Amazon vs Etsy
A side-by-side look at Amazon and Etsy. On our scoring, Amazon comes out ahead — but the right pick depends on your priorities.
| Platform | ||
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| SellingScene score | 3.9/5 | 3.8/5 |
| User rating | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Reviews | 9,210 | 5,120 |
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $40/mo | Free |
| Pricing model | Professional plan, per month | pay per listing + selling fees |
| Transaction fees | 8–15% referral fee + optional FBA fees | 6.5% transaction fee + $0.20 per listing |
| Hosting & setup | ||
| Hosting type | Marketplace | Marketplace |
| Free trial | Individual plan (pay per sale) | No subscription required |
| Staff accounts | User permissions | Limited |
| Product limit | Unlimited listings | Unlimited listings |
| Payments & security | ||
| Payment gateways | Amazon-managed checkout | Etsy Payments |
| SSL included | Yes | Yes |
| PCI compliant | Yes | Yes |
| Gift cards | No | Yes |
| Catalog & content | ||
| Themes / templates | N/A (standard listings) | Shop customization |
| App marketplace | Selling Partner Appstore | Etsy integrations |
| Multi-currency | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-language | Yes | Yes |
| POS included | No | Yes |
| Abandoned cart recovery | No | No |
| Built-in blog | No | No |
| Tools & flexibility | ||
| Drag-and-drop editor | No | No |
| API access | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes |
| Support channels | Seller Support, case log | Email, help center, limited chat |
| Actions | Read review | Read review |
Why pick Amazon?
Selling on Amazon means instant access to the largest pool of ready-to-buy shoppers on earth, plus FBA fulfillment that handles storage and shipping. The trade-off is fierce competition, thin margins after fees, and almost no control over the customer relationship.
Best for: Sellers chasing maximum reach and Prime logistics
Read the full Amazon reviewWhy pick Etsy?
Etsy connects independent makers with a built-in audience that specifically wants handmade, vintage, and craft goods, so discovery comes almost for free. Rising fees, mandatory ad costs, and tightening policies have frustrated many long-time sellers.
Best for: Makers selling handmade, vintage, or craft items
Read the full Etsy review