21 Best Online Shopping Websites & Apps
Imagine entering a mall with all your favorite stores filled with all the products you love. You have the entire mall to yourself. No clingy salespersons, no fellow shoppers hampering your experience, no long queues, and most importantly, no frantic searching for products because everything you desire is available at your fingertips. And you are doing all this from the comfort of your couch, sipping your favorite beverage. Ah, what bliss! That’s what online shopping’s all about.
Gone are the days when you had to visit different stores to tick things off of your checklist. Online shopping platforms make it effortless and painless for shoppers like us to skim through virtual aisles. If you prefer going to physical stores, let us pitch you the perks of shopping online – it's convenient, allows for price comparisons, availability of special discounts and coupons, and has 24×7 access. Convincing enough?
If you answered yes, yeah, or even ‘umm…maybe,’ the first (or probably the second) question that might pop up is – what are the most reliable online shopping websites? Allow us to do the honors. In this blog, we’ll tag along with you, guide you through some of the best online shopping websites and apps, and give you a glimpse of what you can expect from these platforms.
List of the Top Online Shopping Websites and Apps
Discover the top online shopping websites and apps that offer an array of products, competitive prices, and convenient shopping experiences. Dive into this list to find your favorite platforms for all your shopping needs.
1. Amazon
The first platform and, quite frankly, one of the most used eCommerce websites on our list is – Amazon. Starting its journey as an online marketplace for books in 1994, Amazon turned its strategy and the world upside down to become ‘The Everything Store.’ Can you name one thing that it does not sell? You can’t because it has almost everything you would ever want – from apparel and beauty products to industrial supplies, heavy furniture, and now even fresh groceries and pantry items – Amazon is truly a wonderland for shoppers. Besides this, Amazon offers deals on a variety of its products that come at the best price when compared to other shopping sites on our list.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Home and Kitchen, Beauty and Personal Care, Clothing, Shoes and Jewelry
- Shipping Options: Amazon Prime members get free same-day and next-day shipping options whereas non-members get free 4-5 day shipping which can be upgraded to 2-day shipping by paying $5.99.
- Return/Refund Policy: Most items shipped from Amazon.com can be returned within 30 days from the date of purchase. Products under the grocery, software, and game card categories are non-returnable.
2. eBay
Want to auction off products or buy something in online bidding wars? eBay’s the way to go! This platform is the world’s largest online auction site, with a humongous 1.8 billion live listings from 190 global markets. From refurbished electronics to one-of-a-kind collectibles, eBay is an innovative platform that bridges millions of buyers and sellers. With daily deals and various eBay coupons available online, you’ll always know you are buying the best products at the best price.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Mobile Phones and Accessories, Video Games, Home and Garden, and Craft Items
- Shipping Options: Sellers on eBay use the shipping method you mention during the buying process and are charged accordingly. The sellers will clearly state the estimated time of delivery upon successfully buying a product.
- Return/Refund Policy: If you changed your mind about a product, you can contact the seller and request a return. Sellers have 3 business days to get back to you. If they do not respond, you can contact the eBay customer support team and ask them to step in.
3. Target
Another one-stop-shop on our list, Target is quite the people-favorite for its vibrant household essentials, comfy clothing lines, plush toys, and fun back-to-school supplies. No wonder it’s hard to resist shopping from here! You can also satiate your utilitarian desire for all things bullseye (the cute mascot!), as Target provides deliveries within an hour of ordering products. There’s also the little Target RedCard that offers discounts, giving the users the power to take 5% off of every purchase.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Groceries, Indoor and Outdoor Decor, Toys, Bath and Bedding, Beauty and Personal Care Products
- Shipping Options: Target offers various delivery options for your convenience. It provides same-day delivery for $9.99 per delivery, you can order online and pick it up at the nearest Target store, or you can order products above $35 to get free 2-day delivery.
- Return/Refund Policy: Most unopened and new items are eligible for free returns at Target, with a return window of 90 days. But if you are a RedCard holder, the window is extended by 30 days.
