For the bargain hunter, Amazon’s homepage is just the tip of the iceberg. Deep in the navigation menus lie two different worlds of savings: Amazon Outlet and Amazon Resale. While they sound similar, they serve completely different purposes. If you want to be a professional shopper, you need to know which door to open.
1. The Amazon Outlet: The Overstock Clearance
Think of the Outlet as the “Last Chance” rack at a department store. Everything here is brand new, but it’s inventory that Amazon has too much of and needs to move fast.
- What you’ll find: Clothing, home decor, and seasonal items (like patio sets in October).
- The Discount: Usually 30–70% off.
- The “Cheap” Strategy: Use the Outlet for things where “condition” matters, like bedding or gifts, since the items are factory-new.
2. Amazon Resale: The Open-Box Goldmine
Formerly known as Amazon Warehouse, Resale is where returns go to live. These are items that were shipped out, opened, and sent back.
- What you’ll find: High-end electronics, kitchen appliances, and power tools.
- The Discount: Typically 15–50% off the new price.
- The “Cheap” Strategy: Use Resale for high-ticket items where you don’t care if the cardboard box is dented, as long as the $500 espresso machine inside works perfectly.
Summary: The Pro’s Choice
| Category | Winner | Why? |
| Gifts | Outlet | The items are new and the boxes are pristine. |
| Electronics | Resale | You get massive price cuts on “Like New” tech. |
| Household Staples | Outlet | Great for “filler” items to reach free shipping. |