Depop vs Vinted - the thrifting showdown

Depop and vinted are both popular online markets for selling and purchasing second hand items, especially fashion. While they share a similar purpose, both platforms have differences for both sellers and buyers...

...from a sellers perspective, selling on the Vinted platform results in a larger percentage of profit being returned on the item, sellers who use the Vinted platform do not need to worry about any fees, buyers instead pay a small buyer protection fee and cover shipping costs. This is different to Depop which results in sellers being obligated to pay a 10% commission on each sale while also having to pay a fee to the payment platform Paypal. 

Regarding the platforms social features, Depop outshines Vinted by allowing sellers to create a personalised brand and "shop", this enables sellers to customise their profiles in order to showcase their style and personality. Sellers also are able to link their social media accounts - these may be business or personal accounts. 

Vinted's social features on the other hand are much less prominent, allowing sellers to follow other sellers in order to keep up with trends and consumer wants, showcasing buyers interest through an activities tab, letting the seller know when a potential buyer likes their item, as well as allowing sellers to create collections which can help them organise their items. Although all of these are features Depop has had implemented since they launched in 2011. 

Although the subject of shipping is much simpler when using the Vinted platform, this is because Vinted offers sellers built-in shipping labels and tracking, this is different to Depop which leaves sellers to usually handle shipping on their own. 

...Now from a buyers perspective, Vinted has been seen to be much more straightforward, with its primary focus being based around transactions, Depop on the other hand is much more social and personalised, with a wider range of brands and styles. 

This means that buyers who are looking for a thrifting experience which is simple and straightforward, with a wide range of items may find the Vinted platform most suitable for them. Although buyers who have an interest in discovering new brands and trends, connecting with other users, as well as finding unique items may find the Depop platform more suitable for them.

In terms of pricing, finding a bargain on depop may be difficult, Vinted on the other hand is full of great deals as the platform is used to clear out peoples wardrobes quickly rather than make a profit from it. This is a different case for Depop as many deem it to be overpriced. Many items have been seen to be sold for double the price due to high consumer demand, as well as many items being falsely advertised as vintage, although in reality they have been produced in the recent years. Despite this, many great deals can be found on both platforms, although Vinted definitely beats Depop in terms of having more bargains which reflect a good value for money. 

Overall both platforms are great for both sellers and buyers. Both platforms offer two different experiences with both pros and cons, it's all about finding out which one is most suitable for you. Many users of these platforms have been seen to rotate between the two, depending on budget, item type and past experiences.