In Plain Terms
Adobe Commerce is the paid, enterprise edition of Magento — the same open-source ecommerce platform Adobe acquired in 2018, extended with features Magento Open Source doesn't include: B2B functionality, advanced page-building tools, built-in AI-driven merchandising, and Adobe's own cloud infrastructure and support SLA.
How It Differs From Magento Open Source
Magento Open Source is free to install and self-host, and it's a fully capable platform for a small-to-mid catalog. Adobe Commerce adds B2B account management, content staging and preview, customer segmentation, and enterprise-grade support — at enterprise pricing, typically licensed based on business revenue rather than a flat fee.
When It's Actually Worth It
Adobe Commerce earns its cost when a business needs B2B pricing rules, multi-brand catalog management, or the compliance and support guarantees that come with Adobe's SLA. A single-brand storefront without complex B2B logic is usually better served by Magento Open Source or a simpler platform entirely — Adobe Commerce is not a default upgrade, it's a specific fit.