Shopware 6 vs. Magento 2 (Adobe Commerce) - The pros explain! (2024)

27.04.2023
by Meike Müller
E-Commerce
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Shopware and Magento are both well-known store systems that can provide a good basis for your online store. But which system is better? In this comparison, we would like to take a look at both e-commerce systems and examine the most important criteria. So if you haven't yet decided whether you should choose Magento or Shopware for you and your company, then you've come to the right place. We compare the two and present the advantages and disadvantages of both systems!

 

Reading time 7 min

What to expect in this article:
  1. What is Shopware and what is Magento anyway?
  2. Shopware vs Magento
    1. Shopware vs Magento: the comparison
    2. Advantages and disadvantages of Magento
    3. Advantages and disadvantages of Shopware
  3. Our conclusion
  4. FAQ about Shopware and Magento
    1. How do I optimize my Magento webshop for SEO and what tools are available?
    2. Can I switch from Magento to Shopware?
    3. How can I set up my Shopware online store for different countries and languages?
    4. Do I need programming knowledge for Shopware or Magento?
    5. What is the difference between experience worlds and shopping worlds in Shopware?
    6. What is data set management?
    7. Why do I need the source code for store software?
    8. Why should "internationalization" be part of the functional scope of store software?

What is Shopware and what is Magento anyway?

Magento is a company that was founded by Varien, a software development company, in 2007. It specializes in the development of e-commerce software and offers a flexible and scalable platform for online businesses of all sizes. In 2015, Magento was acquired by Permira, a global investment company, to expand its capabilities and global reach. In 2018, Magento was then acquired by Adobe and has been part of the Adobe Experience Cloud ecosystem ever since. Magento 2, or Adobe Commerce, is an e-commerce platform that enables companies to operate online stores and sell their products and services online. The platform offers a wide range of features including the management of products, orders, payments, shipping and marketing activities. The platform is particularly popular with medium-sized and larger companies that require a flexible and customizable e-commerce solution.

Shopware, on the other hand, is based in the German town of Schöppingen and also offers an e-commerce platform for online stores. The platform was first released in 2004 and has gone through several iterations since then. The current version, Shopware 6, was released in 2019 and offers an extended range of functions compared to the previous version. The Shopware platform offers an extensive range of functions that enable retailers to effectively manage and expand their online stores. This includes functions for managing products, customers and orders. The platform also provides extensive marketing tools, including discounts, vouchers and upselling functions.

Shopware vs. Magento

Which store system suits you better: Magento or Shopware? Both store systems are well-known and renowned on the market. However, it is not possible to determine which platform is best suited to your online store without a thorough analysis of both systems. After all, it all depends on your needs and those of your store and your niche. In the following, we would like to compare both store systems with each other. To do this, we will look at various criteria, which we would now like to briefly present to you:

  • Cost: It is of course important to know how expensive each system is and whether or not it fits into your budget.
  • Functions: Likewise, all functions that are important for your company should of course be included. This includes, for example, various payment and shipping options.
  • User-friendliness: The store systems should be intuitive to use and manage. This also means that products can be added easily. Content and categories should also be easy to add.
  • Scalability: If your company grows, your store should of course be able to grow with it. If you are aiming for this, then the store system should be designed for scalability. What are the costs and possible restrictions?
  • Security: Does the store system already offer all the tools and requirements needed to guarantee security for your company and your customers?
  • Installation and maintenance: How easy is the installation? How can the system be maintained?
  • Expandability: Is it possible to expand the store and its functions? For example, are there plugins, integrations and interfaces?
  • Support: What is the manufacturer's support like? Is there also support from a community or agencies for the store system?

Of course, some of these criteria are also subjective. We are basing this on our own experience. It may therefore be that you perceive the aspects differently and have a different experience. However, we hope that our comparison will give you a good starting point for your own assessment.

 

Shopware vs Magento: the comparison

Magento/ Adobe Commerce

Shopware

Costs

The license costs for Adobe Commerce are individual. It depends entirely on the size of the online store and the annual turnover of your company. License costs of around 15,000 euros per year are often quoted.

