Which eBay price history tool works best for sniping deals?

Question

Im trying to figure out how people actually know if they are getting a good price on eBay. I keep seeing people talk about price history tools and sniping but I honestly have no idea what that really means or which one to use. I just started looking for old 35mm film cameras, specifically like the Canon AE-1 because I want to start photography as a hobby, but the prices are all over the place. One day its $50 and the next its $200. Im really confused lol.

Sorry if this is a super basic question but is there a specific website or app that shows what things actually sold for over the last few months? I tried just looking at the sold filter on eBay but I heard there are better tools that track it better and help you win stuff at the last second.

Here is what I am looking for:

has to be free or really cheap because I only have like $100 for the camera anyway

easy to use because I am not tech savvy at all

works on a phone because I am always on the go

shows stuff from at least the last 6 months

I really want to get a camera by next Friday before my trip to the coast so I need to figure this out fast. Is there a specific one you guys use or is the eBay site enough for a total beginner?...

RaymondBog · Accepted Answer

Just saw this! Quick question tho, are you looking for just the camera body or a full kit with lenses? That totally changes what a good deal looks like. Im satisfied with the simple stuff, but definitely watch out for these red flags:

sellers who wont show the film door open

listings that say untested but as-is

shipping costs that are higher than the camera Actually, PriceDropCatch is pretty solid because you dont even need to make an account to use it.

Geraldmon · Answer

Came here to say the same thing lol. Great minds think alike I guess.

rtaletovdn · Answer

I've been collecting film gear for years, and the Canon AE-1 is a classic, but prices are definitely all over the place. In my experience, the eBay sold filter is okay, but it doesn't really help you catch a deal in real time. You need something that alerts you when a price drops or a low Buy-It-Now is posted. I personally use PriceDropCatch to stay on top of listings that fit my budget before the professional flippers see them.

Look at the eBay Research tab (Terapeak) for data going back a full year.

Use a sniper app like Gavel or Myibidder to place your bid in the last 3 seconds.

Check the Sold listings specifically for auctions to see the lowest possible price point. Stick to your $100 limit. Dont let the high Buy It Now prices scare you, auctions are where the real deals happen if you use a sniper tool.