeals to scaling brands, larger catalogs, and retailers expanding regionally. The BigCommerce vs Shopify decision often comes down to your business size, technical requirements, and growth ambition, with Shopify excelling in ease of use and speed to market, and BigCommerce winning in scalability and feature depth without heavy reliance on third-party add-ons.

Key Comparison Factors

Ease of Use and Setup

Shopify: Fast Onboarding for Beginners

Shopify has earned a strong reputation for being one of the easiest digital commerce platforms to set up, making it a top choice for beginners and SMEs in Singapore. The interface is intuitive, with an onboarding process that walks users through everything from adding products to setting up payment gateways. This simplicity allows merchants to launch their store quickly, even with little technical experience.

Key advantages include:

• Quick start wizard that guides you through store creation and customization.
• Drag-and-drop builder for easy design changes without coding.
• Pre-built, mobile-responsive themes ready for immediate use.
• Access to 8,000+ apps for added functionality, from marketing to fulfilment.

For Singapore’s small businesses and startups, Shopify’s ease of use means a faster path to market and fewer headaches during setup.

BigCommerce: More Features, Slightly Steeper Learning Curve

BigCommerce is also user-friendly but offers more built-in features from the start, which can make the learning curve slightly steeper. While initial setup may take longer, the platform’s native capabilities reduce the need for third-party apps later, leading to long-term cost and operational efficiency.

Notable benefits include:

• Centralized dashboard for products, orders, marketing, and analytics.
• Native SEO tools, product filtering, and B2B functions.
• Guided store launch resources for smooth setup.
• Full HTML, CSS, and JavaScript access for advanced customization.

For scaling brands in Singapore, BigCommerce’s feature-rich environment allows more control over the store’s capabilities without increasing ongoing expenses through add-ons.

When comparing BigCommerce vs Shopify for ease of use in Singapore, Shopify clearly caters to merchants seeking speed and simplicity, while BigCommerce offers a more robust feature set for businesses prepared to invest slightly more time upfront for greater long-term flexibility and cost savings.

Design and Customization

Shopify: Large Theme Marketplace with Polished Visuals

Shopify offers a wide range of themes designed for multiple industries, all mobile-optimized and professionally built. While customization is possible through its Liquid coding language, non-technical users can still make significant changes with its drag-and-drop editor.

Highlights include:

• 100+ themes (free and paid) with industry-specific designs.
• Built-in customization for layouts, colors, and typography.
• Liquid template language for advanced design control.
• Preview mode to test changes before publishing.

This flexibility, combined with a vast theme library, makes Shopify appealing to Singapore merchants who prioritize branding and user experience.

BigCommerce: Feature-Rich Themes Out of the Box

BigCommerce may have fewer themes, but many come with powerful features already built in, reducing the need for apps. Its themes are optimized for fast loading speeds and support multilingual setups, which is useful for Singapore’s bilingual market.

Key strengths include:

• 15 free themes and 100+ premium themes with multi-layout variations.
• Advanced merchandising tools, product filtering, and promotions built-in.
• Standard HTML, CSS, and JavaScript customization, no proprietary language required.
• Strong performance optimization for SEO and conversions.

For brands looking for a ready-to-sell store with advanced features included, BigCommerce themes offer great value.

In terms of BigCommerce vs Shopify for design and customization, Shopify shines with its extensive theme marketplace and easy-to-use editor, making it ideal for merchants who want visually polished stores without heavy coding. BigCommerce, while offering fewer themes, delivers more built-in selling features and greater flexibility with open web technologies, appealing to businesses that value functionality and performance from the start.

See more: 10 Best Enterprise CMS Platforms for Singapore eCommerce

Pricing and Value for Money

Shopify: Affordable Entry but Higher Long-Term Costs

Shopify’s pricing structure is competitive for smaller businesses starting out, but costs can rise over time due to transaction fees and the need for paid apps.

