The decision in one minute
If your team wants to focus on configuring products, orders and sales channels, start by evaluating a hosted platform such as EasyStore. If you need control over your website software and can assign someone to maintain it, consider a self-hosted setup.
Neither route removes operational work. You still need accurate product information, reliable fulfilment and a clear customer support process.
Compare the responsibilities
| Decision | Hosted store | Self-hosted website |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting | Usually part of the platform service; confirm the scope. | Buy and configure hosting separately. |
| Maintenance | Provider maintains the core platform; you manage store configuration. | Assign software, plugin, security and backup responsibilities. |
| Flexibility | Work within supported features and integrations. | More software-level control, with more implementation work. |
| Cost planning | Subscription plus any add-ons and payment costs. | Hosting plus software, development and maintenance costs. |
| Leaving later | Check exports and migration options before committing. | Check portability of your database, media and software licences. |
Two realistic starting points
For a small retail team with no technical maintainer, a hosted trial is a practical first experiment: add real sample products and run a full order workflow. For a business with an existing custom website and a developer, a separate hosting comparison may be more relevant.
These are editorial starting points, not universal recommendations. A required integration or internal policy can change the decision.
Before you commit
Write down your must-have channels, payment methods, delivery rules and export requirements. Ask each candidate to demonstrate those exact tasks. Compare the annual total, including your team’s time, rather than only the entry price.
Sources & research notes
Official sources consulted on 26 September 2026. Features, fees and eligibility can change; confirm with the provider before committing. Editorial advice is our assessment, not a provider guarantee.