When you decide to open an online store, you should know that you will have many decisions to make. First, you have to find an attractive name, a logo that fits the business perfectly, a motto that is easy to remember, and then you have to establish the details related to the e-commerce platform that you will choose. Also, you will need a web domain, and you will have to decide whether to opt for a free version of an e-commerce platform or for the paid version.
If you do not have experience, too much money available, or if you do not want to risk, you will be tempted to choose a free platform for your online store. Although it seems a wise decision, next we will present to you some differences between the free and the paid version of one of the most popular eCommerce platforms in the world. Thus, we will tell you the differences between Magento 2 Open Source and Magento 2 Commerce and you will make the best decision for your business.
About Magento 2 Open Source
Magento 2 Open Source (previously known as Magento Community Edition) is the free version of the Magento Platform. It is free to download and is very popular among webmasters. Although it is a free option, you do not have to worry, because it includes many options that will make your life easier and that will help you grow your online business.
There are many benefits of this free version. In addition, being an open-source type, improvements can be made by anyone who wants to contribute to the development of the platform. You don't have to pay for platform upgrades, so your only fees will be for the domain and hosting.
As we said, new businesses can enjoy this version, and over time, they will migrate to Magento 2 Commerce, to enjoy even more benefits.
Magento 2 Commerce
Magento 2 Commerce is the paid version of the platform, and the cheapest version starts at $22,000 / year. Although the price may seem high, the investment is worthy from all points of view. With the Commerce version, your online store will benefit from many advantages, such as business intelligence tools and a lot of Magento 2 Extensions. In addition, you will receive technical support from the Magento Team whenever you will need it.
With the paid version, you will be able to access detailed information about your audience and existing customers at any time, so that you can use the data not only in your favor but also in favor of your customers. In addition, you can customize your online store to your liking, in the smallest details. An example of an extension that can attract more orders to your site is Magento 2 banner slider. With its help, you can highlight offers, promotional prices, news, and other information that you want the site visitors not to miss.
Conclusion
That being said, if you are a new entrepreneur, choose the free version with confidence. Over time, you will be able to migrate to the paid version and you will enjoy its advantages. Instead, if you already have a successful company and want to enter the online world, then choose directly the Magento 2 Commerce and enjoy all the advantages offered!