4. Walmart
Walmart is an American multinational retail company founded by Sam Walton in 1962. Walmart is a shopping haven, where you can find virtually anything you desire. From the latest tech gadgets to lovable soft toys and fashionable home decor items all at unbeatable prices. And with exclusive Walmart coupons, you are sure to get even greater value for your money when getting those must-have items on sale.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Babycare, Laundry Supplies, Clothing and Accessories, Pet Supplies, Personal Care
- Shipping Options: Walmart offers a 2-day shipping option fulfilled by FedEx and UPS. Orders above $35 are eligible for free standard shipping across the continental US. For Walmart+ members, the minimum $35 is waived off.
- Return/Refund Policy: All products sold on Walmart are eligible for free returns in the first 90-day window from the date of purchase. You can initiate the return request online or head to the nearest Walmart store and get a replacement or refund.
5. Etsy
Etsy is a unique marketplace for talented artisans and DIYers to sell their extraordinary and exclusive creations. The platform fosters a community-driven ethos and commits to helping small businesses. At Etsy, you’ll find everything from wholesome, ‘made-with-love’ handcrafted pieces to vintage and timeless treasures. And if you love discounts, Etsy has several deals and discounts on couponing websites like GrabOn that house quirky items at unbelievable prices. So, shop at Etsy or tickle your creative bones, create unique products, and sell them here.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Craft and Supplies, Handmade Items, Jewelry, Accessories, Clothing
- Shipping Options: The sellers on Etsy are responsible for packaging and shipping products. The estimated date of delivery is usually mentioned on the product description page. This page also contains an option to get in touch with the seller to ease the buying process.
- Return/Refund Policy: Sellers decide on the return policy for their products on Etsy. Therefore, if the description on the product page states the seller accepts returns, settle on a message on the return process with the seller before sending the product back.
6. BestBuy
We know you've been waiting for this one! BestBuy had to obviously make it to this list. This online electronics retailer is one of the most-used platforms, with thousands of products in its inventory. Unlike some of the websites mentioned above, BestBuy has 1,000+ brick-and-mortar stores across the US and Canada. This is not just any platform – it’s the perfect place to buy products at the best prices, and the BestBuy coupons, Top Deals, and Deal of the Day ensure that.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Electronics Gadgets and Accessories, Video Games, Home and Kitchen Appliances
- Shipping Options: BestBuy provides a scheduled delivery option for heavy and major appliances. Customers can also take advantage of the same-day delivery option for select products. Additionally, BestBuy offers free shipping for orders of major appliances above $399.
- Return/Refund Policy: BestBuy allows a 15-day return window for most products whereas TotalTech members have a 60-day timeframe for returns. Activatable devices need to be initiated for returns within 14 days (applicable to members and non-members).
7. Costco
First opened in 1976 under the name of Price Club, Costco Wholesale has transformed the retail world by providing its customers with the best quality products at affordable prices. Whether electronics, household essentials, or beauty products, Costco always delivers on 'THE BEST'. And do you know what’s more interesting? You no longer have to wait incessantly for your order! Costco, in collaboration with Instacart, offers you a Same-Day option.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Cold and Frozen Food, Home Appliances, Furniture, Household Essentials
- Shipping Options: Costco offers several shipping options for its buyers, including free standard shipping, 2-Day delivery, Same-Day (with Instacart), and scheduled delivery.
- Return/Refund Policy: Electronics purchased through Costco can be initiated for return/refund within 90 days from the date of delivery. Certain products like cigarettes and alcohol, gold bars and bullions, live performance event items, etc. are non-refundable.
8. Ikea
Hej! You’ve reached one of the most famous home furnishing brands that provide affordable yet durable and well-designed products – Ikea. Who doesn’t love shopping at this place? Not only do you get the thrill of buying something new, but you also ride along the adventure of building it up yourself (which sure feels like an achievement once you’re done, right?). Ikea does not just sell furniture; it sells a lifestyle and a Scandinavian and classy aesthetic.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Cabinets, Sofa-beds, Side Tables, Wardrobes, Storage and Organization Items
- Shipping Options: Ikea provides an option to buy products online and collect it from the nearest Ikea store. If that's not a feasible option for you, you can also get products delivered to your doorstep at a predetermined shipping cost.
- Return/Refund Policy: Ikea allows you to return your purchases within 365 days from the date of purchase. It doesn't matter if the product is opened or unopened. You've changed your mind, Ikea will take care of the rest.