Plans include:

• Basic – USD $39/month
• Shopify – USD $105/month
• Advanced – USD $399/month

Additional considerations:

• Extra 0.5%–2% transaction fees if not using Shopify Payments.
• Advanced features often require paid third-party apps.

This makes Shopify best suited for merchants willing to start small and gradually invest in extra tools as their business grows.

BigCommerce: Transparent Pricing with More Built-In Value

BigCommerce offers a similar pricing range but includes many premium features in its base plans, making it better value for high-volume sellers.

Plans include:

• Standard – USD $39/month
• Plus – USD $105/month
• Pro – USD $399/month

Advantages include:

• No transaction fees, regardless of payment gateway.
• Advanced reporting, real-time carrier rates, and multi-currency support included.

For Singaporean businesses scaling quickly, BigCommerce provides predictable costs without surprise add-on expenses.

When comparing BigCommerce vs Shopify on pricing, Shopify offers a lower barrier to entry but can become more expensive over time due to app and transaction fees. BigCommerce, on the other hand, delivers more built-in features at no extra cost, making it a stronger choice for fast-growing businesses in Singapore that want predictable pricing and long-term value.

Features and Functionality

Shopify: Power Through Its App Ecosystem

Shopify’s main advantage lies in its massive app store, which allows merchants to tailor their store’s capabilities exactly as needed. This flexibility is ideal for sellers who want to start basic and add complexity over time.

Core strengths:

• 8,000+ apps for marketing, SEO, shipping, and more.
• Easy social commerce integrations with Facebook Shops, TikTok Shop, and Instagram.
• Built-in abandoned cart recovery and basic SEO tools.
• Multiple POS solutions for blending offline and online sales.

BigCommerce: Rich Features Without App Dependence

BigCommerce includes many capabilities natively, making it more efficient for complex businesses. This built-in approach can save time and reduce integration issues.

Native benefits:

• Comprehensive SEO customization tools.
• Product filtering and faceted search.
• B2B functionality such as custom pricing and bulk ordering.
• Multi-storefront management from a single dashboard.

When evaluating BigCommerce vs Shopify for features, Shopify shines for merchants who prefer flexibility through a vast app marketplace, while BigCommerce appeals to those who want a robust set of tools built in from the start. For Singapore businesses managing complex catalogs or B2B operations, BigCommerce’s native capabilities can reduce long-term reliance on third-party apps, while Shopify offers unmatched customization through its ecosystem.

Payment Gateways and Transaction Fees

Shopify: Flexible but Extra Fees Apply

• Supports major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and selected Singapore options.
• Merchants not using Shopify Payments pay up to 2% in extra transaction fees.
• Some regional payment methods may require third-party integrations.

BigCommerce: Broader Payment Support Without Fees

• Works with 65+ gateways including Stripe, PayPal Asia, and GrabPay.
• No transaction fees, even for third-party processors.
• Strong fit for Singapore merchants serving both local and cross-border markets.

In the BigCommerce vs Shopify payment comparison, Shopify delivers strong flexibility but adds extra costs if you don’t use its native payment system, while BigCommerce offers broader gateway support without additional fees. For Singapore merchants aiming to serve both local buyers and international customers, BigCommerce’s no-fee policy can lead to more competitive pricing and better profit margins over time.

Shipping and Fulfilment in Singapore

Shopify: Enhanced Through Apps

• Connects with Ninja Van, SingPost, DHL, and FedEx.
• Wide range of shipping automation apps in its marketplace.
• Paid apps may be needed for advanced tracking or delivery customization.

BigCommerce: Built-In Logistics Integrations

• Carrier integrations like DHL and FedEx available without apps.
• Real-time shipping quotes included in plans.
• Great for merchants managing both domestic and regional fulfilment from Singapore.

In the BigCommerce vs Shopify shipping comparison, Shopify excels in flexibility through a wide range of apps, making it easy to tailor delivery options for unique business needs. BigCommerce, on the other hand, delivers essential logistics integrations out of the box, offering a simpler and more cost-efficient solution for Singapore-based merchants handling both local and regional fulfilment.

