If you decide to buy a tallit on eBay, you might find a good bargain, but it will definitely limit your options. Of course if you want to buy a used tallit, eBay is the way to go.
If you find a very low-priced tallit on eBay, before you buy the tallit be sure to note the fabric. The wholesale price for a synthetic tallit is about half the wholesale price for a wool tallit. So if you see a tallit for $25 and start reaching for your credit card, be aware that you get what you pay for. A wool tallit looks better, lasts longer and is considered preferable according to halacha.
Also, when comparing prices, pay very close attention to sizes. A Size 24 tallit, for instance, has half the fabric of a Size 50 tallit, which makes the difference in price considerable.
A few reasons not to buy a tallit on eBay
When should you not opt to buy a tallit on eBay? One of the main reasons to choose an online tallit shop over eBay is if you have specific options in mind. When buying a tallit on eBay you won’t find tzitzit options, such as handspun tzitzit, thick tzitzit, techelet, Sephardic tying, Chabad tying, etc.
Similarly, if you want a tallit bag to go with it, you’ll want the full-service options available at a tallit shop. Some people want a name embroidered in Hebrew or English on a tallit bag. You won’t get that if you buy a tallit on eBay. (BTW, letter embroidery should not cost more than $2 per letter.)
Although not every online Judaica is set up to provide a range of services, a good tallit shop will also be able to accommodate special requests, such as sewing on a different atara (neckband) to the tallit of your choice, or even choosing the striping colors on a handmade tallit.