WORDPRESS

8 Best Oberlo Alternatives To Help Supercharge Your Dropshipping in 2023

Published

11 months ago

October 20, 2023

8 Best Oberlo Alternatives To Help Supercharge Your Dropshipping in 2023

Looking for the best Oberlo alternatives?

Oberlo is a name that nearly every seasoned dropshipper is familiar with.

Once the go-to tool for dropshipping with Shopify, Oberlo streamlined the process of importing products from AliExpress suppliers.

However, Oberlo shut down on June 30, 2022, leaving a big void in the dropshipping space.

The good news? Many tools have since stepped up to fill that gap. Below, we’ll share 8 reliable Oberlo alternatives for dropshipping.

Let’s begin:

The 8 Best Oberlo Alternatives For Dropshipping

With the changing dropshipping landscape, aspiring entrepreneurs often wonder how to start a dropshipping business with no money, especially since Oberlo is no longer available.

But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some great Oberlo alternatives that not only match its capabilities but also offer affordable plans for those on a tight budget. Let’s dive into these excellent alternatives.

1. DSers

Endorsed by Shopify and Oberlo’s own team, DSers is an all-in-one dropshipping app that allows you to manage orders, track shipments, and more.

Its bulk processing feature deserves special praise—the app can process 100s of orders within minutes and transfer all relevant information to dropshipping suppliers. This is a big deal for ex-Oberlo merchants since many dropshipping apps require you to do orders one-by-one manually on AliExpress.

Plus, as an official AliExpress partner, DSers provides users with access to a range of suppliers in one convenient location. The app supports tracking numbers, order status updates, supplier optimization, and more.

Key features:

PayPal tracking: When a product ships from AliExpress, DSers updates tracking information on both the store and associated PayPal account.
Selective product processing: Users have the choice to decide which products to handle or omit in DSers.
Simplified supplier switch: Found a better supplier offer? DSers allows quick and straightforward product remapping.
Unlimited orders: Being on the AliExpress whitelist, DSers doesn’t set a limit on the number of processed orders.
Tracking automation: DSers proactively updates tracking details on your Shopify. Plus, it lets you pre-set shipping methods to ensure each delivery meets your expectations.
Integration capabilities: DSers is compatible with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Wix, offering more options than just Shopify integration.

DSers offers a free account to start with. Even though it caps at 3,000 products, it’s a good starting point. Paid plans start at $19.90/month with a 14-day free trial.

2. Spocket

Second place on our list, we introduce you to Spocket. It’s a highly-rated dropshipping service with an emphasis on US/EU sourcing. Spocket removes the need for packages to be shipped from far-flung locations like China, which ensures quicker delivery and better customer service.

Beyond this, Spocket empowers sellers with the option to order product samples. It’s a way to assess shipping speed and product quality firsthand. With this knowledge, you can freely adjust product descriptions, visuals, and pricing, tailoring them to your personal experience.

Key features:

Fast shipping: With a plethora of US and EU-based items, Spocket ensures prompt deliveries.
Maximized profits: Benefit from 30-60% discounts on retail prices across Spocket’s product range.
One-click order fulfillment: Spocket streamlines order processing, requiring just a single click from you.
Real-time inventory updates: Helps you stay informed of product availability, eliminating chances of selling out-of-stock items.
Transparent order tracking: Gain insight into the exact location of your order at any given time.
Branded invoicing: Maintain your brand’s essence. Products dispatched through Spocket are customized with your store’s logo, personalized messages, and name.

Spocket allows you to test their free plan with access to a catalog of over 7 million products. Paid plans start at $39.99/month after the 14-day free trial.

If you want to read a more detailed analysis of this tool, check out our Spocket Review.

3. AutoDS

AutoDS is an all-encompassing dropshipping automation software that streamlines every aspect of the business. From bulk product importing to price and stock monitoring, the software handles tasks efficiently.

AutoDS also has integrated product research tools that simplify the process of finding trending items. For those just starting or seeking further insights, it offers a wealth of dropshipping resources, including blogs, videos, and courses.

Key features:

Diverse supplier network: AutoDS integrates with over 30 U.S. and European suppliers, including names like Amazon, Alibaba, and Walmart.
Auto product import: This feature removes the need to add products manually. Instead, dropshippers can auto-update their stores with desired items.
Comprehensive order management: ‘Fulfilled by AutoDS’ manages orders and returns, eliminating the need for personal buyer accounts. It utilizes its own accounts and preserves your credit line.
Price and stock monitoring: AutoDS vigilantly tracks price and stock changes on supplier websites and updates your store in real-time.
Item optimization: The app optimizes prices, titles, descriptions, and visuals for Shopify merchants.

If you’re on the fence, AutoDS offers a seven-day trial for just $1, making it easier to assess its value for your online business. Plans start at $9.90/month.

4. Dropshipman

Dropshipman is a top-notch dropshipping supplier boasting a catalog of over 10 million products. With this platform, the often tedious tasks of sourcing and fulfilling orders can transform into a smooth operation.

Find yourself getting stuck deciding on products? Dropshipman’s free product sourcing service can become your personal shopper and match requests within just one to three days.

Dropshipman does well as an alternative to Oberlo, ensuring that products sourced from AliExpress reach customers quickly. With shipping times cut down to just 7-15 days, it promises not just speed but stability that you won’t find with standard ePacket delivery.

This precision is part of Dropshipman’s unique selling propositions, geared specifically to help you scale your online store.

