Which Shopify Apps Are a Must-Have for Free? 2025

If you’re starting or scaling a Shopify store in 2025, you’ve probably realized something:
The right apps can make your store run smoother, sell more, and give customers a better experience — all without you hiring a full development team.

But with over 8,000 apps in the Shopify App Store, the real challenge is figuring out which ones are worth your time, especially if you want them free (or at least with a solid free plan).

This guide breaks down the must-have free Shopify apps for 2025, starting with one of the most versatile toolkits on the market: AeroApps.

Why Choosing the Right Free Shopify Apps Matters

There’s no shortage of free Shopify apps — but not all “free” apps are equal. Some have so many limitations that they barely help. Others integrate poorly, slowing down your site or breaking your theme.

The apps that make the cut for this list meet three key standards:

1. They solve a real eCommerce problem without extra fluff.

2. Their free version is actually usable — not just a teaser.

3. They integrate cleanly with Shopify so you don’t spend hours troubleshooting.

1. AeroApps – All-in-One Shopify Growth Toolkit

If you want one free app that covers multiple needs — product customization, upselling, bundling, and promotions — AeroApps should be your first stop.

Why It’s a Must-Have in 2025

Instead of installing five different apps for different sales tactics, AeroApps bundles powerful tools into one platform:

• Aero Volume Booster – Create tiered discounts, BOGO deals, time-limited offers, and gift-with-purchase campaigns.

• Aero Upsell & Bundle – Add “Frequently Bought Together” suggestions, in-cart add-ons, and custom bundles.

• Aero Product Variant Options – Add unlimited product options like swatches, dropdowns, and text boxes without code.

• Aero Form Builder – Create custom forms for inquiries, bookings, or data collection.

How It Helps Your Store

Imagine you sell home décor. AeroApps could:

• Show a bundle of “Throw Pillow + Blanket” with a discount when a customer views the pillow.

• Offer “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” on candles when the cart reaches a certain value.

• Add custom engraving fields on photo frames without coding.

For a free plan, it’s unusually generous — perfect for new stores that need flexibility without costs.

2. Judge.me – Free Product Reviews

Social proof still drives buying decisions, and Judge.me is one of the most complete review apps you can get for free.

Key Features

• Unlimited product review requests via email.

• Photo and video reviews from customers.

• SEO-friendly review snippets for Google search.

Why it’s good for 2025: With TikTok and Instagram driving so much shopping, authentic user-generated content is gold. Judge.me’s free plan lets you showcase this without spending a cent.

3. DSers – AliExpress Dropshipping Made Simple

If you’re dropshipping in 2025, DSers is the official AliExpress partner app for order automation.

Key Features

• Bulk order placement to save time.

• Supplier mapping for better reliability.

• Multiple store management from one account.

Even if you’re not purely dropshipping, DSers can help test new products before committing to inventory.

4. Klaviyo (Free Tier) – Email & SMS Marketing Automation

Klaviyo has a paid reputation, but its free plan (up to 250 contacts and 500 monthly sends) is a great starting point for serious marketing.

Why It’s Still Relevant

• Pre-built Shopify email flows like abandoned cart recovery.

• Predictive analytics to estimate customer lifetime value.

• Integration with Facebook Ads for retargeting.

For small or new stores, the free plan covers the most essential automation without locking you in too soon.

5. Privy – Popups & Email Capture

Privy helps you build your email list — still one of the highest-ROI assets in eCommerce.

Free Plan Perks

• Exit-intent popups.

• Basic A/B testing for opt-in forms.

• Welcome emails and simple automations.

Pro Tip: Pair Privy’s lead capture with AeroApps’ promotional campaigns for a one-two punch in conversion and retention.

6. Shopify Inbox – Live Chat for Your Store

Customers in 2025 expect quick answers. Shopify Inbox gives you a free, native way to chat with shoppers.

Why It’s a Must-Have

• Direct integration with your Shopify dashboard.

• Saved responses for FAQs.

• Conversation history linked to customer profiles.

Fast responses often mean fewer abandoned carts.

7. SEOAnt – Basic SEO Optimization

While Shopify’s built-in SEO is decent, SEOAnt’s free plan gives you extra tools.

Free Features

• Broken link detection.

• Image alt-text automation.

• Basic keyword tracking.

A solid choice for improving organic visibility without extra cost.

8. ReConvert – Post-Purchase Upsells (Free Tier)

The checkout thank-you page is an underrated spot to make more sales. ReConvert’s free plan lets you test simple upsells there.

Example:

A customer buys a coffee machine → you offer them a discounted coffee bean subscription right after checkout.

9. PushOwl – Web Push Notifications

PushOwl’s free plan (for Shopify stores on certain plans) lets you send push notifications for sales, restocks, or reminders.

Why It Works

• No need for an email address to re-engage customers.

• Perfect for flash sales or product drops.

10. Easy Digital Products – Sell Files Without Extra Cost

If you sell eBooks, templates, or digital downloads, Easy Digital Products makes it hassle-free — no monthly fee for basic use.

Tips for Making the Most of Free Shopify Apps

Even the best free app can hurt you if you overload your store.

• Limit your installs – More apps mean slower load times.

• Check compatibility – Always test in a staging environment.

• Track performance – Use Shopify analytics to see if an app’s features actually boost revenue.

Final Takeaway

If you’ve been wondering “Which Shopify apps are a must-have for free? 2025”, here’s the short answer:

• Start with AeroApps for sales-boosting tools in one place.

• Add targeted apps like Judge.me for reviews, Klaviyo for email, and Privy for lead capture.

• Round it out with essentials like SEOAnt and Shopify Inbox.

The right combination of free apps won’t just save you money — it will increase your sales, improve your customer experience, and give you room to grow before committing to paid plans.