10 Top Headless Commerce Platforms Makes Your Online Store Smarter [Expert’s Picks]

If you’re looking to future-proof your online store, adopting a headless commerce platform might just be the game-changer you need.

Did you know that 70% of online shoppers say page speed directly influences their purchasing decisions? Meanwhile, businesses adopting a headless commerce platform have reported a 30-40% increase in conversion rates, thanks to faster load times and personalized experiences.

Still on the fence, stick around? This blog explores the top 12 headless platforms that are revolutionizing the way we sell online, and why they are worth your attention.

Overview Of Headless Commerce Platforms

Businesses are constantly seeking ways to deliver faster, more personalized shopping experiences. That’s where a headless commerce platform steps in. Described by BigCommerce as a “Swiss army knife of customer-facing tools with a single commerce platform at the backend.”

Not catching up on what this definition is? Here to start:

What Is A Headless Commerce Platform?

A headless commerce platform is like the cool techie behind the scenes of your online store. It separates the frontend (what customers see) from the backend (where all the magic happens), allowing you to create unique, flexible user experiences while keeping your operations running smoothly.

Why Do Headless Commerce Platforms Outperform Traditional Platforms? 

In the world of traditional monolithic commerce systems, everything is bundled together in one neat package. These platforms handle business logic, display the UI (user interface), and manage content all through a tightly integrated codebase. That’s why we often refer to them as "all-in-one" systems—everything you need is built into a single, unified structure.

Now, headless commerce flips that idea on its head. Instead of having everything tied together, headless separates the key components into distinct units: the frontend (what customers see) is completely decoupled from the backend (where all the data and business logic live). 

It also separates the CMS from other third-party tools, such as loyalty programs, search engines, payment systems, analytics tools, or CRMs. All these units work together and communicate via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), which allows for greater flexibility and customization.

As a 10-year-experience website builder, we noted that headless is also a big part of the MACH approach—Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native, and Headless. This approach makes it easier for merchants to mix and match the best tools and services, rather than being stuck with a one-size-fits-all solution. But let’s not dive too deep into MACH just yet—we’ll save that for another time!

What Can Ecommerce Business Benefit From Headless Platforms?

Switching to a headless commerce platform isn’t just about keeping up with the latest trends—it’s about unlocking a whole new level of flexibility and performance for your business. Here’s how headless platforms can benefit your ecommerce business:

Unlimited UI/UX Customization

With headless architecture, you have full control over your frontend design. You're no longer limited to a set of templates or predefined layouts. You can tailor every aspect of the customer experience without being restricted by the backend.

Shorter Time to Market

Since the frontend and backend are decoupled, you can roll out new features, updates, or marketing campaigns much quicker. No more waiting for backend changes to take effect before you can update your site. 

Omnichannel Customer Experience

Headless commerce lets you deliver consistent, personalized experiences across multiple touchpoints—whether it’s your website, mobile app, social media, or in-store kiosks. 

Improve Development Process

Headless commerce improves the developer experience by offering a more decentralized architecture. Unlike traditional systems, which force developers to work across multiple layers, headless lets frontend developers choose the latest JavaScript frameworks.

Faster Website Performance

This is crucial for retaining customers—a 1-second delay in page load time can reduce conversions by 7%. With a headless setup, your site runs faster and smoother, which means happier customers.

Scalability and Flexibility

Whether you're expanding to new markets, adding new product categories, or integrating new innovations like AR (augmented reality) or AI solutions, the decoupled architecture lets you adjust easily without disrupting your entire system.

10 Best Headless Commerce Platforms Drive Your E-Store Customizable

If you’re running an eCommerce business, you’ve likely noticed that many retailers are transitioning from traditional monolithic platforms to headless commerce platforms. Are you FOMO of this shifting? We’ve got your back! Here are 10 top-listed headless platforms you don’t want to miss out.

1. Shopify Plus

Shopify Plus is a leading headless commerce solution that takes Shopify’s popular platform to the next level. By integrating its powerful GraphQL API, Shopify Plus allows businesses to separate the frontend and backend, enabling complete creative freedom and flexibility. 

