Comparing the 5 Best CMS for eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines

What Does an eCommerce CMS mean?

An eCommerce CMS (Content Management System) is a software application that enables users to create, manage, and update an online store without requiring advanced technical skills. It provides tools specifically designed for digital commerce, such as product listings, payment processing, and inventory management.

Types of eCommerce CMS Software

There are different types of eCommerce CMS platforms, each suited to various needs:

• Open Source eCommerce CMS: Free to use and highly customizable, but requires technical know-how. Examples include Magento and WooCommerce.
• Hosted eCommerce CMS: Cloud-based solutions that are easy to set up and maintain. Examples include Shopify and BigCommerce.
• Headless eCommerce CMS: Offers backend functionality only, allowing developers to create a custom frontend. Examples include Contentful and Strapi.

In 2020, the global CMS market was valued at approximately $62.4 billion and is projected to grow to $116.2 billion by 2025. Statistics show that 809,000 websites out of the top 1 Million domains utilize a CMS. This growth highlights the increasing demand for the best CMS for eCommerce, as businesses prioritize efficient management and seamless operation of their online platforms.

5 Best CMS for eCommerce Platforms in the Philippines – Detail Comparison

In the Philippines, 47,315 websites use CMS technologies. To know which platform is the best CMS for eCommerce, this detailed comparison highlights the top 5 CMS platforms for eCommerce, helping you choose the best solution for your online store and make an informed decision in a competitive market

Shopify

Shopify is a top-rated, versatile, all-in-one best CMS for eCommerce platform known for its unique features and user-friendly interface. Thousands of businesses globally rely on this SaaS-based headless commerce platform for managing their online stores.

According to Website Builder Expert, Shopify receives a rating of 4.6 out of 5. Pricing starts at $29 per month and can go up to $299 monthly, depending on your chosen plan.

Key Features:

• Intuitive settings for easy storefront customization.
• Full access to your website’s CSS and HTML.
• Mobile eCommerce shopping cart compatibility.
• Bulk order fulfillment with just a click.
• Discount codes, gift cards, and social media integration.
• Product import/export via CSV files.

Advantages:

• Simple and efficient content management.
• User-friendly interface with professional, mobile-responsive themes.
• Reliable and easy-to-use payment options.
• 24/7 customer support.

Disadvantages:

• Lacks versatility for adding more advanced CMS features.
• Additional costs for premium Shopify themes.
• May require expert help for extensive theme customization.
• Some CMS features need separate app installations.

Why Shopify is Ideal for eCommerce in the Philippines:

Shopify is a top choice for eCommerce businesses in the Philippines due to its ease of use, scalable plans, and local payment gateway integrations. It’s perfect for small to large businesses looking to enter or expand in the Philippine market. Whether you’re new to online selling or looking to enhance your digital presence, Shopify provides the flexibility and support needed to grow your eCommerce store effectively.

Watch more: 10 Best eCommerce CMS for Small and Large Businesses in Singapore

Wix

This content management solution is ideal for businesses with a small product range that want to quickly set up an eCommerce platform without requiring coding skills. While technically not a traditional CMS, it allows site owners to easily add eCommerce functionality when needed.

Small business owners can effortlessly integrate eCommerce into their websites without needing extensive technical knowledge, providing a simple way to expand their online presence and reach more customers.

With around 500 design templates available, users benefit from practicality and convenience but may need to compromise on customization. Pricing starts at $17 per month, with plans going up to $35.

Key Features:

• Over 500 design templates.
• Simplifies multichannel sales.
• Wix Owner app for mobile business management.
• Integrated support for blogging.

Advantages:

• Easily integrates with third-party apps and social media platforms.
• Affordable compared to other SaaS-based solutions.
• User-friendly, requiring no professional assistance.

Disadvantages:

• Limited customization options make it less suitable for larger enterprises.
• Scalability could be a concern as your online business grows.
• Many advanced features are locked behind premium plans.

Why It’s a Good Fit for eCommerce in the Philippines: 

This platform is a great choice and the best CMS for eCommerce of small businesses in the Philippines looking to quickly establish an online store with minimal setup. Its ease of use and affordable pricing make it accessible for local entrepreneurs. 

With multichannel sales support and integration with popular apps, it helps businesses connect with customers across various platforms while keeping costs low. For those starting their eCommerce journey in the Philippines, this platform offers a practical and efficient solution.

BigCommerce

This is one of the top SaaS eCommerce platforms designed to help business owners easily create, manage, and maintain their online stores.

BigCommerce CMS offers outstanding scalability, along with advanced SEO features and seamless integration with multiple sales channels. Pricing starts at $29.95 per month and can reach up to $299.95, with custom plans available for enterprises.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop landing page builder for easy webpage creation and editing.
• Simple checkout customization.
• WordPress integration.
• Mobile-friendly website features.
• Robust blogging tools, making it ideal for content marketing.
• 12 basic design templates.
• Multiple online payment options, including PayPal.

Advantages:

• Fast-loading and user-friendly.
• Easily customizable fields.
• Smooth CMS integration with third-party plugins and apps.
• Allows unlimited employee accounts.
• Highly efficient for SEO.
• Excellent customer support.

