If you run an OpenCart store, you may have seen a lot of discussion about Version 4. Released with promises of modern code, support for PHP 8, and a new admin experience, it’s tempting to dive right in. But many store owners are asking in 2025: Is OpenCart 4 ready for prime time?
What’s New in OpenCart 4?
Version 4 brings several key upgrades:
- Full PHP 8 Compatibility, which means faster performance and better security.
- New Admin Design, featuring a cleaner, more modern look for easier navigation
- Improved Security, with stronger default protections.
- Extension Changes: Offering a New Approach to Modules and Modifications.
These updates can help make your store feel more future-proof and may improve speed and reliability.
Where 3.x Still Shines
If you’re on 3.x (especially 3.0.3.8 or 3.0.4.0), you’re on a proven and stable platform. The extension marketplace is mature, most themes work without issues, and support resources are plentiful. OpenCart 4, while promising, still has some compatibility challenges; many popular extensions and themes haven’t been updated yet. But as the version has been around for 3 years now, the majority of the most used modules are available.
Upgrade or Stay Put?
If you are running on early versions of OpenCart 3 or even OpenCart 2, you should be considering the change as it is outdated, unsupported and running on an earlier version of PHP, which is unsupported and potentially making your site vulnerable.
If stability is important for your business and your current setup runs smoothly, staying with later versions of OpenCart, 3.0.3.8 or 3.0.4.0 for now may be the safer option. However, if you’re planning a new store, want to take advantage of PHP 8 performance, or don’t depend on complex third-party extensions, OpenCart 4 is worth checking out.
If you choose to upgrade, we will always test everything in a staging environment first. This way, you can resolve issues without affecting your live store. In addition, we can improve functionality with bespoke work or newer, better modules.
If you want to learn more, why not give us a call for a friendly chat? We can carry out a full audit of your site and see what is required and the best option for you. 01707 378455
For more information about OpenCart, visit our OpenCart Website
