Platform Overview
Amazon Overview
Amazon offers massive traffic and FBA fulfillment with high fees. Best for volume sales of new products with Prime eligibility.
eBay Overview
eBay provides broad marketplace reach with moderate fees. Good for resale, vintage, collectibles, and auction-style sales.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Amazon | eBay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Referral Fee | 6-17% | 13% | eBay cheaper |
| Monthly Fee | $0-$39.99 | $0-$74.95 | Varies |
| Audience | 300M+ buyers | 90M+ buyers | Amazon 3x more |
| Best For | New products | Resale/Vintage | Depends on product |
| FBA/FF Available | Yes | FBM only | Both options |
| Brand Control | Low | Medium | eBay more control |
| eBay Auction | Available | No | eBay auctions |
Our Recommendation
Use multiple platforms for maximum reach. Amazon + eBay is a common successful strategy.
Key Takeaways
What to Consider
- Platform fees are only part of the equation - factor in fulfillment, shipping, and your time.
- Consider your product type and target audience when choosing between Amazon and eBay.
- Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amazon more expensive than other marketplaces?
Amazon's referral fees (8-17% by category) are among the highest in ecommerce. However, FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) bundles storage, picking, packing and shipping into one cost, which can work out cheaper than self-fulfillment for individual sellers. Compare total landed costs, not just listing fees.
What is the difference between FBA and FBM fees?
FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) adds $3.22-$52.38 per unit in fulfillment fees on top of referral fees (8-17%). FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) only pays referral fees but requires you to handle storage, picking, packing and shipping yourself. FBA is usually better for sellers doing 100+ orders/month.
Data Methodology & Disclaimer
Fee data and benchmarks in this article are sourced from official platform documentation and cross-referenced with publicly available rate schedules as of April 2026. Calculations use standard fee formulas; individual results vary based on product category and specific listing details.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Check the latest rates at each platform's official seller fees page. Fee structures reflect publicly available information as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Always verify current rates before making financial decisions.