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.
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.
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.
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.