Key features:

Sourcing & shipping: Use keywords or photos to find products. Trusted couriers like 4PX, Yunexpress, and Yanwen ensure timely deliveries.
Branding support: Elevate your brand with Dropshipman’s unique label & packaging services.
Efficient product handling: Set pricing rules, modify variants, and manage your product details effortlessly.
Quality checks: Dropshipman inspects for quality, reducing customer returns.
Seamless order management: Place bulk orders and sync tracking numbers with ease.
Automated updates: Dropshipman updates product details, inventory, and prices as they change.
Migration support: Switch from another dropshipping app? Dropshipman simplifies the shift and offers features similar to DSers.

Dropshipman has a free version that lets you process unlimited orders and import 3 products per day or 90 products per month. Paid plans start at $29.90/month and have a 7-day free trial.

5. Dropified

Dropified is another excellent Oberlo alternative with extensive features, options, and services tailored for dropshippers. Although newbies might find its extensive capabilities a bit challenging initially, the robust power it offers will soon justify the learning curve.

Dropshippers can tap into a broad supplier base through Dropified. The platform integrates with numerous suppliers, including giants like AliExpress, Amazon (across multiple regions), eBay, Wish, Walmart, Etsy, and even Costco, among others. The extensive list provides ample choices for users to source and sell products online.

One of Dropified’s highlight features is its automation capabilities. From one-click order fulfillment to the ease of changing vendors and assigning them to specific products, the dropshipping platform streamlines several processes. Uploading products in bulk to multiple pages is also effortless with Dropified.

Importing product descriptions, images, and reviews directly to your ecommerce store is at your disposal with a single click.

Key features:

Bulk actions: Modify products both within Dropified and existing ones in your Shopify store.
Wishlist management: Save and organize desired products within Dropified for future reference.
Instant fulfillment: Process orders rapidly with single-click features, mainly for AliExpress and eBay.
Real-time alerts: Receive immediate notifications for product and price changes.
Automated markups: Set and apply desired markups across chosen products effortlessly.
Order tracking: Monitor orders automatically and seamlessly.
Bundling: Combine products from various AliExpress and eBay suppliers, fulfilling them with one click.
Supplier management: Swiftly switch suppliers or integrate new ones, especially when facing stock shortages.
In-built tools: Dropified’s in-built captcha solver and product image background remover make the user experience smoother.
Customization: Personalize tracking URLs, order notes, and ensure suppliers don’t send promotional materials to your customers.

Dropified offers a free plan capped at 25 products and 2 auto-fulfilled orders. Pro Plan starts at $39/month and the Elite Plan starts at $79/month. Both come with a generous 14-day free trial so you can test the app before making a purchase decision.

6. Modalyst

Modalyst offers a unique edge in the dropshipping world. It partners with eco-friendly suppliers, renowned designer brands, and private label makers. This diversity means more revenue and a rich shopping experience for your customers.

But Modalyst is more than just an app. It’s evolving into an all-around retail solution suite. The focus? High-end brands like Calvin Klein and Puma. While prices might be higher compared to Asian suppliers, the quality justifies the cost. A bit of research will reveal opportunities with solid profit margins.

If you don’t want to be called out by customers for offering cheap-quality products sourced from unverified Chinese suppliers, Modalyst is the best Oberlo alternative for you.

Key features:

Unlimited products: Choose and import unlimited dropship products with ease.
Customization: Categorize products into theme-based lists. This pre-set format ensures smooth uploads across different ecommerce platforms.
Low-stock alerts: Never run out of stock. Automatic low inventory alerts and real-time counts have you covered.
Centralized order management: Manage orders, chats, lists, and payments from one central hub.
Integrated profit calculator: Determine potential earnings from each product in real-time. Adjust prices to maximize returns.

Modalyst comes with a free plan that offers a 25-product limit and access to non-premium suppliers. Paid plans start at $35/month.

7. CJDropshipping

CJdropshipping has recently gained a lot of attention as a viable alternative to the Oberlo app. It has a global network of 30+ warehouses with a variety of unique products that can be shipped worldwide.

You can add products yourself using the CJdropshipping app. But if you’re unable to find your desired item, place a sourcing request, and the dropshipper will look for that product on your behalf.

CJdropshipping also offers a range of shipping providers, including their own CJPacket. Typical processing times range between one to two days.

Key features:

Quality control: CJdropshipping performs a quality check before products are shipped, which reduces the odds of returns and defects.
Mobile management: It offers a mobile app for both iOS and Android. This allows merchants to import products, track shipments, and do more while on the go.
Bespoke services: CJdropshipping also provides tailored services like customized photo/video shoots, unique packaging designs, and print-on-demand.
Automated fulfillment: All order management and fulfillment are automated. Plus, every order comes with a tracking number, keeping both you and your customers informed.

The best part about CJdropshipping? It’s completely free of cost with no sign-up fee.

8. Importify

Importify is another Oberlo alternative that caught our eye due to its clean, user-friendly interface. It provides access to a plethora of suppliers, plus offers features to ease a merchant’s journey.

From a dedicated wholesaler section to an easy Chrome extension, adding products to your dropshipping store is just a matter of a few clicks.

You can also sell beyond your Shopify store, something that Oberlo didn’t let you do. While the app doesn’t support marketplace selling, it does integrate with popular ecommerce platforms like Jumpseller, Wix, and WooCommerce.

Key features:

Seamless Import: Access the wholesaler section, use the Chrome extension, and click ‘Add’ to swiftly populate your store with products.
Dynamic pricing rules: Set up in a minute and have your products automatically priced according to your specified guidelines.
Supplier flexibility: Effortlessly switch between suppliers based on availability or better offerings.
Built-in editor: Adjust photos and tweak product descriptions with ease before bringing them into your store.
Add existing products: Migrate seamlessly from other apps using Importify’s override feature.

