Big Cartel is a popular pick for small sellers because it’s easy to set up and simple to manage. That said, it’s not the best fit for every store.
Forbes Advisor says Big Cartel is user-friendly, but not as feature-rich as other e-commerce platforms. That’s why we put together this list of 8 alternatives to Big Cartel for you to consider.
Short on Time? Explore Top 3 Big Cartel Alternatives for Your Online Store
If you just want the fast shortlist, these three are the strongest places to start.
| Provider | User Rating | Recommended For | Expert & User Reviews | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4.6 | Small Business | Hostinger Review | Visit Hostinger |
 | 4.7 | Affordability | IONOS Review | Visit IONOS |
 | 4.9 | Speed & Support | HostArmada Review | Visit HostArmada |
Want more options? The full list below covers the best Big Cartel alternatives for different store sizes and goals.
The 8 Best Big Cartel Alternatives
Here’s the full shortlist if you want more than just the top three.
- Hostinger: Best for Small Businesses and Developers
- IONOS: Best for Individuals and Small Businesses
- HostArmada: Best for Speed and Support
- ScalaHosting: Best for Growing E-commerce Sites
- Kamatera: Best for Advanced Users
- Ultahost: Best for Budget-Focused Businesses
- Hosting.com: Best for Feature-Rich Hosting
- Verpex: Best For Low-Cost Hosting
8 Best Alternatives to Big Cartel
Here are 8 options that may be better than Big Cartel, depending on your budget, feature needs, and growth plans.
1. Hostinger
Best for: Small Businesses and Developers
Why Choose Hostinger over Big Cartel
If you want more room to grow without switching platforms again later, Hostinger gives you more flexibility from the start:
- Diverse Hosting Options: Shared, VPS, and cloud plans give you more ways to scale than a fixed hosted platform.
- Enhanced Performance Features: LiteSpeed servers and caching help improve speed, efficiency, and user experience.
- Superior Security Measures: Free SSL, backups, and DDoS protection add stronger protection for store data.
- Scalability: You can move up through plans as traffic and store demands increase.
- Comprehensive Control Panel: hPanel gives you more control over your setup than Big Cartel’s simpler dashboard.
Features
These are the core tools that make Hostinger a practical pick for growing stores.
- Global Data Centers: Multiple server locations help reduce latency for visitors
- Advanced Control Panel: hPanel for a clean dashboard for site and hosting management
- Automated Installations: One-click installs support fast deployment for WordPress and other apps
- Email Solutions: Custom email hosting helps businesses create a more professional setup
- Website Builder: Drag-and-drop site builder supports quick setup for non-technical users
Hostinger Pros & Cons
Here’s the quick breakdown if you’re comparing Hostinger and Big Cartel.
- Affordable pricing plans
- High uptime & fast performance
- Comprehensive security measures
- Intuitive hPanel control panel
- Limited features on lower plans
- No phone support available
- Setup fees on certain plans
Check out our Hostinger review for a full overview and user feedback.
Hostinger: Best for Small Business
Still undecided? Go to our detailed Big Cartel vs Hostinger Comparison for more information.
2. IONOS
Best for: Individuals and Small Businesses
Why Choose IONOS over Big Cartel
If you want an easier way to launch a polished site without spending much, IONOS gives you more built-in tools for the money:
- Affordability: Entry pricing stays very low, which makes it appealing for smaller stores and first-time site owners.
- AI Capabilities: AI tools help with design, writing, and setup, so you can get online faster.
- SEO-ready Templates: Templates are built to support visibility and give you a cleaner starting point.
- Top-notch Technical Performance: Fast loading and reliable performance help keep the storefront smooth for visitors.
- 30-day Money-back Guarantee: You get a risk-free window to test the platform before committing.
Features
These built-in tools make IONOS a strong option for users who want simplicity with a few extras.
- Free Domain and Email Address: One free domain for a year and an email account with storage based on the plan
- Online Booking Tool: Plans include appointment booking features
- AI-powered Writing Tools: Text Generator, Improver, and SEO Text Generator help speed up content creation
- AI-powered Design Tools: Image and Colour Palette Generator help create a more polished look
- SEO Optimisation Tools: rankingCoach Standard and SiteAnalytics support visibility and tracking
- Full-featured Online Store: Plans have inventory, tax, shipping, and product management tools
- Multilingual Translations: Supports multilingual site setups for broader reach
IONOS Pros & Cons
This one is good for budget-conscious users, but there are a few downsides you should keep in mind.
