The battle between Amazon and AliExpress is more alive than ever—two of the most globally recognized companies when it comes to online shopping. Both have millions of users worldwide, but one lingering question remains: Which is really the better option for Mexican shoppers?

Today, we’re going to analyze the key points of each to determine which is better. We’ll look at prices, customer service, shipping times, similarities and differences, and much more. By the end, you’ll be able to conclude whether Amazon is better than AliExpress or vice versa.

Amazon vs. AliExpress in 2024: Who Wins the E-commerce Battle?

Amazon vs. AliExpress Comparison

Amazon and AliExpress, two giants with different approaches and characteristics in 2024.

Amazon is a global American corporation in online sales founded in 1994, while AliExpress is an e-commerce platform established by small Chinese businesses in 2010.

With this brief description, we’re ready to start analyzing the key differences between Amazon and AliExpress:

Prices

One of the main factors behind AliExpress’s success is its low pricing policy. Although prices have slightly increased recently, it’s still much cheaper compared to its rival today.

The main reason is that most of its products are made within China, so production materials are cheaper. There are no intermediaries; you can buy directly from the manufacturers.

This makes it cheaper than Amazon.

Additionally, merchants on Amazon often resell products they purchase from Chinese suppliers, often from companies like AliExpress, Shopee, or Temu. As a result, they add a margin to cover costs and gain profit, contributing to higher prices on Amazon.

While it’s possible to find great deals on Amazon, AliExpress has the advantage.

Payment Methods

Both Amazon and AliExpress offer various traditional payment providers.

When shopping on Amazon, you can pay with credit and debit cards, whether Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express. Amazon gift cards are also available.

AliExpress allows you to pay with the same credit and debit options as Amazon, along with PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

However, if you switch to "Ship to Mexico" in the top bar, you’re offered only Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, and Mercado Pago. This makes AliExpress a better option as it accepts local methods, reducing additional costs.

But what’s the most convenient option?

Use the DolarApp international card. This way you can pay in foreign currency and save on conversion transactions. With this alternative you can transfer your pesos to a dollar account at the best exchange rate.

Product Variety

Both platforms sell all kinds of products.

Amazon covers all imaginable categories. Most of its products are from internationally recognized brands, although it’s possible to find exclusive items from its own brand. With an Amazon Prime subscription, you gain access to other benefits.

AliExpress also offers an immense variety of products. But it stands out for offering unique items that might not be available in other markets.

Which store is better, Amazon or AliExpress?

If it’s just about variety, they can be considered on the same level.

The distinguishing difference lies in quality. Amazon has a more balanced and reliable catalog, while on AliExpress, the quality and reliability of some products can be variable.

Shipping Costs

When shopping on Amazon or AliExpress, it’s important to research everything about shipping costs.

On Amazon, this aspect varies depending on the product, package size, weight, and shipping option selected. Generally, it tends to be more expensive, especially if you choose expedited shipping.

AliExpress can be the cheaper option for small products, although it also varies depending on the shipping method.

On the other hand, there’s the option to shop on AliExpress Mexico or Amazon Mexico, which means lower shipping costs in both cases.

Shipping Times

This point also depends on the method chosen.

Amazon offers various shipping options to Mexico. For example, if you choose standard shipping, you could receive the order within 7 to 14 business days. But if you’re subscribed to Amazon Prime, deliveries arrive in 3 to 5 days if the product is eligible.

While AliExpress has many alternatives for shipping, packages tend to arrive over a longer period. Aside from the shipping method you choose, it depends on the seller’s location.

Express shipping, for example, can take between 10 and 15 days, while standard shipping can take up to 60 days.

In this sense, which is better, Amazon or AliExpress?

Amazon. Its delivery times are considerably shorter than those of AliExpress.

Returns

Amazon offers a more standardized and flexible returns process than AliExpress. Its return policy states that the product can be returned within 30 days of receipt.

On AliExpress, you have up to 15 days after receiving the item to return it to the store. However, the process is usually more complex and variable.

In both cases, items are verified to see if they match the claim request.

If you need a refund, the time will be determined by the payment provider you choose for the refund.

Discounts and Coupons

When shopping on Amazon or AliExpress, you’ll see a space to enter a discount code before completing the process.

However, AliExpress has a much richer offering in this area, and you can find them in different ways. For example, through store promotions from the seller or coupons during special events like Black Friday.

Coupons are cumulative.

Meanwhile, Amazon prioritizes direct promotions, meaning that coupons and discount codes are less frequent.

Coupons are usually tied to specific products and can be found on the product page. You just have to click to apply it, and it will automatically reflect in the shopping cart.

Similarly, you can add discount codes during the payment process, although they are not easy to find. Generally, they’re limited to certain marketing campaigns or special promotions.

Flash Sales

Amazon regularly offers flash sales throughout the year in its various categories. But Prime Day or events like Cyber Monday are where you can make the most of them. Amazon Prime members usually get early access.

AliExpress isn’t far behind, as these offers abound on the platform and are available to all users. Likewise, they increase when important dates like 11.11 approach.

However, in this comparison of Amazon vs. AliExpress, AliExpress is the clear winner. Its vast product catalog is practically always on sale.

Customer Service

Both platforms offer customer support services, which include a series of menus for making inquiries.

However, if we compare Amazon vs. AliExpress in terms of resolutions, the American giant wins.

AliExpress’s policy suggests contacting the seller first if the product received isn’t as expected. The platform only intervenes if you can’t reach a solution with the seller, but you’ll have to open a dispute.

From this perspective, Amazon’s quality is superior, as you don’t have to interact with the seller to resolve the issue. The company will provide an effective solution quickly and without much hassle.

Amazon vs. AliExpress: Pros and Cons

When it comes to online shopping, Amazon and AliExpress are two of the main options. Indeed, each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and here are some of them:

So, Which Is Better, Amazon or AliExpress?

The most convenient option might be Amazon if you want to receive your products faster, as it’s usually quicker than AliExpress. Especially if you’re subscribed to Amazon Prime.

Now, if you’re not in a rush and the product isn’t available on Amazon Mexico but is on AliExpress, there’s no need to think twice. AliExpress is the most suitable store as it sells at much lower prices.

However, other factors need to be considered, such as customer service, shipping policies, returns, and refunds.

While you face the same risks on Amazon or AliExpress regarding defective products, the giant is known for providing better solutions. Whether it’s refunding your money or replacing the item with little explanation.

In contrast, with AliExpress, you might lose more time in the process by having to consult with the seller first.

It all depends on your criteria as a buyer and what benefits you the most. We also recommend checking product and seller reviews on both platforms. This way, the decision to shop on Amazon or AliExpress will be easier.