YouTube vs. Etsy vs. Amazon: Where to Sell CNC Files for Maximum Profit?

Selling your CNC design files online has the potential to generate a steady stream of passive income. But which platform should you opt for: Youtube, Etsy, or Amazon? Each has its respective advantages and disadvantages, and with the right choice, your passive income could reach new heights. Let’s dive deeper!
1. Selling CNC Files on Youtube
How It Works:
While Youtube may not serve as a direct market, it does offer a fantastic way to promote your store and drive traffic towards it.
Pros:
- ✅ No cost for uploading or using content.
- ✅ Earns passive income from ads long after your content is uploaded.
- ✅ Help create a personal brand with followers who remain loyal.
- ✅ Helps send traffic towards your CNC store on GlobalStreek.com.
Cons:
- ❌ It can be difficult to grow a channel and get subscribers initially.
- ❌ Creating and editing videos is a prerequisite.
- ❌ Need an external store to sell files as there is no inbuilt function for it.
Best for:
- ✔ CNC designers who want to make tutorial videos.
- ✔ Individuals looking to sell CNC files on their personal websites or stores.
- ✔ Anyone seeking to make additional money from advertising and sponsorship monetization.
2. Selling CNC Files on Etsy
How It Works:
Etsy supports a wide range of handmade and digitized goods, including CNC design files.
Pros:
- ✅ There is a very large audience actively searching for digital files.
- ✅ Setting up a store on Etsy is fairly simple, which allows you to start selling immediately.
- ✅ When you list your files, the built-in SEO feature helps them be noticed by potential clients.
- ✅ There is no need to manage any shipping—simply sell the downloadable files.
- ✅ Great opportunity to refer more CNC files from GlobalStreek.com and earn additional revenue.
Cons:
- ❌ Fees are charged for listing items and transactions.
- ❌ Prices need to be competitive because there is a high level of competition.
- ❌ Etsy can change its policies or remove your listings, which leaves you with no control over the platform.
Best for:
- ✔ Those who want a marketplace that’s ready made for their requirements.
- ✔ CNC designers who want to gain exposure quickly without investing the time to build a website.
- ✔ Sellers who are comfortable with paying business fees in return for sales traffic.
3. Selling CNC Files on Amazon
How It Works:
You can sell a variety of products ranging from digital downloads to CNC related goods on the biggest e-commerce store in the world, Amazon.
Pros:
- ✅ There is a great audience with high intent of purchase.
- ✅ Strong trust of buyers makes this a highly regarded platform.
- ✅ There is a possibility of utilizing Amazon Ads to increase visibility even further.
- ✅ You are able to sell tangible CNC items alongside their respective digital assets.
Cons:
- ❌ Your profit can be considerably reduced through listing fees and commissions.
- ❌ In the case of Amazon, digital downloads are subordinate to physical products.
- ❌ Competing requires significantly more effort.
- ❌ Heavy reliance on Amazon comes with stringent rules.
Best for:
- ✔ Sellers of CNC designs who want to sell both their tangible products and their digital files.
- ✔ Sellers who wish to take advantage of Amazon’s vast market.
- ✔ Sellers who are ready to spend on advertising and marketing.
Which Platform Is Best for You?
Feature | YouTube | Etsy | Amazon |
Best for | Brand building & traffic | Selling digital CNC files | Selling physical CNC products & some digital files |
Upfront Cost | Free | Low listing fees | Higher fees & ad costs |
Difficulty Level | Medium-High | Low | Medium-High |
Earning Potential | High (ads + sales) | Medium-High | High |
Competition | Low-Medium | High | High |
Final Thoughts
YouTube is the go-to for channels that want their brand to grow in the long term. Etsy is the best for rapidly selling items. If planning to sell both types of CNC products, Amazon can be a great marketplace.
💡 Pro Tip: Use multiple platforms for optimum results! Promote your Etsy or Amazon store on YouTube. And make sure to sell your CNC files on GlobalStreek.com for more exposure!
Leave A Comment