Users switch for more flexibility and features. Gain: true drag-and-drop editor, larger app marketplace (500+ apps), more customization options, free plan available. Trade-off: templates not quite as elegant, can feel overwhelming with options, similar SEO limitations.

Ecommerce-focused users switch for serious selling capabilities. Gain: powerful ecommerce features, extensive payment options, multi-currency, better inventory management, 8,000+ apps. Trade-off: more expensive, templates less design-focused, still has transaction fees without Shopify Payments.

Users needing full control switch for unlimited customization. Gain: complete code ownership, thousands of themes/plugins, best SEO tools, no platform lock-in. Trade-off: requires hosting management, steeper learning curve, security responsibility, more maintenance.

Designers switch for more creative control without code. Gain: pixel-perfect design control, CMS flexibility, better animations, cleaner code output. Trade-off: steeper learning curve, more expensive, less beginner-friendly, overkill for simple sites.

Design-focused users switch for modern capabilities. Gain: advanced animations, React-based components, better performance, modern design tools. Trade-off: newer platform with evolving features, less established ecommerce, smaller community.

Simple site needs switch for cost savings. Gain: extremely affordable ($19/year Pro), fast simple sites, clean design. Trade-off: single-page focus, very limited features, no ecommerce, not for complex sites.