Amazon vs Your Own Store: Which One Is Better for You?
If you’re planning to start selling online, one big question comes up: Should you sell on Amazon or build your own online store? Both options have their advantages, but the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and long-term vision.
Selling on Amazon
Amazon is the world’s biggest online marketplace with millions of daily shoppers.
Pros:
- Huge built-in customer base
- Easy to set up and start selling
- Trustworthy platform with secure payments
- Amazon handles shipping if you use FBA
Cons:
- High competition with thousands of sellers
- Selling fees and commissions reduce profit
- Limited control over branding and customer data
👉 Best for beginners who want quick access to customers without heavy marketing.
Building Your Own Online Store
Creating your own website (with Shopify, WooCommerce, or Wix) gives you complete control.
Pros:
- Full control over branding and design
- You keep customer data for future marketing
- No selling commissions like Amazon
- Ability to build a long-term brand
Cons:
- Requires marketing to bring in traffic
- Setup takes more time and effort
- Need to handle shipping and customer service yourself (unless you use fulfillment services)
👉 Best for entrepreneurs who want to build a long-term brand and grow independently.
Which One Should You Choose?
- If you want quick sales with less setup, start with Amazon.
- If you want full control and brand ownership, build your own store.
- Many successful sellers actually combine both—they use Amazon for reach and their own store for branding and customer loyalty.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Amazon gives instant exposure, while your own store gives freedom and control. The smartest strategy may be to start on Amazon, then slowly build your own online store for long-term success.
⚡ Pro Tip: Use Amazon to test products, then shift your best-sellers to your own store to maximize profit.