eBay vs Etsy: Which Marketplace Is Right for You?

If you’re thinking about opening an online store, you’ve probably heard the names eBay and Etsy. Both are big, both have millions of buyers, but they serve different crowds and work in distinct ways. Below, we break down the basics so you can decide which site matches your goals.

Key Differences

Product focus. eBay covers almost everything—from used electronics to vintage clothing. Etsy is a niche space for handmade, vintage (35+ years old), and craft‑supplies items. If you make jewelry, custom prints, or up‑cycle furniture, Etsy’s audience is already looking for that style. If you want to sell used gadgets or bulk‑imported goods, eBay’s broader market is a better fit.

Listing style. eBay lets you run auctions, fixed‑price listings, or “Buy It Now” deals. This can create excitement for rare items but also means you have to watch timing and bids. Etsy only offers fixed‑price listings, so buyers see the price up front and can add items to a cart.

Fees. Both charge a listing fee and a transaction fee, but the numbers differ. eBay’s insertion fee starts at $0.35 per item and a final value fee of about 10‑12% of the sale price. Etsy charges $0.20 per listing and a 6.5% transaction fee plus a 3% payment processing fee. If you list many low‑priced items, Etsy’s flat fee can add up; if you sell high‑value items, eBay’s percentage might feel steeper.

Audience expectations. Etsy shoppers expect personal stories, handcrafted quality, and often a “support the maker” vibe. They’re willing to pay a bit more for uniqueness. eBay buyers are price‑sensitive, looking for deals or rare finds, and they often compare multiple sellers before buying.

Choosing the Best Fit

Start by asking yourself three questions: What am I selling? Who do I want to reach? How much control do I need over pricing?

If your inventory is handmade, vintage, or you love sharing the creative process, Etsy gives you a built‑in community that values that narrative. You can add shop policies, a bio, and even a blog to build a brand.

If you have a mix of new, used, or bulk items and you enjoy playing with auctions or setting promotional sales, eBay offers flexibility. Its global reach means you can ship to many countries without extra setup.

Don’t feel forced to pick one forever. Some sellers list on both platforms, using Etsy for their custom pieces and eBay for surplus stock. Just keep track of inventory so you don’t oversell.

To get started, set up a simple shop on each site and list a few items. Watch the traffic, sales, and fees for a month. The data will show you where your products perform best.

Bottom line: eBay and Etsy each have strengths. Choose the one that aligns with your product type, pricing strategy, and the kind of buyer you want to attract. Happy selling!