- Beginner-friendly editing interface
- Affordable pricing plans
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- AI Website Builder, writing & design tools
- Integrated online booking tool
- Mobile app
- No free trial
- Limited template choice
- Limited template customisation options
- Limited integrations
- Limited e-commerce capabilities
Read our full IONOS review for complete information and deep insights.
IONOS: The Best Affordable Website Builder
Still undecided? Please check out our Big Cartel vs IONOS Comparison to learn more.
3. HostArmada
Best for: Speed and Support
Why Choose HostArmada over Big Cartel
If you want more hosting freedom without giving up support, HostArmada gives you a stronger setup for growing stores:
- More Control and Flexibility: You get hosting-level control instead of being locked into one e-commerce platform.
- Better Scalability: Resources can grow with traffic, so you are not boxed in by product-style limits.
- Built-in Safety Nets: Daily backups and security tools help reduce downtime and data loss.
- Easy-to-Reach Support: Responsive help is useful during launches, promotions, and store issues.
Features
These are the main reasons HostArmada stands out for performance-focused store owners.
- Daily Backups: Restore your store quickly after updates, errors, or migrations
- Cloud SSD Infrastructure: Fast storage helps keep pages loading quickly as your catalogue grows
- Security Stack: SSL, firewall protection, and malware scanning help protect store data
- Free Migrations: Moving from another host is easier and less risky
- Global Data Centers: Multiple locations help reduce latency for your audience
HostArmada Pros & Cons
If speed and support matter most, this is where HostArmada looks the best.
- Cloud hosting with strong performance
- Daily backups and free SSL included
- Free website migration
- Helpful, responsive support
- Renewal prices can be higher after the promo term
- Advanced features may require higher-tier plans
Read our full HostArmada review for a deeper breakdown of features, performance, and user feedback.
HostArmada: Best for Speed & Support
Still comparing options? Check our Big Cartel vs HostArmada Comparison to find out more.
4. ScalaHosting
Best for: Growing E-commerce Sites
Why Choose ScalaHosting over Big Cartel
If your store is outgrowing basic hosted e-commerce tools, ScalaHosting gives you a smoother jump into managed VPS hosting:
- More Performance Headroom: Managed VPS gives you more resources than fixed platform plans.
- More Customisation: You can build your store with the stack and setup that fits your needs.
- Better Growth Path: When traffic climbs, you can upgrade server resources instead of switching platforms.
- Simpler Management: SPanel and managed services make VPS hosting easier to handle.
Features
These tools make ScalaHosting a good fit for stores that need more power without a steep learning curve.
- SPanel Control Panel: Simpler alternative to traditional control panels for VPS management
- Managed Cloud VPS: More resources support growing traffic, larger catalogues, and heavier plugins
- Security Tooling: Protects customer data, admin access, and checkout flows
- Free Website Migration: Makes moving from another platform or host easier
- Scalable Resources: CPU, RAM, and storage can be upgraded as your store grows
ScalaHosting Pros & Cons
This is a strong middle ground if you want more power without going fully hands-on.
- Managed VPS options for better performance
- SPanel makes server management easier
- Good security and backup options
- Helpful support for migrations and setup
- Managed VPS costs more than entry-level shared hosting
- Best value is on longer billing terms
Please go to our ScalaHosting review to learn more.
ScalaHosting: Best for Managed VPS Scaling
Want a direct comparison? Check out our Big Cartel vs ScalaHosting Comparison for more info.
5. Kamatera
Best for: Advanced Users
Why Choose Kamatera over Big Cartel
If you need serious flexibility and do not want platform limits getting in the way, Kamatera gives you far more control:
- Infrastructure Freedom: You are not locked into preset plans, product caps, or limited store setups.
- Scale Instantly: Add or reduce resources based on traffic, seasonality, or demand.
- Better for Custom Stacks: A strong fit for stores with special integrations, APIs, or custom workflows.
- More Control over Performance: Useful when speed and uptime directly impact sales.
Features
These are the core reasons Kamatera works well for advanced users and custom e-commerce setups.
- Custom Server Configurations: Choose CPU, RAM, storage, and add-ons based on store needs
- Pay-as-you-go Billing: Costs can be matched more closely to changing workloads
- Global Data Centers: Multiple locations help reduce latency for customers
- Fast Provisioning: New servers can be deployed quickly when extra capacity is needed
- Advanced Network Options: Useful for multi-store environments and more complex setups
Kamatera Pros & Cons
This one is great for flexibility, but it makes the most sense if you are comfortable with a more technical setup.
