Depop vs Mercari vs Poshmark: Which Reselling App Reigns?
Tired of overflowing closets and the guilt of unworn clothes? The online marketplace is booming, offering a solution for both buyers and sellers. But with so many platforms vying for your attention, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of reselling to help you find the perfect fit.
We’ll be comparing some of the biggest names in the game: Depop, Mercari, and Poshmark. Each platform offers a unique set of features, target audiences, and selling experiences. This comparison will break down the key differences, helping you decide which app is best suited for your selling style and what you are looking to buy.
Whether you’re a seasoned seller or just starting to declutter, understanding the nuances of platforms like Depop and Mercari is crucial. We’ll explore everything from fees and shipping to community and ease of use. Get ready to discover which reselling app will become your new go-to for fashion finds and financial gains!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Depop | Mercari |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Gen Z & Millennials | Broad |
| Listing Style | Visual, Social Media-focused | Simple, Quick |
| Shipping | Buyer or Seller Pays | Seller Pays (often) or Buyer Pays |
| Seller Fees | 10% | 10% |
| Payment Processing | Depop Payments, PayPal | Mercari Balance, Other |
| Item Types | Fashion, Vintage, Streetwear | Wide Variety |
| Best For | Trendy, curated styles | Quick sales of various items |
| Community Features | Following, Likes, Messaging | Messaging |
| Negotiation | Offers encouraged | Offers allowed |
| Return Policy | Varies, often seller-specific | Limited |
| Listing Duration | Until sold | Until sold or manually renewed |
| Marketing Tools | Promoted Listings | Promoted Listings |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Target Audience
- Depop: Primarily Gen Z and young millennials. Focuses on trendy, vintage, and streetwear fashion. Appeals to users who value aesthetics and social interaction.
- Mercari: Broad audience. Attracts users looking for a wide variety of items, including clothing, electronics, and household goods. Often appeals to those looking for a quick and easy selling experience.
- Winner: depop
Listing Process
- Depop: Emphasizes visual appeal. Listings require photos and can include videos. Allows for creative descriptions and hashtagging.
- Mercari: Simple and straightforward. Listings require photos and basic descriptions. Less emphasis on stylistic presentation.
- Winner: mercari
Seller Fees
- Depop: 10% commission fee on sales, plus PayPal fees if applicable.
- Mercari: 10% commission fee on sales, plus payment processing fees.
- Winner: Tie
Payment Processing
- Depop: Integrates with PayPal and Depop Payments.
- Mercari: Processes payments through Mercari Balance, with options for direct deposit.
- Winner: Tie
Shipping Options
- Depop: Offers integrated shipping labels and encourages sellers to handle shipping.
- Mercari: Provides integrated shipping labels with set prices based on weight and size, simplifying the process.
- Winner: mercari
Social Features
- Depop: Strong social media integration, with features like followers, likes, and a “Shop” feed.
- Mercari: Limited social features, focusing more on the transaction itself.
- Winner: depop
Search & Discovery
- Depop: Strong emphasis on visual discovery and browsing, with curated feeds and trending items.
- Mercari: Offers robust search functionality, allowing users to easily find specific items.
- Winner: mercari
Return Policy & Buyer Protection
- Depop: Limited buyer protection, with disputes handled on a case-by-case basis.
- Mercari: Offers a more comprehensive buyer protection policy, ensuring refunds for eligible issues.
- Winner: mercari
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best for Trendy Fashion | Depop |
| Best for Quick Sales | Mercari |
| Best for Variety of Items | Mercari |
| Best for Visual Appeal | Depop |
| Best for Ease of Use | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Seller Fees: Both platforms charge a commission fee on sales, allowing sellers to reach a larger audience.
- Mobile-First: Both Depop and Mercari are primarily mobile apps, making it easy to list and browse items on the go.
- Buyer Protection: Both platforms offer buyer protection policies to safeguard against fraud and ensure a satisfactory transaction.
- Messaging: Both platforms have integrated messaging systems that allows buyers and sellers to communicate directly.
- Ease of Use: Both platforms are designed to be user-friendly, allowing quick listing and purchasing processes.
Depop Vs Mercari Vs Poshmark Buying Guide
Depop Buying Guide
Depop thrives on its social media-esque interface. The platform’s emphasis on visual appeal and influencer marketing makes it a strong choice for trend-driven items and unique, vintage finds. When buying on Depop, carefully examine seller profiles, paying close attention to their ratings, reviews, and the quality of their photos. Read descriptions thoroughly, checking for any flaws or imperfections. Communicate with sellers directly to ask questions, negotiate prices, and clarify shipping details. Understand that prices can be higher due to the platform’s aesthetic focus. Always use the platform’s secure payment system to protect yourself. Consider the shipping costs, which can vary widely.
