5 Best Gumroad Alternatives for Gumroad which are less expensive and better (2023) --
The last update was 20th December 20, 2022
update:As from December 20 in 2022 Gumroad is expected to announce an increase in price and add an additional 10% for every sale that users make via the platform (plus additional transaction fees that are imposed by Paypal and Stripe). If you're caught in the aftermath of the devastating news and considering switching to a different platform, here's an overview of alternatives to Gumroad which you should take a look at!
Gumroad is one of the most well-known platforms that allows you to sell digital items. It offers a online storefront which allows you to market digital items online in only several minutes. Gumroad comes with other features, such as those that allow you to sell subscriptions, integration to Paypal and Stripe, and other.
There are disadvantages that make people reconsider sticking with the platform. Review sites have exposed among other problems the high cost of pricing on Gumroad, the lack of support for customers as well as the inability to scale to manage huge volumes of sales are causing people to change to different platforms.
In this post will review Gumroad's best alternatives for selling digital products for you to make the right decision for your business. There are many options which work well for businesses that are just beginning their journey, however we've also included the matter of scaling to ensure you don't have switch platforms as your company expands.
Here is a brief outline of the most popular Gumroad alternatives that could be cheaper and better:
What exactly is Gumroad and what exactly does it Offer?
Gumroad could be described as an eCommerce platform that is focused on digital goods. It provides a range of choices, which includes the possibility of selling various product types including subscriptions as well as digital downloads. In addition, it offers the tools for marketing and analytics in addition to the capability to integrate the product page to your website.
With Gumroad offers you an entirely hosted online store which you're allowed to sell your merchandise through. Gumroad offers a smaller online marketplace known as "Gumroad Discover" in which you are able to showcase your product listing among other artists.
What is the cost of Gumroad price?
Gumroad charges its customers 10% of this amount for each transaction it completes through its platform.
In addition, you'll need to pay transaction fees through Paypal and Stripe which usually are around 2.9 percent and $0.30 for each transaction.
Be aware you Gumroad had been using unconventional pricing structures before 2023. they've since adopted this pricing structure.
Why Should You Look for Gumroad alternatives?
1. Pricey Pricing and a Insufficiency of Scalability
Gumroad's flat-rate of a 10% commission for each purchase is extremely costly when you're only beginning their journey, however it will become more expensive as your company grows, since your expenses will grow as a proportion of the revenue you earn.
Imagine earning US$100,000 per month and having to pay the $10,000 fee isn't like something that is very appealing. Additionally the fee of 10% does notinclude any additional Paypal and Stripe costs (which generally cost approximately 2.9 per cent plus $0.30 per transaction) that you also need to pay.
2. Lack of Customizability
Even though Gumroad provides a fully-hosted shopfront for you to sell your goods but you don't have the option of changing the appearance of your store's online presence so that it reflects your branding. Gumroad provides a distinctive style of store which can be seen on every seller's retail stores. It is impossible to alter on your storefront other than the color you use for your highlights along with a few minor customizations including your bio, name, and logo.
In contrast, the alternative platforms presented in this article have advanced tools for building stores that are beginner friendly (no need for coding or designing skills needed) however, they're in a position to allow you the freedom to design an online store that is high-profitable and aligns to your company's image.
3. Find Better Ways to Sell Online Training
If you're selling goods such as digital downloads, Gumroad can generally be quite efficient in providing your files to customers. However, if you're online courses, this platform will not offer the robust features that the other online course platforms typically provide.
Gumroad's online courses feature lets users to upload videos as well as other documents that your students can download, or simply click to view the video. But, it's not exactly the interactive educational experience you'd want to experience through an online course platform. It doesn't offer advanced course features like assessments and drip schedules, as well as certification of achievement.
Here's an example of student's experiences in the course:
For comparison, consider the following: is a fun learning experience that incorporates diverse lesson styles could take on (the example below is taken from ):
features to look for in Gumroad alternative. Gumroad alternative
In the search of alternatives to Gumroad There are several important factors to consider.
1. Features to Sell Various Product Types
Does the platform provide robust tools to sell various digital products? This will allow you maximize the amount of money you earn throughout various sectors. Consider features such as
- Digital downloads are sold using features such as instant file delivery, pdf stamping, download limitations, and more
- Features of online courses that may be purchased include: an engaging online course player with various different types of lesson (e.g. video, assignments, etc.) as well as a drip schedule of contents and several prices for courses such as certificates, course materials, and much more.
- Coaching features including integration with online meetings platforms like Zoom and Calendly and many others.
- The features to market memberships and subscriptions include the ability to bill for recurring payment
In addition, you must seek out flexibility in order to be in a position to incorporate the product pages of your website. You can integrate an order cart as well as a simple checkout procedure on your site.
2. Low Cost Pricing (Little to no upfront costs)
What is the cost per transaction? Do you have monthly costs which are not publicized, fees hidden, or limitations?
