OpenCart vs WooCommerce vs Shopify (2025 Comparison)

OpenCart Market Position in 2025

Globally, OpenCart’s market share has dropped to just 0.34% as of 2024. In contrast, WooCommerce holds around 23% and Shopify commands about 25%. This drop means fewer developers and agencies offer OpenCart services often resulting in higher costs and slower support.

In Singapore, the shift is even more obvious. Agencies like FirstCom Solutions have moved away from OpenCart. Businesses on OpenCart often struggle to find maintenance or upgrade support and are left behind in terms of innovation.

Challenges Faced by OpenCart Users

Common issues reported by OpenCart users include:

• Difficulty finding skilled developers
• Limited support or bug fixes
• Slower performance as the site grows
• Missing key integrations (e.g., payment gateways, analytics, marketing tools)
• Weak SEO capabilities out of the box

These challenges impact not only user experience but also revenue. Instead of supporting growth, outdated systems can drag businesses down with higher maintenance costs and limited capabilities.

Which Platform Should You Choose in 2025?

To help you decide, here’s a detailed breakdown of the three most discussed eCommerce platforms in 2025:

1. OpenCart

OpenCart is a free, open-source shopping cart platform that allows businesses to create and manage an online store. While it offers full code access, its aging ecosystem and limited flexibility are concerns.

Key Features:

• Multi-store admin panel
• Basic SEO settings
• Free to download and use
• Large extension marketplace (but many are outdated)

2. WooCommerce

WooCommerce is a flexible WordPress plugin that transforms any site into a powerful online store. It’s great for SEO, content marketing, and customisation.

• Runs on WordPress (ideal for blogging + commerce)
• Massive plugin library
• Advanced SEO tools (Yoast, Rank Math)
• Payment gateway support (PayPal, Stripe, etc.)

3. Shopify

Shopify is a fully hosted eCommerce platform. Everything—from hosting to security—is handled for you. It’s ideal for businesses that want a fast, secure, and hassle-free setup.

• Drag-and-drop builder
• Mobile-optimised themes
• PCI-compliant checkout
• Large App Store for extensions
• 24/7 support

Platform Comparison Table

WooCommerce and Shopify have two of the most popular ecommerce platforms out there, both commanding significantly higher market shares. While they each have their own unique standout points, we’ve compiled a TLDR version for easier comparison.

Below is a quick comparison of the key differences between OpenCart, WooCommerce, and Shopify across commonly evaluated dimensions:

How the Migration Process Works?

Migrating from OpenCart to WooCommerce or Shopify doesn’t have to be complicated. At Verz Design, we follow a proven 5-step process:

• Site Audit & Consultation: Our team assesses your current OpenCart site thoroughly, identifies key requirements, and develops a strategic migration roadmap tailored to your specific business goals.
• Data Export (products, users, orders): We carefully export all your essential data, including product information, customer details, and order history, ensuring accuracy and completeness during migration.
• Platform Setup & Design: Our specialists set up your chosen platform WooCommerce or Shopify and craft a visually appealing and intuitive design optimised for user experience and conversions.
• Function Mapping & Testing: We meticulously map and test every functionality from your OpenCart site to your new platform, ensuring smooth operations, seamless integrations, and full functionality.
• Go-Live & Post-Launch Support: Upon successful migration, we launch your new site and provide ongoing support, monitoring performance, and addressing any post-launch concerns to ensure continuous growth.

Most website revamps are completed within 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity and design revisions needed. This is where sourcing the right team to work with is equally important. Verz Design has more than 15 years of experience in website development. Our experienced team members will be there with you throughout the entire revamping process.

Why Work with Verz Design?

As a leading web agency in Singapore, Verz Design has worked with hundreds of SMEs and startups to build and maintain scalable eCommerce platforms. We are familiar with OpenCart’s limitations and have helped many businesses transition smoothly to WooCommerce and Shopify, enhancing both performance and user experience. Our local presence ensures responsive support and competitive pricing tailored to Singapore’s market conditions.

Limited-Time Offer for Singapore Businesses

Still on OpenCart? Don’t wait for a crash or hack. Contact Verz Design today and enjoy a 10% discount on website upgrades to WooCommerce or Shopify, exclusively for enquiries made before 30 June 2025.

Let us help you future-proof your eCommerce business with a platform that’s secure, scalable, and built for growth.