Does eBay Really Have to Compete with Amazon? Shrewd value investors will ask the above question because a strong case can be made that eBay does not really compete with Amazon. eBay sells used items through auction and discounts to a select clientele. eBay has become a true value investment because the company has proved it can survive and perhaps thrive in the age of Amazon. One reason why eBay makes money is by not competing directly with Amazon.