Is Shopify Free?
While Shopify isn't free, it offers various pricing options and a free trial to help you get started. Let's break down the actual costs and what you get for free.
Try Shopify's free trialFree vs Paid Features
What's Actually Free
Feature | Free Availability | Duration |
---|---|---|
Trial Period | Full Access | 14 Days |
Business Tools | Basic Tools | Always Free |
Educational Resources | Full Access | Always Free |
Essential Costs to Consider
1. Monthly Plans
- Starter: $5/month
- Basic: $29/month
- Shopify: $79/month
- Advanced: $299/month
- Plus: Starting at $2,000/month
2. Additional Costs
- Transaction fees (0-2% based on plan)
- Payment processing fees
- Premium themes ($150-$350)
- Apps ($0-$250/month)
- Domain name ($14/year+)
Free Tools and Resources
- Business name generator
- Logo maker
- QR code generator
- Shopify Blog
- Shopify Learn
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shopify completely free?
No, Shopify is not free. While it offers a free trial, you'll need a paid plan to run your store. Plans start at $5/month for the Starter plan.
What can I do for free on Shopify?
You can try Shopify free for 14 days, during which you can set up your store, add products, and explore features without payment.
Are there any hidden costs?
Additional costs may include transaction fees, third-party apps, themes, and domain names beyond the monthly subscription.
What's the cheapest way to use Shopify?
The Shopify Starter plan at $5/month is the most affordable option, ideal for social media selling and small businesses.
Do I need a credit card for the free trial?
No, you can start the 14-day free trial without entering credit card information.
What happens after the free trial?
After the trial, you'll need to choose a paid plan to continue using your store. Your work is saved if you need more time to decide.
Are there any free Shopify tools?
Yes, Shopify offers free tools like their business name generator, logo maker, and some educational resources.
Can I get Shopify for free as a student?
While Shopify doesn't offer free student plans, they occasionally provide special offers for students through partnerships.