Find platforms with an established history of stable pricing structure. Although a majority of businesses may offer you a favorable pricing plan at the start, but it is important to make certain that you don't have to face sudden price hikes later on.
3. Tools for Marketing which are durable Tools
Other than basic marketing tools such as discount coupons You should also choose a system that offers more advanced and powerful marketing tools including affiliate marketing. This allows you to run diverse marketing campaigns in order to grow your company.
It is the sole option on the list that offers an affiliate marketing platform for free Other platforms require the payment of monthly fees for those options.
4. User-friendly and Custom-designed Store Builder for Beginning Users
The web-based store or website is a must for any company or brand to build trust with customers and demonstrate the professionalism of their brand. If done correctly, having your own website can not only put you up to becoming an authority in your area however, it will also establish relationships with customers as they can learn about your brand in a deeper way.
Look for platforms that allow users to create a completely customized online store to show your brand with the highest quality possible. There's an abundance of possibilities that don't need an understanding of programming or design.
5. Takes Care of VAT so you don't have to
The fear of the complex tax code could prevent you from expanding the scope of your company, and may hinder your expansion. Consider a tax method that's compliant for not only collecting VAT from your customers during the checkout process, but also to remit taxes for your company, meaning you do not have to do anything.
5 Top Gumroad Solutions for Selling Digital Products
Let's glance at some of the most popular alternatives to Gumroad when it comes to selling digital products. Every platform has distinct alternatives and pricing strategies It's crucial to evaluate them all carefully prior to selecting one.
1.
The best Gumroad option in terms of value and cost.
This is easily the most popular of platforms. It is frequently being compared with Gumroad since Gumroad is the most similar Gumroad competitor , and they provide all the functions that Gumroad offers, and a price that is lower, making it ideal for companies of all size.
Gumroad's popularity is due to its forever-free program that grants the buyers access all of the functions that Gumroad offers. Instead of the massive 10% charge that Gumroad is charging, it only charges the buyer 5% per transaction. Once your revenue grows then you can switch to a monthly subscription to cut down on your costs. It is not necessary to consider expanding your business's size .
If you're in search of a platform that is genuinely committed to the growth of your enterprise This is the best option.
PRICING:
The company is disrupting the market with an innovative pricing method that is designed to assist small-scale businesses grow, while also ensuring that businesses will remain cost-effective while growing into million-dollar enterprises.
Offers a selection of 3 pricing plans:
- For life, you can enjoy the free service for nothing with just a the 5% cost (perfect for newbies)
- $29.30/month 22% of the cost is for fees.
- $99/month with no fees
What is it that makes it "unconventional"? It's because the pricing plans give all customers access to their amazing possibilities. The founders of's company came up with the idea for the purpose of developing a platform to help small businesses in the long run through ensuring they are able to access to the features which they want. Their belief has been well-received by many sellers on 's online reviews.
If you're just starting out your venture at the beginning, you may start on 's most popular free-for-ever planwith zero monthly fees as well as 5percent of fees per sale (excluding shipping charges). If your company grows and you need to expand, you may change to the Plus plan at $29.95 per month and 2 percent sales fees, or up to the Professional plan for $99 per month fee (no additional fees for sales).
The pricing has been stable for years, and customers can have assurance that the pricing isn't going anywhere.
PROS :
- It is the most affordable alternative for Gumroad.
- Key features inbuilt that let you to market various products like:
- Unlimited product listings , unlimited profits
- Better checkout experience for customers to guarantee high conversion
- Powerful but easy-to-use store builder It doesn't require technical or design skills required
- You are able to totally customize the online store you have designed to match your branding
- Storefront that is hosted, fully accessible and completely free (you may also join with an individual domain)
- If you already have your own site, it's easy to incorporate it into any eCommerce website.
- Instant and secure payouts via Paypal and Stripe
- Payment options available for Pay-what you-want to your items (a.k.a. Tip Jar)
- Pays and collects UK & EU VAT on your behalf
- The ability to save analytics as well as connect to Google Analytics
- Bonus: It is recognized for its level of support. Every user is treated with respect, regardless of what price plans you're currently in.
CONS
- The shipping label cannot be associated with any software or automated system (e.g. Shippo or ShipStation). 's platform is more geared towards digital goods, however it is still possible to provide physical products to
2. Shopify
It is one of the most significant online marketplaces, Shopify is often a popular choice for a Gumroad alternative. Shopify offers a comprehensive online marketplace that permits users to set up an online shop and control the items you sell. Shopify also provides a broad variety of features and software such as the capability to process transactions, analyse data and marketing tools. In addition, Shopify has a variety of pricing plans to meet the needs of different budgets.
Because of the huge size of the online marketplace, you will come across a myriad of third-party software solutions for every industry that can connect to the Shopify store. It allows you to outfit your shop with distinctive tools for everything from changing the appearance of your site to marketing tools as well as many other things. One caveat to note is that they are usually not cost-free, which means you'll need to handle your costs with care.