- Highly customisable cloud servers
- Easy scaling for traffic spikes
- Strong global infrastructure options
- Good fit for developers and advanced users
- Not as beginner-friendly as website builders
- Many managed features cost extra
Learn more in our Kamatera review.
Kamatera: Best for Flexible Cloud Servers
For a quick side-by-side, check out our Big Cartel vs Kamatera Comparison page.
6. Ultahost
Best for: Budget-Focused Businesses
Why Choose Ultahost over Big Cartel
If you want affordable hosting with more control under the hood, Ultahost gives you more flexibility than a closed platform:
- More Customisation: You can build your store with the tools and setup you actually want.
- Scalable hosting options: Move from shared hosting to VPS or dedicated resources as traffic grows.
- Better Infrastructure Control: Useful for performance tuning, caching, and more advanced setups.
- Security Flexibility: Add extra protection layers as your store needs them.
Features
These are the main tools that make Ultahost appealing for cost-conscious store owners.
- SSD Storage and Performance Tuning: Helps keep storefront and checkout performance fast
- Security Tooling: Protects customer data and admin access with stronger safeguards
- Free Migration: Supports easier moves from another host
- Scalable Plans: Shared, VPS, and dedicated options give you room to grow
- 24/7 Support: Useful when uptime or store issues affect sales
Ultahost Pros & Cons
If you are after strong performance at a reasonable price, Ultahost checks a lot of boxes.
- Good balance of price and performance
- Security features suited for e-commerce
- Multiple hosting types available as you grow
- Helpful support and migration options
- Best discounts are usually on longer terms
- Advanced plans can get expensive at the top end
Check out our Ultahost review to learn more.
Ultahost: Best for Budget Performance
If you’re still not sure, you can check out our complete Big Cartel vs Ultahost Comparison page.
7. Hosting.com
Best for: Feature-Rich Hosting
Why Choose Hosting.com over Big Cartel
If speed, infrastructure, and great support are important to you, Hosting.com gives you a much more capable hosting setup:
- Superior Speed and Performance: Turbo plans use upgraded servers, NVMe storage, and more resources for faster load times.
- Comprehensive Support: Live chat, phone, and email support are available around the clock.
- Free Site Migration: One website or an entire cPanel account can be moved at no extra cost.
- Global Data Centers: A broad network helps improve speed and lower latency for a global audience.
- Enhanced Security Features: Daily patching, firewalls, brute-force protection, and scanning add stronger protection.
Features
These are the standout tools that make Hosting.com a strong upgrade path from Big Cartel.
- Turbo Server Technology: Select plans use NVMe storage and CPU for faster load times
- Blazing-Fast Page Load Performance: Improved cache and optimised server settings for site responsiveness
- Free Website & cPanel Migration: Professional migrations support smoother moves from another host
- Global Data Center Network: More than 20 locations help improve speed and reduce latency
- Advanced Security Measures: KernelCare, firewalls, and virus scanning help secure the environment
- Developer-Friendly Environment: Supports PHP, MySQL, Python, Node.js, and other common tools
- Free SSL Certificates: SSL included across plans to encrypt visitor data
Hosting.com Pros & Cons
This one packs in a lot of features, though a few limits are worth noting before you commit.
- Beginner-friendly setup
- Pre-installed WordPress
- Free site migration
- Transparent resource allocation
- Beneficial entry-level pricing
- High prices on renewal
- Limitations on email
Considering Hosting.com? Explore our full Hosting.com review to see how it stands against other hosting providers.
Hosting.com: Best for Features
Still comparing both options? Check out our detailed Big Cartel vs Hosting.com Comparison for a closer look at features, performance, and pricing.
8. Verpex
Best for: Low-Cost Hosting
Why Choose Verpex over Big Cartel
If keeping costs low is a priority for you, Verpex gives you a cheaper path with more control and a longer refund window:
- Lower Long-term Costs: A WordPress and WooCommerce setup can be more flexible on cost than a locked platform plan.
- More Flexibility: You can add features and integrations without waiting on platform support.
- More SEO and Performance Control: Helpful for stores that depend on organic traffic and speed.
- Generous Guarantee: A longer refund period gives you more time to test the setup after migration.
Features
These are the main reasons Verpex works well for smaller stores and budget-focused users.
- Affordable Shared Hosting: Practical option for smaller catalogues and newer stores
- Free SSL and Security Tools: Helps protect customer data and admin access
- Daily Backups: Easier to recover from mistakes or failed updates
- Simple Management: Straightforward setup for non-technical users
- 45-Day Guarantee: More time to validate the move after migration
Verpex Pros & Cons
For smaller stores on a tighter budget, Verpex keeps things simple and affordable.
