Custom Themes in Shopify: Advantages and Disadvantages of Development

The development of the online stores on the Shopify platform is currently regarded as a trending and efficient method of e-commerce. It provides an extensive variety of pre-made templates, integrations and helpful resources to start a store within a few weeks.

However, Shopify custom theme development is defined by the entrepreneurs who wish to be differentiated by the competition with a custom design and unique features that would fit their brand.

Why Use Custom Themes

Ready-made templates are an appropriate solution in most cases in case you have your aim to make a typical e-commerce store. Nevertheless, when you would like to obtain a unique design, combine the sophisticated filters, or provide the customers with custom product pages, the template sets numerous restrictions.

A custom Shopify theme may be developed either as a new theme or on a premise of one of the default themes.

Key Benefits of Custom Shopify Themes

There are several advantages that make custom themes a top choice for e-commerce.

1. Groundbreaking design. Custodial themes provide a chance to escape templates. You will have a design which is a mirror of the essence and character of your brand. This is particularly essential when dealing with very competitive niches.
2. Functional flexibility. By creating it anew, it is possible to successfully introduce different custom solutions, including dynamic filters, external ERP and CRM systems integrations, specific order flow situations, and so on.
3. Search engine optimization and performance. Custom themes are developed using the features required. This saves redundant code which means that pages load quickly and promote effectively.
4. Scalability. The more your online business develops, the easier it may be to add new products and marketing tools using a custom theme. Its ability to change easily without necessarily losing stability and endangering the design is made possible by the flexible structure.
5. User experience control. The custom development assists in molding the behavior of the customers after the initial click to purchase. This implies that you will be able to save on the number of clicks before your order is made or you include personalized reminders.

What are the Disadvantages of Custom Development?

To objectively evaluate this solution, it’s also necessary to consider the downsides.

• Cost. The higher price is the main drawback. Custom development is more expensive than even premium templates;
• Development time. A ready-made template can be configured in a few days. Developing a custom theme can take up to 3-4 months;
• Dependence on developers. Support is often required after the project launch. It’s important to work only with trusted and professional agencies;
• Update difficulties. Shopify’s ready-made templates are updated automatically, while custom templates require manual intervention.

In practice, the advantages significantly outweigh the disadvantages.

When to Choose Custom Development

A custom theme for Shopify is most appropriate in the following situations:

• you have a well-known brand that requires a unique design;
• standard templates don’t provide the necessary functionality;
• you need to increase conversion and improve UX;
• you plan to scale your online project.

A standard theme may be sufficient for starting your business, with subsequent customization once you reach a certain level of experience and sales.