9. ASOS
We know how frustrating it is to have a love-at-first-sight feeling when you look at a dress only to find out it isn’t available in your size! Yes, we’ve been there too. But, to alleviate that heart-wrenching emo, we’ve brought to you – ASOS. This body-positive brand houses men’s and women’s clothing collections in 30+ sizes, all at the same price (crazy!). Need an outfit to attend a cocktail or pool party? Or are you looking for a fit to hit the gym or go for a hike? ASOS has the perfect look for you.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Bridal and Formalwear, Jumpers, Jackets, Footwear, Baggy Trousers
- Shipping Options: ASOS offers standard shipping, express shipping, and click and collect delivery methods at a particular price. If you want to enjoy free shipping, you can order products over $49.99.
- Return/Refund Policy: ASOS has a 28-day free return policy. All you need to do is initiate the return process, print the return label, attach it to the bag, and drop it off at one of the UPS ground locations, and voila! You'll have the refund credited to your account.
10. The Home Depot
Our next stop on this list is one of the world’s largest home improvement chains, with over 2,300 stores in Northern America! Yes, let me reiterate – it is The Home Depot. This platform is wholesome-ly versatile for whether you are refurnishing your room, want to buy furniture for your new pad, or want to add a hint of grace to your home. You can shop for anything from building materials, appliances, and furniture to rugs and holiday decorations. But that’s not it – The Home Depot’s website also has a DIY section for how-to guides and some home inspo to try. Additionally, Home Depot offers coupons during various sales held year-round to help users purchase products at irresistible prices.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Indoor Garden, Appliances, Electrical/Lighting Equipment, Lumber
- Shipping Options: The Home Depot offers a free 2-day standard delivery for most of its products. For heavy appliances, you can also opt for the scheduled delivery to receive the products in your presence.
- Return/Refund Policy: You can head to The Home Depot's website/app and click 'Return Items' within 90 days from the date of purchase to initiate the free return process. If your product is eligible for a return, you will receive a return label. Just attach it to the product and drop it off at your nearest UPS location.
11. Kohl's
Established in the decade of great innovation and fashion (the ’60s), Kohl’s is an omnichannel retail store chain in the US with over 1,100 stores in 49 states. This place isn’t just a regular snoozy departmental store; it’s a paradise of rockin’ denim, snazzy sneakers, and snuggle-friendly bedding. And before we forget, Kohl’s offers incredible sales and closeouts! Want more savings? You can rain down money by joining the rewards program, which offers up to 7.5% rewards on every purchase, or check out the latest sales by Kohl's for more discounts.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Kitchen Appliances, Athletic Apparel, Men's Accessories, Designer Fashion Wear, Bedding and Home Decor
- Shipping Options: Kohl's has different delivery options ranging from standard delivery (within 3 – 6 days) to 1-day shipping. For delivery without additional costs, you can either purchase products above $75 or leverage the free in-store pickup option.
- Return/Refund Policy: Kohl's offers a 180-day return window to return items with or without the original receipt. There are a few exceptions though – Premium electronics and watches must be returned within a 30-day timeframe with the original packaging. Beauty products must be initiated for return in an unused condition within 60 days from the date of purchase.
12. Macy's
Let’s dive down head-first into yet another versatile, high-end departmental store chain – Macy’s. Who doesn’t know this brand? They’ve been a significant part of every 4th of July celebration by sponsoring a fireworks display! Putting all that aside, Macy’s is the perfect store for everything from clothing and apparel (even bridal wear!) to furniture, toys, and accessories. Much like The Home Depot and Ikea, Macy’s also utilizes AR to help you visualize how furniture might look in your place in real-time. On top of all this, Macy's is best known for its deals, and sales which are held very often compared to some of the top shopping sites listed here. Do check out the site frequently, and get yourself some crazy discounts.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Women's Apparel and Accessories, Footwear, Cosmetics, Home Decor Items, Small Kitchen Appliances
- Shipping Options: Macy's Star Rewards Gold and Platinum members get free shipping at no additional costs. The silver and platinum members can avail of the same benefit with a minimum purchase value of $25. Non-members must purchase a minimum cart value of $49 for free shipping.
- Return/Refund Policy: Macy's accepts most returns within 30 days from the original date of purchase. There are exceptions for a few products and categories. Apple products have a window period of 14 days and furniture must be initiated for return within 3 days. For more detailed information, you can check the return policy on the Macy's website or mobile app.
