Top Etsy Alternatives Compared (Shopify, Amazon & More)
As a business consultant, I frequently speak with creators seeking Etsy alternatives. Etsy is undoubtedly a fantastic platform. In fact, the creator economy is booming, valued at over $250 billion (Source: Goldman Sachs). However, you might be looking for more control or lower fees. This guide reviews the best platforms beyond Etsy and reveals the marketing secret weapon for success on any platform: video.
Table of Contents
- Why Might You Look for Etsy Alternatives?
- What Are the Best Etsy Alternatives for Creators in 2025?
- How Does Video Marketing Drive Sales on Any Platform?
- How Can You Easily Create Videos for Your Chosen Platform?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Might You Look for Etsy Alternatives?
You might look for Etsy alternatives due to rising fees, high competition within the marketplace, or a desire for greater brand control and customization. I’ve seen many successful sellers “graduate” from Etsy once they want to build their own standalone brand identity or find that the transaction fees are cutting too deeply into their margins. Exploring alternatives is a natural step for growth.
What Are the Best Etsy Alternatives for Creators in 2025?
The best Etsy alternatives offer different strengths depending on your goals. Based on my research and client feedback, Shopify and Amazon Handmade are the top two contenders for most creators leaving Etsy.
| Feature | Etsy | Shopify | Amazon Handmade |
| Fees | Listing + Transaction % | Monthly Fee + Payment % | Higher Transaction % |
| Brand Control | Limited | Full | Limited |
| Audience | Built-in Marketplace | Build Your Own Traffic | Massive Reach |
| Ease of Use | Very Easy | Moderate Learning Curve | Moderate |
- Shopify: Excellent for building your own independent brand. Based on analyzing countless Shopify reviews, its strength lies in customization and scalability, but you are responsible for driving your own traffic.
- Amazon Handmade: Gives you access to Amazon’s massive customer base, which can boost initial Amazon orders. However, competition is fierce, and building a distinct brand identity is more challenging.
How Does Video Marketing Drive Sales on Any Platform?
Video marketing drives sales because it builds trust and demonstrates value far better than static photos alone. Regardless of which platform you choose – Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon – great product photos are just the baseline. Data consistently shows product videos can increase purchases by up to 144% (Source: HubSpot). I’ve seen video transform conversion rates for clients by showing product details, scale, and usage in a way photos cannot.
How Can You Easily Create Videos for Your Chosen Platform?
You can easily create videos for your chosen platform using an AI tool like VidAU in three simple steps. First, you upload your high-quality product photos or short clips. Next, you add text highlighting key features or benefits, perhaps repurposing points from positive Shopify reviews if applicable, or add an AI voiceover. Finally, you choose a template, apply your branding, and let the AI generate your professional video.
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Conclusion
My final recommendation is this: choosing the right platform is important, but your marketing strategy is what truly drives success. Whether you stick with Etsy or move to one of the powerful Etsy alternatives, such as Shopify or Amazon, investing in high-quality video marketing is the most effective way I know to increase your sales and build a lasting brand.
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest alternative to Etsy?
A: Defining “cheapest” depends on your sales volume. Platforms like Big Cartel offer free plans for a very small number of products. However, for growth, Shopify often provides better long-term value despite the monthly fee, as transaction fees can be lower than marketplace percentages.
2. Can I sell on both Etsy and Shopify?
A: Yes, many sellers successfully use a multi-channel strategy, selling on both Etsy (for its built-in audience) and their own Shopify store (for brand building and lower fees).
3. How important are Amazon orders volume vs. profit margin?
A: While the volume of potential Amazon orders is tempting, I advise sellers to calculate their profit margins carefully. Amazon’s fees can be higher, potentially reducing overall profitability compared to other platforms.
4. What kind of videos work best for handmade items?
A: For handmade items, videos showing the creation process, highlighting unique details, or demonstrating the product in use are most effective. These build appreciation for the craftsmanship.
5. Do I need strong Shopify reviews to succeed there?
A: Strong product reviews are crucial on any e-commerce platform, including Shopify. While Shopify doesn’t have a centralised review system like Etsy or Amazon, integrating a reviews app and showcasing customer feedback (potentially in videos!) is essential for building trust.