- Very affordable starting plans
- Generous money-back guarantee on key plans
- Good support availability for small businesses
- Useful security features for basic e-commerce needs
- Renewal pricing can be higher than intro deals
- Some advanced performance improvements may require add-ons or a CDN
Read our full Verpex review to find out more about the provider.
Verpex: Best for Low-Cost Hosting
For a quick comparison, go through our Big Cartel vs Verpex Comparison to get the information you need.
Top Big Cartel Competitors Compared
With this table, you can compare pricing, refunds, and entry points at a glance.
| Provider | User Rating | Free Trial | Money-Back Guarantee | Starting Price | Max. Premium Plan Cost |
| Big Cartel | 3.9 | Yes | 14 Days | $9.99 | $24.00 |
| Hostinger | 4.6 | No | 30 Days | $2.99 | $3.99 |
| IONOS | 4.7 | No | 30 Days | $1.00 | $9.00 |
| HostArmada | 4.9 | No | 45 Days | $1.49 | $180.95 |
| ScalaHosting | 4.9 | No | 30 Days | $2.95 | $94.95 |
| Kamatera | 4.8 | Yes | No | $4.00 | $100.00+ |
| Ultahost | 4.9 | No | 30 Days | $3.80 | $436.99 |
| Hosting.com | 4.7 | Yes | 30 Days | $1.99 | $49.99 |
| Verpex | 4.8 | No | 45 Days | $0.59 | $59.50 |
What Are Some Main Drawbacks of Big Cartel
Big Cartel is excellent for getting started, but it can feel restrictive once your store grows or your needs get more complex.
- Pricing: Plans are mostly split by product limits, not by stronger features or better support, so value can drop as your store expands.
- Ease of Use: It’s beginner-friendly, but that simplicity also means less flexibility for customisation and advanced store management.
- Types of Hosting Available: The platform does not give you the same scaling options you get with broader hosting setups like VPS or cloud hosting.
- Features: Bandwidth, storage, and advanced e-commerce tools are more limited than what many growing stores need.
- Security: Core protections like SSL are included, but you do not get much room for more advanced security controls.
- Support Channels: Support is mostly email-based, which can be frustrating when you need help quickly.
For a detailed overview of Big Cartel’s advantages and disadvantages, please visit our full Big Cartel review, with expert analysis and user ratings.
How to Find the Right Big Cartel Alternative for You
The best choice depends on how you sell, how fast you’re growing, and how much control you want.
- Assess Your Needs: Start with your store size, product range, and must-have tools like bookings, analytics, or multichannel selling.
- Consider Scalability: Pick a platform that can handle more traffic, products, and features without forcing a full rebuild later.
- Evaluate Ease of Use: A powerful platform still needs to be easy to manage day to day, especially if you are not highly technical.
- Check Integration Capabilities: Make sure it works with the tools you already use for email, accounting, payments, and social media.
- Review Pricing and Transaction Fees: Look beyond the intro rate and compare renewals, add-ons, and transaction costs.
- Read User Reviews and Testimonials: Real user feedback can tell you a lot about support quality, usability, and long-term reliability.
When to Look for Big Cartel Alternatives
If Big Cartel starts limiting your projects, these are the clearest signs that you should move on.
Need for Advanced Features
If your store needs better inventory tools, segmentation, or built-in marketing, Big Cartel may start to feel too basic.
Scaling Up the Business
Once traffic and sales pick up, you may need a platform that can grow without creating performance bottlenecks.
Desire for More Customisation
If you want more control over design, functionality, or integrations, a more flexible setup will make a big difference.
Requirement for More Analytics and Reporting Tools
Basic reporting only goes so far. You need deeper insights into customers, sales, and performance to grow stores.
Need for Enhanced Marketing Tools
If SEO, automation, and social integrations are more important than before, it makes sense to switch to a platform that handles them better.
Better Multichannel Selling Capabilities
Another provider may be a better match for your project if you want to sell across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, or eBay.
Final Word
If Big Cartel no longer gives you enough flexibility or room to grow, it’s time to switch to a stronger platform. The right alternative should work for your store now while giving you space to scale later.
Whether you care most about lower costs, better performance, more customisation, or stronger e-commerce features, there are plenty of terrific options you can do more with than with Big Cartel.
If you still haven’t found the right Big Cartel alternative here, take a look at our full list of the best website builders to explore more options.
