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  • Author: The Arctic Leaf Team
  • Jul 18 2025
  • Estimated 2 min read

Headless Shopify vs BigCommerce: What to Know

If you’re considering a headless commerce approach, selecting the right backend platform is crucial. Shopify Plus and BigCommerce stand out as top contenders, each offering unique strengths. Below is a comparison to help you evaluate which platform fits your business needs best.

Criteria

Shopify Plus

BigCommerce

Headless Support & Ecosystem

Hydrogen and Oxygen: native React-based tools with edge delivery

Robust GraphQL and REST APIs with cloud-native backend compatible with any frontend

Flexibility & Customization

Strong built-in marketing tools; checkout customization limited unless using Shopify Functions

Greater backend flexibility, ideal for B2B workflows and large catalogs

Developer Experience

Supports modern frameworks like Next.js, Nuxt, Remix; strong ecosystem and documentation

Supports same modern frameworks; known for handling complex builds efficiently

APIs & Performance

Stable APIs with strong ecosystem support; excellent for streamlined setups

Stable APIs with CDN-backed performance; preferred for larger, complex catalogs

Which Backend Fits Your Needs?

Both platforms deliver solid headless capabilities and developer-friendly environments. Your choice depends on your business scale, customization needs, and technical resources.

Ready to explore a headless build? Contact Arctic Leaf to discuss the best backend strategy for your e-commerce goals.

 


  • Headless E-commerce
  • Shopify Plus
  • BigCommerce
  • Technical
  • E-commerce Strategy
  • Platform Migration