Facebook Marketplace vs. TikTok Shop: Here’s Where Americans Prefer Shopping

In contrast, TikTok Shop is more trend-based. “TikTok Shop is driven by ever-evolving trends, often fueled by influencer endorsements, which can encourage more impulsive purchases,” Sallenave continued. “Our data shows that Americans spend an average of three hours per day browsing social media products, and a whopping 99% admit these sessions often lead to a purchase. While Facebook Marketplace is great for intentional shopping, TikTok Shop excels in capturing the thrill of trendy, spontaneous buys.”

The main reason many Americans enjoy shopping on TikTok Shop is the overall experience it provides. “TikTok Shop has revolutionized the online shopping experience by blending it with entertainment,” Sallenave said. “It’s not just about buying; it’s about engaging with content that feels exciting and fresh. Our internal data shows an impressive 320% increase in monthly spending by our members on TikTok Shop from September 2023 to August 2024, along with a 220% jump in transaction volume.”

For better or for worse, shopping on TikTok Shop is a seamless experience. “The platform makes adding items to your cart almost effortless, which could explain why we found that Americans spent an average of $168 on social media purchases in the past six months, with clothing (46%) and fashion accessories (30%) being the most popular categories,” Sallenave noted. “TikTok’s seamless integration of shopping and content creation makes it easy for users to discover and purchase new items.”

According to the Chime survey, “just browsing” on social media likely leads to a purchase for 99% of Americans. Making an impulse purchase every now and then is OK, but when it becomes a habit, it can derail your budget.

“Social media has turned shopping into a spontaneous and almost instinctive habit, but mindful spending is all about balance between treating yourself and sticking to your financial goals,” Sallenave said. “While it’s fun to indulge in an occasional splurge, it’s important to ensure that your purchases align with your needs and budget.”

Sallenave recommended setting clear spending limits and giving yourself a pause before hitting “buy,” especially for bigger-ticket items. “A good rule of thumb is to wait at least 24 hours before making a large purchase,” she said.

“It’s also essential to be aware of how targeted ads can influence your decisions,” Sallenave continued. “While the survey found that 43% of people find them helpful, 41% also express concerns about their impact. Before purchasing, take a step back to evaluate whether it’s something you really need or just a product that’s being marketed effectively. By staying aware of these tactics, you can shop with more intention and avoid unnecessary impulse buys.”

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Facebook Marketplace vs. TikTok Shop: Here’s Where Americans Prefer Shopping