If you’re searching for the best Fast Simon alternatives in 2025, you’re not alone. While Fast Simon offers an impressive suite of AI-powered search, merchandising, and recommendation features, many eCommerce businesses are exploring other solutions that better align with their needs, budgets, or technical preferences.
In this blog, we explore some of the top alternatives to Fast Simon, comparing their strengths and where they might be a better fit for your store.
Why Look for Fast Simon Alternatives?
Fast Simon is a popular choice for online stores, especially on platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce. It offers AI search, smart collections, and personalization — all great features. However, users often cite:
Pricing
Limited manual control over merchandising
Cost concerns for small to mid-sized stores
Need for simpler or faster setup
If any of these apply to you, it’s worth exploring alternatives.
1. ExpertRec
Best for: Affordable, plug-and-play AI search with customization
ExpertRec is a leading Fast Simon alternative built for growing stores. It offers powerful AI search, product recommendations, and smart filtering — all with an intuitive dashboard and quick deployment.
Fast setup (under 1 hour)
Fully customizable UI
Works with Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and more
Transparent pricing plans
No code required
It’s a great fit for businesses that want control, affordability, and quality without the complexity of enterprise tools.
2. Searchspring
Best for: Merchants who need deep control over merchandising and filters
Searchspring is another Fast Simon competitor that gives merchants more granular control. It’s ideal for large catalogs and teams with merchandising goals.
Manual rule-based merchandising
Detailed filter logic and sorting
Used by mid to large eCommerce brands
It does come with a steeper learning curve and enterprise-level pricing.
3. Doofinder
Best for: Lightweight, modern search with real-time analytics
Doofinder is a flexible alternative known for ease of use and smooth integrations with Shopify and WooCommerce.
Easy to install and configure
Real-time analytics and A/B testing
Affordable pricing tiers
It’s an excellent choice for stores looking for a minimal, reliable search experience.
4. Searchanise
Best for: Budget-conscious merchants
Searchanise offers many of the same features as Fast Simon, like search suggestions, filters, and product recommendations, but at a lower price point.
Simple setup
Feature-rich for small stores
Affordable for early-stage businesses
5. Algolia
Best for: Developers and teams building custom experiences
Algolia is a developer-first platform offering blazing-fast search with high customizability. However, it does require technical expertise and tends to cost more as usage scales.
Final Thoughts
Fast Simon is a powerful tool, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re looking for more control, a lower price point, or a faster setup, there are several Fast Simon alternatives that can deliver what your store needs.
If you want a balance between AI power, ease of use, and affordability, ExpertRec is a strong alternative to consider in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fast Simon Alternatives
What are the best alternatives to Fast Simon in 2025?
Some of the best alternatives include ExpertRec, Searchspring, Doofinder, Searchanise, and Algolia.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Fast Simon?
Yes, ExpertRec and Searchanise are affordable alternatives that provide similar functionality at a lower cost.
Which Fast Simon alternative is easiest to set up?
ExpertRec is known for its fast, no-code setup that takes less than an hour in most cases.
Do Fast Simon alternatives offer AI-powered search?
Yes, most modern alternatives like ExpertRec, Doofinder, and Algolia offer AI-based site search and recommendations.
Why do people switch from Fast Simon?
Common reasons include high pricing, limited manual control, and the desire for simpler or more customizable solutions.
