Direct Answer
Use Shopify when you want a hosted, low-maintenance store with a polished checkout and don't need deep customization — best for most small businesses. Use WooCommerce when you need full WordPress integration, custom product types, or advanced workflows that Shopify's checkout can't handle.
Short version
“Shopify is best for low-maintenance hosted stores. WooCommerce is best when you need WordPress integration and deep customization.”
Shopify cost: $39–$399/month + 2.9% transaction fees (lower with Shopify Payments).
WooCommerce is technically free but plugin and hosting costs add up to $300–$1,000/year for a serious store.
Need help with this for your business?
Leads to Sales runs the websites side of growth for U.S. service businesses. Get a fixed-price scope and a 24-hour proposal.