Choosing the right e-commerce platform is crucial for the success of your online store. If you’re considering Shopware, you’ve likely heard of the two current major versions: Shopware 5 and Shopware 6. But which version is the right choice for your business? In this article, we will compare the key differences between the versions and provide a clear overview to help you make an informed decision. We’ll look at both technical and functional aspects to determine which version is better suited to your business needs.
Shopware 5 vs. Shopware 6 – An Overview
Before diving into the details, it’s essential to understand the key differences between Shopware 5 and Shopware 6. Shopware 5 was introduced in 2015 and is a mature, stable e-commerce platform that has been continuously developed over the years. On the other hand, Shopware 6 was released in 2019 as the latest version, built on a modern architecture that offers businesses greater flexibility and scalability.
While Shopware 5 provides a solid foundation for traditional online shops, Shopware 6 introduces new features and a future-proof architecture. However, that doesn’t automatically mean that every business should switch to the new version right away.
Technical Differences
a. Technology Stack
One of the most significant differences between the two versions is the technology stack. Shopware 5 is based on an older framework, using technologies like Symfony 2 and ExtJS. This means it has a monolithic structure where various components are tightly interconnected. For many businesses, this architecture has been optimal for years, but it can reach its limits for fast-growing companies or those with specific customization needs.
Shopware 6, however, was built from the ground up using Symfony 4 and Vue.js, creating a modern, modular architecture. This makes Shopware 6 more agile and easier to customize. The separation of the frontend and backend allows developers to work more flexibly and update or adjust various components independently. This is a clear advantage if you plan to run a highly customized shop.
b. API-First Approach
Shopware 6 follows an API-first approach, allowing seamless integration of various systems like ERP or CRM. This means that all functions can be accessed through APIs, making it easier to connect third-party applications and make your shop available on different devices and platforms. While Shopware 5 also offers API functionality, it is less flexible and comprehensive than in Shopware 6.
c. Database Structure
In Shopware 5, data is stored in a relational database, which works well for many shop applications. Shopware 6, however, uses a more flexible entity system that allows different data types to be stored independently. This is particularly beneficial when integrating various data sources and using them for specific applications.
Features and Flexibility
a. User Experience
In terms of user experience, Shopware 6 clearly surpasses Shopware 5. The backend has been completely revamped and offers a much more modern and intuitive interface. This is a huge advantage for beginners with little experience in e-commerce platforms.
Shopware 5, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve, which can be challenging, especially when onboarding new employees. However, many Shopware 5 users appreciate its mature structure and the extensive customization options it continues to offer.
b. Flexibility in Product Management
A major advantage of Shopware 6 is the Rule Builder feature, which allows you to create complex conditions and rules for pricing, shipping methods, and promotions directly in the backend. In Shopware 5, such logic often had to be implemented via plugins or custom adjustments. With Shopware 6, you can manage these processes flexibly without external help.
c. Multi-Channel Sales
One of the biggest strengths of Shopware 6 is its integrated multi-channel sales feature. With this, you can offer your products on various channels like marketplaces, social media, or other shop systems, all managed from a single Shopware backend. While it’s also possible to integrate external sales channels in Shopware 5, it is usually more cumbersome and less seamless than in Shopware 6.
d. CMS and Shopping Experiences
Shopware 5 offers the Shopping Worlds tool, providing a solid way to manage content on your website. However, with Shopware 6, the concept of Shopping Experiences has been significantly expanded. You can create dynamic, engaging content with just a few clicks, significantly improving the user experience on your site. This is especially useful for businesses focused on strong visual presentation.
Licensing Models and Costs
Both versions of Shopware offer different licensing models that vary depending on business size and requirements.
a. Shopware Community Edition
The Shopware Community Edition is available for both Shopware 5 and Shopware 6 and can be used free of charge. It provides the basic functions needed to operate an online shop. This open-source version allows businesses to start without license fees, making it an ideal solution for many smaller businesses or start-ups.
b. Shopware Silver Subscription
For businesses requiring additional support and advanced features, there is the Shopware Silver Subscription. It offers regular updates, improved support, and additional features such as security patches. The Silver Subscription is available for both Shopware 5 and Shopware 6, with version 6 offering better long-term support as Shopware 5 nears the end of its lifecycle.
Roadmap and Future Security
A crucial factor when choosing between Shopware 5 and Shopware 6 is future security. While Shopware 5 has been a stable solution in e-commerce for many years, Shopware has announced that support for Shopware 5 will be gradually phased out. According to the Shopware roadmap, support for Shopware 5 will continue until around 2024, after which it will be fully discontinued.