13. Sephora
Ah, the holy grail of all things makeup and skincare – Sephora! If you are a glam goddess or want to be one, you want to be here. This French multinational retailer houses products from 340 global brands, including its private label. Sephora is one of the best places to shop for luxury beauty products online as it integrates emerging technologies, such as AI, NLP, etc., to bridge the gap between offline and online shopping experiences.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Makeup, Skincare, Fragrance, Bath and Body Products
- Shipping Options: Sephora offers a free standard shipping option (delivers orders within 1-3 days) for Beauty Insiders at no minimum order value and Guest purchasers at a minimum cart value of $50.
- Return/Refund Policy: Sephora welcomes returns within 30 days of the original purchase date. If you initiate a return in the 31-60 day timeframe, the brand offers online or store credits.
14. HandM
HandM, the Swedish fashion powerhouse, is like a fashion-forward magnet for all your wardrobe needs. They’ve got everything from head-turning outfits to accessories that’ll make you go, “Yaaas, queen!” (or King? We wonder if that’s even a thing!). And let’s not forget their inclusive vibes. It’s a real struggle for curvy divas/divos to find clothes that slay, but HandM’s got styles for all shapes and sizes, so you can rock your confidence.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Tops and Tees, Denim, Dresses, Outerwear, HandM Home
- Shipping Options: HandM offers free standard shipping on all orders above $40 and expedited shipping for cart value above $60. But for HandM members, there's free shipping on all orders (no minimum order value!)
- Return/Refund Policy: You have 30 days to decide if you love your purchase. If you don't you can start the return process. Undergarments, fabric face masks, and swimwear are final sale due to hygienic reasons. Also, Beauty products are accepted only if the product is unused and unopened.
15. Shein
A Chinese fashion retailer and one of our most favorite platforms to shop for the trendiest styles is Shein. This app has everything from clothing for women, men, and kids to accessories, electronics, and beauty products. The best part of shopping at Shein? Firstly, jaw-dropping styles, and secondly, inclusivity! We cannot stress how difficult it is for plus-sized people to find outfits that they truly love – and Shein not just acknowledges it, but delivers on it bang on.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Tops, Blouses and Tees, Denim, Dresses, Co-ords, Jumpsuits and Bodysuits
- Shipping Options: Shein has 2 shipping options – Standard and Express. Standard shipping costs $3.99 which is waived off when the order value is above $29. The charge for express shipping is $12.90 which can be availed for free with orders above $129.
- Return/Refund Policy: Shein provides a window of 35 days to initiate a return request. The first return for any order is free of charge. But if you would like to make additional returns for the same order, Shein charges $7.99 return shipping fee.
16. Nordstrom
A brand with a keen eye for the latest global fashion trends, Nordstrom has been leading the industry for the past century. This online platform houses products across various categories, including apparel, shoes, activewear, home, and beauty products. Nordstrom does not just sell fashion; it sells style expressions by providing free styling services. You can also access the latest trends (everything that’s in today) by checking out the ‘Popular Searches’ feature in their search bar.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Apparel, Footwear, Beauty, Home Decor products
- Shipping Options: Nordstrom provides free standard shipping for all its products anywhere in the US (even Alaska and Hawaii). Fine jewelry and watches with cart value above $1500 are shipped insured and require a signature on delivery.
- Return/Refund Policy: Nordstrom does not have a predefined time duration to initiate return requests. If the brand accepts your return request, all you need to do is fill out the return form on the website/app and display the QR code provided at an eligible USPS or FedEX location.
17. JCPenney
JCPenney, an iconic American department store that’s been around for ages, is a go-to destination for all your shopping needs. From stylish clothing for the whole fam to home decor, appliances, and more, JCPenney has got it all. What makes it totally rad? Well, for starters, their killer selection is off the charts, and they’ve got options for every shape and size. You won’t believe how stoked you’ll be when you find those perfect-fitting jeans or that fabulous dress that’ll turn heads wherever you go. Also, the sales held by JCPenney are surely going to WOW you with discounts.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Men’s Apparel and Accessories, Women’s Apparel, Women’s Accessories, Footwear, Handbags
- Shipping Options: There are two shipping methods offered by JCPenney – Standard and Expedited. A $8.95 standard shipping charge is applied to orders below $75. All orders above the minimum cart value can avail of free shipping (within 3 to 5 business days) in the continental US. Expedited shipping charges start from $12.95.
