Shopify theme, one click install Vs Zip file

Hi all,

Marouane here, eCommerce & Shopify expert and the founder of Plak Theme LLC

In the past we have talked about how to update its Shopify theme, and we have showcased the main disadvantages of using a theme updater app and why it could be harmful for any brand on Shopify.

Today I would like to discuss about an important topic : Shopify themes : one click install Vs Zip file

• What is uploading a Shopify theme using a ZIP file ?

Once you order a Shopify theme from almost all Shopify themes providers, you receive a ZIP file that you upload to your Shopify store.

• What one click install ?

Some themes provider use an app instead, and you can install the theme with just few clicks and you can even import some pre-made demos.

But what is the difference and is there any negative impact when buying a Shopify theme as an app ? 

The answer is yes, there are too many disadvantages of buying a theme from companies that offers one click install, here are the top 4 inconvenient :

1. An app will slow down your site speed, and even 0.1s down can have a negative impact on your Conversion Rate
2. You don't control your site at 100%, your backend is controlled by an app, and the theme provider may access your data
3. If the theme provider make a general update on his Shopify theme, you will lose all your custom modification
4. If the theme provider has an issue on his app server, your store won't work

But when you upload a theme as a ZIP file without using any third party app, you gain too many advantages, here are some of them :

1. You control your theme at 100%
2. There is no connection between your store and the theme provider
3. A theme update won't touch your current store as there is any connection between your store and the theme provider
4. No one can access your precious data 

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below