Importify’s pricing starts at $14.95/month. Users get a 1-day trial to test the app.

How To Choose The Best Oberlo Alternative

Picking the right Oberlo alternative isn’t just about choosing a flashy name. You need to align your choice with your business needs. This involves making the following considerations:

Trial offers: Is a no-cost trial crucial for you?
Budget: Do you have the funds to invest in an advanced app? Or can you do without some features?
Ecommerce platform: Are you just going to dropship via Shopify or explore other ecommerce platforms?
Supplier source: Is AliExpress your sole supplier or choice? Or are you also open to importing products from local US and EU suppliers?
Functionality: Need an all-in-one app? Or can you juggle a few specialized ones?

Weighing these points will help you in selecting the best Oberlo alternatives for your dropshipping business and taking it to new heights!

Oberlo Alternatives in Conclusion

Oberlo’s time may have come to an end, but the market of dropshipping tools is vast and vibrant. We hope our list of the 8 best Oberlo alternatives can guide you in making the best decision for your business and its success.

If you’re just starting out with your online store and need some guidance, read our step-by-step guide on How To Start Dropshipping On Shopify The Right Way.

Or, if you want a solid game plan to take your venture to the next level, check out our list of 19 Best Dropshipping Courses To Make More Money.

Source link

Up Next

5 Must See Crowdfunding WooCommerce Plugins

Don't Miss

9 Best WordPress Zapier Plugins (Expert Pick for 2023)

WORDPRESS

7 Best Small Business Website Builders (Tested & Compared)

Published

9 hours ago

September 20, 2024

Max

7 Best Small Business Website Builders (Tested & Compared)

For over 15 years, we have built and managed our websites using WordPress.org, and it has been an amazing platform for our needs. That’s why we thoroughly recommend it to anyone looking to start a small business website.

However, we recognize that every company has unique needs, which is why we have explored other small business website builders, including Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress.com.

We reviewed and tested the most popular website builders by downloading and making real websites with them. This helped us gain firsthand experience with their features, user interfaces, and overall performance.

It also allowed us to identify each builder’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring we can offer accurate recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

In this article, we will share our list of the best small business website builders, along with their pros and cons.

If you are in a hurry, then take a quick look at our expert picks to make a decision.

#	Website Builder	Best For	Pricing
🥇	WordPress.org	Powerful small business website	Free
🥈	Wix	Appointment bookings and management	$4/month + Free
🥉	Squarespace	Photographers and subscription-based services	$25/month
4	HubSpot	Basic small business websites	Free
5	Gator Website Builder	Freelancers and simple business sites	$3.46/month
6	WooCommerce	Small online stores	Free
7	WordPress.com	Managed website builder	$9/month + Free

How We Tested and Reviewed Small Business Website Builders

If you want to launch a small business website without having to write any code, then using a website builder is the quickest and most cost-effective option. That being said, there are a lot of website builders to pick from.

We have downloaded and built real websites with the most popular website builders to help you choose the right one for your business. When doing that, we paid special attention to the following criteria.

Ease of use: We have prioritized website builders that have a beginner-friendly interface, an easy onboarding process, a huge community, and extensive documentation.
Features: An ideal builder for a small business site will have features like a drag-and-drop interface, premade templates, scalability, and affordable pricing.
Reliability: We have only included the small business website builders that we have tested ourselves. We also paid attention to customer reviews and support to look for common issues.

Why Trust WPBeginner?

WPBeginner is a team of experts with 15+ years of experience in WordPress, SEO, design, website creation, and more.

We thoroughly tested and reviewed each website builder on this list to give you the best recommendations. For more information, see our complete editorial process.

Having said that, let’s take a look at the best small business website builders on the market.

1. WordPress.org

WordPress.org is the best website builder for small businesses because it is free, open source, and scalable.

For over 15 years, we have built and managed successful websites like WPBeginner and WPForms using this website builder. WordPress.org has been instrumental in our growth because it’s easy to use and hasn’t slowed us down as our websites have become more popular.

For more details, see our complete WordPress review.

The platform is super flexible and allows you to add any kind of functionality to your site using its library of 59,000+ free WordPress plugins. Plus, you can use popular themes to customize your site and make it visually appealing for visitors.

For this reason, it is highly popular and used by over 43% of the sites on the internet.

WordPress.org gives you complete control over your site, and it can also integrate with popular page builders like SeedProd to launch your small business in just a few minutes.

SeedProd Website Builder for Business Theme

Other than that, opting for WordPress.org allows you to own your website and its content. This means that you are free from limitations and intrusive ads often found in free website builder plans.

Plus, as your business thrives, your website can scale alongside it, as WordPress.org can easily handle high traffic volumes, allowing you to build a website that grows with your ambition.

Expert Tip: Looking for a WordPress website without all the hassle of creating it? Our team of experts can design a custom, attractive WordPress site that is optimized for SEO and conversions. Check out our WPBeginner Website Design Services today!

Pros

We love WordPress.org’s huge community of users and developers because it makes it easier to find help and tutorials online if you run into any issues while building your website.
This platform is used by many popular brands like Sony Music, Disney Books, Taylor Swift, and more.
The website builder is translated into over 75 languages, meaning you can create a multilingual site with it.
It can be used to create any kind of website like a blog, membership site, online store, travel business, selling furniture, and more. We have used WordPress.org to build online stores and blogs and have had a great experience.

Cons

From years of using WordPress, we know how frustrating and time-consuming it can be to maintain all the WordPress core, plugins, and theme updates yourself. This means you may need to pay for WordPress maintenance.
Even though WordPress.org itself is free, you will still need to purchase a domain name and hosting.

