PHP is considered one of the most popular programming languages of the day, empowering millions of websites and web applications. The server-side scripting language has consistently been used for complex and demanding tasks, including the development of eCommerce platforms. PHP-based platforms are better than their counterparts because they allow the creation of customized stores with minimal time and effort.
With a host of options available, it might be daunting to select the best of the lot. To make things easier for you, we’ve compared some of the most popular PHP-based eCommerce platforms and selected the best ones for you. Here’s our pick:
1) Magento
In all obviousness, Magento tops our list, owing to its immense functionality, versatility, and scalability. The platform powers some of the world’s leading stores and is easily the best choice when it comes to store development for mid-to-large sized retailers. Retailers have the option of choosing community, enterprise or enterprise cloud editions depending upon their requirement.
2) WooCommmerce
Supported by WordPress, this PHP powered platform is the best choice if you’re looking for a store that’s quick to set up and easy to customize. Available as a plugin, it can be used to convert your existing WordPress site into an online shopping portal. With several themes, plugins and extension available, WooCommerce simplifies custom store development.
3) ZenCart
It provides a number of features that allow you set up a custom store within a minimal amount of time. With support for multiple languages, currencies, checkouts and shipping options, ZenCart is the perfect development platform for retailers looking to cater on a global scale. There are also a variety of themes and plug-ins that can alter the look as per requirements.
4) PrestaShop
PrestaShop is out-of-the-box mobile friendly, comes with support for over 60 languages, professional grade eCommerce templates and modules that make it a highly versatile platform for the development of large-scale stores. However, a few modules and templates are paid, so users will have to spend an additional sum to improve the store’s look and functionality.
5) OSCommerce
OSCommerce stands out amongst other eCommerce platforms owing to the support it receives from a huge developer community. From free add-ons to themes, users of this platform can benefit from the vast amount of resources available to add functionality to their site. It also provides a shopping cart built with PHP and MySQL and supports unlimited expansion, multiple currencies, among others.