Scalability and Performance

Shopify: Growth via Apps and Shopify Plus

• Highly scalable for SMEs to enterprises.
• Shopify Plus handles high transaction volumes and custom needs.
• Complex store functions may require multiple app integrations.

BigCommerce: Enterprise-Ready Architecture

• Handles large product catalogs natively.
• API-first approach for ERP, CRM, and OMS integrations.
• Multi-storefront features ideal for regional expansion from Singapore.

When comparing BigCommerce vs Shopify for scalability and performance, Shopify offers a smooth growth path powered by its robust infrastructure and Shopify Plus, but often requires app-based enhancements for complex needs. BigCommerce provides a more integrated, enterprise-grade solution out of the box, making it a better fit for large-scale operations and multi-store expansion in Singapore’s competitive digital landscape.

Pros and Cons for Singapore Businesses

BigCommerce Pros

BigCommerce stands out for its cost transparency and powerful native functionality, which can be a game-changer for scaling merchants in Singapore. One of its strongest advantages is the absence of transaction fees, which means businesses keep more of their revenue regardless of the payment gateway they choose. This is especially beneficial for Singapore merchants processing high sales volumes or working with multiple payment providers such as PayPal Asia, GrabPay, or Stripe.

Additionally, BigCommerce’s built-in features, including advanced SEO tools, product filtering, real-time shipping rates, and multi-currency support, reduce the reliance on third-party apps. This not only keeps monthly costs predictable but also lowers the risk of integration issues. For companies operating in the B2B space, BigCommerce offers robust native capabilities like custom pricing, bulk ordering, and account-specific catalogs.

Advantages at a glance:

• No transaction fees regardless of payment gateway.
• Advanced built-in features for SEO, product management, and analytics.
• Strong B2B capabilities such as custom pricing and account management.
• Scalable architecture suitable for large catalogs and multi-storefronts.

Drawback:

• Slightly steeper learning curve for first-time users due to the platform’s feature-rich environment. Beginners may require more setup time or technical assistance to fully leverage its capabilities.

Shopify Pros

Shopify continues to dominate the beginner and SME market in Singapore thanks to its extremely user-friendly interface and guided onboarding process. New merchants can go from zero to a fully functional store in just a few hours without needing any technical skills. Its large app marketplace (8,000+ apps) means that almost any additional feature, from local delivery scheduling to advanced marketing automation, can be added with a few clicks.

Shopify’s wide theme selection allows businesses to create visually polished, mobile-optimized storefronts with minimal design work. For Singapore businesses that prioritize speed-to-market and branding, Shopify’s flexibility and abundance of resources make it a solid choice.

Advantages at a glance:

• Beginner-friendly with a simple, guided setup process.
• Extensive app marketplace for endless customization.
• Wide theme selection to match any brand style.
• Strong ecosystem of developers, agencies, and support resources in Singapore.

Drawbacks:

• Transaction fees apply unless using Shopify Payments, which may limit flexibility for merchants wanting to work with other gateways.
• Many advanced features require paid apps, which can increase monthly costs over time.

See more: BigCommerce vs Magento: Features Comparison for Singapore Online Stores

Which Platform Fits Your Business Needs in Singapore?

Selecting the right eCommerce platform in Singapore ultimately comes down to your business size, operational complexity, and long-term growth strategy. Both BigCommerce and Shopify have strong reputations, but they cater to slightly different merchant profiles, from scaling enterprises to agile start-ups.

Choose BigCommerce if:

You’re looking for a feature-rich platform that provides most advanced capabilities straight out of the box, eliminating the need to stack multiple paid apps. BigCommerce’s no transaction fee policy can be a significant cost-saver for Singapore merchants processing high volumes or using alternative payment methods such as GrabPay or PayNow. Its native B2B tools, multi-currency support, and powerful SEO functionality make it ideal for brands aiming to expand regionally or globally without running into platform limitations.

