Selling on Shopify vs eBay can be very different for online sellers, especially in terms of the sales conversion rate of products.
They are two of the best-known e-commerce platforms worldwide.
However, online businesses are now looking for an alternative to selling on eBay.
Sellers have one question: Are eBay sales down?
This article offers you a comparative analysis of eBay vs Shopify in terms of sales conversions, tools, functionalities, pricing, and more. We reckon that sellers must be imparted with unbiased information to make robust business decisions. This Shopify vs eBay Comparison will help you choose the winning platform.
Selling on Shopify vs eBay: The Showdown
Before we go into details, here is a one-glance comparison of selling on Shopify vs eBay.
We have created this Shopify Ebay Comparison based on some of the most important factors.
| Feature | Shopify | eBay |
| Platform | Full-service e-commerce platform | Online marketplace platform |
| Usability | Requires basic Shopify SEO technical knowledge but offers the best customization options | Easier to use but offers only a few customization options for online storefronts |
| Marketing Tools | Offers marketing tools like integrations, dashboard features, video ads, and more | Lack of marketing tools |
| Shipping | Online sellers can choose from a wide range of shipping options | Online sellers can choose from a wide range of shipping options |
| Pricing Plans | Attractive Shopify pricing plans range from 5$ to 399$ | No fixed pricing. Fees can add up depending on the selling intent |
| Security | Shopify is PCI Compliant and secure for both sellers and buyers | Ebay offers protection for sellers and buyers |
Shopify is the best alternative to selling on eBay. The platform is more suitable for sellers seeking long-term growth and professional-looking stores. It offers more customization features, marketing tools, and integration options. We recommend Shopify to sellers wanting better control over their Store Sales Conversions.
On the other hand, eBay is better for smaller sellers.
eBay is recommended to first-timers who are just getting the hang of e-business. It offers all the rudimentary needs for online stores and a seamless setup. Now let’s discuss why sellers what to make a switch from eBay to Shopify.
Is an eBay Store Worth It These Days?
Creating a versatile online store is not enough these days. It is more important to reach new audiences outside of the platform. This is one of the reasons for the shift from eBay to Shopify. Only the most steadfast and proactive e-businesses make the buck.
So naturally, sellers contemplate, “Is it worth selling on eBay?”
Sellers Ask: Are eBay Sales Down?
Yes, unfortunately. We’re not saying this. Many eBay sellers have been facing an issue with inconsistent sales.
The platform is easy to set up. However, it is not the best to build reach. eBay sales are down in 2023, and it was the same in the preceding year as well. Some store owners have expressed dissatisfaction in their words.
Here are some of the top posts from the eBay Community Forum.
Another seller shared their sales data chart for the past month reflecting a downfall of 83.9% in the store sales conversion.
What is a Good Sales Conversion Rate on eBay?
Currently, the sales conversion rate of the average eBay seller is 1.35% only.
The highest conversion rates on eBay can be achieved by optimizing listings, offering free shipping, and providing excellent customer service.
eBay Conversions can go up to 2.4 % to 3%, depending upon the industry.
The sales conversion rate is calculated by dividing the number of sales (store conversions) by the number of visitors. To track the sales conversion rate on eBay, sellers have to enable eBay’s Seller Hub. Then go to the Performance tab and click on Traffic. Sellers can see the conversion rate there.
Pros and Cons of Selling on eBay
While eBay is better for selling a wide variety of products, it is not the best when it comes to customization and versatility.
Shopify is recommended as the better option for building an online store. Considering that it offers in-built tools and integration options, growing your business will be much more streamlined on Shopify. Check out some of the main points comparing the Pros and Cons of Selling on eBay vs Shopify.
- Pros of Selling on eBay
- Offers a cheaper Starter plan than Shopify.
- Great for selling used or unique items or dropshipping products.
- Best for new entrepreneurs who are just getting the hang of e-commerce.
- Provides merchants with all basic tools for selling physical products.
- Offers a wide range of shipping options for getting goods to customers.
- Cons of Selling on eBay
- Customization features are limited.
- The eBay marketplace is not sufficient to grow the store over time.
- Targeted towards sellers who favor marketplace selling over a dedicated online store.
- Sellers experience comparatively lower sales conversion rates.
Is Shopify Better Than eBay?
Shopify gives sellers total control over most aspects of the store.
This includes everything from how the brand is presented to the domain name for the store. So, is Shopify better than eBay as an e-commerce platform? Yes, it is. Building a scalable business on Shopify is highly likely. We have compiled a list of the useful features that make sellers think Shopify is better than eBay:
- The Shopify e-commerce platform offers many customization options.
- Shopify offers more features, and marketing tools than eBay.
- Shopify makes integrations and inventory management simpler.
- Shopify provides 24/7 support through live chat, email, and phone.
- Offers premium themes and third-party apps to build the store.
- Shopify is better for building a brand from scratch.
- Shopify makes optimizing stores for SEO and marketing easier.
Shopify allows online sellers the flexibility to sell in know how the goods are sold and marketed.
Read our guide Magento vs Shopify Comparison for a broader understanding of various other online marketplaces.
Better Value for Money: Shopify vs eBay?
Going down to the basis for both the platforms.
The eBay Starter plan has limitations compared to Shopify’s basic plan.
Although eBay offers a cheaper Starter plan than Shopify, the features you get with it are pretty limited. The Starter plan doesn’t even include a full online store, while Shopify’s Basic plan allows you to launch your own eCommerce website.
Shopify offers more features, marketing tools, and store customization than eBay. Additionally, Shopify has an edge over eBay when it comes to customer support as well. Sellers get better customer support via live chat, email, and phone support. Shopify also offers premium themes, third-party apps, and your own domain name. On the other hand, eBay’s plans are targeted toward sellers who favor marketplace selling over a dedicated online store.
With Shopify, you get total control over the aspects of your store.
And of course better value for your marketing dollors!
Shopify SEO Consultant helps online businesses make the right decision for their business model and storefront. Reach out to us for any query or assistance.
