Yup, easy returns are a big benefit, and keep me from completely abandoning Amazon, for now.

However, for some categories, such as batteries or electronics, even after examining all the negative reviews and rates, I've found it impossible to get non-counterfeit products. I'm happy to go to a regional specialist in such items or even to a big-box store just to get greater confidence in a genuine item.

(&yes, don't even think about getting 18650s on Amazon. I saw someone selling boxes with a Tesla logo & brand - obvious BS. I reported it and at least did see them disappear in a week, but another popped up.)

Ilumn has been my go to for 18650s for years

I've made many returns on AliExpress. I haven't even needed to ship the items back to get a refund.

Amazon will eventually drop you as a customer if you make it a regular thing to file returns.

I have regularly purchased multiple items on Amazon with the intent of sending back my least preferred option for about 3 years now. I had the occasional return before that as well.

A lot of stuff on aliexpress is 2x, 3x or 4x times cheaper than amazon, so the tradeoffs are complex...

Keep pumping that well if you want but it is going to dry up.