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Our e-Shopping Experiment
We tested the shopping sites by picking seven likely holiday gifts — sweaters, MP3 players, bath oils, robot dogs, golf clubs and small pieces of home décor, like a clock or lava lamp. Then we ordered and waited for our stuff (just as you would). Next we sent it back (just as you might). Finally we gave all the sites letter grades based on whether they made us happy shoppers or left us waiting impatiently by the mailbox. Here's a rundown on how we graded our experiences:

Ease of Use

A site scored well if we were able to search through its inventory to find what we wanted quickly and easily. The greater the frustration, the lower the grade.

Delivery

An A means the site offered a free-shipping option. Basic, paid delivery that was on time earned a B. A lower grade means the package was late or damaged.

Returns

A site got an A if it paid for shipping unconditionally on returns, and a B if it accepted returns without hassle but expected us to foot the bill for postage. A lower grade means additional costs.

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Criteria | Apparel  |  Gadgets  |  Toys  |  Home Décor  |  Wine & Food  |  Beauty  |  Sporting Goods

ILLUSTRATIONS BY FRANCISCO CACERES