Mercari Buying Guide
Mercari offers a streamlined and straightforward buying experience, often appealing to those looking for everyday items and more competitive pricing. Before purchasing, review the seller’s profile, including their ratings and feedback. Check the item description meticulously for details on condition, size, and any included accessories. Mercari encourages offers, so don’t be afraid to negotiate a lower price. Compare prices across similar listings to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Pay close attention to shipping costs, as these can significantly impact the final price. Mercari offers a fast and reliable shipping system.
Poshmark Buying Guide
Poshmark is known for its focus on fashion and accessories, with a strong emphasis on brand-name items. When buying, examine the seller’s “closet” for a curated selection and consistent style. Read the item description and check the photos carefully for authenticity and condition. Poshmark often features “closet clear-out” sales and bundle discounts, so look for deals. Engage in the “offer” feature to negotiate prices, especially on items you’re interested in. Be aware of Poshmark’s shipping costs, which are typically a flat rate. Poshmark emphasizes community interaction.
Depop – What to Look For
Depop’s visual culture encourages buying based on aesthetics. Focus on clear, well-lit photos. Examine the seller’s styling choices – do they align with your taste? Check for genuine product details within the description, verifying the material, sizing, and any potential flaws. Look for sellers with detailed descriptions and a proven track record of positive reviews. Verify the seller’s communication style and responsiveness, as this will impact your buying experience.
Mercari – What to Look For
Mercari’s strength lies in its simplicity and competitive pricing. Look for sellers with high ratings and a good number of sales. Pay attention to the item’s condition rating; Mercari uses a clear grading system. Compare prices of similar items from different sellers to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Check shipping costs and estimated delivery times before committing to a purchase. Look for sellers offering fast shipping and good communication skills. Verify any included accessories and original packaging.
Poshmark – What to Look For
Poshmark is centered around fashion, so examine the seller’s style and the overall presentation. Look for items that match your personal taste. Review the item’s condition in detail, paying close attention to any imperfections. Check for brand authenticity, especially for designer items. Consider the seller’s closet for deals and bundle offers. Poshmark is a social platform, so look for sellers who are active and responsive to questions. Be sure to check sizing charts and descriptions to ensure accurate fit.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Depop If…
- You’re looking for unique, trendy, or vintage fashion items.
- You enjoy a social media-like browsing experience with a focus on visuals.
- You want to support independent sellers and curated styles.
- You are looking for streetwear.
Buy Mercari If…
- You’re looking for a wide variety of items, not just fashion.
- You want a quick and straightforward buying and selling process.
- You want to find deals on items that are priced to sell.
- You are looking for everyday items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the return policy on Depop?
Depop’s return policy is primarily dependent on the seller. Depop encourages buyers and sellers to resolve issues directly. If an item is significantly not as described, you can open a dispute. Depop may step in to mediate the dispute if an agreement isn’t reached. Always review the seller’s return policies before purchasing.
What is the return policy on Mercari?
Mercari offers a buyer protection policy. If an item arrives not as described, is damaged during shipping, or is counterfeit, you can request a return. You have a limited time to report the issue. Mercari will then review the case and make a decision, which may include a full refund. Always document any issues with photos.
What is the return policy on Poshmark?
Poshmark offers a similar buyer protection policy. If an item is not as described, you can open a case with Poshmark. You must provide evidence to support your claim. Poshmark will investigate and make a decision based on the details. They typically don’t allow returns for items that don’t fit.
How do I pay on Depop?
Depop allows payments through various methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. Payment is processed through Depop Payments, ensuring secure transactions. Your funds are held until the item is delivered and you confirm the order. This helps to protect both buyers and sellers from fraud.
How do I pay on Mercari?
Mercari supports payments via credit cards, debit cards, and Mercari balance. The Mercari balance is typically credited once a sale is completed. The payment is processed securely through Mercari’s system. Funds are held until the buyer confirms the delivery and accepts the item.
How do I pay on Poshmark?
Poshmark accepts payments via credit cards, debit cards, and Poshmark credits. The payment is processed through Poshmark’s secure system. Funds are held until the buyer confirms the order. This ensures a safe and secure transaction for both the buyer and the seller. They provide a simple, secure checkout process.
How does shipping work on each platform?
Depop shipping depends on the seller; some offer shipping options. Mercari offers prepaid shipping labels with set costs, while Poshmark has a flat shipping rate. Each platform has distinct shipping methods and costs. It’s essential to check the shipping details on each listing and consider the shipping costs before making a purchase.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best platform depends on your needs. For visually driven finds and a social experience, Depop is a great choice. Mercari is ideal for streamlined transactions and competitive prices. Poshmark is best for fashion and brand-name items. Each has its strengths, making the “best” platform subjective.
Winner: Mercari