With Shopware, the license costs for the Rise version are from 600 euros per month. For the other two versions, Evolve and Beyond, the price is only available on request.

Functions

  • Product management
  • Order management
  • Payment and shipping integration
  • Customization of shipping and tax rules
  • Marketing tools
  • SEO optimization
  • Multilingualism
  • Customer management
  • Voucher management
  • Reporting and analysis tools
  • Integration of product reviews and customer feedback
  • Extensibility through a large selection of extensions and plugins
  • Responsive design
  • Multi-website and multi-store support
  • Integration of social media and marketing channels
  • Automated email and campaign management tools
  • Options for selling digital products and subscriptions
  • Support for B2B and B2C e-commerce models
  • Product management
  • Order management
  • Payment and shipping integration
  • Customization of shipping and tax rules
  • Marketing tools
  • Social media integration
  • Extensibility through plugins and extensions
  • User-friendliness
  • Responsive design
  • SEO optimization
  • Multilingualism
  • Customer management
  • Voucher management
  • Reporting and analysis tools
  • Integration of product reviews and customer feedback
  • Newsletter integration
  • Possibility to create a B2B store
  • Google Shopping integration
  • and much more

User-friendliness

Magento is relatively complex in itself and dealing with all the functions is time-consuming. How user-friendly Magento really is also depends on your previous knowledge.

High user-friendliness and intuitive operation. The basic settings are easy to select.

Scalability

High scalability for B2C and B2B projects. Online stores of any size can be created and designed.

As there are different licenses, your Shopware store can also be scaled easily. Whether a small webshop or an online store with a huge product selection.

Security

Adobe Commerce is PCI-certified as a Level 1 solution provider and offers tools such as security scans and an active developer community to protect online merchants from cyber threats. Merchants can use Adobe's PCI compliance attestation to simplify their own PCI certification process.

Based in Germany, the company also complies with all legal requirements in Germany

Installation and maintenance

Installing and maintaining Adobe Commerce can be a technical challenge due to its extensive features and associated complexity. The platform requires some technical knowledge in order to be successfully installed and maintained.

Installation requires a basic knowledge of web servers, PHP, MySQL databases and SSL certificates.

Setting up an online store with Shopware requires little effort. The platform offers comprehensive documentation and a German support team that is available to answer questions, making it relatively easy to make your own adjustments and further developments.

Extensibility

Extensions are available for the Magento store system for a wide range of tasks: Customer support, payments and security, marketing, finance, accounting, shipping and online store optimizations. Some of these are subject to a charge.

In terms of customization options, the Shopware store offers many plugins that can extend the functionality of the online store. Although Shopware 6 is still relatively new on the market, there are already a considerable number of plugins on offer. The library is also being continuously expanded to meet customer requirements. Another advantage is that some plugins are provided free of charge, allowing store owners to improve their online presence at no additional cost.

Support

Community forums, documentation, paid support at enterprise level

German support - depending on the version, more support from Shopware itself

 

The advantages and disadvantages of Magento

For a good overview of the Magento or Adobe Commerce store system, we have compiled all the important advantages and disadvantages that you should know before deciding on a store system.

Magento advantages Magento disadvantages
  • Internationality
  • Large community that can help with questions
  • Wide range of extensions and good customization options
  • SEO optimizations are possible: meta descriptions, URL adjustments, sitemap changes and more are possible with Adobe Commerce
  • High costs: Adobe Commerce quickly becomes very expensive, especially for larger stores
  • Complexity: Adobe Commerce is one of the more complex store systems, which is difficult to understand for inexperienced users
  • Maintenance, setup and updating: Maintaining your online store with Adobe Commerce is relatively time-consuming and can only be implemented with great effort without knowledge

 

The advantages and disadvantages of Shopware

We also don't want to withhold the advantages and disadvantages of Shopware from you. That's why we've also compiled the most important points here:

