Both can run a good store, but they suit different businesses. The decision usually comes down to payments, monthly cost and how much control you want.
Payments and M-Pesa
WooCommerce integrates directly with M-Pesa Daraja, so STK push at checkout feels native and the fees stay low. Shopify supports M-Pesa through third parties, which can add cost and friction. For a store selling mainly to Kenyans, this matters a lot.
Cost over time
Shopify charges a monthly subscription and, on many plans, a cut of each sale. WooCommerce has no subscription, you pay for hosting and any premium extensions. For a growing store, that difference adds up.
Control
WooCommerce is open, so almost anything can be customised: wholesale pricing, unusual delivery rules, custom checkout logic. Shopify is more locked down, which is simpler but limits you when your business does not fit the standard mould.
Written by
Founder and lead developer at Ken Designers, the Nairobi studio behind websites, online stores, apps and POS systems for 300+ businesses. Best Software Developer of the Year 2026 (Digitally Fit Awards by KEOnline).
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