Amazon and eBay are the two pillars of e-commerce. Both offer affiliate programs. Both come with surprises. Let’s cut through the marketing fluff.
Rates
Amazon: from 1% (video games) to 10% (luxury). Average — 2-4%. eBay: from 1% to 6%. Average — 2-3%.
On paper, Amazon wins. But there’s a catch: average order value. On eBay, people are more likely to buy expensive items — collectibles, auto parts, used electronics. On Amazon, it’s everyday stuff. One sale on eBay can earn more than ten on Amazon.
Cookies
Amazon — 24 hours. eBay — 24 hours. Evenly matched. Short on both ends. But Amazon adds a twist: if a user adds an item to their cart within 24 hours, the cookie extends to 90 days. eBay doesn’t offer this.
Verdict: Amazon wins on cookies, but only if the customer adds something to their cart.
Bans and Risks
Amazon bans accounts. Harshly, frequently, without explanation. Logged in from the wrong IP — ban. Bought something through your own link (even by accident) — ban. Didn’t make three sales in 180 days — ban.
eBay is noticeably more chilled in this regard. Accounts are rarely banned, mostly in cases of outright fraud. Plus, eBay doesn’t claw back commission on returns.
Verdict: eBay is more reliable.
Who Should Use What
Amazon: ideal for review sites, product blogs, “best X for Y” content. Massive product range — you can write about anything.
eBay: for niche sites — collectibles, auto parts, rare electronics. And for those who want to sleep soundly without fearing the ban hammer.
Bottom line: I’d run both. Diversification in affiliate marketing isn’t a luxury — it’s a survival strategy.
Official websites: Amazon Associates | eBay Partner Network