Looking to buy or sell items online but can't decide between Mercari and Poshmark? This comprehensive comparison will help you choose the best platform for your needs in 2026.
Mercari vs Poshmark: Complete Comparison Guide for 2026
Whether you're interested in saving money on clothes or want to start a profitable side hustle, understanding the key differences between these platforms is essential.
Platform Overview & Key Differences
While both platforms facilitate buying and selling secondhand items, they cater to slightly different markets and have distinct features:
- Mercari: More diverse categories, lower fees (10% + $0.30), no social aspect required
- Poshmark: Fashion-focused, higher fees ($2.95 for sales under $15, 20% for over $15), social sharing emphasis
1. Selling Fees Comparison
Mercari Fees
- Flat 10% commission on all sales
- Additional $0.30 payment processing fee
- No listing fees
- Direct deposit fee: $2 (instant transfer)
Poshmark Fees
- $2.95 flat fee for sales under $15
- 20% commission on sales $15 and above
- No listing fees
- Free direct deposit
2. Shipping Options
Mercari Shipping
- Multiple carrier options (USPS, FedEx, UPS)
- Weight-based shipping costs ($3.65 - $12)
- Seller can offer free shipping
Poshmark Shipping
- Flat-rate shipping via USPS Priority Mail ($7.67)
- Seller can offer shipping discounts
- 5 lb weight limit included
3. Available Categories
If you're looking to sell items locally or online, both platforms offer different category focuses:
Mercari Categories
- Fashion and accessories
- Electronics
- Home goods
- Toys and games
- Sports equipment
- Beauty products
Poshmark Categories
- Women's fashion
- Men's fashion
- Kids' fashion
- Home decor
- Beauty products
- Pet accessories
4. User Experience & Features
Mercari Features
- Smart Pricing tool
- Promote to Likers feature
- Quick and easy listing process
- Rating system for buyers and sellers
Poshmark Features
- Posh Parties (virtual shopping events)
- Social sharing capabilities
- Offer to Likers feature
- Bundle discounts
5. Best Selling Items
For those interested in selling vintage items or modern pieces, here's what sells best on each platform:
Top Sellers on Mercari
- Electronics and gaming items
- Collectibles
- Designer brands
- Toys and games
Top Sellers on Poshmark
- Designer clothing
- Luxury accessories
- Popular brand names (Nike, Lululemon, etc.)
- Trendy fashion items
Alternative: Start Your Own Online Store
While Mercari and Poshmark are excellent marketplaces for casual sellers, serious resellers might want to consider starting their own online store with Shopify. Starting at $39 per month, Shopify allows you to:
- Build your own brand identity
- Keep more profits (no marketplace fees)
- Control your customer relationships
- Integrate with multiple sales channels
- Access powerful analytics and inventory tools
Final Words
Choose Mercari if you're selling various items beyond fashion and prefer lower fees. Opt for Poshmark if you're focused on fashion items and don't mind the social aspects of marketing your listings. Both platforms offer secure transactions and reliable shipping options, making them excellent choices for online selling in 2026.