Platform Overview
Amazon Overview
Amazon dominates electronics sales with Prime shipping and massive buyer traffic. FBA handles storage and shipping but fees are high for electronics categories.
eBay Overview
eBay attracts electronics buyers looking for deals, used equipment, and hard-to-find items. Lower fees but requires more seller involvement.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Amazon | eBay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Referral Fee (Electronics) | 8-15% | 3-13% | eBay generally lower |
| Gaming Consoles | 15% | 10.5% | eBay cheaper for gaming |
| Cell Phones | 15% | 10.5% | eBay better for phones |
| Computers/Laptops | 8% | 8% | Same |
| TVs & Monitors | 8% | 8% | Same |
| Refurbished Items | Same as new | Same as new | Varies by condition |
| Authentication Program | N/A | eBay Authenticity Guarantee | Free authentication |
Our Recommendation
eBay wins on fees for most electronics categories, especially used and refurbished items. Amazon is better for new, high-volume electronics sales.
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 the right platform.
- 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.