Why we recommend WordPress.org: Overall, WordPress.org is the best small business website builder because it is free and allows you to customize your site however you want. You won’t have to use a single line of code to launch your small business with this option.

For more details, see our beginner’s guide on how to make a WordPress website.

2. Wix

Wix is another great option for small businesses. It is a powerful website builder with a drag-and-drop editing interface and a vast library of pre-made templates for all kinds of industries and niches.

We evaluated Wix by creating a test website and found it to be a user-friendly platform particularly well-suited for people new to website building. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to create websites without requiring technical knowledge.

The platform is fully hosted, so you won’t have to purchase a hosting plan, and it offers a free SSL certificate to all its users. It also has hundreds of free and paid apps, which are like plugins, and will add different functionalities to your small business site.

Additionally, Wix offers basic SEO tools that suggest relevant keywords, generate sitemaps, optimize images, and customize meta tags.

We were highly impressed by Wix’s SEO Wizard, which simplifies the process of optimizing websites for search engines. Its step-by-step instructions make it an excellent choice for beginners who want to improve their website’s SEO.

For more information, you can see our comparison of Wix vs. WordPress.

Pros

When we were testing Wix, we were impressed by its built-in artificial design intelligence (Wix ADI) that can design a website for you.
It offers security tools to help protect your site from hackers and malicious viruses.
Wix is optimized for mobile phones and offers an analytics feature to track your business site performance.
It has a Wix booking feature that lets you manage appointments and bookings online.

Cons

The platform shows Wix-branded ads on your website, which can annoy users and hurt your branding. You will need to upgrade to the paid plan to remove these ads.
When building a website with the platform, we realized it can be difficult to move your website from Wix to any other builder.

Why we recommend Wix: We recommend this platform if you have a hotel and want to open a website to manage bookings online. This is because it has a built-in Wix Bookings feature, which can really help you.

It is also a good option for an online store because it offers features like product listings, secure payments, and shipping management.

3. Squarespace

Squarespace is a great website builder known for its collection of modern templates. When creating a site with it, we found that the platform’s flexibility allows for easy switching between these layouts.

This enables users to explore different options and find the ideal design for their business.

You can create stunning websites in minutes thanks to the builder’s drag-and-drop interface and mobile-responsive design. Squarespace’s powerful features let you showcase your work using portfolios and galleries, making it ideal for creatives and businesses.

The platform even comes with a huge app market with thousands of apps that you can add to your website to extend its functionality, like contact forms, social media integration, popups, and more.

Other than that, Squarespace has a special eCommerce plan to create an online store, manage inventory, accept payments, and more.

Pros

You can also sell subscription-based services and products with the platform.
Upon testing, we found out that Squarespace lets you upload and edit images efficiently right in its builder.
It is a self-hosted platform, so you won’t have to worry about hosting plans.
Squarespace has some basic SEO and analytics features.

Cons

The website builder offers limited integrations with third-party tools, which can restrict your growing site.
We didn’t like that it offers limited customization options for its premade templates. This can be a con for those looking for a more flexible builder.
Squarespace can be a bit expensive if you are on a shoestring budget.

Why we recommend Squarespace: If your small business is related to photography, art, or design, then Squarespace is a good choice due to its huge library of visually appealing templates.

It is also a good choice for selling subscription-based services. For more details, see our comparison of Squarespace vs. WordPress.

4. HubSpot Website Builder

HubSpot Website Builder is an amazing choice for building a small business website. Our experience in building a demo site with it showed us its potential to streamline website creation and boost your online presence.

For more information on our experience with HubSpot, you can see our complete HubSpot review.

HubSpot has a user-friendly drag-and-drop builder, comes with a bunch of pre-built themes, and integrates with the HubSpot CRM, where you can store all your customer data.

The builder also provides special SEO tools to optimize pages for search engines and offers built-in security to protect your website from malware and other attacks.

Additionally, we love that the website builder is free and comes with free hosting, making it a great choice if you are just starting your small business.

Pros

HubSpot has an AI-powered tool to help create a simple website by answering a few questions about your business.
We particularly liked the adaptive testing feature where you can choose up to five variations of a page, and HubSpot will monitor and serve the best-performing option.
You can create WordPress forms, landing pages, live chat, and chatbots on your website.
You can also track your website traffic and see how visitors are interacting with your website.

Cons

When evaluating the tool, we realized that HubSpot itself doesn’t have built-in eCommerce functionality. That is why we don’t recommend it if you plan on starting an online store.
As your site grows, the pricing can be expensive.

Why we recommend HubSpot Website Builder: If you have a small business and are planning to just have a small website, then this is an ideal solution.

5. Gator Website Builder

Gator is a popular website builder by HostGator that is a great option for making a small business site. We thoroughly tested the tool to evaluate its user interface and overall effectiveness in creating a visually appealing website and found it pretty easy to use.

Gator offers a free domain name, SSL certificate, and hosting plan to all its users at affordable prices, making it a great choice if you are just starting your business.

Other than that, it even has a library of stock photos that you can use in your blog posts to make your content visually appealing.

Pros

You can easily link a website created by Gator to any social media platform like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
We like its SEO and analytics tools that can improve site rankings and track your business performance.
Gator has eCommerce features like product listings, shopping carts, and payment processing to set up an online store.

Cons

Gator does not have a free plan.
When making a website with the tool, we found that it offers limited design and customization flexibility for your website.

Why we recommend Gator Website Builder: If you are looking for a tool to build a simple business site that shows your opening hours, contact information, and services, then Gator is a great choice.

It is also a good option if you are a freelancer and want to build a resume site to attract more clients.