Best for who: Growing businesses or large enterprises 

Key features: 

• Multi-channel integration
• Frontend customization and flexibility
• Shopify flow automation, including customer interactions, inventory management
• Seamless integrations with CRM, PIM, ERP, and popular apps like Google Sheets, Slack, and Mailchimp.
• Stability and ease of use with a powerful CMS

2. BigCommerce

BigCommerce is a robust headless commerce platform that offers enterprise-level capabilities while providing the flexibility to create unique, custom experiences across various channels.

Best for who: B2B and B2C businesses

Key features: 

• Omnichannel sales manage through eBay, Amazon, social media, and physical stores.
• API-driven flexibility to easily integrate with platforms like WordPress, Google, Adobe Experience Manager, and Mailchimp.
• Supports high-growth businesses with enterprise-level features and an app-based system 
• No API throttling: Unlike some competitors, BigCommerce doesn’t limit API calls

3. Elastic Path

Elastic Path is a highly flexible headless commerce platform tailored for businesses aiming to deliver exceptional and personalized customer experiences across all touchpoints. 

Best for who: medium to large enterprises (in retail, manufacturing, and B2B commerce)

Key features: 

• API-driven models make it easy to add new customer-facing touchpoints such as IoT devices, voice commerce or progressive web applications.
• Composable commerce like product information management, payment systems, or personalization tools
• Omnichannel support from online storefronts to in-store solutions.
• Microservices-based flexibility helps businesses independently deploy and minimize the risks.

4. Magento (Adobe Commerce)

Formerly known as Magento, Adobe Commerce is a flexible and customizable headless eCommerce platform that gives businesses full control over their online stores. With strong omnichannel features and cloud-based infrastructure, Adobe Commerce makes it easy to connect your online store with physical locations.

Best for who: Medium to large enterprises (full resources to manage complex integrations and custom developments)

Key features: 

• Omnichannel support online and in-store experiences
• Real-time inventory management across all locations
• Custom integrations with CRM, CMS, PIM, ERP, and other business tools through REST and SOAP web APIs.
• Cloud-based infrastructure

5. commercetools 

Commercetools, a leading headless commerce platform, empowers businesses to craft personalized, scalable ecommerce experiences across diverse channels such as websites, mobile apps, VR, and voice assistants. 

Best for who: B2B, B2C companies

Key features: 

• API-driven approach: Decouple the frontend and backend for total customization of the customer experience.
• Omnichannel supports
• Advanced inventory management like real-time tracking, multi-store management, and returns processing.
• Seamless integrations with platforms like Cybersource (payment management), Contentstack (content management), and Adobe Experience Cloud (CMS).

6. OroCommerce

OroCommerce, a nimble headless commerce platform, empowers medium to large B2B businesses to navigate the complexities of modern eCommerce. Crafted by the minds behind Magento, OroCommerce offers a scalable solution that effortlessly adapts to diverse business models, including B2C, B2B2C, and marketplaces. 

Best for who: B2B mid-to-large-scale enterprises (especially manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution)

Key features: 

• Advanced B2B features like personalized pricing, bulk ordering, quote management, and buyer-seller workflows 
• Integrated CRM for customer segmentation, sales pipelines, marketing campaigns, and analytics
• Customizable workflow automation to manage processes efficiently across teams and supply chains.
• Supports both cloud and on-premise deployments, allowing businesses to scale as needed.
• The open-source community fosters transparency, security, and innovation, supported by a vibrant developer ecosystem.
• Integrations with ERP, PIM, and other enterprise tools

7. Fabric

Fabric is a well-known American headless commerce platform designed for businesses aiming to scale rapidly. Its modular and API-first architecture is ideal for high-growth brands and retailers, with major clients like GNC, BodyBuilding.com, and Crate & Barrel.

