Comparison
1688 vs Taobao: where hobby parts are actually cheaper
1688 is the wholesale platform — same factories, lower prices, but minimum orders and B2B friction.
When 1688 wins
- Bulk tools and sanding supplies (packs of 10+)
- Paint by the bottle from factory stores
- Group buys with friends
When Taobao wins
- Single kits and one-off parts
- Better buyer protection and reviews
- No minimum order quantities