Depop is a handy way to buy and sell online

Depop is a simple mobile selling tool, essentially a simple, streamlined alternative (or complement) to services like eBay or Etsy. To sell an item, you simply take a photo or upload one from your device, then write a short description and set a price. Prices are fixed, rather than auction-style, although the private message function allows buyers to present other offers. If the item sells, the buyer pays (usually through PayPal) and Depop takes a percentage of the price.

Selling made simple

Depop is simple to use on a mobile device; the experience is more like scrolling through photos on Instagram than browsing auction listings on eBay. In addition to the basic buying and selling functions, you can follow individual profiles to see what users with similar interests are offering. Fees are comparable to other online selling sites, and so are the problems you may run into: unrealistic pricing, hidden shipping costs and so on. Browsing listings is a little slower than some other online auction and sales sites, but that’s because of one of its strengths — the larger images.

Get started selling

This app is simple to use and easy to create listings on. It doesn’t have the reach of some of its competitors, but it does present a useful alternative or supplement to them, especially in areas where it specializes, such as vintage fashion.