The platform that is generally cheaper for buying lights is online marketplaces. This is primarily due to lower overhead costs for online retailers compared to physical retail stores. According to a study by Statista, online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay offer an average of 15% lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar stores. This is because online retailers do not have to bear the costs of maintaining a physical store, such as rent, utilities, and staff salaries. Additionally, online marketplaces often have a wider selection of products, allowing consumers to compare prices and find the best deals more easily. For instance, Amazon's "Lightning Deals" feature offers significant discounts on various lighting products, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.