The best thing for me (which is terrible for the environment) is the ease of returns. Free returns on just about everything and i don't have to pack it, just drop it off at the Whole Foods down the street.

I'd guess that if you bought quality products from a reputable retailer* that didn't suck, you would probably not be need to use the return option nearly as much.

*I no longer consider Amazon a reputable retailer

I mostly pick quality stuff, it has more to do with sizing, colors, etc.

I believe the OP was saying buying direct is easier (more likely to get the item you want), not necessarily cheaper.

I know, but I haven’t found that to be true either.

By the time I know what I want to buy, it’s not hard to find it on Amazon. Amazon already has my payment info so it’s a few clicks and I’m done. I don’t understand the argument that it’s easier to find the manufacturer’s website, navigate their web store, and then enter all of my payment and shipping information.

Several times now I've ordered something from Amazon and the item delivered wasn't what was ordered. Not even a cheap knock-off, just garbage in a box. For that reason alone, I'm hesitant to use Amazon. I've never had this happen with an order direct from manufacturer, or other retailers like REI or Best Buy.

This just sounds like sheer laziness to me, which of course it is.

What you're saying is that you're willing to trade any sense of assured quality for the convenience of not having to do anything other than do the simplest of processes. Granted, this describes the majority of people, but let's at least be willing to admit what it is.

> What you're saying is that you're willing to trade any sense of assured quality for the convenience of not having to do anything other than do the simplest of processes.

I think you missed my parent comment where I said I devoutly check manufacturer's websites for alternative prices with almost every Amazon purchase I make.

And no, I'm not trading "any sense of assured quality" away. I've had more troubles with random 3rd-party vendors than I have with Amazon. I think people are greatly exaggerating the fault rate from Amazon simply because they order so many packages from Amazon. When it comes to things like lost or stolen shipments, I'd much rather deal with Amazon's liberal policies than go to battle with a random web store.

> then enter all of my payment and shipping information.

I rarely have to do this anymore as more and more stores are on Shopify.

It's also better to know what you're getting is the real deal and from a legit manufacturer. A lot of times I can't even find a legit brand on amazon even when i include the name.