When you enter AliExpress and type, for example, “wireless headphones” into the search bar, you get thousands of results. Why is that specific item the first one? Is the cheapest offer really the best?
As experienced shopping experts, we can tell you: the AliExpress search algorithm is not random. It is a complex mechanism that tries to guess what you want, sometimes even better than you do yourself. However, to shop smartly, you need to understand how to control this system.
In this article, we will break down the “inner workings” of AliExpress search ingredient by ingredient – from the secrets of the “Best Match” algorithm to a trick on how to completely hide ads.
1. “Best Match”: What Does It Mean?
By default, AliExpress will always show results sorted by “Best Match”. Many think these are simply the most popular items, but reality is more complex.
“Best Match” is a personalized algorithm that takes 5 key factors into account:
- Keyword Relevance: If you search for a “red dress”, the algorithm will first select items where these words are most accurately mentioned in the description and title.
- Description Quality: AliExpress prioritizes sellers who have put work into a high-quality description (clear images, precise parameters). This usually indicates a more reliable seller.
- Conversion Rates (Sales Success): The system “loves” winners. If a specific item is frequently bought after being viewed, it will be shown higher up.
- Service Capability (Shipping Speed): Does the seller ship quickly? Is the item in the “Choice” or “Plus” category with fast delivery? Fast shipping boosts the item up in the ranking.
- Your Profile (Personalization): This is the critical point. The algorithm knows your history – what you have bought, what you have looked at. Two different people searching for the same word might see completely different results.
Expert Note: “Best Match” is convenient, but it often contains Paid Ads (Sponsored/Ad) mixed in with organic results.
2. Sorting by “Orders”: The Safer Choice
If you don’t want to rely on the algorithm’s guesses, switch the filter to “Orders”.
This is what is called “social proof”. Items are ranked from the most purchased to the least purchased.
- Pros: You see what thousands of other people are buying. A high number of orders usually means the item is verified, and it will have plenty of reviews (with pictures) to explore.
- Cons: The most purchased item is not always the highest quality. It is often simply the cheapest.
- Important: AliExpress can insert ads in this view as well.
3. Sorting by “Price”: How to Find the Cheapest and Hide Ads
This is my favorite tool when looking for small items (cables, cases, parts). You can sort items from cheapest to most expensive (or vice versa).
Expert Trick: Did you know that sorting by price is the only way to exclude ads? According to AliExpress rules, when sorting by price (“Price Low to High” or “High to Low”):
- Your user profile is not taken into account (the search is neutral).
- Paid ads (“Ads”) are not shown. You see clean, mathematical results.
4. What are “Promoted Products” (Ads)?
In search results, you will often see items with a small gray tag “Ad”. This means the seller has paid the platform for their item to appear higher than it would have deserved naturally.
- How does it work? Sellers bid money for specific keywords.
- Are they bad? No, not necessarily. Often new brands use advertising to get their first buyers. However, be careful – sometimes an ad hides a higher price than competitors.
Remember: Ads only appear in the “Best Match” and “Orders” views.
5. Which Strategy to Choose?
To shop as efficiently as possible, I recommend using the following combination:
- Start with “Orders”: To understand what is popular in the market and what the average price is.
- Use Filters: On the left side or at the top, always check “4 stars & up” (to filter out poor quality items) and “Free Shipping” (if you don’t want surprises in the cart).
- Check “Price”: If you know the specific model you want, sort by price to find the cheapest offer without ads.
- Trust “Best Match” with Caution: Use it if you are looking for inspiration or specific niche items where the algorithm’s ability to “guess” your taste is useful.
Smart shopping starts with understanding the tools you use. Use these settings to make AliExpress work for you!