Even though Shopify is a powerful eCommerce platform, it does it doesn't equipped with the capabilities of selling digital products because the Shopify platform is geared to selling tangible items. It is necessary to install an additional application by a third party, which will probably increase the cost of selling digital products.
PRICING:
Small-scale businesses that want to try different platforms before settling on one that suits their needs, Shopify offers a 14-day trial for free. This isn't a cost-free program.
With a cost of $29 per month, Shopify's Basic Plan is their most beloved plan. Additional Shopify plans start at $179/month, or $299/month in the scenario of Advanced Shopify, and $2000/month for Shopify Plus and Enterprise. The plan will charge you an additional transaction fee that you'll have to pay per sale.
The Shopify platform isn't equipped with integrated functions for the sale of digital goods. Most likely, you'll need install third-party apps from the Shopify application store. The majority of the time, this will cost additional fees.
PROS :
- Access to thousands of 3rd app developers is available through Shopify The Shopify app store
- Multi-channel sales are allowed. This is especially helpful when you own a brick and mortar retail store.
- Shopify is used by many small-scale companies, and by content creators who are specialized on Shopify content. The communities you join are likely to give you many helpful suggestions about online businesses.
- While Shopify's features aren't sufficient to sellers with catalogs that are mostly digital Physical product sellers can profit from Shopify's eCommerce tools.
CONS:
- It doesn't come with built-in capability to market digital goods. It is necessary to use applications developed by external sources, which are charged additional fees. Shopify isn't a good choice for designers.
- The site does not come with marketing tools, like affiliate marketing, referralmarketing as well as cross-sells, upsells, cross-sells and many more.
3. Kajabi
Kajabi is a different option to Gumroad since it is an all-in-one marketplace for selling digital goods. The main benefit of Kajabi in comparison to Gumroad is the fact it allows creators to set up communities. However, Kajabi is well-known for the cost of its monthly subscriptions, which isn't the best for businesses with small budgets that are just beginning their journey.
PRICING:
Kajabi offers fourteen days to trial. It is necessary to enter the details of your payment before being allowed to begin your trial. trial.
When your trial has ended, you will have the an option to choose between three paid plans:
- Basic: $149/month
- Growth: $199/month
- Pro: $399/month
There's only a tiny amount of savings when you choose to subscribe for an entire year of subscription.
PROS :
- Kajabi offers educational tools for their users through Kajabi University (although it's important to note that you'll likely be able get these tools through YouTube's free online videos)
- Access to options that aren't by Gumroad, such as community features sales funnels sales funnels, sales funnels, and more.
CONS:
- It is not affordable for small-scale business customers
- Features that require a lot of effort to market, such as the affiliate program is available in the Growth and Pro plans
- Many limitations to various aspects such as the number of products, number of contacts, the number of members, the number of administrators and much more. Not recommended for those of you who would like to "set-it-and-forget-it" because you'll need to keep track of your usage
4. Podia
Podia is also one of the most sought-after options for designers. One of the biggest advantages that comes with using Podia is that they provide a lifetime-free plan, but be aware that you will not be allowed to launch more than one product on their Free plan.
PRICING:
- For free, 8% fee
- Mover: $39/month
- Shaker: $89/month
- Earthquaker: $199/month
PROS :
- The features are designed to aid in selling other kinds of products that aren't offered via Gumroad such as community or webinars
- Chat widget on the page to allow in interacting with site visitors
CONS
- The plan for free comes with transaction fees of 8% which means it's only possible to offer one digital download (you'll most likely have to upgrade to Podia's paid plans to set up an eCommerce store)
- More complex tools for marketing like affiliate marketing are only available for Shaker ($75/month) or Earthquaker ($166/month) plans.
- It is necessary to pay an additional fee of $20 per month for any extra seats on the group
- It is impossible to turn off Podia branding without paying an annual fee for either the Shaker ($75/month) or Earthquaker ($166/month) plans.
5. Mighty Networks
If you're looking for an Gumroad alternative for establishing communities, sell online coursesor coaching services, Mighty Networks is a popular alternative. Though this may not be the best alternative for selling digital downloads but you may discover this as the more appropriate Gumroad alternative to selling your online course.
PRICING:
Two plans are available to choose from Two plans are paid for:
- The community plan : $39/month. plan: $39/month
- The plan for business: $119/month
- Mighty Pro: You'll have get in touch with the team about the pricing
PROS :
- Mighty Networks' community feature is more developed than other platforms mentioned in this piece. The design looks like what one would find in a social media site.
- Members are able to view each others' blog posts when they sign into a feed of content, which may encourage more real-time interactions
CONS CONS
- The absence of solid features for marketing product categories such as digital downloads
- The online course options don't have the same quality as other platforms for online classes since they don't offer all kinds of lessons, such as assessments, quizzes and the certificates of achievement
- There is no integration with PayPal
The Last Thoughts How to Choose the Right Option for your Business
Here you go! There are plenty of options for Gumroad to test Don't forget to avail all of the platforms' free trials to see what options offer the best combination of features and price plans to satisfy your company's needs.
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