Shopify
Ecommerce platform
Subscription platform for building and running an online store
United States
Website builder
Reviewed November 2026Squarespace: what to know before you buy
Squarespace is an all-in-one website builder known for polished templates. Plans include hosting, and you can add domains, online selling, email marketing and appointment scheduling. It suits creatives, small businesses and anyone who prefers a managed platform over setting up hosting and software themselves. Compare the plan tiers carefully, as selling features and fees differ between them.
What you can buy
- Website builder plans with hosting
- Online store and commerce features
- Domain names
- Email marketing campaigns
- Appointment scheduling tools
Best for
- Creatives and portfolio sites
- Small businesses wanting a polished site quickly
- People who prefer an all-in-one managed platform
Ways to save at Squarespace
General money-saving moves that apply to this brand. Availability changes, so confirm on the brand's site.
- 1
Pay annually
Annual billing is usually cheaper per month than monthly billing on Squarespace plans.
- 2
Use the free trial first
Squarespace has offered a free trial, so you can build and test your site before paying. Check the current trial terms.
- 3
Pick the right tier
If you don't sell online, a lower plan may be enough. If you do, compare transaction fees across tiers before deciding.
- 4
Check for a domain bonus
Annual plans have sometimes included a free domain for the first year. Confirm whether that applies now.
Check before you pay
The small print most worth reading for this brand.
- Which plan includes the commerce features you need
- Transaction fees on your plan
- Renewal costs for domains and add-ons
- How easy it is to export content if you leave later
Pros and considerations
What's good
- Polished, professional templates
- Hosting and security handled for you
- Commerce, email and scheduling in one place
Worth knowing
- Less flexible than self-hosted platforms for custom code
- Add-ons can raise the total cost
- Moving a site off Squarespace takes effort
Alternatives to Squarespace
Similar brands with their own BuySmart guides.
Hostinger
Web hosting
Budget-friendly web hosting, domains and a website builder in one account
Worldwide
Bluehost
Web hosting provider
Web hosting company known for shared and WordPress hosting plans
Worldwide
Debutify
Shopify theme tools
A Shopify theme with optional add-ons aimed at helping stores convert visitors
Worldwide
Compare Squarespace
- vs
Shopify vs Squarespace
Shopify is a platform built primarily for selling online, while Squarespace is a website builder known for design templates that also includes commerce features. Both are hosted, so you do not manage servers yourself.
Related buying guides
Buying guide · 7 min read
How to Choose Web Hosting
Web hosting is the service that stores your website's files and serves them to visitors. The right choice depends on what you are building, how much traffic you expect and how much technical work you want to do yourself.
Buying guide · 8 min read
How to Start an Online Store
Starting an online store is easier than ever, but the tools are only part of the job. You will also need a clear product, a plan for payments and shipping, and an understanding of the rules where you sell.
Squarespace FAQ
Does Squarespace include hosting?
Yes, Squarespace plans include hosting, so you don't need a separate web host.
Can I sell products on Squarespace?
Yes, Squarespace has commerce features for physical products, digital goods and services. Check which plan includes the tools you need.
Is there a free trial?
Squarespace has offered a free trial for new sites. Check the official site for the current length and terms.
Can I use my own domain?
You can usually connect a domain you already own or register one through Squarespace.
Ready to check Squarespace?
Confirm the current price, renewal terms and refund policy on the brand's own site before you pay.
Some links on BuySmart are partner links: we may earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we write. How we list brands
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