Shopware advantages Shopware disadvantages
  • The store system is flexibly customizable and new functions can be implemented quickly and easily, as the code is open source and there are many extensions in the Shopware Store
  • Shopware follows an API-first approach, so there is an interface for exchanging data and functions
  • German support is available
  • Close cooperation with Pickware, so integrations of ERP systems and merchandise management systems are no problem
  • Shopware is primarily geared towards the German and European market, which of course does not necessarily have to be a disadvantage if you are mainly active in Germany and Europe anyway
  • Shopware is not cheap in the better versions

 

 

Our conclusion

But which is better? The decision between Shopware and Magento depends on the individual requirements of the online store. Both platforms offer extensive functions and tools for running a successful online store. As an online store agency, we like to use the Shopware store system when it comes to creating high-performance web stores for our customers. We are also happy to be your implementation partner and help you identify your individual needs and requirements in an initial consultation!

 

FAQ about Shopware and Magento

Deciding on the right store system is extremely important for online retailers, as it can have a significant impact on the success of the online store. Shopware and Magento are among the best known on the market. In this FAQ, we would like to answer all open questions about the two systems. If you still have questions, you can of course contact us at any time. We will be happy to help you!

  • How do I optimize my Magento webshop for SEO and what tools are available?

    If you want to optimize your Magento webshop for search engine optimization (SEO), there are a few tips you should follow. Use the marketing functions of your store software to increase traffic to your website. For example, use Magento's own promotions module or use affiliate or banner advertising. Use an SEO-friendly URL structure. Magento offers a function that allows you to customize the URL structure of your products and categories. Optimize the meta information such as title tags and meta descriptions for your products and categories. Magento offers a function to edit this information for each page. Create an XML sitemap for your webshop and submit it to search engines. Magento offers a function for this that automatically creates a sitemap. Optimize the loading times of your webshop for better usability and a higher search engine ranking. Magento offers a variety of settings and extensions to improve loading times. Use Google Analytics or other web analytics tools to measure and monitor the success of your SEO measures. These tips will help you to optimize your Magento webshop for SEO. It is important to continuously monitor and adjust SEO optimizations to achieve continuous improvement in search engine rankings.

  • Can I switch from Magento to Shopware?

    Yes, it is possible to switch from Magento to Shopware. This is called a "switch". However, switching from Magento to Shopware requires careful planning and preparation, as there are differences between the two platforms and data migration plays an important role. It is important to consider the specific requirements and needs of the business to ensure that the migration is successful and that all important data and functions are transferred to the new platform. It is recommended that an experienced e-commerce developer or agency is brought in to make the transition from Magento to Shopware a smooth one.

  • How can I set up my Shopware online store for different countries and languages?

    To set up a Shopware online store for different countries and languages, store operators need to consider various aspects of internationality. One important factor is setting up sales channels for each country in which the store is to be operated. This includes the implementation of payment and shipping options that are suitable for the respective country. The complexity of the setup depends on the number of countries and languages for which the store is to be set up. Some of the steps required include

    1. setting up language and currency options: It is important that the store is customized for the languages and currencies of different countries to increase usability and conversion rates.

    2. consider country-specific legislation: In some countries, there are specific rules for the sale of goods and services that store operators must observe. These should be included in the store guidelines and terms of use.

    3. provide localized content: Store operators should ensure that the store's content is adapted for each language and country to ensure a better user experience.

    4. configure sales channels and payment options: Sales channels and payment options need to be customized for each country to enable smooth order processing.


    Overall, setting up a Shopware online store for different countries and languages requires a certain level of complexity and requires a thorough understanding of the internationality and requirements of each country. It is important that store owners take their time and plan carefully to ensure that the store is optimally adapted for each country and that conversion rates are maximized.

  • Do I need programming skills for Shopware or Magento?

