Ready to check out on Shopee? You add your items to the cart. You go to apply a voucher. But it’s gone. Or worse, you cannot claim it at all. You are not alone. Many Singaporeans are facing this problem. HardwareZone forums are buzzing about this shift. Is Shopee losing its top spot? Let’s see what savvy shoppers are saying. It might be time to rethink your checkout strategy.
The Great Shopping Switch
The online shopping scene in Singapore is changing fast. Users on HardwareZone are sharing their experiences. It seems many are moving away from their old favourite. They are finding better deals elsewhere.
- Shopee is restricting high-value vouchers
Long-time users report getting ‘blacklisted’. They can no longer claim the best platform vouchers. This often happens after frequent purchasing. It feels like a penalty for being a loyal customer.
the more u buy, the more they deny u the vouchers
- Lazada is attracting savvy shoppers
When Shopee fails, users quickly switch to Lazada. They often find matching or even better deals. Lazada’s high-spend vouchers and coin system are big draws. Many have saved hundreds by making the switch during major sales.
Lazada last min added $27 voucher to match Shopee. With coins, I got it almost half that at Shopee. Thank you Shopee. Thank you so much for helping me save a lot. Almost $200 actually.
- Strategic waiting is the new norm
For big purchases like tech, Singaporeans play the long game. They track items for months. They wait for huge sales events like 11.11 or Black Friday. Patience helps them secure the best possible price, regardless of the platform.
The Shopper’s Real Pain
While deals are great, the user experience has new frustrations. Both platforms have their own set of problems. These issues are pushing customers to be more careful. They must navigate these challenges to get real value.
- The dreaded ‘Shopee Blacklist’
The F01 error code is a common complaint. It stops users from claiming valuable vouchers. Shoppers have developed their own ways to check their status. It is a frustrating game of hide-and-seek with discounts.
For my account they removed all the vouchers that I can’t claim so it looks like I can claim all the vouchers, One way I did was to go to Shopee Mall section and if I don’t see the voucher, that means I’m still blacklisted.
- Rewards that feel less rewarding
Shopee’s coin system now has a daily cap. Users can only redeem 1000 coins every 24 hours. This greatly reduces the discount on items over $33. It makes the platform less attractive for big-ticket purchases.
cos the crappy coins redemption is capped at 1000 coins every 24h, the value roi drop a lot will once you hit this limit ie >$33. So any higher value item is better go Lazada.
- Logistics and support headaches
Lazada is not perfect either. Users report confusing refund statuses. Delivery can also be a problem, with parcels routed incorrectly. Getting clear support requires digging through the app’s help center. These issues can turn a good deal into a big hassle.
Your Smart Shopper Guide
So how do you win the online shopping game? You need a clear strategy. Do not rely on just one app. Here are three actionable tips from HardwareZone veterans. They will help you save money and avoid frustration.
- Diversify your shopping carts
Never put all your eggs in one basket. Always compare prices between Shopee and Lazada. For items over $50, Lazada often has better vouchers. This simple check can save you a lot of money. Loyalty to one platform does not pay anymore.
any higher value item is better go Lazada. Lazada high spend vouchers also much better, just need wait for right time.
- Master the Lazada coin system
Lazada’s coin system is currently more generous. You can use coins for significant discounts. Users are getting daily items like coffee for cheap. Learn how to earn and spend LazCoins effectively. It is a powerful tool for saving money.
Enjoying my Luckin coffee with the coins
- Time your big-ticket purchases
Want a new monitor or camera? Do not buy it on a random Tuesday. Plan your purchase around major sales. Mark your calendar for 10.10, 11.11, and Black Friday. This is when the best platform-wide vouchers appear. Patience is your biggest advantage.
i wait for better promo, maybe 11.11 or black friday since they are very near
The battle between Shopee and Lazada is heating up. This competition is good for us shoppers. By staying informed and strategic, you can always get the best deal. Be smart, compare your options, and make your money work harder for you. Happy shopping!

Read the original discussions on HardwareZone: