What is the difference between a website and an online store on Squarespace?

A website and an online store on Squarespace serve different purposes and functionalities, catering to various needs of users. A website is a broader term that encompasses all types of digital content. It can include simple informational pages, blogs, portfolios, and more, designed to showcase ideas, services, or personal branding. Websites on Squarespace typically emphasize aesthetics, design, and user experience, focusing on content presentation rather than on transactions or sales. On the other hand, an online store is specifically geared towards e-commerce and enables users to sell products or services directly through their website. Squarespace provides features such as shopping cart functionality, product display, payment processing, inventory management, and order tracking to support online selling. An online store allows users to create a seamless shopping experience for their customers, incorporating features like promotional discounts and shipping options. While a website can function without any e-commerce capabilities, an online store is a specialized type of website with built-in sales functionalities. It is common for users to combine both elements, creating a comprehensive site that serves as a digital business presence while also facilitating direct sales.