6. WooCommerce

WooCommerce is the best website builder for eCommerce sites. If you plan to sell any products on your small business site, then this is the best option for you.

Our experience with WooCommerce has been super positive. We have used the tool in the past to sell products online. It’s reliable and user-friendly, and you can learn more in our WooCommerce review.

Additionally, WooCommerce can seamlessly integrate with WordPress and has an easy onboarding process that allows you to set up a store in just a few minutes. You can efficiently manage your inventory, display products, and collect payments with 83+ payment options and many WooCommerce plugins and extensions.

WooCommerce also has a large and active community of users, which means you can find plenty of support and resources online if you run into any errors. Other than that, it is designed to be SEO-friendly and helps your store rank higher in the search results.

For more information, you can see our beginner’s guide on WooCommerce made simple.

Pros

The platform has a lot of free and paid WooCommerce plugins that can add all kinds of functionality to your website.
Upon testing, we realized that WooCommerce integrates with most third-party tools, such as email marketing services, help desk software, and live chat software.
With the help of All in One SEO, which is the best SEO plugin, you can also add product schema to your WooCommerce store products. This can boost your site rankings.

Cons

WooCommerce itself is free. However, to launch your small business site, you will need to purchase a domain name and hosting.
We didn’t like that you have to manually update WooCommerce, create backups, and perform routine maintenance tasks. This can be time-consuming and annoying for some users.

Why we recommend WooCommerce: If you plan to sell products like clothing, pet supplies, and more on your business site, then WooCommerce is the best option for you.

7. WordPress.com

WordPress.com is a managed WordPress hosting service and user-friendly platform for creating websites without technical knowledge.

Keep in mind that WordPress.com is completely different from WordPress.org, which is a self-hosted platform. For more details, see our comparison on WordPress.com vs. WordPress.org.

This platform offers pre-designed themes, core blogging features like creating and scheduling posts, and basic media management.

Plus, it handles backups and site maintenance automatically, so you won’t have to worry about anything.

However, while WordPress.com offers a free plan to get started, it displays ads and restricts plugin access, which can limit your website’s functionality and customization. The Personal and Premium plans also have these limitations.

That is why we recommend the Business plan for $25 to create a fully customizable small business website with access to plugins. On the other hand, if your goal is to sell products online, then the Commerce plan for $45 is the better option. It includes all the features of the Business plan with WooCommerce integration.

Pros

WordPress.com has a clean interface, which makes it ideal for beginners.
We particularly liked its mobile responsiveness because about 60% of website traffic comes from mobile devices.
WordPress.com offers great customer support to all the users who have upgraded to the paid version of the platform.

Cons

If you opt for the Commerce plan, then you will have to pay a transaction fee of 4-8% in addition to standard processing fees.
While WordPress.com offers a user-friendly platform to build websites, it functions more like a managed WordPress hosting service compared to self-hosted WordPress.org. This means you have less control over customization and functionality due to limitations on plugins.

Why we recommend WordPress.com: If you want to create a simple business site, then WordPress.com can be a good solution. However, if you are on a budget, then you are better off using self-hosted WordPress.org with other affordable hosting companies like Bluehost, Hostinger, or SiteGround.

Which Is the Best Small Business Website Builder?

In our expert opinion, WordPress.org is the best small business website builder because it is free, scalable, and flexible. Plus, it gives you complete control over your site by allowing you to add kinds of functions using different plugins and themes.

However, if your small business manages bookings and appointments, then Wix is also a great solution due to its Wix Bookings feature.

Similarly, Squarespace is a good choice for photographers, artists, and designers because it has modern template designs.

But if you just plan to create an online store, then we recommend WooCommerce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Business Website Builders

Here are some questions that are frequently asked by our readers about website builders for small businesses.

How much do website builders typically cost?

An average website builder can cost you about $3-$30/month. However, most builders also offer a free plan or a trial period where you can try out the builder before purchasing it.

You can also opt for WordPress.org, which is self-hosted and completely free. Just remember that you will still need to purchase a domain name and hosting plan and that can increase overall costs.

Can I switch website builders later on?

Yes, you can switch your website builder later on. However, the process can be difficult depending on the website builder you used previously and the complexity of your site.

That is why we recommend choosing the builder that meets all your needs right from the start. To get an idea of how to switch builders, see our tutorial on how to move your blog from WordPress.com to WordPress.org.

Do website builders offer SEO tools?

Some website builders like Gator offer basic SEO tools like keyword optimization, meta description editing, and sitemap creation.

However, to completely optimize your site for SEO, we recommend using a plugin like All in One SEO and following all the best practices. For more information, see our ultimate SEO guide.

Related Guides for Small Business Websites

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

Source link

WORDPRESS

A Guide to WordPress.org Badges – WordPress.com News

Published

1 day ago

September 20, 2024

Max

WordPress is an open source project, meaning anyone can contribute to the software, regardless of skill level. You probably first think of writing code, but it goes beyond that: whether you’re submitting patches, translating content, or organizing events, your contributions matter and are essential to the ongoing success of the WordPress project.

This collective effort ensures WordPress remains accessible, secure, and innovative. Plus, it’s a chance to work alongside passionate individuals who share a love for WordPress and the open web.

When you contribute, you not only get that warm fuzzy feeling that comes with giving back, but you also get a virtual badge on your WordPress.org profile. Today’s post is going to explore the ins and outs of these meaningful additions to your WordPress C.V.

What are WordPress.org profile badges?

In the WordPress community, badges aren’t just for scouts—they’re symbols of contributors’ dedication to the power of the open web and professional achievement. No matter your role in the WordPress ecosystem, profile badges highlight your contributions to the open source project that powers over 40% of the web.

