As customer expectations for online shopping rise, selecting the right platform is crucial for driving business growth and customer satisfaction. Magento, a leading eCommerce solution, has been a favorite among online businesses for years. However, with the decline of Magento 1 in June 2020, the transition to Magento 2 has become vital for businesses seeking to maintain a competitive edge. In this blog, we’ll explain the key differences of Magento 1 vs Magento 2.
Technology Stack: A Modern Foundation
One of the most significant differences between lies in their technology stack. Magento 1 relies on outdated technologies, while Magento 2 adopts a modern infrastructure designed for scalability and performance.
Magento 1
- Built on PHP 5.2.x, which is no longer supported.
- Uses older frameworks, as a result, limits compatibility with modern tools.
- Lacks advanced caching mechanisms and optimisation techniques.
Magento 2
- Supports PHP 7+ for faster processing and better security.
- Includes modern technologies like HTML5, CSS3, RequireJS, and MySQL clustering.
- Offers Varnish caching integration out-of-the-box for faster page loads.
Why It Matters: The updated tech stack in Magento 2 ensures better performance, scalability, and therefore compatibility with future updates. This means your store can handle more traffic and transactions without slowing down which is equally important for maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction.
2. Performance and Speed: Faster Stores, Happier Customers
Speed is a critical factor in eCommerce success. Slow-loading websites lead to higher bounce rates and lower conversions. Therefore, Magento 2 addresses these issues with significant performance improvements.
Key Performance Enhancements in Magento 2
- Full-Page Caching: Reduces server response times by storing pre-rendered pages.
- Asynchronous Operations: Improves cart updates and checkout processes by handling tasks in the background.
- Optimised Database Structure: Supports multiple database masters for better scalability during peak traffic.
Real-World Impact:
- Magento 2 processes up to 39% more orders per hour compared to Magento 1.
- Faster page load times improve user experience and boost conversion rates. For instance, a study by Amazon found that for every second delay in page loading, sales decreased by 7%.
3. Security Enhancements: Protecting Your Store
Security is non-negotiable in eCommerce. Furthermore, with Magento 1 no longer receiving updates or patches, stores running on it are vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Magento 1
- No official support or security patches since June 2020.
- Higher risk of data breaches and compliance issues.
Magento 2
- Regular security updates ensure ongoing protection.
- PCI compliance features built-in for secure transactions.
- Advanced data encryption methods safeguard sensitive information.
Why Upgrade? Running an unsupported platform like Magento 1 puts your business and customers at risk. As a result, a single data breach can lead to significant financial losses and damage to your brand reputation.
4. User Experience (Frontend): A Seamless Journey
Magento 2 focuses heavily on improving the customer experience, thus addressing many pain points from Magento 1.
Magento 1 Limitations
- Outdated themes that lack mobile responsiveness.
- Multi-step checkout process increases cart abandonment rates.
Magento 2 Features
- Mobile-first design ensures seamless browsing on all devices.
- Two-step checkout simplifies the buying process.
- AJAX cart reduces page reloads when adding items to the cart.
Result: A smoother shopping experience leads to higher customer satisfaction and increased sales. Mobile responsiveness is particularly important as more users shop on their smartphones.
Best Practice: Ensure your store is optimised for mobile devices to capture the growing mobile commerce market.
5. Admin Panel Usability: Empowering Store Owners
Managing an online store should be intuitive and efficient. For that reason, Magento 2 introduces a redesigned admin panel that simplifies daily operations.
Magento 1
- Clunky interface with limited functionality.
- Difficult to navigate for non-technical users.
Magento 2
- Intuitive dashboard with drag-and-drop functionality.
- Improved product management tools for faster catalog updates.
- Customisable data grids for better reporting and insights.
Benefit: Store owners save time managing their business while gaining deeper insights into performance metrics. This allows for more strategic decision-making and better resource allocation.
6. SEO Capabilities: Boosting Visibility
Search engine optimisation (SEO) is vital for driving organic traffic to your store. Therefore, Magento 2 includes advanced SEO features that help improve search rankings.
Magento 1 Limitations
- Basic SEO tools that require additional extensions for advanced functionality.
- Lack of mobile optimisation impacts rankings negatively.
Magento 2 Improvements
- Mobile-friendly design aligns with Google’s ranking criteria.
- Built-in schema.org integration enhances search engine visibility.
- Advanced meta tag management for better control over SEO elements.
Outcome: Higher search rankings lead to more traffic and sales opportunities. Thus, SEO is a cost-effective way to attract customers without relying on paid advertising.
SEO Tip: Use Magento 2’s built-in SEO features to optimise product pages and categories for better search engine visibility.
7. Extensions and Customisation: Flexibility Redefined
Extensions are essential for tailoring your store to specific needs. While both platforms support extensions, Magento 2 offers a more robust ecosystem.
Magento 1 Challenges
- Limited extension quality control leads to compatibility issues.
- Customisations often affect core functionality, causing conflicts during updates.
Magento 2 Advantages
- Improved extension marketplace with rigorous testing standards.
- Modular architecture allows customisations without altering core files.
- Easier integration of third-party tools and APIs.
Takeaway: Magento 2 provides greater flexibility while reducing maintenance headaches. This means you can focus on growing your business rather than troubleshooting technical issues.
8. Support and Updates: Future-Proof Your Store
Staying on an unsupported platform like Magento 1 can lead to significant risks, including security vulnerabilities and lack of new features.
Magento 1
- Official support ended in June 2020.
- No updates or patches available, leaving stores exposed to threats.
Magento 2
- Regular updates introduce new features and improvements.
- Backed by Adobe’s ongoing support for long-term stability.
Why Upgrade? Future-proof your store by migrating to a platform that evolves with your business needs. Regular updates ensure you stay competitive and secure.
