25 Cheaper Products So Good, Reviewers Can’t Believe They Used To Pay For The More Expensive Versions
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Just because it’s more expensive doesn’t mean it’s better, and these reviewers prove it.
Posted 9 hours ago
by Mariel Guzman BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff
I'm a resident writer on the Buzzfeed Shopping team, where my love for shopping (and doomscrolling on TikTok) helps me curate lists of the most trending lifestyle, home, beauty, and fashion products.
Anthropologie
Promising review: "Obsessed with this bag! This is my first beaded bag from Anthro and I would say the quality is basically the same as the Staud bags that sell for around $300." —marissanphillips
Get it from Anthropologie for $98 (available in three 'animal' styles; check all available styles here).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I own a similar style crop tank from Lululemon, and honestly, I like this one even better! The material is super soft, breathable, and has just the right amount of stretch. I’m usually a small, and the sizing was spot on — fits perfectly without feeling too tight or restrictive. Compared to my Lululemon top, this one is slightly less compressive, which makes it more comfortable for all-day wear. While Lululemon offers more support for intense workouts, it also squeezes my lats a bit too much. This top, however, provides great coverage and support without that issue. The U-back design is both stylish and functional, keeping everything in place. Overall, this is an amazing swap at a fraction of the price! Perfect for workouts, lounging, or even dressing up with jeans. I love it so much that I’m already planning to buy more colors! Highly recommend!" —Nicole V.
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+(available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 32 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This blanket beats others because it is softer (a buttery and fluffy feeling), it is long enough for a 5'10" tall person, it is not too light and not too heavy (works year-round in Virginia), and it has a stretch to the material that I haven’t experienced with other soft blankets. The design is just so-so, but the colors are nice, and the price is right. If they updated the designs with more colors and patterns, then these would be absolutely perfect. I like this as much as my much more expensive Barefoot Dreams blanket and Williams Sonoma faux-fur blanket." —JH
Get it from Amazon for $22.49+ (available in six colors and four sizes).
Promising review: "I LOVE the look of pimple patches on myself (as weird as that sounds) and absolutely hate the semi-clear ones, since they just draw my eyes to something that’s SUPPOSED to be invisible. So I easily fell in love with the Starface pimple patches — but the issue with those is they’re SO expensive. THESE, however, have immediately sucked everything out of my face. I love them and literally wear them all the time. So many people have complimented me, saying, 'Oh my gosh, I love how you just wear stickers on your face; it’s adorable.' These also work as [an alternative to] the TikTok Shop ones that are really popular right now and are cheaper! 10/10 from me :)" —evalyn evoke
Get a pack of 240 patches from Amazon for $9.99 (available in four designs/shapes as well as multipacks).
It's great for many skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, and combination!
It's recommended that you do a patch test 24–48 hours before applying this all over your face, as it's a strong, concentrated formula. After that, apply three to five drops once daily and follow with a moisturizer (ideally one with SPF if you apply in the morning!). Though the bottle looks small, reviewers say it'll last you several months with daily use.
Promising reviews: "I ran out of Skinceuticals CE Ferulic, which I love, but didn’t want to spend $169. After reading glowing reviews, I gave this serum a try. Wow! Just as effective for a fraction of the cost. It smooths your skin and reduces my bumpy texture. At 62, I no longer break out, but now have milia. This product, along with Paula’s Choice BHA, is slowly reducing the milia and improving texture. Buy it!" —ramonalisa
"Best $20 ever spent!!! The results are unbelievable. I was a bit skeptical because all the reviews were from Caucasian [people], and I was slightly worried that my skin would not respond as well, but I was quite mistaken. With or without makeup, my skin is bright and smooth, and my spots are disappearing. One other result I am sure a number of people have not noticed is that your palms get softer too; I guess the residue on the palms makes it soft and supple." —Mayowa O.
Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in two sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I have two shirts from Skims Soft Smoothing collection, and I would say these are directly comparable if not better, especially in terms of the stitching/seams around the neckline and shoulders. The fit is still very snug like the Skims, but doesn’t constantly rise, whereas with the Skims I’m having to pull down every five minutes. Also, being that the Skims one is $54, this is 100% a better deal. I bought the beige color in addition to this one, and they are both great."—Ocean
Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available in women's sizes XXS–3XL and 29 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "I bought this because I crave that Black Honey and will buy it until the day I die, but I am always paranoid of losing it, so I almost never let it leave my bag. I have tried probably five or six "almost" versions of Black Honey that came close, but this one genuinely spooked me. It has the same easy glide, same buildability, and the same refreshingly hydrating effect. It was a two-pack so I gave one to my BFF, another Black Honey fan, who also could not detect the difference!"
Promising review: "Better than Clinique! I bought this one on a whim but never liked the real Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique, since it tends to run red on me. This shade, in my opinion, is exactly what Black Honey SHOULD be, as it looks more like Black Honey in pictures. For the price, it can’t be beat, so I’m buying more." —HAC
Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (also available in the pink honey version, and in a two-pack that mixes both!).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising reviews: "I've used Glow Recipe's Watermelon Dew Drops, and while I liked the product I wasn't too fond of the strong scent or the price point. The texture, finish, and feel of this product is pretty much identical, but without the fragrance and at a better value. Smooth, absorbs quickly, works well as a lightweight primer that doesn't pill with makeup, and hydrates skin for an even finish." —K.C.
"Love these drops. So effective, a little goes a long way. Great for a boost of hydration, especially in the colder and/or drier months. Great as a primer before makeup to smooth the skin. Such a value for a product that packs a punch. My skin hasn't looked better!" —Ken
Get it from Amazon for $12.97.
Amazon
Check out a TikTok of the Aussie multi-use spray in action.
Promising review: "This is an amazing product! It’s like that other '10' product, but MUCH more affordable! You only need to spritz some on your hand, rub palms together, and then apply. I have yet to try it on dry hair, but as a leave-in applied on wet hair, it is amazing! My hair is dry, medium to thick, and its texture changes due to hormonal fluctuations and certain medications. My hair feels wonderful with this (and it smells great, not overpowering at all). Best leave-in I’ve used in quite a long time that doesn’t leave my hair feeling weighed down or dirty. Highly recommend if you like “10” products. Can’t go wrong with this stuff!" —Shayne
Get it from Amazon for$9.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It's designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b–4c curls mentioning it worked for them!
Promising review: "Like many others, I tried this as a replacement for Olaplex. Honestly, Olaplex never had a great effect on my hair and certainly wasn’t worth the price. This did an unreal job on my hair!! I was skeptical (tried a little bit first because I was petrified it would burn off my hair and I would end up bald!) but, lo and behold, it was magic! My hair is so strong, silky, and healthy looking after just one use. Plus you can’t beat the price! Have already ordered another box. I should also add I have curly/wavy hair that’s been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" —BB
Get it from Amazon for $7.50.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
My review: "I have been a ride-or-die for the One/Size On Til Dawn Setting Spray, but the price was getting a little hard to keep restocking on, so I decided to give L'Oreal a chance, and boy, did it not disappoint. It feels very similar on the skin, giving my makeup a matte finish without feeling like I added another heavy layer to my face. I've tested it out in intense humidity, rain, and at outdoor events where I had a full beat for over 12 hours — it didn't budge."
Promising review: "I’ve used this setting spray a few times now and I absolutely love it. It really helps my makeup stay in place all day without needing touch-ups, even in heat or humidity. The mist is super fine and dries quickly without feeling sticky or heavy on the skin. It sets everything beautifully without ruining your makeup or leaving any residue. I also love that it doesn’t have a strong scent. If you want your makeup to last and still feel comfortable, this is a great choice. Definitely a new favorite in my routine!" —YSantiago
Get it from Amazon for $10.98.