- Return/Refund Policy: JCPenney has a 60-day return window to initiate a return/refund request. The refund will be credited back to the original mode of payment or as a JCPenney Gift Card. If you do not have the receipt for the purchase, you will be offered a Return Voucher that can be used online or in-store.
18. Overstock
A competitor to Ikea, Overstock is a leading home improvement brand that has been on the scene since its inception in 1999. It offers everything from furniture and outdoor seating sets to rugs, decor, and bedding. You can buy their products online or through their app by narrowing your search using advanced search filters – colors, styles, materials, customer ratings, size, etc. The icing on the cake? You can join their loyalty program, Club O, to earn 5% in rewards.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Apparel, Footwear, Beauty, Home Decor products
- Shipping Options: Overstock offers free standard shipping for all orders in the US excluding Alaska and Hawaii. Most products are shipped within 1 or 2 business days. You can see the exact day of delivery during the checkout process.
- Return/Refund Policy: Overstock provides a return window of 30 days from the date of purchase for most of its products. You are responsible for the return shipping charges unless there's a defect in the product from the manufacturer's or retailer's end.
19. Barnes and Noble
One of the world’s largest online booksellers, Barnes and Noble houses over 1 million titles across genres such as fiction, non-fiction, crime, educational, kids, etc. Every book here transports you into a different world (an immersive experience like no other!). Other than books, BandN also sells DVDs, Blu-rays, music, and toys. This online platform also has a collection of used (or pre-loved) books at discounted prices. As a bunch of avid book lovers, we can be sure that Barnes and Noble is one of the best places to shop for all the latest titles.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Graphic Novels and Comics, History, Mystery and Crime, Religion, Romance
- Shipping Options: All Barnes and Noble orders above the minimum cart value of $40 are applicable for free standard shipping in the continental U.S.
- Return/Refund Policy: Barnes and Noble offers a 30-day return window to return items in their original condition. Only the cost of the product plus any applicable taxes are refunded. Shipping charges are non-refundable.
20. Alibaba
Similar to Amazon, Alibaba and its sister company, AliExpress, are online shopping platforms that house heaps of products in various categories such as – fashion and apparel, electronics (both industrial and consumer), jewelry, bags and shoes, and many more. With such similar offerings, you must wonder which is the better choice – Amazon or Alibaba? Well, it’s simple – Alibaba provides competitive pricing as a provider outside the US (with added discounts for bulk purchases), and Amazon should be your go-to platform if you need something delivered by tomorrow.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Home Appliances, Beauty and Personal Care, Pet Supplies, Sports and Entertainment
- Shipping Options: The estimated shipping date and cost are provided when customers add the desired products to their cart.
- Return/Refund Policy: Trade Assurance protects all Alibaba orders and offers customers a 30-day window to initiate a return request. On approval, Alibaba shall refund the amount to the original payment source within 7 business days.
21. Wish
One of the most affordable online shopping platforms on our list, Wish was established in 2010 to offer everything from fashion and health and beauty products to pet accessories (even for iguanas!) and home improvement items. You can scroll through infinite products to find the best gifts for your loved ones (or yourself) without crossing your budget. The cherry on top is the ‘Deals Hub’ section which lists various saving benefits.
Key Features:
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- Top Selling Categories: Phone Accessories, Craft Supplies, Home Decor Items, Beauty and Makeup Products
- Shipping Options: Wish charges a flat shipping rate of ?2.49 on shopping a minimum cart value of ?8.
- Return/Refund Policy: At Wish, you can request for a refund within 30 days from the date of purchase. All you need to do is submit a request through the Wish assistant and a representative will get in touch with you for the next steps.
Ready to Change Gears to Online Shopping?
Online shopping offers an abundance of choices, making it easier than ever to find the products you desire from the comfort of your home. Ultimately, the best online shopping website or app is subjective and depends on individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize convenience, variety, price, or quality, there is an online shopping platform out there that aligns perfectly with your shopping style.
So, go forth, enjoy the convenience, discover new products, and indulge in the excitement of finding exactly what you’re looking for with just a few clicks or taps. That’s all, folks. Happy shopping!
