Squarespace vs. Shopify: Which One Is Right for Your Author Website?
You’ve written the words, polished the pages, and now you're ready for a website that does more than just sit pretty.
But… do you go with Squarespace or Shopify?
If you’re an author or creative selling books, digital products, or even a few physical items, both platforms can support your goals — but in different ways.
Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which one is the best fit for your online home.
Let’s Start with the Basics
Squarespace
Squarespace is an all-in-one website builder known for its clean, modern design templates and user-friendly interface. It’s great for showcasing your brand, blogging, and offering a streamlined online presence.
Shopify
Shopify is built for e-commerce. If selling products is a big part of your business model — and you want powerful tools to support that — Shopify delivers.
Which One Is Right for You?
1. You Want a Stylish, Easy-to-Maintain Author Website? → Squarespace
Built-in blogging, podcasting, and portfolio features
Gorgeous design templates that are easy to customize
Great for author bios, book pages, media kits, and newsletters
Simple store features for selling a few books or digital downloads
Lower learning curve if you're not super techy
Best for:
Authors focused on building their brand, sharing content, and offering books or downloads in a beautiful, low-maintenance setup.
2. You Want a Scalable Online Storefront? → Shopify
Built-in checkout, inventory management, and fulfillment features
Excellent for managing multiple physical or digital products
App marketplace offers advanced marketing and sales tools
More robust e-commerce features than Squarespace
Ideal if you're running a shop beyond just books
Best for:
Authors and creatives who want to sell merch, multiple products, bundles, or plan to grow their online store over time.
What About Cost?
Squarespace plans range from $16–$40/month
Shopify starts at $39/month and goes up as your store grows
Shopify charges transaction fees if you don’t use Shopify Payments
Both include hosting, templates, and customer support
Bottom Line:
Squarespace is often more affordable for authors just starting out.
Shopify is an investment that makes sense if sales are central to your business.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong — both platforms are powerful, flexible, and can support you as you grow.
Still unsure? I design for both, and I help authors and creatives make the right choice based on their long-term goals.
Let’s chat about what you’re building — and get you Lit & Launched on the platform that fits.
