If you’re like most consumers, online shopping is a normal part of your daily life. From groceries to electronics to fashion and everything in between, shopping online seems to be the way to go. According to Statista, the number of digital buyers grew to 2.14 billion in 2021.
Whether it’s the appeal of shopping from your own home for everyday essentials or looking for great prices on brand-new items, there are many good reasons for shopping online. You get amazing benefits like finding more deals and a larger selection than you can indoors. Not to mention shopping in your pajamas!
Today, many online shopping websites make it easy to get what you want, so we’re here to talk about the best online shopping sites only.
Whether it’s due to selection, a fantastic online shopping experience, exemplary customer service, or just that the company offers free shipping, we’ve compiled a list of the top players in online shopping.
If you want to know where you should be shopping (and why), keep reading.
Amazon
Let’s start with the best. Amazon has revolutionized the way we shop – for the better. They offer a huge selection, quick shipping, a valuable membership option, and that all-too-easy buy now button.
Amazon doesn’t directly compete with independent designers; it hosts them. As an online marketplace, Amazon allows you to seamlessly shop through everything from toilet paper to collections from luxury brands and designer fashion (like Oscar de la Renta).
Although it started as an online bookstore, Amazon soon became much more – to the point that it’s hard to imagine life without it. In 2021, this ecommerce giant raked in $469.8 billion in revenue.
In addition to an endless selection, Amazon included arguably some of the fastest shipping times thanks to Prime. Prime is a membership option that gives participants exclusive access to everything from two-day shipping (or as fast as the same day) to discounts at other retailers (like Whole Foods) and video and music streaming.
Lastly, Amazon developed (and patented) the “buy now” button, making it ridiculously easy to purchase what you want quickly.
While Amazon is not necessarily known for the best customer service or rock bottom prices, it is undoubtedly one of the best online shopping sites that will deliver what you need (regardless of what that is) in record time.
Within the past few years, Amazon has stepped up its game with additions like Amazon Fashion, Amazon Echo, Ring Devices, and other smart technology!
While Amazon is dominated the world of ecommerce, its sellers may tell a different story. Sellers on Amazon make little to nothing, especially compared to the company’s startling revenue that only seems to be increasing. Selling on Amazon is a good way to dip your toe into the ecommerce business, but I wouldn’t go in with high expectations.
Alibaba
Much like Amazon, Alibaba is an online marketplace with an extensive range of items. Coming in at around $109.48 billion USD in 2021, It is the world’s number one business marketplace.
Want the latest style of graphic tees, personalized jewelry, or tech at affordable prices?
Alibaba is the perfect service provider.
As a company based in China, the overseas aspect ensures competitive pricing on almost all products. It also typically comes with lower minimums for businesses purchasing items in bulk.
However, unlike Amazon, don’t expect that affordable price to come with quick delivery. There is no same-day shipping with Alibaba, and consumers can sometimes perceive purchases as lower quality.
If you’re looking for beauty products for daily use (and you’re almost out), stick with Amazon. If you’re selling beauty products in your business or as an online retailer, Alibaba is the go-to online site.
Walmart
Walmart was a well-known brand long before online shopping was crucial to our daily lives. Not only is Walmart known for having a wide range of items, but it also established itself as a discount warehouse that competes on price.
As online shopping gained traction, so did Walmart’s own ecommerce solution.
In 2021 alone, online shopping resulted in more than $60 billion in sales from Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sams Club combined. It’s a simple, easy-to-use and navigate website, and affordable options ensure the right combination for any savvy shopper.
While you won’t find luxury fashion on Walmart’s website, you will find current, cute clothes and everyday wear, home decor, grocery items, furniture, toys, and much more at cheap prices.
In addition to everything the site offers, Walmart utilizes the online shopping site seamlessly with its many brick-and-mortar retail locations. That gives anyone who shopped online options to choose delivery or in-store and curbside pick-up.