If you’ve been part of the WordPress open source project in any capacity, you have a WordPress.org profile that looks something like this (you can find Daniel’s, which is pictured below, here: https://profiles.wordpress.org/danielbachhuber):

Note: this is your WordPress.org profile, not your WordPress.com profile.

What may be different about your own profile are all those cool badges—or lack thereof. If you don’t have (m)any, you’re probably thinking, “Those are cool! How do I get those?”

Think of these badges as your WordPress resume. They are visual markers that help showcase your contributions to the core WordPress project. As you can see, these badges appear on your WordPress.org profile, giving others a glimpse into your involvement and expertise.

Badges are earned for a number of contribution types—in fact, there are 30 different badges you can show off. Whether you’re writing code, answering questions in the forums, helping translate WordPress into other languages, or organizing meetups and WordCamps, there’s a badge for nearly every type of contribution.

Beyond just being a fun visual, though, profile badges are a way to build your reputation within the WordPress ecosystem and signal to others that you’re an engaged, knowledgeable, and reliable member of the community.

Why badges matter

Profile badges are more than just digital stickers—they come with a few tangible benefits:

Get recognized for your efforts: Whether you’re a plugin developer or an accessibility contributor, badges are a public way of being recognized for your hard work. It’s a way for the community to say, “Thank you!”
Build credibility: If your career is related to WordPress, your badges are a symbol of your expertise and commitment. Potential clients or hiring managers can see your dedication to the platform, which can set you apart from other providers or job candidates.
Increase your networking opportunities: Badges can also serve as a way to connect with others who share similar interests. If you’re active in the WordPress community, your badges show that you’re invested, making it easier to forge connections with others who are just as passionate.

Badges are a reflection of your journey within the WordPress community.

All the possible WordPress.org profile badges.

How to earn WordPress.org profile badges

Earning WordPress badges is all about getting involved. All you need to do is create your profile (if you haven’t already) and start contributing. Here’s a breakdown of some common badges and how you can earn them:

1. Core Contributor

The Core Contributor badge is awarded to those who contribute directly to WordPress Core. This can include submitting code patches, testing new features, or reporting bugs during development cycles.

To earn this badge, you don’t have to be a coding wizard—there are plenty of ways to contribute to WordPress core, even if you’re just getting started with development. Testing, providing feedback, and reporting bugs are all valuable contributions that can help you earn this badge.

2. Meetup Organizer

If you’re passionate about building local WordPress communities, organizing a meetup is a great way to get involved. To earn this badge, you’ll need to officially register your meetup group through WordPress.org and organize regular events. It’s a fantastic way to contribute to the community and make connections with fellow WordPressers in your area.

Don’t forget about WordPress.com’s free hosting offer for any local meetup website.

3. Accessibility

This badge is awarded to contributors who help ensure that WordPress remains inclusive and usable for everyone. Work in this area includes testing themes and plugins for accessibility compliance, contributing code that improves accessibility features, and helping write documentation and best practices. Your efforts here make WordPress more user-friendly for all. By working towards this badge, you’re playing a crucial role in making the web a more accessible place, one improvement at a time.

4. Polyglots (Translation)

WordPress is a global platform, and the Polyglots team is responsible for translating it into hundreds of languages. If you’re multilingual, contributing to translations is an incredibly valuable way to give back to the community.

To earn this badge, you can join the Polyglots team and start translating WordPress Core, themes, and plugins into your native language. Every contribution counts, whether it’s a single string or an entire project.

5. Support

The WordPress support forums are a lifeline for users around the world, and those who actively help others solve their WordPress problems can earn the Support badge. Whether you’re answering questions, providing advice, or sharing your knowledge, this badge is for those who make the forums a valuable resource.

Earning this badge is simple: Get involved in the support forums and help other users navigate their WordPress questions.

This is just a sampling of what’s available. Remember, there are 30 total badges to earn!

Show your commitment to the WordPress community

While digital trophies are fun and all, WordPress.org profile badges are more than that—they’re a visual and visible reflection of your commitment to the WordPress community and open source project. No matter the type of contribution you’ve made, every badge tells a story of how you have helped make WordPress what it is today.

Whether you have one badge or all thirty, every contribution pathway is meaningful. Make it your own and go deep, go wide, or do both in contributing to this one-of-a-kind project and community.

No matter your skill level, there’s always more to do in this grand quest of democratizing publishing for the entire world. Get involved, make a difference, and show off your badges with pride.

Source link

WORDPRESS

Best Crypto Payment Gateways for Businesses in 2024

Published

2 days ago

September 19, 2024

Max

Best Crypto Payment Gateways for Businesses in 2024

In 2023, the total transaction value of crypto gateway payments recorded worldwide was $1.62 billion. This is projected to grow at a CAGR of 17% from 2023 to 2030. Since most crypto transactions are through direct wallet-to-wallet transactions, the actual value of cryptocurrency transactions used for payment of goods may actually be significantly higher than this value.

Businesses looking to get a piece of that pie are exploring ways to start accepting cryptocurrencies beyond the usual wallet-to-wallet crypto transactions. A crypto payment gateway allows businesses to accept cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether as payments within a more secure payment flow. Crypto payment gateways may also allow merchants to keep the payments as cryptocurrencies, convert cryptocurrencies to fiat currencies, and accept cross-border payments.

Aside from the increased adoption of crypto payments, some other benefits of accepting cryptocurrency payments are lower transaction costs, no risk of chargebacks, enhanced security, and access to a unique customer base.

Top crypto payment gateways comparison

The best crypto payment gateways offer a combination of seamless integration, extensive cryptocurrency support, robust security features, and competitive pricing. The comparison table below illustrates the transaction fees, number of crypto and fiat currencies supported, and e-commerce plugins for each crypto payment gateway.