Promising reviews: "Better than Eberjey! Impressed with the quality and softness of these pajamas. Ordered a size up bc I was worried about shrinkage, but they didn’t shrink! I prefer these over Eberjys — the buttons don’t come undone and just as soft — maybe softer!" —CDS
"If you desire comfort, if you desire soft fabric against your skin, if you desire pajamas that fit perfectly, if you want to feel like you have your life together, then these are the pajamas for you. I'm currently 39 weeks pregnant and live in these now. I bought a size medium (pre-pregnancy size small) and have no intention of taking these off unless to wash them. And then I'll put on my other color option that I bought of these pajamas because these are so freaking great. The fabric is soft and not too sheer of a material that fits loosely as it should. The waistband does not feel constricting, and the lace drawstring on the pants does not make the bottoms feel tight. The pajamas are of great quality and are worth the investment. I plan on wearing these in the hospital and then probably for the rest of my entire life because they're so fantastic." —CMC
Get them from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 47 colors and patterns).
Also available in a short sleeve and pants set and a short sleeve and shorts set.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "I have several pairs of Rothy’s in a very similar style to these, and they are actually just as comfortable right out of the box as Rothy’s…maybe more so. I also purchased in black. LOVE THEM!!" —Amazon Customer
"I couldn’t be happier with these flats! As a result of them dropping in price, I purchased four pairs in varying colors to wear with jeans and sweaters. Not only do they look cute, but they are also decently padded and comfortable. I have been buying Vivaia flats for over $100 and these look just as good and are more comfortable to wear." —PSK
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 14 colors and patterns).
Amazon
It's even satin in the back — no annoying elastic strap.
Kitsch is a woman-founded company that makes adorable hair accessories, useful tools, and more to help make every day a good hair day.
Promising review: "As a high-maintenance sleeper, I hope I never have to be without this mask — actually, I WAS without this mask for a couple of days, which is why I immediately purchased another one. Left on a plane. Heartbreaking. This mask is so soft and plush. It completely blocks out light, and depending on how low you position it behind your head, it muffles sound nicely as well. I’ve purchased many silk masks, even some pricey ones, and this one by far is my absolute favorite." —alexandriabeth
Get it from Amazon for $17.99.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "I have purchased the Nike quarter socks before but these are sooo much better. They are comfier and you get more bang for your buck!! Definitely recommend!!" —Bella Battistoni
"These are an alternative to the TNA Aritzia socks. They look identical and are very comfy and stylish. I love to pair these with sneakers and Birkenstock Boston clogs. Will order again." —Sabrina Marie Good
Get a six-pack from Amazon for $11.69+ (available in women's sizes 5–9 or 8–12 and in two colors).
Promising review: "I am a macaron baker and have been using Silpat brand for years. I needed to order more silpats but didn't want to spend the money. I found these Amazon Basic nonstick baking mats and thought I'd give them a try. It has been a month now and they are still working just as great as my Silpat brand. Even baking, easy to clean, and clear (I bake shapes and use templates underneath). Hopefully they last as long as my Silpats, which I have had for three years now, but if I get at least a couple of years out of them before buying new ones I won't mind because of the price! The top macaron shell [pictured above] is from the Amazon Basics brand and bottom is Silpat. They baked up even and with the same feet!" —Mac MKE
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in two colors and three pack sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I love love love my Physicians Formula Diamond Dust mineral powder! I wish I’d known about this before I spent $42 on a Fenty compact that does MORE than I want with the sparkle; this product gives just the right amount of coverage without having it end up all over my face and on my clothes as well. It’s also pretty if you want to bring attention to your collarbones or shoulders. A perfect amount of shimmer with little effort! Try it!! You can thank me later!!" —camielle parent
Get it from Amazon for $12.15+ (available in two colors).
Jenae Sitzes / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
My colleague Jenae Sitzes uses it: "The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: A 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable will cost you $14, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38.
Now, it's worth noting that Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Anything over SPF 30 offers only slightly more protection (and nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays), yet the higher number, the more brands tend to charge. So do with that info what you will! This isn't the only SPF I use, but I love having it in my arsenal, especially when I do want to layer makeup on top!"
Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I’ve ever tried. I’ve been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." —Angelina S.
Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in two sizes and as a two-pack).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
LilyAna Naturals is a family-owned small business using natural ingredients to craft high-quality skincare products.
Promising review: "Best eye cream I have ever used!!! Better than Benefiance by Shiseido and Clinique or Lancôme, for less than a third of the price with the amount you get. It is rich enough to do the job but not greasy. It doesn't interfere with concealer, yet softens lines. Love it so much!!!!" —Lory Lacy
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in three sizes as a two-pack).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Jerome Alexander is a small business that specializes in airbrush cosmetic products.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "HELLO — I found this through a recommendation on a Reddit beauty forum for people in their thirties, and I am OBSESSED. I am not very skilled with makeup and was intimidated by the brush factor, but it's nearly foolproof. This foundation straight-up glosses over my pores and redness and makes my skin look so even-toned and natural that it doesn't look like I used much foundation at all. It's a bit price-y compared to brands I used in the past, but I'm still on my first bottle of it, and it's been three full months. I hope this never stops getting made. It is so lightweight and lovely and has made my makeup routine feel like a TREAT."
Promising review: "As a foundation enthusiast, I own and have tried SO many foundations (drugstore, luxury, and prestige brands). This foundation is in my top five of all time. For the price, it is FABULOUS. Great for skin of all ages, blends into the skin effortlessly, and gives you a nice airbrushed effect. The perfect [swap] for Dior Airflash! It also comes with a blending brush that works well with the application process. Will continue to buy again and again and I plan on buying in different shades for my client makeup kit." —Gabrielle Scire-Chianetta
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in 12 shades).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "I’m pleasantly surprised by these shoes! I bought the real pair of Chanel slingbacks and returned them bc they were very uncomfortable in the toe area, so I’ve been searching for an [alternative]. These look really good and are comfortable to wear. I always wear a 6 and based on reviews I sized down to a 5.5, which was a good call bc they fit perfectly."—Amazoncouple
"Love these sandals. I bought them for a black and beige dress, thinking I'd be limited to only those matching colors. After receiving and trying them on — they looked perfect with jeans, too! My feet are not narrow, but not wide either. The fit is perfect on my size 8 feet, which are usually in sneakers. Dressing up in these sandals will present a [high-end] vibe and be comfortable, too!! I love the look it gives my feet! Dress it up, dress it down, and easy wearing — my go-to sandals now!!" —shinyliberty
Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in women's sizes 5–12 and in six colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’ve been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point, I don’t have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" —Jessica M
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in 12 sets, as well as packs of two and individual pairs).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
These require three AAA batteries per candle that will last you about 150 hours.
Promising review: "I like that you can control the brightness with the remote and timer selection is just not one selection, that is the first time I have seen a remote for candles with lots of options. These candles are better than my expensive flameless Luminara candles and look just like a real candle. This is my second set and I just purchased a third set. You won't regret this purchase." —Experiencedandiknowit
Get the set of three from Amazon for $22.99 (available in four colors/styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "Literally identical to my daughter's $100 Birkenstocks, and you cannot tell the difference between the two. 10/10 absolutely love, will be buying all colors."—Jennifer
"I have them in brown color as well as the 'taupe' color!! I love them! They are the perfect summer/fall staple. I wear mine with socks. I love them, they are the perfect alternative to the popular brand for sure!! They are true to size. They stretch out to your feet as well. :)" —Daisha
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–14 and eight colors)
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I never leave reviews but this jumpsuit deserves one!! It is an exact alternative for the Aritzia flared jumpsuit. I actually even like this one more than my one from Aritzia!! The length on this is SO much better. I am 5’7 and the Aritzia one just barely goes past my ankles… I am wearing platform sandals with this one and there’s still extra length! Also I am 28 weeks pregnant and a small fits my bump, SO stretchy!! Definitely ordering more colors." —Stuart W.
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and four colors).
BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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