Shopware 6, on the other hand, is continuously developed and receives regular updates and new features. So if you’re looking for a long-term solution for your business, Shopware 6 is the future-proof choice. Businesses currently using Shopware 5 should already be preparing for a migration, as support for Shopware 5 will soon come to an end.
When is Shopware 5 the Right Choice?
Despite the advantages of Shopware 6, there are situations where Shopware 5 might be the better choice. If you are already running an established business on Shopware 5 and your processes are built around this version, it may make sense to stick with Shopware 5 for the time being. Especially for businesses heavily reliant on custom plugins and extensions that are only available in Shopware 5, an immediate switch to Shopware 6 might bring additional costs and adjustments.
Additionally, Shopware 5 is still a mature platform that functions reliably. If your business requirements are not set to grow drastically in the coming years, it might make sense to use the support period until 2024 before switching to the new version.
When Should You Switch to Shopware 6?
Shopware 6 is the best choice if you’re looking for a future-proof, flexible, and scalable solution. Especially if you plan to expand your e-commerce strategy, use new sales channels, or focus on enhancing the user experience, Shopware 6 offers clear advantages. The modern technology, API-first approach, and enhanced CMS features will take your online store to the next level.
If you’re starting a new shop, Shopware 6 is the clear recommendation since you’ll directly benefit from the latest developments and support provided by Shopware.
Migrating from Shopware 5 to Shopware 6
If you’re already using Shopware 5 and planning to switch to Shopware 6, the migration process needs careful planning, as it’s not a simple upgrade but a migration to a completely new platform.
a. Preparing for Migration
Before migrating, it’s essential to review all customizations and plugins used in your shop. Many of these extensions may not be directly available in Shopware 6 or may need adjustments. The Shopware roadmap provides guidance on which functions and features will be integrated in the future.
b. Data Migration
Shopware provides a migration tool to simplify the process of transferring your data, including products, customer information, orders, and other shop data. It is advisable to create a comprehensive backup and test the migration in a sandbox environment to ensure all data is transferred correctly.
c. Design Adjustments
One of the biggest differences between Shopware 5 and Shopware 6 is how the frontend is built. If you’re using a customized design, you will likely need to make adjustments, as templates cannot be transferred directly from Shopware 5 to Shopware 6. The new design possibilities in Shopware 6, especially the CMS for Shopping Experiences, offer more flexibility and creativity in shaping your store.
d. Plugins and Extensions
Many Shopware 5 plugins are not available in Shopware 6 or need to be replaced by new extensions. It’s important to contact developers or the community early on to find suitable alternatives.
Shopware 6 – The Future of E-Commerce
Shopware 6 is more than just an upgrade from Shopware 5. It’s a complete redevelopment designed to meet the demands of the modern e-commerce market. The benefits that Shopware 6 offers go far beyond technical innovations. It provides businesses with the flexibility to quickly adapt to market changes and unlock new revenue streams.
a. Future-Proof Platform
Since Shopware 6 is continuously being developed, you can be confident that the platform will always stay up to date. Regular updates and new features make it a future-proof solution for growing businesses.
b. Modular Architecture
The modular architecture of Shopware 6 allows businesses to only use the functions they really need. This saves resources and enables a tailored shop solution that can grow with the demands of the company.
c. Internationalization
Another significant advantage of Shopware 6 is the ease of managing international stores. The system natively allows the integration of various languages, currencies, and tax regulations, which is particularly beneficial for businesses with global ambitions.
Conclusion: Shopware 5 or Shopware 6?
The choice between Shopware 5 and Shopware 6 strongly depends on your business’s individual requirements. Shopware 5 is a stable and proven solution suitable for companies that already operate on this platform and do not plan major modifications. However, for new projects or businesses looking to future-proof their operations, Shopware 6 is the better choice.
Shopware 6 offers a modern architecture, greater flexibility, easier third-party system integration, and better options for personalizing the user experience. If you’re looking for a platform that will grow with your business and prepare you for the future of e-commerce, you should seriously consider Shopware 6.
If you’re still using Shopware 5, it is advisable to start preparing for the switch, as support for Shopware 5 will be discontinued in the coming years. The Shopware roadmap clearly shows that the future lies in Shopware 6, and it is only a matter of time before a migration becomes necessary.
Regardless of which version you choose, with Shopware, you are making a solid choice for running a successful online shop.
