Guides · Updated 3 November 2026

The best app to get your business online: what to look for

There's no single best app for every business, and anyone who says otherwise is selling. What's "best" depends on whether you need customers to find you, order from you, or both, and on what it costs you per order. Use these checks on any app you're considering, including ours.

Step by step

1. 1

   Does it take a cut of every order?

   Marketplaces and delivery apps bring customers, but usually charge a commission on each order and own the customer relationship. A website of your own with WhatsApp orders and UPI payments keeps the full amount and the customer's number with you. Many shops use both: a marketplace for reach, their own link for regulars.

2. 2

   Does it work in your language, on your phone?

   If you or your team are more comfortable in Hindi, the app should be too. It should work well on an ordinary Android phone and on slow internet, and ideally keep working offline.

3. 3

   Can customers reach you on WhatsApp in one tap?

   Indian customers ask and order on WhatsApp. Look for an order or enquiry button that opens a chat with your own number, with the item already written in.

4. 4

   Does the money come straight to you?

   Payments by UPI should go to your own bank account. Check whether the app holds your money, charges a payment fee, or delays payouts.

5. 5

   Does it help you show up on Google?

   Most local customers find shops on Google Maps. The app should help you link or set up your Google Business Profile and ask for genuine reviews, not just give you a website nobody finds.

6. 6

   Can you change things yourself, quickly?

   Prices, timings and offers change every week. You should be able to change them in a minute from your phone, without calling anyone.

7. 7

   Does it run the shop too, or only the website?

   Getting online brings orders, payments and udhaar. An app that also keeps sales, khata and stock saves you juggling three apps and a notebook.

8. 8

   What does it really cost, and is your data yours?

   Check the price in rupees after the free period, what's included, and whether you can download all your data (customers, sales, khata) if you leave. Avoid apps that lock your customer list in.

Get these right

• Try before you pay: use the free plan or a demo with a shop like yours for a day.
• Ask who you call when something breaks, and how fast they answer.
• Don't pay anyone who calls claiming to be from Google to list or verify your shop. Google Business Profile is free.
• Read the commission and payment terms, not just the monthly price.

Questions