9. Cost Implications: A Long-Term Investment
While migrating from Magento 1 to Magento 2 involves upfront costs, the long-term benefits far outweigh the expenses.
Migration Costs
- Development time for re-platforming your store.
- Potential redesign of themes or extensions not compatible with Magento 2.
Long-Term Savings
- Improved performance reduces hosting costs.
- Enhanced security minimises risks of costly data breaches.
- Better scalability supports business growth without frequent upgrades.
Pro Tip: Plan your migration carefully to minimise downtime and ensure a smooth transition. Consider hiring a professional team to handle the migration process.
10. Why You Should Migrate to Magento 2
Still wondering if upgrading is worth it? Here’s a quick recap of why migrating to Magento 2 is essential:
Key Benefits:
- Modern Technology Stack: Ensures better performance and scalability.
- Faster Page Loads: Improves user experience and conversion rates.
- Enhanced Security: Protects your business from cyber threats.
- Simplified Admin Panel: Saves time managing your store.
- Advanced SEO Features: Drives more organic traffic.
- Modular Architecture: Allows easy customisations without conflicts.
- Ongoing Support: Ensures long-term stability and growth potential.
Staying on Magento 1 not only limits your store’s potential but also exposes you to unnecessary risks. Therefore, by upgrading to Magento 2, you’re investing in the future of your eCommerce business—ensuring it remains competitive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
11. Planning Your Migration: A Step-by-Step Guide
Migrating from Magento 1 to Magento 2 requires careful planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
Step 1: Assess Your Current Setup
- Evaluate your existing extensions and themes.
- Identify any customisations or integrations.
Step 2: Choose a Migration Path
- Decide on a full re-platforming or a phased migration approach.
- Consider hiring a professional team for assistance.
Step 3: Test and Validate
- Set up a test environment to ensure compatibility.
- Validate that all features and extensions work as expected.
Step 4: Execute the Migration
- Perform the migration during a low-traffic period.
- Monitor for any issues and address them promptly.
Step 5: Post-Migration Review
- Conduct thorough testing to ensure everything works as expected.
- Gather feedback from users to identify any areas for improvement.
Migration Tip: Keep your customers informed about the migration process to manage expectations and minimise disruptions.
Final Thoughts
Migrating from Magento 1 to Magento 2 isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a transformation that sets your store up for success in today’s competitive market. With improved performance, enhanced security, modern features, and ongoing support, Magento 2 is the clear choice for businesses looking to scale efficiently while delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Ready to take the next step? Start planning your migration today or consult with an expert team to ensure a seamless transition! By future-proofing your eCommerce platform, you’re not just protecting your business—you’re positioning it for growth and success in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Magento End of Life (EOL)?
A: End of Life refers to the date when a software vendor stops providing support, updates, and security patches for a particular version of their software. For Magento 1, EOL was June 2020. This means stores running on Magento 1 no longer receive critical security updates, making them vulnerable to cyber threats and potentially non-compliant with PCI standards.
Q2: Is migrating from Magento 1 to Magento 2 a complex process?
A: Yes, migrating from Magento 1 to Magento 2 can be a complex process. It typically involves re-platforming your store, which includes redesigning themes, re-installing extensions, and migrating data. However, the complexity depends on the size and customisations of your store.
Q3: Can I automatically migrate all my data from Magento 1 to Magento 2?
A: While Magento offers data migration tools, not all data can be automatically migrated. Customisations, themes, and some extensions may need to be manually migrated or redeveloped for Magento 2.
Q4: How much does it cost to migrate from?
A: The cost of migration varies depending on the size and complexity of your store, the number of extensions you use, and whether you hire a professional team. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars for smaller stores to tens of thousands for larger, more complex sites.
Q5: Are there any tools available to help with the migration process?
A: Yes, Magento provides a data migration tool to help migrate data from Magento 1 to Magento 2. Additionally, there are various third-party tools and services available to assist with different aspects of the migration process.
Q6: How long does it take to migrate from Magento 1 to Magento 2?
A: The migration timeline varies depending on the complexity of your store. Therefore, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete the migration process.
Q7: Can I use my existing Magento 1 theme on Magento 2?
A: No, Magento 1 themes are not compatible with Magento 2. You will need to either purchase a new Magento 2 theme or have your existing theme redesigned for Magento 2.
Q8: How can I ensure a smooth migration process?
A: To ensure a smooth migration process:
- Assess your current setup and identify customisations.
- Develop a detailed migration plan with clear milestones.
- Backup your data before starting the migration.
- Test thoroughly after the migration to ensure all functionalities are working correctly.
- Consider hiring a professional team with Magento 2 migration expertise.
Q9: Does Magento 2 support mobile-first design?
A: Yes, it supports mobile-first design, as a result, ensuring that your store looks and functions seamlessly on all devices, which is crucial for SEO and user experience.
Q10: What are the system requirements for Magento 2?
A: It requires a modern server setup, including:
- PHP 7.3 or later.
- MySQL 5.6 or later.
- Apache 2.2 or 2.4 or Nginx 1.x.
- A secure SSL certificate.
Q11: How often does Magento release updates for Magento 2?
A: Magento releases security updates and new feature updates regularly. Therefore it’s important to stay up-to-date with these updates to ensure your store remains secure and performs optimally.
Q12: What are the best practices for SEO in Magento 2?
A: Best practices include:
- Using mobile-friendly themes.
- Implementing schema markup.
- Optimising meta tags and product descriptions.
- Creating high-quality content.
- Ensuring fast page load speeds.
Q13: Where can I find professional help for Magento 2 migration?
A: You can find professional help for migration from certified Magento developers, agencies specialising in eCommerce migrations, and also through the official Magento partner directory.