Best for who: mid-market and enterprise-level businesses

Key features: 

• Comprehensive tools: like product information management (PIM), order management systems (OMS), and pricing and promotion management. 
• Lightning-fast performance as Fabric's APIs respond in under 50 milliseconds
• Ease of use for non-technical users
• Composable commerce model allows businesses to adopt features gradually.
• High security because it’s built as a cloud-native platform with certifications like PCI DSS and SOC2 Type II.

8. Spryker

Spryker is a versatile headless commerce platform from Germany, offering solutions for both B2B and B2C businesses. Positioned as a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), Spryker leverages over 900 API modules to create a flexible, scalable solution for enterprises.

Best for who: B2B, B2C enterprise-level companies 

Key features: 

• Over 900 API modules to fully customize ecommerce experiences.
• Cloud-enabled platform designed for growth without technical limitations.
• Expert guidance from Spryker’s team to help businesses build their online store from scratch.

9. Salesforce Commerce Cloud

Salesforce Commerce Cloud is a powerful headless commerce platform designed by the CRM giant Salesforce. Originally known as Demandware for B2C and CloudCraze for B2B, Commerce Cloud helps businesses create personalized and scalable shopping experiences across multiple channels. 

Best for who: large enterprises or businesses already using Salesforce CRM

Key features: 

• Salesforce CRM integration to personalize customer interactions and streamline data management.
• Omnichannel shopping experience
• Use Salesforce Einstein AI to automate tasks and offer data-driven insights 
• Robust security features and the flexibility to scale with demand.
• Partner app ecosystem:with various third-party tools, marketplaces

10. Nacelle

Nacelle is a headless commerce platform tailored for businesses aiming to enhance their eCommerce performance without requiring a complete migration. It integrates with existing tech stacks like Shopify, Salesforce, Magento, and Netsuite, and supports various CMS, PIM, and OMS platforms.

Best for who: mid-sized and enterprise-level eCommerce brands

Key features: 

• Data orchestration from diverse platforms, ensuring durability and accessibility through a GraphQL API. 
• Offers pre-built integrations with platforms like Sanity and Contentful, starter kits for React and Vue, and a Transcript SDK to ensure data continuity.
• Supports custom integrations, enabling businesses to create bespoke solutions.

How to Get Started with a Headless Commerce Platform

If managing your online store feels like untangling a web of outdated systems, it might be time to rethink your approach - headless commerce platform. You might take a huge amount of time, wandering in the middle of research - not a good idea. Work smarter, not harder. Below we suggest simpler steps.

1. Talk to a Tech Expert

Navigating the technical aspects of a headless commerce platform can be complex, so consulting with an expert is crucial. Companies like Golden Owl Solutions, with over 10 years of experience in IT software services, can guide you in designing a solution tailored to your business needs. Their expertise ensures you get a smooth implementation and maximize your platform's capabilities.

2. Define Your Business Goals and Technical Needs

Before diving in, clarify what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to expand into new sales channels, enhance website performance, or improve customer experiences? Assess your current systems and identify technical requirements like API compatibility, customization needs, or omnichannel support. 

3. Choose the Right Tools and Partners

Selecting a headless commerce platform requires evaluating vendors based on scalability, API functionality, and integration options. Look for platforms that work well with your current tech stack and offer reliable customer support. Additionally, partner with a systems integrator or an agency experienced in headless commerce to simplify the migration process.

4. Plan Your Front-End Experience

One of the main benefits of headless commerce is the freedom to design a custom front-end. Use frameworks like React or Vue.js or consider pre-built templates to save time. Plan for how your design will reflect your brand and optimize the user experience across devices and touchpoints.

In a nutshell

After diving into the features of some of the top headless commerce platforms, it’s evident that these solutions offer unmatched flexibility and scalability for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're looking to optimize your B2C, B2B, or hybrid eCommerce model, headless platforms allow you to create seamless, personalized experiences for customers across multiple channels. With well-built integrations, faster time-to-market, and a future-proof architecture, these platforms empower you to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, making them an essential tool for growth and innovation in eCommerce.

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