And if you don’t like what shows up, free returns by mail, scheduled pick-up, or the local store make it easy to shop confidently.
Home Depot
If you have spent any time at Home Depot, you know these home improvement warehouses offer everything from painting to gardening supplies and kitchen tiles to equipment rentals. And when it comes to online shopping sites, it’s no wonder they have made a seamless experience for the DIYer (or contractors needing supplies). This go-to supply brand has reached ecommerce success, bringing in just above $20 billion for their 2021 online revenue.
When you shop online with Home Depot, you have several delivery options. On most orders over $45, normal delivery is free, but you can also select a same-day delivery option within certain parameters. As you might expect, the cost depends on what you order. A pack of nails isn’t the same as a new washer and dryer, but just like other retailers we’ve covered, the individual stores act like their own warehouses to support the Home Depot online shopping experience.
Target
Target, like Walmart, is an online retailer that is supported by its many retail locations.
Target is the ultimate destination for the latest styles for fashion lovers, from men’s and women’s clothing to kid’s clothing. Target is known for high-quality clothing and partnerships that have introduced designer brands into the retail space. In addition, Target has areas for home goods, electronics, toys, groceries, and more in its own warehouses.
Target’s online stores took the in-store experience and introduced it to shoppers buying online, generating a revenue of $19.7 billion in 2021. With a simple-to-use site that integrates seamlessly with stores, you can have same-day delivery and in-store or curbside pick-up options to get things done quickly and easily.
Target has a RedCard option that offers free 2-day shipping. Shipping is also free when you spend more than $35. And with sales and in-app offers, you can often find coupon codes to make your order even more affordable!
Best Buy
If you’ve ever shopped at a Best Buy store, you know they are the one-stop shop for all things electronics. With a 2021 annual revenue of $18.67 billion, their online store makes the list of best online shopping sites.
Whether you’re looking for a new tv, laptop, iPhone, or appliance, Best Buy is the major retailer in the electronics space.
In addition to selection, daily deals make it easy to save money on the Best Buy shopping site. And like some of the other online stores with retail locations, if you prefer to pick up in-store, Best Buy makes that easy too.
Wayfair
Shopping online for furniture can be daunting. Most items are larger than simple fashion items, but they’re also more intricate to assemble and need to be measured to fit into small spaces.
The good news is that Wayfair makes buying furniture easy with its online shopping website.
The first thing Wayfair does well is make finding what you need in a sea of items simple. Thanks to filters and sorting, you can narrow down an item quickly. They also integrate reviews and a high level of detail about every piece so you can get a better idea of how it will work in your house. Their intuitive shopping experience has certainly paid off since they reported $13.70 billion in annual revenue for 2021.
Wayfair’s online store isn’t completely free of shipping costs, but with a low cost of under $5 for orders under $35, you’ll rarely pay anything given the type of items they sell.
eBay
With annual revenue of $13.6 billion in 2021, it’s no shock that eBay made the list of top shopping websites. When it comes to online shopping sites, eBay is a recognizable name.
The site features millions of items, from vintage clothing and vintage pieces to designer items to electronics and rare postage stamps.
Online shopping was revolutionized when eBay created its marketplace, allowing individuals and businesses to sell items on the platform to the end user.
While pricing varies by vendor, the competitive nature of the site means that eBay has affordable prices compared to online shopping sites.
It also has buyer protection in place to make the online store more trustworthy than it might be to buy something from a stranger in another situation.
If you’re looking for something unique, whether new or old, skip the department stores and traditional online shopping sites in favor of a world that allows you to connect with anyone selling anything.
Costco
Famous for its bulk items, this shopping website reported $13.44 billion for its 2021 online annual revenue. The Costco model has relied on selling products in a warehouse, where buying in bulk helps support affordable prices.
At Costco, you can get anything from bulk cereals and toilet paper rolls to fine jewelry (like wedding rings) and home decor. Shopping at Costco can save money and introduce you to new and unique brands.
