What is the template editor in Shopify?

The code-level editor for your theme — lets you edit HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Liquid files directly.

Do I need to know how to code to use it?

Yes — the template editor requires HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Liquid knowledge.

Is editing theme code safe?

Only if you duplicate the theme first and test changes — otherwise, code errors can break your store.

Should I use the Customizer or the Template Editor?

Use the Customizer for no-code changes; use the Template Editor only for advanced customizations the Customizer can't do.

Glossary Term

T

Template Editor

Q: Where is the template editor?

In admin under Online Store > Themes > Actions > Edit code.

Code-level access to your theme — for advanced customizations beyond the Customizer.

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Key Takeaways
The Template Editor is the code-level editor for your theme.
It lets you edit HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Liquid files directly.
It's found in Online Store > Themes > Actions > Edit code.
It's for advanced customizations beyond the Theme Customizer.
It requires coding knowledge — typically used by developers.

Overview

The Template Editor (Theme Code Editor) in Shopify is the code-level editor for your theme — letting you edit the HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Liquid files directly. Found in admin under Online Store > Themes > Actions > Edit code, it's for advanced customizations beyond what the Theme Customizer can do.

The template editor unlocks full control. The Theme Customizer handles colors, fonts, and layout; the template editor handles everything else — custom sections, unique features, integrations. It requires coding knowledge, so it's typically used by developers.

The template editor pairs with themes (what it edits), theme customizer (the no-code alternative), and liquid template language (the code). It's a developer tool.

1

Why the Template Editor Matters for Shopify Merchants

1
Full Control
The editor unlocks full control — anything the Customizer can't do, code can.
2
Custom Features
Build custom sections, features, and integrations not available in any theme.
3
Unique Design
Create a unique design — not limited by theme options.
4
Performance Tweaks
Optimize code for speed — faster than relying on theme defaults.
5
Integration Code
Add custom integrations and scripts — pixels, tracking, custom logic.

2

Using the Template Editor Safely

1
Duplicate first
Duplicate your theme before editing — so you can revert if something breaks.
2
Know Liquid
Learn Liquid — Shopify's template language — before editing.
3
Test on a copy
Test changes on a duplicate theme — not your live one.
4
Use a developer
If you're not a developer, hire one — code errors can break your store.
5
Document changes
Document what you changed — so you or others can maintain it later.