Platform Overview
Etsy Overview
Etsy charges 6.5% transaction fee plus $0.20 listing. Best for handmade, vintage, and craft items with a loyal buyer base.
eBay Overview
eBay charges 13% final value fee plus payment processing. Good for resale and broad merchandise with global reach.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Etsy | eBay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | 6.5% | 13% | Etsy 6.5% cheaper |
| Listing Fee | $0.20 | $0.00 (250/month) | eBay free listings |
| Payment Processing | 3% + $0.25 | 3.25% + $0.30 | eBay slightly higher |
| Monthly Cost | $0-$100 | $21.95-$74.95 | Varies |
| Total % (Sale Price) | ~10% | ~17% | Etsy wins |
| Handmade Fee | 6.5% | 13% | Major difference |
| Vintage Fee | 6.5% | 13% | Etsy better |
Our Recommendation
Etsy is significantly cheaper than eBay for handmade and vintage items.
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 Etsy and eBay.
- Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eBay cheaper than Amazon for most sellers?
eBay's total fees (10.9-14.9% FVF + 2.9% + $0.30 payment processing) are generally lower than Amazon's (8-17% referral fee) for most categories. However, Amazon's FBA service bundles fulfillment, and Amazon's audience size often justifies the higher fees for high-volume sellers.
Does eBay charge for listing items?
eBay offers 250 free listings per month for all sellers. Additional listings cost $0.35 each. eBay Store subscribers get the same 250 free listings plus discounted final value fees (as low as 4% for some categories). Most casual sellers never pay insertion fees.
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.