B2C vs D2C: What's the Difference?
B2C
Neither B2C nor D2C is better for everyone. The side-by-side table compares them point by point, and the short quiz below it recommends one based on your goal, team size and sales channels.
D2C
Side-by-side comparison
We fill this table only from each vendor's current pricing page and review profiles. Until then, the FAQs below cover the main differences.
B2C vs D2C: the core difference
B2C, or business to consumer, describes any company that sells to individual shoppers, whether through its own store, retailers or marketplaces. D2C, or direct to consumer, is a subset: the brand sells straight to shoppers without a retailer or wholesaler in the middle.
Therefore, every D2C brand is B2C, but not every B2C company is D2C.
Why the distinction matters
Selling direct changes the business model. The brand keeps more margin per order and owns the customer relationship, yet it carries the cost of acquiring every buyer. Meanwhile, a brand that sells through retailers gains distribution and shelf space, but it gives up margin and much of its customer data.
Choosing a mix
Many brands start direct to learn from customers quickly, then add retail or marketplaces for scale. Others begin in stores and launch a direct channel later. In either case, track contribution margin by channel. That way, you can see which mix actually builds a profitable business.
Which should you choose?
- Use the filters to narrow the list to your category or channel.
- Open each company's profile for its key facts and links.
- Treat the list as a starting point for research rather than an endorsement.
FAQs: B2C vs D2C
B2C vs D2C: which is better?
Neither B2C nor D2C is better for everyone. The side-by-side table compares them point by point, and the short quiz below it recommends one based on your goal, team size and sales channels.
B2C vs D2C: which is cheaper?
Compare the starting-price rows in the table above, then price B2C and D2C at your real volume (contacts, orders, seats or spend), because entry plans include different limits and features.
B2C vs D2C: which suits Amazon and Shopify sellers?
For Amazon and Shopify sellers, the deciding factors are native integrations, how each handles marketplace data, and reporting. The 'Which should you choose' section maps common seller situations to B2C or D2C.