So how does the in-person experience compare to shopping at Costco’s online company website?
The first big difference that makes Costco one of the best online shopping sites is that the required standard membership doesn’t apply online. And while a 5% surcharge is added if you’re not a member, it still is competitive with standard pricing from other online stores.
When it comes to delivery, same-day delivery is free if you spend more than $35, and 2-day delivery is free if you spend more than $75.
Another difference that makes Costco’s online shopping website a top-tier option is that they offer more products (approximately 10,000) online, which is more than double what you’ll find in a typical warehouse.
Shopping at Costco online means, you can access a wide range of products at competitive pricing and delivery time.
Kohl’s
You may enjoy shopping at Kohl’s if you’re looking to save money on stylish clothes, shoes, jewelry, and home goods.
Thanks to promotions like Kohl’s Cash and competitive pricing, Kohl’s has seen an online revenue of $5.91 billion for 2021. And its online store provides even more access to trendy pieces and classic styles that satisfy everyone in the home.
Shopping at Kohl’s online gives you an amazing assortment of options due to Kohl’s online-exclusive items. With these items, you can feel unique knowing you have something that can’t be found in stores!
One of the reasons Kohl’s makes this list is because their commitment to value continues when you shop online. Visitors can easily use Kohl’s Cash, gain discounts by signing up for newsletters, and choose a local store to utilize in-store pick-up.
While Kohl’s may not be in the category of cheapest online shopping sites, it definitely provides an excellent option for anyone who wants to use an online fashion retailer that cares about delivering a good value.
Overstock
Much like Wayfair, Overstock is known for selling items in the furniture and home decor market. They offer a wide range of items, from rugs to tables to lighting.
Overstock also makes it easy to find what you want on its massive online shopping website.
Another way Overstock makes buying furniture less daunting is by using testimonials for each item, clear descriptions, measurements, and more. But, unlike their competitor Wayfair, Overstock offers free shipping without the $35 minimum.
Overstock is one of the best online shopping sites if you’re in the market for furniture and you want free shipping for even the smallest items. Their amazing deals and free shipping have earned them a 2021 revenue of $2.80 billion and a spot on the top shopping sites.
Etsy
Another easily recognizable name in the ecommerce industry, Etsy is an unsurprising marketplace that makes our list of the best online shopping websites with their 2021 revenue of $2.3 billion.
Unlike eBay, where items could be new, used, etc., Etsy is a marketplace for handmade items (Amazon has also entered this space with Amazon Handmade).
If you want to purchase a table or rug but don’t want to buy it from one of the big-name retailers, you can jump over to Etsy’s online store and support a local artist who may be in another state or country.
You’ll find a wide mix of items on Etsy, from sustainable clothing to baby bibs to home decor items and more. Plus, you’ll be supporting an individual or small business rather than a large name.
Etsy makes it incredibly easy to shop small while maintaining a user-friendly experience.
Wish
Wish is on our top shoppers’ list because it is one of the cheapest online shopping sites and marketplaces.
Wish vendors sell items like women’s clothing, electronics, and various gadgets at deeply discounted prices. And while that is enough to make it fun to shop, it’s one of the only reasons it makes the cut for a top online store.
Due to the low costs, some consumers find that a woman’s clothing might look more like a child’s garment when they purchase it.
Fortunately, reviews are included, so be sure to check those as you have fun searching for anything at a discount.
Despite their extremely low costs and often mixed reviews, they managed to bring in $2.08 billion for the 2021 fiscal year!
Best Clothing Stores
Who doesn’t love the beauty of shopping at a clothing store? And shopping at one online only makes it that much better.
Now that we’ve covered a general list of the best online shopping sites, it’s time to jump into the best clothing stores. From those with designer clothes to free returns, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find everything from high-end brands to affordable fashion on these top clothing websites.
