Platform Overview
Amazon Overview
Amazon offers massive traffic and FBA fulfillment but has strict policies, higher fees, and competitive environment. Best for volume sellers with unique products.
eBay Overview
eBay is beginner-friendly with lower fees, simpler policies, and works well for both new and used items. Great for individual sellers and small businesses.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Amazon | eBay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Account Requirements | Identity verification + bank account | Bank account + basic info | eBay easier to start |
| Initial Investment | $39.99/month (Pro seller) | $21.95/month (Stores) | eBay cheaper |
| Listing Limit | New sellers: 500 items | New sellers: 10 items | eBay starts lower |
| Customer Service | Amazon handles most issues | eBay mediates disputes | eBay more hands-on |
| Fee Complexity | High (multiple fee types) | Lower (simpler structure) | eBay simpler |
| Learning Curve | Steep - requires strategy | Moderate | Both require learning |
Our Recommendation
eBay is the better choice for beginners due to lower fees, simpler policies, and easier account requirements.
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.