If you're a creative entrepreneur or small business owner, chances are you've considered selling on Etsy. While it's a popular marketplace for handmade and unique items, many sellers are now seeking better options. High fees, intense competition, and limited customization can make Etsy less attractive over time.
Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives to Etsy in 2025 that offer more flexibility, lower costs, and powerful tools to help grow your business. This guide will walk you through the top platforms, with direct links, pros and cons, and tips to help you succeed.
1. Shopify
Why it stands out:
Shopify lets you create your own branded online store. You control everything—design, pricing, customer experience.
Pros:
- Total design freedom
- Integrated payment and shipping tools
- Large selection of third-party apps
Cons:
- Monthly fees can add up
- Requires effort to drive traffic
Great for: Sellers ready to build a unique brand outside marketplaces.
2. Big Cartel
Why it’s worth considering:
Big Cartel is made for artists and makers. It's user-friendly and affordable.
Pros:
- Free plan for up to 5 products
- No listing fees
- Simple interface
Cons:
- Limited features
- Best for smaller inventories
Great for: Beginners or hobbyists testing the waters.
3. Squarespace
Why it’s powerful:
Squarespace offers beautiful templates and integrated eCommerce, perfect for visually appealing brands.
Pros:
- Elegant designs
- Built-in blogging and SEO tools
- Easy to update
Cons:
- Less flexibility than Shopify
- Fewer integrations
Great for: Creatives who want a visually impressive store.
4. Amazon Handmade
https://www.amazon.com/handmade
Why it’s a smart option:
Amazon Handmade gives you access to Amazon’s massive customer base while focusing only on handmade items.
Pros:
- Huge audience
- Trusted platform
- Specialized support for artisans
Cons:
- High competition
- Must apply and be approved
Great for: Sellers who want high exposure and are confident in their products.
5. Zibbet
Why it’s useful:
Zibbet helps you manage multiple sales channels from one place, including Etsy, Instagram, and more.
Pros:
- Multi-channel syncing
- No listing fees
- Streamlined dashboard
Cons:
- Smaller customer base
- Limited brand recognition
Great for: Sellers juggling multiple platforms.
6. Bonanza
Why it’s worth trying:
Bonanza allows easy product imports and offers low fees. It’s very seller-focused.
Pros:
- Minimal fees
- Import listings from Etsy
- Built-in advertising tools
Cons:
- Less traffic
- Outdated UI
Great for: Sellers wanting a low-cost option similar to Etsy.
7. GoImagine
Why it’s meaningful:
GoImagine donates its profits to charity and only allows handmade products, creating a mission-driven marketplace.
Pros:
- Social impact model
- Handmade-only marketplace
- Simple setup
Cons:
- Fewer shoppers
- Fewer features than big platforms
Great for: Sellers who value purpose over profit.
Transition into Action: Tips to Grow on Alternatives to Etsy
To make the most of these platforms, apply smart eCommerce strategies:
- Use keywords like “handmade gifts” or “custom art” in product titles.
- Add transition words like “for example,” “in addition,” or “as a result” to improve readability.
- Write blog posts about your products to build search traffic.
- Leverage social media—Pinterest and Instagram are gold mines for handmade brands.
- Collect emails and run newsletters to drive repeat sales.
Final Thoughts: Etsy Isn't the Only Option Anymore
While Etsy has a loyal following, it's no longer the only choice. In 2025, sellers have powerful alternatives to Etsy that give more freedom, control, and income potential.
Whether you’re launching your first product or growing a full-time brand, platforms like Shopify, Amazon Handmade, and Squarespace offer tools tailored to your goals.
Choose the alternative to Etsy that fits your vision—and start growing on your terms.