Disadvantages:

• Not an open-source platform, which makes it more costly.
• The integrated blog lacks RSS feed support.
• Annual sales volume is capped, requiring a more expensive plan if you exceed it.

Why BigCommerce is the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines: 

BigCommerce is an excellent solution for growing businesses in the Philippines finding the CMS for eCommerce that needs scalability, strong SEO, and omnichannel capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and flexible pricing plans cater to both small and large businesses, making it easy to start and scale as your business grows. 

With support for multiple payment channels and a mobile-friendly design, it’s well-suited to the evolving needs of Filipino entrepreneurs aiming to reach a broader market both locally and internationally.

Squarespace

This beginner-friendly and popular SaaS CMS platform allows almost anyone to create a visually appealing and functional online store with ease.

Squarespace provides essential eCommerce services, such as social media integrations, email marketing, and logo creation tools. Pricing ranges from $26 to $40 per month.

Key Features:

• Wide range of options for shipping, payment processing, and order management.
• eCommerce analytics dashboard to monitor performance — a valuable CMS feature.
• Integration with third-party plugins and applications.
• Allows customers to easily customize their purchases.
• Free domain name included.
• Robust blogging support.

Advantages:

• Unlimited product listings.
• No transaction fees.
• High-quality design templates are available.
• Easy to use with a free SSL certificate.
• 24/7 live chat support.

Disadvantages:

• Lacks phone-based customer support.
• Limited advanced digital marketing tools.
• The learning curve may be challenging for some users.

Why Squarespace is a Strong Option for eCommerce in the Philippines: 

Squarespace is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses in the Philippines looking to build an attractive online store with minimal technical hassle. Its intuitive design tools and built-in eCommerce features make it easy for entrepreneurs to launch and manage their stores. 

The platform’s extensive template library and mobile-friendly design ensure a professional look for Filipino businesses targeting both local and international customers. With affordable pricing and reliable support, this best CMS for eCommerce is a practical choice for those seeking a user-friendly CMS with integrated eCommerce capabilities.

Watch more: 12 Best CMS for eCommerce: Key Benefits for Australian Retailers

WooCommerce

WooCommerce, an open-source and free CMS, has experienced substantial growth recently. This platform offers extensive options for WordPress-powered eCommerce sites, providing tools for catalog creation, order management, and revenue generation through customer registration.

Key Features:

• Supports over 140 regional payment gateways for secure transactions.
• Unlimited customization options.
• Numerous free SEO add-ons.
• Access to over 1,300 themes.
• A wide range of in-shop advertising extensions.

Advantages:

• SEO-friendly.
• Open-source with extensive flexibility.
• Multilingual support.
• High-level security features.
• Optimized for mobile devices.

Disadvantages:

• Requires comprehensive knowledge of the platform for advanced customization.
• Some add-on features require payment.
• Separate costs for hosting and domain.
• Occasionally, the WooCommerce plugin may face compatibility issues with WordPress updates.
• Compatible only with WordPress themes.

Why WooCommerce is the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines: 

WooCommerce is an ideal solution for businesses in the Philippines looking to leverage the power of WordPress for eCommerce. Its flexibility and vast customization options make it suitable for both small and large businesses. 

Filipino entrepreneurs can take advantage of its SEO capabilities, multilingual support, and secure payment gateways to reach a wider audience. Additionally, WooCommerce’s mobile optimization is perfect for engaging the growing number of mobile shoppers in the Philippines.

Why SmartOSC can help you in choosing the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines?

SmartOSC is a trusted partner for choosing the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines due to the following reasons:

• In-Depth Local Knowledge: SmartOSC has extensive experience and understanding of the Philippine market, allowing us to offer CMS solutions tailored to the unique needs and preferences of local businesses.
• Strong Global Presence: With over 1,000 IT experts in 11 offices across 9 countries, SmartOSC combines global expertise with local insights to deliver effective eCommerce solutions.
• Comprehensive Solutions: We offer comprehensive eCommerce solutions, including UX/UI design, backend integration, and marketing automation, ensuring that all aspects of your eCommerce operations are covered.
• Customization and Scalability: SmartOSC provides highly customizable and scalable CMS platforms, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes and allowing for growth and adaptation as your business evolves.
• Proven Partnerships: Our partnerships with leading eCommerce platforms like Magento, Shopify, and BigCommerce ensure access to top-tier technology and innovative features.
• Ongoing Support: We offer dedicated support and maintenance services, helping businesses optimize their CMS and eCommerce strategies for long-term success.

These attributes make SmartOSC a reliable and effective partner for selecting and implementing the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines.

Conclusion

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when choosing the best CMS for eCommerce in the Philippines. Even after a thorough comparison of different content management systems, selecting the best option can be challenging due to varying business needs, operations volume, and budget constraints. If you require expert guidance, let SmartOSC assist you. Our experienced eCommerce development specialists will offer tailored advice and become a trusted partner in developing your project. Contact us now!