> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://developer.dashsocial.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Choosing between API and widget integrations

> Decide between the JavaScript widget and API integration methods for embedding Dash Social galleries.

There are two ways to add Shoppable Galleries and Product Page Galleries to your site:

* **Widget Integration** – Quick setup with a drop-in script and basic customization.
* **API Integration** – Full control to design and manage the gallery with your own front-end.

For LikeShop Galleries, only the Widget Integration is available.

This guide helps you choose the right approach and links to detailed implementation steps.

## When to use the widget

The widget is the fastest way to get a Gallery live.

* No backend development required
* Drop-in script with customizable layout and styles
* Automatically collects views and product click tracking in Dash Social reports
* Ideal for marketing teams who want control without developer support

**See guide:**

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="Shoppable Gallery Widget Setup" href="https://developer.dashsocial.com/guides/social-commerce/shoppable-and-product-page-galleries/shoppable-gallery/shoppable-gallery-widget-setup">
    Embed Shoppable Galleries on your site with a quick JavaScript widget and minimal setup.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Product Page Gallery Widget Setup" href="https://developer.dashsocial.com/guides/social-commerce/shoppable-and-product-page-galleries/product-page-gallery/product-page-gallery-widget-setup">
    Embed product-linked media on PDPs using the Product Page Gallery widget.
  </Card>

  <Card title="LikeShop Widget Setup" href="https://developer.dashsocial.com/guides/social-commerce/shoppable-and-product-page-galleries/likeshop-gallery/likeshop-widget-setup">
    Embed a LikeShop gallery or carousel on your site to showcase shoppable Instagram and TikTok posts.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## When to use the API

The API gives you full flexibility over how the gallery looks and behaves.

* Build a completely custom layout that matches your brand
* Avoid third-party JavaScript to meet strict security or performance policies
* Cache content server-side for faster page loads
* Serve localized product info by integrating your own feeds
* Power both websites and native mobile apps with the same content
* Note: Tracking is not automatic—you'll need your own system to record views and clicks for reporting

**See guide:**

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Product Page Galleries: API Integration Guide" href="https://developer.dashsocial.com/guides/social-commerce/shoppable-and-product-page-galleries/product-page-gallery/product-page-galleries-api-integration-guide">
    Build fully custom Product Page Galleries with Dash Social's API.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Build Shoppable Galleries with the API" href="https://developer.dashsocial.com/guides/social-commerce/shoppable-and-product-page-galleries/shoppable-gallery/build-shoppable-galleries-with-the-api">
    Build custom Shoppable Galleries with Dash Social's API.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Choosing the right approach

* **Need a quick setup?** Use the widget.
* **Need full control or a custom UI?** Use the API.
* **Not sure?** Start with the widget. You can move to the API later without losing content.