	Our rating (out of 5)	Transaction fee*	Cryptocurrencies	Fiat settlement currencies	E-commerce plugins
NOWPayments	4.54	0.5% (if no currency exchange)	200+	20+	9
BitPay	4.30	1%–2% + 25 cents	15	9	6
Coinbase Commerce	4.25	1%	13	1	4
OpenNode	3.98	1%	1	8	6
Crypto.com	3.98	0	30+	4	6
*Crypto transactions always incur a network or gas fee for executing operations on the blockchain. The transaction fee charged by the payment gateway is a separate fee.

NOWPayments: Best overall

Image: NOWPayments

Our rating: 4.54 out of 5

NOWPayments is a flexible cryptocurrency payment gateway that allows businesses to accept both crypto and fiat payments. It offers a range of integration options and settlement methods, giving merchants control over how they manage their funds.

Why I chose NOWPayments

NOWPayments’ biggest strength is the complete flexibility it provides to merchants when it comes to accepting payments. It allows merchants to receive both fiat and cryptocurrencies. Upon receiving the payment, the merchant has continued flexibility on what to do with it (keep it in the same currency or convert it to a different currency) and where to put it (keep the payment in custody or withdraw it to a crypto wallet or bank account).

Aside from the settlement flexibility, NOWPayments offers all the possible ways to accept crypto payments. Its Custody feature allows merchants to accept cryptocurrency payments without a crypto wallet and make currency exchanges without paying network fees. It also has a network fee optimization that can help minimize blockchain fees when converting or transferring cryptocurrencies.

NOWPayments offers a more comprehensive set of features than other crypto payment gateways on this list. This makes it an excellent fit for businesses seeking full control and flexibility in managing their crypto payments.

Pricing

Transaction fee: 0.5% for payments without exchange.
Conversion fee: 0.5%.

Features

Instant account registration.
Accepts over 100 cryptocurrencies as payments.
Settles in more than 20 fiat currencies.
Custody feature.
Ways to accept crypto payments:
- API integration.
- Invoices or payment links.
- Ecommerce plugins: PrestaShop, Magento 2, OpenCart, Zen Cart, Shopware, WooCommerce, WHMCS, Ecwid, Shopify.
- QR code.
- Subscription.
- Donation button.
Payment flow:
- Accept crypto > keep in custody
- Accept crypto > convert to other cryptocurrency > keep in custody
- Accept fiat > convert to cryptocurrency > keep in custody
- Accept crypto > withdraw to your crypto wallet
- Accept crypto > convert to other cryptocurrency > withdraw to your crypto wallet
- Accept crypto > convert to fiat > withdraw to your bank account
- Custody balance > withdraw to your crypto wallet
- Custody balance > convert to fiat > withdraw to your bank account/
Fixed-rate exchange option.
Crypto-to-fiat withdrawal: 1 business day.
Mass payouts.
Network fee optimization.
API to integrate with any mobile POS terminal.
Sandbox environment for testing.
24/7 customer support.

The NOWPayments Dashboard. Source: CoinGate

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Settlement flexibility.	Complex refund process.
Custody feature to save on network. fees for currency exchanges.	Limited reporting tools.
Accepts both crypto and fiat payments.	Minimum payment fluctuates.
API integration with any mobile POS terminal.

BitPay: Best for multi-user access

Image: BitPay

Our rating: 4.30 out of 5

BitPay is a cryptocurrency payment gateway known for its user-friendly interface and multi-user account capabilities. It offers tiered transaction fees that decrease with higher monthly volumes. However, it provides limited flexibility to merchants as payments are automatically converted and settled into the merchant’s bank account or cryptocurrency wallet.

Why I chose BitPay

BitPay is the only crypto payment gateway on this list that allows multi-user access. This makes it a great choice for businesses that require multiple team members to manage payments. It also locks in exchange rates at the time of purchase, which helps protect merchants from crypto price fluctuations.

While its transaction fees may be higher than others on this list, BitPay is a reliable and well-known provider, and its mobile POS app makes it easy to accept crypto payments in-store.

Pricing

Transaction fee (based on monthly volume):
- $500,000–$999,999: 1.5% + 25 cents
- $1,000,000 and above: 1% + 25 cents
Application fee: $75
Minimum withdrawal amount: depends on currency; $20 for USD

Features

Instant account registration.
Accepts 15 cryptocurrencies as payments.
Settles in 9 fiat currencies.
Automatic volume discounts.
Daily settlement.
Ways to accept crypto payments:
- API integration.
- Invoices or payment links.
- Subscription.
- E-commerce plugins: Magento 2, Shopify, WHMCS, Wix, WooCommerce, BigCommerce.
- Easy to embed payment button.
- Donation button.
- Mobile POS app.
Payment flow:
- Accept crypto > converted to your chosen currency > daily settlement to your chosen bank account or cryptocurrency wallet.
Multi-user login access.
Locks in rate at the time of purchase.
Lightning network support.
Customer support via email within 1 business day.

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Multi-user capability.	Fewer e-commerce plugins.
Mobile POS app for accepting payments in-store.	Application fee.
Locks in rate at time of purchase.	Higher transaction fees, even with the automatic volume discounts.
Low minimum withdrawal amount.

Coinbase Commerce: Best for instant settlement

Image: Coinbase Commerce

Our rating: 4.25 out of 5

Coinbase Commerce is a cryptocurrency payment gateway that makes it simple and straightforward for businesses to accept cryptocurrency payments. It automatically converts incoming crypto payments into USD or USDC and offers instant settlement to the deposit address provided by the merchant.

