Amazon.com - Not the cheapest, but still the best
Written: Feb 08 '02

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Amazon is obviously has the most presence of any e-retailer on the net. It is geared toward the masses. I used to think its key was marketing, but I sooned realized that they are ahead because they cater to the customer.
Speed
They get their products out quick. They give you the "usually ships within 3-4 days...24-48 hrs...etc" but you can usually take the low end. When you come home to see an amazon box, you are always presently surprised with how quick it gets there. This is a big deal and will make you go back.
When there is a problem with your product (eg. it is taking longer than expected to ship), they will contact you right away and explain the situation.
I had to send back a defective DVD and all you have to do is go through a few steps and they will send you a new one even before the old one gets back. This seems impossible, but this is how it seemed to me. They will pick up the shipping tab both ways.
Ease & Selection
The cart process could not be easier. Your cookies will stay in your browser a long time, so it is usually just a matter of a few clicks before you have checked out.
Many e-retailers have slow sights for whatever reasons(I guess security), but Amazon is above average. Also the selection is excellent. I guess they would like to become the online "Wal-Mart" and they are on there way.
Another simple thing that Amazon has never done that many other retailers have is sent the wrong product.
Community
The many customer features makes it fun to shop(this could also be a dangerous thing!). They are one of the first e-retailers I can of think of to offer wishlists and "customer might also like this." Also, everyone loves to read the customer reviews, even though they are only one or five stars. Only people who really love or hate a product weigh in with their opinions.
Now you can create your own little page with lists and some other miscellaneous things. People seem to gravitate toward this sense of community.
Price
Amazon's is neither cheap nor expensive. There shipping charges are above average. I always thought that you should always go with the lowest possible price when shopping online. But many have been dissuaded of this by Amazon. They are willing to pay a few dollars extra just to have somewhere they can go and trust and save time.
Plus, you can often save some money, because they are always offering some kind of coupons like "10 off 50" or "5 off 35" Just search around a little bit (techbargains.com, ebates.com)
Overall, Amazon will really appeal to you if you are not experienced and scared to buy online.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: Gov9
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Member: John
Location: Laurel Springs, NJ
Reviews written: 30
Trusted by: 4 members
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