Best Free Ecommerce WordPress Themes 2017: Launching an online store on a budget? WordPress offers a powerful platform, and choosing the right theme is crucial for success. Free themes provide an excellent starting point, allowing you to create a visually appealing and functional storefront without breaking the bank.
Let’s explore some of the best options available in 2017.
WordPress, the world’s most popular content management system, has become a go-to choice for e-commerce businesses. Its flexibility, ease of use, and vast ecosystem of plugins make it an ideal platform for building online stores. A well-chosen theme is the foundation of your online presence, setting the tone for your brand and influencing how customers interact with your products.
While premium themes offer advanced features and support, free themes provide a cost-effective alternative, particularly for startups and small businesses.
Choosing the Right Free WordPress Theme for Your E-commerce Store
WordPress has become a powerhouse for creating websites, including online stores. Its flexibility and open-source nature have made it a popular choice for businesses of all sizes. When it comes to e-commerce, choosing the right theme is crucial for creating a visually appealing, user-friendly, and functional online store.
While premium themes offer a plethora of features and customization options, free themes provide a fantastic starting point for budget-conscious entrepreneurs. They offer a solid foundation for building a successful online store without breaking the bank. This article will guide you through the process of selecting, installing, and customizing the best free WordPress themes for e-commerce in 2017.
Top Free WordPress Themes for E-commerce in 2017
Here are some of the most popular and highly-rated free WordPress themes for e-commerce in 2017:
| Theme Name | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storefront | WooCommerce-ready, responsive, customizable, -optimized | Clean design, excellent performance, easy to use | Limited customization options in the free version |
| ShopIsle | Parallax scrolling, product carousels, multiple layouts, WooCommerce integration | Modern and stylish design, highly customizable | May require some coding knowledge for advanced customizations |
| Zakra | Multi-purpose theme, WooCommerce compatible, responsive, -friendly | Versatile design, suitable for various industries, good performance | Some features may require premium plugins |
| OceanWP | Highly customizable, WooCommerce compatible, responsive, -optimized | Lightweight and fast, extensive customization options, excellent support | May require some coding knowledge for advanced customizations |
| Astra | Lightweight, fast, WooCommerce compatible, highly customizable, -optimized | Excellent performance, easy to use, integrates well with popular plugins | Limited built-in features in the free version |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Free Theme
Before diving into the world of free WordPress themes, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and priorities. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Essential Features for an E-commerce Website:Look for themes that offer essential features like product display, shopping cart functionality, secure payment gateways, and shipping integration. These features are crucial for a smooth and secure shopping experience for your customers.
- Mobile Responsiveness:In today’s mobile-first world, it’s essential to have a website that adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes. Ensure that the theme you choose is responsive, providing an optimal user experience across all devices.
- Optimization:A well-optimized website is more likely to rank higher in search engine results. Look for themes that are -friendly, with features like structured data markup, clean code, and fast loading times.
- Customization Options:Consider the level of customization you require. Some themes offer extensive options for modifying layouts, color schemes, typography, and other design elements. Others may have more limited customization capabilities.
Installation and Configuration
Installing and configuring a free WordPress theme is a straightforward process:
- Download the Theme:Download the theme file from the WordPress Theme Directory or the theme developer’s website.
- Upload the Theme:Go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Appearance > Themes, and click on “Add New.” Click on “Upload Theme” and select the downloaded theme file.
- Activate the Theme:Once uploaded, click on “Activate” to make the theme live on your website.
- Customize the Theme:Access the theme’s settings by navigating to Appearance > Customize. Here, you can modify the theme’s layout, colors, fonts, and other design elements.
To further customize your website, you can add widgets to sidebars and footers, create custom menus, and install plugins to enhance functionality.
Popular E-commerce Plugins
Free WordPress themes often provide a solid foundation, but plugins can extend their functionality and create a more robust online store.
- Payment Gateways:Plugins like WooCommerce Payments, Stripe, and PayPal allow you to accept payments from various sources.
- Shipping Integration:Plugins like WooCommerce Shipping and ShipStation streamline the shipping process, providing automated calculations and label printing.
- Product Management:Plugins like WooCommerce Product Add-ons and WooCommerce Attributes allow you to add variations, options, and custom fields to your products.
These plugins can significantly enhance the user experience and simplify your business operations.
Theme Updates and Support, Best free ecommerce wordpress themes 2017
Regularly updating your WordPress theme is crucial for security and compatibility. Updates often include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and security patches. To ensure your website remains secure and up-to-date, keep your theme updated.
Free themes typically offer documentation and community forums for support. You can find answers to common questions, troubleshoot issues, and get assistance from other users.
Final Conclusion
Choosing the right free WordPress theme is a key step in launching a successful online store. By carefully considering your business needs, exploring available options, and leveraging the power of plugins, you can create a compelling and user-friendly shopping experience.
Remember to prioritize themes with essential features, responsiveness, and optimization to maximize your reach and conversions. With the right theme, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving online business.
Helpful Answers: Best Free Ecommerce WordPress Themes 2017
What are the benefits of using free WordPress themes for e-commerce?
Free WordPress themes offer a cost-effective way to create an online store. They provide a solid foundation with essential features and can be customized to fit your brand.
How do I know if a free theme is suitable for my business?
Consider your business needs, such as product display, shopping cart functionality, and payment integration. Look for themes with responsive design, optimization, and customization options.
Are free themes secure and reliable?
Free themes can be secure and reliable if they are updated regularly. Look for themes developed by reputable developers and check for user reviews.