MedusaJs

Self-Hosted

Open-source headless e-commerce platform for custom store builds

Overview

MedusaJs is a flexible headless e-commerce backend designed for developers to build scalable, custom online stores. It supports multi-store management, inventory tracking, order processing, and integrations with popular payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal). Deployable via Docker, self-hosted on your server, or cloud providers like AWS. Its modular architecture allows extending functionality with plugins (e.g., loyalty programs, tax tools). Compatible with any frontend (React, Next.js, Vue) via REST/GraphQL APIs, it gives businesses full control over their user experience without monolithic platform lock-in.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  medusa_js:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: medusa-js
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Headless architecture with REST/GraphQL APIs
Modular plugin system for custom extensions
Multi-store management support
Inventory tracking and order processing
Integration with popular payment gateways

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is MedusaJs hard to install?

MedusaJs is straightforward to install for developers with Node.js experience (via npm/yarn CLI or Docker). Non-technical users may need assistance with plugin configuration or frontend integration, but official docs and community forums provide helpful guidance.

? Is it a good alternative to Shopify?

Yes—MedusaJs is an excellent alternative for those wanting full control over their e-commerce stack. Unlike Shopify's hosted model, it’s headless and modular, allowing custom frontends and backend extensions. However, it requires more development work than Shopify’s no-code interface.

? Is it completely free?

MedusaJs’s core backend is open-source (MIT license) and free to self-host. Premium plugins or managed hosting (like Medusa Cloud) have paid plans, but core features (product management, order processing, payment integrations) are entirely free.

Top Alternatives

Shopify Search Google

BigCommerce Search Google

Magento Commerce Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category E-commerce

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Open-source core (MIT license) for free self-hosting
⊕ Full control over frontend and backend customization
⊕ Scalable for small businesses to enterprise-level stores
⊕ Active community and detailed documentation

Cons

⊖ Requires developer expertise for setup and customization
⊖ No built-in frontend (needs separate implementation)
⊖ Steeper learning curve compared to no-code platforms