    Basically, you don't need extensive programming knowledge to use Shopware or Magento as a store solution. Both store systems are programmed in such a way that they can also be operated by people with basic IT knowledge. However, both systems require a certain amount of training and experience in using the respective platform in order to be able to use them effectively. This includes learning the various functions and configurations available in the administration interface. In certain cases, however, it may be necessary to have basic programming knowledge in order to make individual adjustments or extensions to the store solution. This may involve, for example, adapting the design, creating new functions or integrating external systems. Overall, however, it can be said that extensive programming knowledge is generally not required to use Shopware or Magento as a store solution. However, a certain amount of training and experience in using the respective platform is recommended in order to operate the store effectively and successfully.

  • What is the difference between experience worlds and shopping worlds with Shopware?

    In Shopware 5, the function was called Shopping Worlds, whereas in Shopware 6 it was renamed Shopping Experiences. Shopping Experiences are a flexible and powerful tool for creating engaging and interactive content on different pages of the online store. With Shopping Experiences, online retailers can customize the design of landing pages, category pages, product pages and more. Various elements such as images, texts, videos, products, banners and more can be freely placed and designed to create a unique shopping experience for customers.

  • What is dataset management?

    Data record management refers to the management of data records stored in a system. This usually includes the creation, updating, storage and retrieval of data. In e-commerce, data records can include information on products, customers, orders and payments, for example.

    Shopware and Magento 2 are both popular store systems that offer extensive functions for data record management. In Shopware, for example, retailers can manage products, customers and orders easily and efficiently. The platform also offers features for integrating third-party applications that can help manage records from different sources. Magento 2 offers similar functionality and has powerful tools for data record management. For example, the platform allows merchants to manage products, track orders and manage customer accounts. In addition, Magento 2 allows merchants to seamlessly integrate data from various sources, including external systems and applications.

  • Why do you need the source code of a store software?

    The source code of a store software is the heart of the application and contains all the programming instructions necessary to operate and manage the store. Some of the reasons why you might need the source code are:

    1. customizations: You may need customizations to the store software to add certain features or change existing ones. With the source code, you have access to all programming instructions and can change them accordingly.

    2. extensions: You may want to add third-party extensions that have been developed specifically for your requirements. You can use the source code to integrate these extensions into your store software.

    3. troubleshooting: If an error occurs in the store, the source code can help to find and fix the error. Without the source code, it can be difficult to find the source of the problem.

    4. security audits: By reviewing the source code, potential security risks can be identified and fixed before they can be exploited.

    5. migration: If you want to upgrade your store software to another platform or to a newer version, the source code can help you to simplify the process by serving as a starting point for the migration.

    However, it is important to note that access to the source code is usually only recommended for experienced developers who have the necessary knowledge to make changes or fix problems without affecting the operation of the store.

  • Why should "internationalization" be part of the functional scope of store software?

    Internationalization is an important factor in the development of store software, as it allows the store to be used in different countries and regions. Here are some reasons why internationalization should be part of the functional scope of store software:

    1. expanding the market: internationalization allows a store operator to expand its market to customers in different countries. This means that the store has access to new customers and can therefore also expand its business.

    2. customer convenience: Through internationalization, customers from different countries can use the store in their own language, which leads to a better user experience. Payment methods and currencies can also be adapted to local conditions.

    3. adaptation to local laws and regulations: Different laws and regulations apply in different countries, which can have an impact on business. Through internationalization, the store software can be adapted to meet these requirements.

    4. increasing credibility: Internationalized store software shows that the store operator is striving to meet the needs of customers in different countries. This strengthens the credibility of the store and increases customer trust.

    Overall, internationalization offers store operators an opportunity to expand their reach, improve customer convenience and increase the credibility of their store. For these reasons, internationalization should be part of the functional scope of store software.

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Meike
Meike
from 27.04.2023

Hello, my name is Meike. I take care of the EXWE back office and am responsible for our social media channels. All of our articles are meant to make your life easier and help you make decisions. Nevertheless, it can happen that something remains unclear, so: If you have questions about this article you can easily reach me at +49 231 93149827.

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