User Base:  

uBid’s user base is limited compared to some, but decent. On average, uBid has about 10,000 items available. Most of the items auctioned through uBid are consumer electronics (computers, TVs), jewelry, and other home appliances. uBid.com is located in the United States and does not ship internationally.

Fees:  

Becoming a registered buyer at uBid is completely free.

Selling:  

Selling your items through uBid is not possible unless you are a registered business. At-home-sellers should look elsewhere to auction off their items.

Buying:  

Most items auctioned on uBid are Dutch auctions, which mean that the seller has multiple of the same item to sell and the buyer bids for how many they want. Winners are determined by quantity and price offered.

While bidding and purchasing at uBid is easy, the process doesn’t include many additional features to aid buyers. There is no advanced search function, though you can go directly to an item by typing in the designated auction number, if you know it.

Members do have access to a personalized page where they can keep track of auctions they have recently bid on. Buyers and potential buyers can also look at the auction history at any time to see how many people have bid on a particular item and what the current winning bids are.

Reliability/Security:  

Because the items auctioned at uBid come from verified sellers and not from individuals, security and reliability for buyers is high. uBid is certified by the Better Business Bureau. Most of the products carry a vendor warranty, and uBid has an extended protection plan available. However, all merchandise sold in non-refundable (unless item is not as described). Exceptions are made, but are subject to a 15% restocking fee and shipping and handling is non-refundable.

Help/Support:  

uBid offers help and support through email and even over the phone. The online help center has detailed answers to common questions and a comprehensive list of help topics.

uBid is a reliable auction site for buyers looking to purchase excess inventory, especially consumer electronics. However, selling is not available to the common user, and so uBid isn’t a great place for bargain hunters or at-home sellers. Also, uBid primarily utilizes Dutch auctions, which is great for people looking for multiple items, but can potentially relegate a bidder who just wants one item.

For the best online auction site, see our review of eBay. Or if you're looking for an eBay alternative, see our reviews of eBid and OnlineAuction.