When it comes to managing bulk data on Shopify, Matrixify has long been the gold standard. It paved the way for merchants to handle complex migrations and massive data sets, earning its place as a staple in the Shopify ecosystem.
Altera builds upon that strong foundation. We designed Altera to offer an alternative that focuses on expanded data access, developer-friendly workflows, and a simplified user experience. If you are looking for a tool that feels native to modern Shopify development, here is how Altera compares.
Access to Expanded Data Fields & Types#
We aim to give merchants and developers more granular control over their store data. Altera provides access to several data types and fields that help you manage the finer details of your business.
- Exclusive Data Types: We support Catalogs, Locations, Metafield Definitions, Metaobject Definitions, and Translations—data types that are currently unique to Altera.
- Deeper Field Access: Gain control over Unit Prices, Payment Terms (essential for B2B), Country-Specific HS Codes, and Store Credit balances directly within your imports and exports.
- Advanced Discount & Sales Channel Control: We allow you to import Automatic Discounts with specific customer targeting (by email or segment). You can also manage publication status across individual sales channels (Online Store, POS, Facebook, etc.) for collections.
Streamlined Workflows & Integrations#
We’ve built features designed to fit into your existing workflow, whether you are a store owner or a developer.
- Full Google Workspace Integration: Altera integrates directly with Google Drive and Google Sheets for both import and export. This avoids the size limitations and refresh delays often associated with using the
IMPORTURL()function. - Developer CLI: For agencies and technical teams, Altera offers a Command-Line Interface (CLI). You can run data operations directly from your terminal to automate workflows without needing to access the UI.
- Simultaneous Jobs: Run multiple export or import jobs at the same time without needing an enterprise-level plan.
Clearer Import Status & Instant Spot-Checking#
When managing large datasets, clarity and speed are key. Altera improves how you track your data in two major ways:
- Smarter Statuses: We distinguish between critical errors and non-critical skips. For example, if you try to create an item that already exists, Altera marks it as “Skipped” rather than “Failed”. This keeps your error reports clean, allowing you to focus on the issues that actually require attention.
- Instant Admin Preview: You don’t have to wait for a job to finish to verify your data. You can see the first several results directly in the app and click through immediately to the Shopify Admin. This allows for quick spot-checks without the hassle of waiting for the file to process, downloading the results, and opening Excel just to find the link.
Pricing: Flexible & Flat-Rate#
Different businesses have different needs, and pricing reflects that.
- Matrixify uses a tiered model ranging from $20 to $200 per month, which is excellent for enterprise-grade volume and complex legacy migrations.
- Altera offers a generous Free Plan and a simple Flat Rate of $15/month for all paid features. We believe in predictable pricing that supports your growth without jumping tiers.
Which Tool Is Right for You?#
Both apps are powerful, but they serve slightly different needs depending on your stage of business.
- Consider Matrixify if: You are performing a complex migration from a legacy platform like WooCommerce or Magento. Matrixify has deep, direct integrations for these specific cross-platform moves that are incredibly robust.
- Consider Altera if: You are looking for a modern, cost-effective tool for daily Shopify operations, need access to specific fields like Translations or Locations, or want developer tools like a CLI and full Google Drive integration.
Switching from Matrixify to Altera#
If you’re looking for the best alternative to Matrixify, Altera is the natural next step. It supports the same spreadsheet formats you already use, so you can bring over existing files without changing templates or workflows.
Altera also goes further by supporting additional data types which Matrixify does not handle. With a team that has over a decade of experience in the Shopify ecosystem, Altera is built to feel familiar while giving you broader, more complete control over your store data.