There are plenty of reasons to shop online, but if you’re looking for some great deals, check out our list of the best online clothing stores. All of these stores have their own handy, user-friendly apps that you can install through Android, iOS, or Google.
Nordstrom
Nordstrom is known among fashion lovers for its selection of designers (you’ll find Free People here, among others) and its exceptional customer service. So when you shop online, you can expect that and more from this excellent brand.
One example is Nordstrom’s policies on shipping and returns.
You can choose whatever is best for you, including free shipping to a local store or an address of your choice. Drop your items off at a store or use the free mail option for returns.
Nordstrom’s online experience makes it easy to enjoy browsing and to feel confident when you shop.
Does Nordstrom’s price tag make you cringe? Not a problem. Nordstrom Rack is the ultimate savior for designer styles at amazing deals and is a sister brand to Nordstrom.
The first thing you’ll notice about Nordstrom Rack is its size. It’s not just smaller than most department stores, but it’s also smaller than many discount retailers. That means you’ll likely find better deals here for inexpensive luxury items. And if you don’t see what you want, they offer free shipping on all orders over $89.
With the popularity of Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack’s online stores combined, this brand raked in $6.04 billion for the 2021 fiscal year.
ASOS
Reporting a revenue of $3.98 billion for 2021, ASOS is a high-quality online retailer with over 850 clothing and cosmetics brands. The focus is on the latest styles, attracting a younger crowd looking for what’s current.
Online, ASOS makes it easy to sort through categories with numerous filters and attractive, inclusive sizing options.
When it comes to shipping, you’ll find a free option for orders over $50 and expedited options if you’re in a hurry. You can also send your order to a UPS or Nordstrom collection point, making it easy to get your trendy items on the double.
American Eagle Outfitters
American Eagle Outfitters is a great option if you’re on the hunt for youthful, trendy items. This shopping mall staple brought in $1.80 billion in online sales for 2021. It has slightly better quality than competitors like Forever 21 but at a lower price point than ASOS and Nordstrom.
American Eagle Outfitters has a heavy focus on women’s clothing, including jeans and activewear, and you can shop its robust options in various departments.
Once you find what you like, you can usually find a good coupon code to make it more affordable. And, if you spend more than $75, shipping is free.
Need to return an item?
Thanks to American Eagle Outfitters retail locations, you can quickly return them in person for free or send them back by mail for a restocking fee of $5.
American Eagle Outfitters is the online shopping website for you if you’re looking for a wide selection of quality, stylish items in a mid-price range.
Boohoo
Looking for a fast fashion site that has it all? The UK retailer Boohoo is the place to shop for men’s and women’s trendy clothing. Boohoo typically has a higher price point than competitors like Forever 21, but the site features plenty of sales, so you can still get a good deal on what you love.
Another bonus of Boohoo is its line made of recycled materials that support a commitment to sustainability.
One thing to note, Boohoo isn’t as competitive on shipping, and you may not know where those items are coming from, so expect to spend $9.99 and up for shipping options and wait up to 8 days for delivery if you’re in the US. Despite the higher shipping costs and wait times, they still managed to make $1.78 billion USD in sales for 2021.
Boohoo owns a similar shopping website, Pretty Little Thing, where you can find an amazing selection of chic styles to choose from. Boohoo bought out Pretty Little Thing in 2020 and has made the two brands staples in stylish and sustainable fashion.
Don’t Forget to Bookmark These Incredible Sites!
And there you have it!
We’ve wrapped up our list of top online shopping websites for 2022. Be sure to bookmark these amazing websites for your next shopping extravaganza! You won’t be sorry.
Whether you want to buy a handmade gift for a friend, a trendy item for going out, or just some basic toilet paper, you can find the best online shopping websites to meet your need. In today’s day and age, you can shop from home with ease and convenience. Everything you could possibly need is just a few clicks away!
Want to learn more about starting your own ecommerce business? Check out our article here.
