What Types of Products Sell Best on Amazon vs. Etsy?

In the dynamic landscape of e-commerce, there are two prominent players: Amazon and Etsy. Both offer unique benefits for sellers. Understanding what sells best on each platform can lead to success or failure. In this blog, we will discuss which products perform well on Amazon and which ones do well on Etsy. We’ll examine trends in products, popular sellers on Amazon, and top niche categories on Etsy.

Amazon has so many products available, from daily essentials to the latest gadgets. Its draw is convenience and the sheer volume of items available. Etsy specialises in handmade and vintage goods. This draws in consumers looking for something special. But what are the best products on Amazon, and what niches do the highest sellers on Etsy come from? Let’s explore.

Key Benefits / Why It Matters

Knowing which products sell best on Amazon and Etsy is key for sellers. This helps them boost profits and improve their listings. Every platform has its own consumer expectations and buying habits. These factors directly impact product success.

Amazon’s Product Landscape

Amazon is synonymous with variety and convenience. It attracts a broad audience looking for everything from the latest tech gadgets to household essentials. The top Amazon products usually include electronics, books, clothing, and beauty items. These items enjoy Amazon’s smart logistics and Prime delivery. This means fast and dependable shipping.

Real-Life Applications

Consider the consumer who needs a new phone charger. They are likely to turn to Amazon, where they can find many options, read reviews, and have the product delivered the next day. This convenience factor is a significant driver of sales for practical, everyday items.

Etsy’s Unique Offerings

Etsy caters to a niche market focused on handmade, vintage, and one-of-a-kind items. The top Etsy niches include jewellery, home decor, and personalised gifts. Etsy buyers want unique items they can’t find anywhere else. This makes it a great place for artisans and creators.

Data-Backed Insights

Etsy’s 2022 Marketplace Insights Report shows that jewellery, home and living, and craft supplies are top sellers. This shows the platform values creativity and individuality. It draws in buyers who appreciate craftsmanship and custom products.

Additional Expert Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Best Practices for Selling on Amazon

1. Optimise Product Listings: Use clear, high-quality images and detailed descriptions. Incorporate relevant keywords naturally to enhance searchability.
2. Use Amazon FBA: Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) can increase sales. It gives customers quick shipping and dependable service.
3. Monitor Trends: Keep an eye on product trends to identify emerging opportunities. Tools like Jungle Scout can help analyse market data and forecast demand.

Common Mistakes

• Ignoring Reviews: Sellers often overlook the importance of customer feedback. Engaging with reviews can improve product ratings and consumer trust.
• Ignoring Competitors: Not researching rivals can lead to missed chances to stand out and gain market share.

Best Practices for Selling on Etsy

1. Highlight Uniqueness: Emphasise the handmade or vintage aspect of products. Storytelling can be a powerful tool to connect with buyers.
2. Use High-Quality Visuals: Etsy is a visual platform. Invest in professional photography to showcase products effectively.
3. Engage with the Community: Connect with buyers through personal messages. This can build loyalty and encourage repeat business.

Common Mistakes

• Neglecting SEO: Etsy’s search algorithm relies heavily on keywords. Failing to optimise listings can lead to reduced visibility.
• Pricing Strategy: Set competitive prices that show the quality and craftsmanship of the products.

Advanced Insights / Expert Recommendations

Navigating Product Trends

Both platforms require sellers to stay informed about product trends. On Amazon, this might involve tapping into the latest tech gadgets or health supplements. For Etsy, it could mean identifying emerging styles in home decor or jewellery.

Expert Recommendation

Try using tools like Google Trends or reports from your industry to predict changes in consumer demand. Being proactive rather than reactive can give sellers a competitive edge.

Understanding Buyer Personas

Knowing the usual buyer persona for each platform helps shape product development and marketing plans. Amazon buyers value convenience and low prices. Etsy buyers, on the other hand, look for authenticity and uniqueness.

Industry Perspective

Creating detailed buyer personas helps tailor marketing and products to meet consumer needs. This targeted approach can result in higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.

How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Products

Choosing between Amazon and Etsy can be tough, but it all comes down to your product and business goals. Here are some tips to help you decide which platform is right for you:

Consider Your Product Type

• If you’re selling everyday essentials or mass-produced goods, Amazon might be the better choice. Electronics, household items, and books sell well on Amazon. This is due to its large audience.
• If you have unique, handmade, or vintage items, Etsy is the place to be. Sellers of custom jewellery, personalised gifts, or original artwork often do well on Etsy. This success comes from the platform’s niche focus.

Think About Your Target Audience

• Amazon shoppers tend to value convenience and speed. They’re looking for fast delivery and competitive prices. If your goal is to reach a large audience and scale quickly, Amazon is an excellent choice.
• Etsy shoppers are looking for something special. Etsy buyers love unique items. If you’re selling something one-of-a-kind or with a personal story, they’ll likely appreciate it more.

Assess Your Budget and Resources

• Amazon’s fees can add up, especially if you use Amazon FBA. Consider the costs carefully before committing.
• Etsy has lower fees. However, you must handle fulfilment yourself. This can take extra time and resources.

Expanding Your Sales: Selling on Both Platforms

While each platform has its strengths, selling on both Amazon and Etsy can expand your reach. Here are some benefits of using both:

• Reach a wider audience: Selling on both platforms lets you reach various buyers. Amazon has a huge global presence, while Etsy focuses on a specific niche market.
• Diversify your income streams: By spreading your products across two platforms, you lower the risk of relying on just one source of income.
• Cross-promotion: Use Etsy to showcase your unique handmade items. Then, leverage Amazon to sell standard or mass-produced products.

Selling on both platforms takes time and effort. You’ll need to manage your time well. Also, you’ll have to optimise your listings and fulfil orders efficiently.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Dealing with Shipping and Fulfilment

• On Amazon, FBA handles most of the logistics, but it comes at a cost. If you’re selling on Etsy, you’ll be responsible for packing and shipping, which can be time-consuming.
• Tip: For Etsy, think about outsourcing shipping. You can also use third-party fulfilment services. This saves time and helps ensure quick delivery.

Managing Customer Expectations

• Amazon customers expect fast shipping and hassle-free returns. If you’re not using FBA, managing this yourself can become a challenge.
• Etsy customers value clear communication. They might ask about your product’s uniqueness or customisation options.
• Tip: Keep your customers informed. Share clear details about shipping times, product info, or return policies.

Exploring Product Bundles for Increased Sales

Both Amazon and Etsy allow you to create bundles, which can boost sales and attract more buyers. Bundling products, like handmade candles or skincare sets, can boost your average order value.

On Amazon: Product bundles are a great way to increase sales, but make sure to follow Amazon’s bundling rules. It’s important that the products in the bundle are related and offer good value to the buyer.

On Etsy: Bundling works well for sellers offering personalisation. For example, a customised home décor set can attract buyers. They want to create a unique home environment.

Conclusion: Maximising Success on Amazon and Etsy

In conclusion, Amazon and Etsy provide unique chances for sellers. Each platform has its own popular products and buyer expectations. Sellers can boost their success by understanding the details of each platform.

Focus on optimising your listings if you are considering selling on Amazon. Also, leverage Amazon’s powerful logistics. Etsy sellers can then focus on what sets them apart and the craftsmanship needed to attract the right audience.

The landscape of e-commerce changes, as does the market. Therefore, you need to know product trends and how consumers behave. No matter if you’re a seasoned seller or a newcomer, adapting to these changes will help you succeed in the long run.

What types of products do you think will define the future of online marketplaces? Share your thoughts in the comments below!