Overview
Summary:
In this guide, we will explore JSON templates in Shopify 2.0, their purpose, benefits, limitations, and how to manage them effectively in your store.
About JSON Templates
In Shopify, there are two main types of templates which are JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) and Liquid.
Most of the templates in Shopify including ones built by a third-party app/theme are in these two forms. Along with the latest release of Shopify Online Store 2.0, JSON templates have many upsides in the Shopify Online Store 2.0 mechanism. They allow you to add and rearrange theme sections, providing more flexibility than Liquid templates.
How To Differentiate JSON Template Vs Liquid Template?
- As mentioned above, Shopify Online Store 2.0 favors JSON templates. With JSON templates, you are allowed to add and move the theme section above or below PageFly content.
- Beside that, you can also display or hide theme sections including Default Product/Collection Details with JSON templates. This function is not available with Liquid templates in Online Store 2.0 themes.
- However, if you are on Online Store 1.0 themes, Liquid templates still perfectly display default Product/Collection Details.
Why Are JSON Templates Important?
With the introduction of Shopify Online Store 2.0, JSON templates have become essential for customizing store layouts. They offer the ability to:
- Move theme sections above or below PageFly content.
- Display or hide default Product/Collection Details dynamically.
- Provide a more modular and intuitive page-building experience compared to Liquid templates.
When Should You Use JSON Templates?
Use JSON templates when you need:
- To rearrange or customize sections from your theme.
- Enhanced flexibility for adding new sections.
- Compatibility with Online Store 2.0 features. For stores using Online Store 1.0 themes, Liquid templates can still be used if no additional section customization is required.
To sum up, if you don’t have the intention of adding theme sections below or above PageFly content, both JSON template and Liquid template are perfectly fine. However, if you want to use additional sections from the theme and move it around, you must use JSON templates with Online Store 2.0 themes
What Are JSON Page Limitations?
Shopify allows a total of 1000 JSON templates for your store. Here is more information about JSON page limitation from Shopify.
However, there are some ways you can get more JSON page if you reach the limit:
- Delete unnecessary JSON templates in PageFly. However, 1000 JSON templates are more than enough for your store.
- You can also delete the theme page by editing the code in themes. However, this way is for advanced users only. If you want to do this but not sure how, please drop us a message on live chat
From now on, all page types will be published as JSON templates both on O.S 1.0 themes and O.S 2.0 themes.
If you have not exceeded the limit of 1000 JSON templates, your pages will be published as JSON templates. When you exceed the limitation, your pages will be published as a Liquid template. The 1001st page or above will be published as a Liquid template.
Common Use Cases and Tips
- Rearranging PageFly Content:
- Use JSON templates to move theme sections above or below your custom content.
- Dynamic Content Management:
- Hide or display sections like default Product/Collection Details without affecting other pages.
- Optimization for Online Store 2.0:
- Fully leverage the modular design by integrating JSON templates with additional sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Are JSON Templates In Shopify 2.0?
JSON templates are page layouts that allow you to add, move, and customize theme sections, providing more flexibility than Liquid templates.
2. How Many JSON Templates Can I Have In My Shopify Store?
You can have up to 1,000 JSON templates in your Shopify store. This limit is sufficient for most stores.
3. What Should I Do If I Reach The JSON Template Limit?
If you reach the 1,000-template limit:
- Additional pages will be published as Liquid templates.
- Consider removing unnecessary JSON templates to free up space.