Why I chose Coinbase Commerce

Businesses that are just exploring crypto payments and would like to start small will find Coinbase Commerce simple and easy to use. Unlike other gateways on this list, Coinbase Commerce does not provide the option to keep other currencies except USD and USDC. Instead, it locks in exchange rates at the time of purchase and transfers funds directly to the merchant’s chosen deposit address.

While it lacks currency exchange options and is limited to website payments, its ease of use and support for popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce make it an ideal choice for businesses prioritizing straightforward, hassle-free transactions.

Pricing

Features

Accepts 13 cryptocurrencies as payments.
Settles in 1 fiat currency only.
Daily settlement.
Ways to accept crypto payments:
- API integration.
- E-commerce plugins: Jumpseller, Primer, Shopify, WooCommerce.
Payment flow: Instant settlement to deposit address indicated.
Locks in rate at the time of purchase.
Lightning network support.
Customer support via account dashboard only.

The Coinbase Commerce dashboard. Source: Coinbase Commerce

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Simple and straightforward.	No currency exchange.
Instant settlement eliminates rate volatility.	No sandbox environment for testing.
	All incoming payments are converted to USD or USDC.
	Only for accepting payments on a website.

OpenNode: Best for Bitcoin-only payments

Image: OpenNode

Our rating: 3.98 out of 5

A cryptocurrency payment gateway focused exclusively on Bitcoin, OpenNode offers features such as split settlement and scheduled payouts. Its Lightning network support makes it highly efficient for Bitcoin transactions.

Why I chose OpenNode

OpenNode stands out as the best option for businesses that want to accept Bitcoin and nothing else. Its features, like custom automatic settlement schedules, multiple ways to accept crypto payments, and limited settlement currencies, make it an ideal option for businesses that want to limit their crypto payment acceptance but would like to accept it in various payment channels.

Although limited to Bitcoin, OpenNode’s simplicity, combined with strong e-commerce integrations, makes it a great fit for businesses focused on Bitcoin payments.

Pricing

Transaction fee: 1%.
Withdrawal fee: 1% for on-demand bitcoin payout.

Features

Accepts 1 cryptocurrency only (Bitcoin).
Settles in 8 fiat currencies.
Ways to accept crypto payments:
- API integration.
- Payment button.
- Invoices or payment links.
- E-commerce plugins: Shopify, Magento, BigCommerce, Prestashop, WooCommerce, OpenCart.
- QR code.
Payment flow: Accept bitcoin > keep as bitcoin or convert to local currency > transfer to bank account or bitcoin wallet.
Merchant may choose to initiate payouts or to set them on a schedule.
Split settlement.
Lightning network.
KYC compliant.
24/7 customer support.

The OpenNode dashboard. Source: OpenNode

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Merchants may set a custom automatic settlement schedule.	Bitcoin only.
Lightning network support.	Withdrawal fee for on-demand bitcoin payout.
Split settlement.

Features

Instant account registration.
Accepts over 30 cryptocurrencies as payments.
Settles in 4 fiat currencies.
Ways to accept crypto payments:
- API integration.
- Invoices or payment links.
- Ecommerce plugins: Shopify, WooCommerce, OpenCart, Ecwid, NopCommerce, PrestaShop.
- Subscription.
Payment flow:
- Accept crypto > convert to your chosen currency.
- Account balance > withdraw to bank account or cryptocurrency wallet.
Any conversion and transfer fees are charged to the customer.
Customer can pay using a QR code or by linking to Crypto.com, Metamask, WalletConnect, or other cryptocurrency wallets.
The merchant receives the exact pricing amount.
Lightning network support.
24/7 customer support.

The Crypto.com Pay dashboard. Source: Crypto.com

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Merchants receive the exact price of the goods/services.	Limited fiat and cryptocurrencies for settlement.
Allows merchants to choose pricing currency in fiat or crypto.	No POS option for in-person payments.
Merchant is not subjected to exchange rate volatility.	No advanced reporting tools.

Benefits of using a crypto payment gateway

Using a crypto payment gateway offers some advantages for businesses, including:

Lower transaction fees compared to traditional payment processors.
Instant payments and quicker settlements.
Global reach.
No chargebacks or payment reversals.
Enhanced security with the blockchain technology.
For some gateways, flexibility to convert crypto into fiat or keep as digital currency.

How do I choose the best crypto payment gateway for my business?

When choosing a cryptocurrency payment gateway for your business, consider these key factors:

Transaction fees: To maximize your profits, look for a gateway with low fees, especially if you process a high volume of transactions.
Supported cryptocurrencies: Make sure the platform supports popular cryptocurrencies or those most relevant to your customer base.
Fiat conversion options: If you don’t want to hold crypto, choose a gateway that offers easy conversion to fiat currencies.
Ease of integration: Ensure the platform integrates smoothly with your website, POS, or e-commerce platforms.
Settlement times: Consider how fast the gateway settles payments into your bank or crypto wallet to maintain your cash flow.

Methodology

For this list of the best crypto payment gateways, I focused on solutions that offer flexibility, security, and ease of use for businesses looking to accept cryptocurrency payments. I evaluated each gateway based on specific criteria: integration, developer tools, and user experience (25%); supported cryptocurrencies and payment options (25%); security, compliance, and privacy (20%); pricing and transaction fees (15%); and customer support and resources (15%).

My research included a thorough review of product documentation, pricing pages, customer feedback, and hands-on testing or demo environments where available. The goal was to recommend gateways that offer a strong balance of features, ease of use, and security for businesses across different industries.

This article and methodology were reviewed by our retail expert, Meaghan Brophy

Source link