Oracle
Easy Digital Downloads (EDD)
EDD is purpose-built for selling digital products. It is leaner than WooCommerce because it strips away shipping and physical inventory features.
- Best For: Purely digital storefronts (software, music, ebooks).
- Preview Capability: * Audio/Video: You can embed self-hosted files or YouTube/Vimeo links directly into the product description.
- Documents: Use the “PDF Invoices” or third-party extensions to show sample pages.
- Pros: Very fast, excellent reporting, and highly extensible.
2. WooCommerce (with Product Video/Audio Extensions)
WooCommerce is the most powerful option. While it’s built for everything, it has specific “Virtual” and “Downloadable” product types.
- Best For: Users who might eventually want to sell physical merch alongside digital files.
- Preview Capability: * Built-in: You can add a short “Sample” file as a secondary download that is free.
- Extensions: Use plugins like “WooCommerce Product Video” or “WooCommerce Audio Player” to replace the featured image with a playable preview.
- Pros: Massive ecosystem; works with almost every WordPress theme.
3. Sell Media (By Graph Paper Press)
This is a niche plugin specifically designed for photographers, videographers, and artists.
- Best For: Selling stock photos, videos, and portfolio pieces.
- Preview Capability: * Watermarking: Automatically applies watermarks to image previews.
- Video/Audio: Has native support for trial plays before purchase.
- Pros: Includes a “licensing” feature which is crucial if you are selling rights to use your media.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Easy Digital Downloads | WooCommerce | Sell Media |
| Primary Focus | Digital Goods | General E-commerce | Creative Media |
| Complexity | Medium | High | Low |
| Watermarking | Via Extensions | Via Extensions | Built-in |
| Audio/Video Preview | Manual/Embeds | Add-on required | Native support |
