eBay listing titles have an 80-character limit, and research analyzing 961,668 titles found that listings with 75+ characters perform best. The optimal word count is 15-18 words. Subtitles (55 characters) are available for an additional fee but important note: subtitles are NOT searched by eBay’s algorithm—they only help with visual appeal to buyers browsing results.

This guide covers eBay title best practices for maximizing your 80-character limit.

eBay Character Limits Overview

Research insight (961,668 titles analyzed):

• Best performance: 75+ characters
• Optimal word count: 15-18 words

Why 80 Characters Matters

The eBay Search Algorithm

Cassini prioritizes:

• Keyword relevance in title
• Match to buyer search queries
• Listing quality signals
• Sales performance

Title importance: The title is the primary ranking factor. More relevant keywords = more visibility.

Use 75+ Characters for Best Performance

Research finding: Analysis of 961,668 eBay titles found that listings with 75+ characters perform best, with an optimal word count of 15-18 words.

Why:

• Each word is a searchable keyword
• More keywords = more search matches
• Empty space is wasted opportunity

Example: “Blue Widget for Sale” (20 chars) ❌ “Blue Widget Brand Model Size Style Compatible With Accessories Included Fast Ship” (80 chars) ✓

eBay Title Formula

Recommended Structure

[Brand] [Product Name] [Model/Version] [Key Features] [Condition] [Extras]

What to Include

Priority keywords:

1. Brand name
2. Product type
3. Model number/version
4. Size, color, or variant
5. Condition (new, vintage, etc.)
6. Key features
7. Compatibility
8. Included accessories

Title Examples

Electronics (80 chars): “Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB Graphite Unlocked Excellent Condition Free Case”

Clothing (79 chars): “Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Chicago Red White Black Size 10 Men’s DS New”

Collectibles (77 chars): “Pokemon Base Set Charizard Holo 4/102 PSA 8 NM-MT 1999 WOTC Rare Vintage Card”

Keyword Research for eBay

Finding the Right Keywords

Methods:

1. eBay search suggestions (type and see what autofills)
2. Completed listings (what sold successfully)
3. Competitor titles (top sellers in category)
4. Terapeak (eBay’s research tool)

Keyword Placement

Front-load important terms: Search results may truncate titles. Put essential keywords first.

Example: Good: “Sony PlayStation 5 PS5 Console Disc Edition…” Less good: “Brand New Console Disc Edition Sony PlayStation 5…”

Long-Tail Keywords

Include specific terms:

• Model numbers
• Size specifications
• Color names
• Compatibility details

These match specific searches: Buyers searching “iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB Graphite” will find titles with those exact terms.

What to Avoid in Titles

Prohibited Elements

eBay prohibits:

• Spam or keyword stuffing (repeating terms)
• All caps (except brand names)
• Special characters for attention (★★★, !!!)
• Promotional claims (“Best Price!”)
• Email addresses or URLs
• Unrelated keywords

What Hurts Performance

Avoid:

• “L@@K” or attention-grabbing gimmicks
• Excessive punctuation
• Keywords for items you’re not selling
• Misspelled words (unless intentional for searches)

Subtitle Strategy (55 Characters)

Important: Subtitles Are NOT Searched

Critical note: Subtitles are NOT searched by eBay’s algorithm. They only help with visual appeal when buyers are browsing search results.

When to Use Subtitles

Consider for:

• High-value items (worth the fee for visual appeal)
• Competitive categories
• Trust signals to stand out in results

Cost: Extra listing fee applies

Subtitle Best Practices

Include:

• Compelling benefit statement
• Trust signals (“Trusted Seller,” “Free Returns”)
• Condition highlights
• Do NOT rely on subtitles for keyword discovery

Character limit: 55 characters

Example: Title: “Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera Body Only 45MP 8K Video Professional” Subtitle: “Mint Condition • Full Warranty • Fast Free Shipping”

Item Specifics

Why They Matter

Search visibility: Item specifics are searchable and filterable. Buyers use filters to narrow results.

Required fields: Many categories have required specifics. Fill all that apply.

Character Limits for Specifics

Varies by field, but typically:

• Brand: 65 characters
• Model: 65 characters
• Color: 30 characters
• Size: Varies

Mobile Considerations

Mobile Display

Title visibility: May truncate on mobile Strategy: Front-load most important keywords

Mobile Search Behavior

Buyers often use:

• Voice search (natural language)
• Quick scans (first words matter)
• Filters (item specifics)

Category-Specific Tips

Electronics

Include:

• Brand + model number exactly
• Storage/memory capacity
• Condition (new, refurbished, used)
• What’s included

Clothing/Fashion

Include:

• Brand
• Size (use common formats)
• Color
• Style/cut
• Gender

Collectibles

Include:

• Era/year
• Condition grade
• Rarity indicator
• Authentication if applicable

Auto Parts

Include:

• Part type
• Compatible makes/models
• OEM vs. aftermarket
• Part number

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use all 80 characters?

Research analyzing 961,668 titles shows 75+ characters perform best, with optimal word count of 15-18 words. Don’t add irrelevant words just to fill space.

Do spaces count toward the 80-character limit?

Yes, spaces count as characters.

Can I use symbols in eBay titles?

Limited symbols are allowed (hyphens, slashes for sizing). Avoid decorative symbols like ★ or excessive punctuation.

Should I include the word “eBay” in my title?

No. It’s unnecessary and wastes characters.

How important are exact model numbers?

Very important. Buyers search exact model numbers frequently.

Should I mention free shipping in the title?

No. eBay shows shipping badges automatically. Use title space for product keywords.

Key Takeaways

• eBay title limit: 80 characters
• Best performance: 75+ characters (research on 961,668 titles)
• Optimal word count: 15-18 words
• Subtitle (55 chars): NOT searched by eBay algorithm
• Front-load brand, product type, and model
• Avoid spam tactics like L@@K or ALL CAPS
• Item specifics are searchable—complete all relevant fields

Conclusion

eBay’s 80-character title limit is your primary opportunity to be found in search. Research analyzing 961,668 titles shows that 75+ characters with 15-18 words perform best. Important: subtitles (55 characters) are NOT searched by eBay’s algorithm, so put all searchable keywords in your main title. Use your characters strategically, prioritize brand and product identifiers at the beginning, and avoid prohibited tactics. Try our free letter counter → to verify your eBay titles maximize visibility.