Platform Overview
Subscription Model Overview
Subscription boxes generate recurring revenue with predictable cash flow and higher customer lifetime value (LTV).
One-Time Purchase Overview
One-time purchases have lower LTV but simpler operations and no churn management required.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Subscription Model | One-Time Purchase | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Customer LTV | $200-$1,000+ | $50-$200 | Decop higher |
| Acquisition Cost | Accept $30-50+ | Must profit per sale | Decop easier first sale |
| Recurring Revenue | Yes | Must re-acquire | Decop complex |
| Churn Rate | 5-20% monthly | Must track | Recurring challenge |
| Inventory Planning | Predictable | Must forecast | Recurring better |
| Shipping Savings | High volume discounts | Lower volume | Decop higher volume |
Our Recommendation
Subscriptions for predictable revenue and LTV. One-time for simplicity and lower customer commitment.
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 Subscription Model and One-Time Purchase.
- Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is cheapest for selling?
For most categories, Shopify (0% transaction fee with Shopify Payments) plus marketing costs works out cheaper than marketplace fees for sellers with their own traffic. For sellers relying on platform traffic, Etsy (6.5%) and TikTok Shop (3.8-9.8%) are generally cheaper than Amazon (15-17%) or eBay (13-15%) before accounting for fulfillment costs.
Do fee structures change by product category?
Yes. All major platforms have tiered category fees. Amazon ranges from 6% (books) to 17% (clothing/jewelry). eBay ranges from 12.9% (media) to 14.9% (clothing/jewelry). Always check your specific category's rate before listing.
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.