eBay vs Shopify: Where Should You Sell Your Collectibles?

Two of the most popular options for selling collectibles are eBay and Shopify. But they serve very different purposes. Here's how to decide which is right for you.

eBay: The Marketplace Giant

eBay is where collectors go to find specific items. With millions of active buyers searching for collectibles daily, you get instant access to demand.

Pros

• Built-in audience: Buyers are already searching for what you're selling
• Trust: eBay's buyer protection makes customers comfortable
• Auction format: Great for rare items where you're unsure of value
• No marketing needed: SEO is handled for you

Cons

• Higher fees: ~13.25% final value fee plus payment processing
• No customer ownership: Buyers are eBay's customers, not yours
• Price competition: Easy for buyers to compare prices
• Policy changes: You're at eBay's mercy

Shopify: Your Own Store

Shopify lets you build a branded store where you control the experience and keep more of each sale.

Pros

• Lower fees: Just payment processing (~2.9%)
• Own your customers: Build an email list and relationships
• Brand building: Create a memorable shopping experience
• No competition on page: Buyers see only your inventory

Cons

• Monthly costs: $29-299/month subscription
• Marketing required: You need to drive traffic
• Trust building: New stores need to earn credibility
• More setup work: Design, policies, and configuration

The Verdict: Why Not Both?

The smartest sellers use both platforms strategically:

• eBay for one-off items, rare finds, and reaching new customers
• Shopify for repeat customers, curated collections, and brand building

With Collectibuild, you can list to both platforms simultaneously, maximizing your reach while minimizing duplicate work.