Key reasons to pick BigCommerce:

• Advanced built-in features like product filtering, multi-storefront management, and native B2B functionality.
• No transaction fees, giving merchants more control over profits.
• Strong scalability for large catalogs, international expansion, and high-volume operations.
• Excellent for businesses that prefer long-term cost predictability and reduced reliance on third-party apps.

Choose Shopify if:

You value speed, simplicity, and a vast app ecosystem that lets you customize your store with minimal coding. Shopify’s intuitive interface ensures even first-time entrepreneurs can launch and manage a professional online store quickly. The platform’s massive app marketplace makes it easy to add features such as local delivery scheduling, loyalty programs, and social media integrations, perfect for SMEs in Singapore aiming to adapt quickly to changing consumer trends.

Key reasons to pick Shopify:

• Beginner-friendly interface and guided setup for rapid deployment.
• Extensive app marketplace offering thousands of integrations and enhancements.
• Large theme library for professional, mobile-optimized designs.
• Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses seeking fast go-to-market solutions without a steep technical learning curve.

In short, BigCommerce suits Singapore businesses that prioritize advanced capabilities and cost efficiency over time, while Shopify works best for those who want ease of use, design flexibility, and rapid setup, even if that means relying more on paid apps as the business grows.

Why SmartOSC Helps Businesses Choose and Implement the Right Platform

SmartOSC has over 18 years of experience delivering eCommerce solutions for leading brands across Asia-Pacific, including Singapore. Whether you choose BigCommerce vs Shopify, SmartOSC helps you:

• Select the right platform based on your business goals.
• Customize store designs for the Singapore market.
• Integrate local payment gateways and shipping providers.
• Ensure scalability with robust backend architecture.

With successful case studies in retail, B2B, and omnichannel commerce, SmartOSC is the trusted partner to ensure your platform choice drives growth.

FAQs: BigCommerce vs Shopify in Singapore

What are the main differences between BigCommerce and Shopify?

BigCommerce is known for its comprehensive built-in features, such as advanced product filtering, native B2B tools, and multi-currency support, all without extra transaction fees. Shopify, on the other hand, is renowned for its ease of use and massive app marketplace, allowing businesses to add features as needed, though many advanced functions may require paid apps.

Which platform is better for small businesses in Singapore?

For new entrepreneurs or small businesses with limited technical expertise, Shopify’s beginner-friendly setup can be the fastest way to launch an online store. However, BigCommerce can be more cost-effective long term, especially for SMEs planning to scale and wanting to avoid the ongoing expense of multiple third-party apps.

Can I switch from Shopify to BigCommerce (or vice versa) easily?

Yes, migration between the two is possible, but it requires careful planning and execution. You’ll need to ensure all products, customers, orders, and SEO settings are migrated accurately to prevent downtime or data loss. Many Singapore merchants use migration tools or work with agencies like SmartOSC to manage the process smoothly.

Which platform has better SEO tools for Singapore’s market?

Both platforms offer strong SEO capabilities, including meta tag editing, mobile optimization, and SSL security. BigCommerce includes more SEO features by default, while Shopify may require additional apps to match that functionality. For merchants targeting Singapore’s competitive eCommerce scene, both platforms can rank well if properly optimized.

Does SmartOSC provide support for both BigCommerce and Shopify?

Yes. SmartOSC offers full-service support for both platforms, from platform consultation and UI/UX design to migration, custom feature development, and ongoing optimization. Whether you choose BigCommerce or Shopify, SmartOSC can help tailor the solution to your specific business goals in Singapore.

Conclusion

When it comes to BigCommerce vs Shopify in Singapore, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Shopify is unbeatable for ease of use and fast setup, while BigCommerce delivers superior built-in features and cost savings on transaction fees. The best choice depends on your budget, technical skill level, and growth ambitions. By partnering with an experienced agency like SmartOSC, you can ensure your chosen platform is fully optimized for Singapore’s competitive eCommerce landscape, setting your business up for long-term success. Contact us now!