A Comparison for Collectors

By Ludis – Oil Painter & Founder of Ludis Art Gallery

When I first started collecting art myself—before I was known as an artist—I faced the same challenge you might be facing now:
Where are the best places to buy art prints online, and how do you know which one is right for you?

Some platforms offer massive selections, while others focus on curated, original voices. Some are built for affordable décor, others for serious collectors.

As someone who now sells both original oil paintings and limited-edition fine art prints, I want to share a collector’s guide to the most trusted places to buy prints online—plus my thoughts on the pros and cons of each.

1. Directly from the Artist’s Website (My Personal Favorite)

When you buy directly from an artist’s own site—like my own LudisArtGallery.com—you get:

  • Authenticity – You’re buying straight from the creator.
  • Best Pricing – No middleman commissions inflating the cost.
  • Collector Value – Often signed, numbered, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
  • Connection – You learn the story behind the art, directly from the source.

💡 Best For: Collectors who value a personal connection with the artist and want to ensure authenticity.

2. Saatchi Art

One of the largest online art platforms, Saatchi Art offers works from thousands of artists worldwide.

  • Pros: Wide selection, international reach, professional shipping.
  • Cons: It can be overwhelming to browse, and prices can vary greatly.

💡 Best For: Buyers who enjoy browsing a huge catalog and discovering new artists globally.

3. Etsy (Curated for Fine Art)

Etsy is known for handmade and creative goods, but it’s also home to emerging fine artists.

  • Pros: Affordable, easy to use, direct communication with sellers.
  • Cons: Quality can vary—look for archival materials and artist reviews.

💡 Best For: First-time buyers looking for affordable entry points into collecting.

4. Artfinder

Artfinder specializes in original art and limited-edition prints from independent artists.

  • Pros: Artist-focused, curated selection, fair pricing.
  • Cons: Smaller selection compared to mega-platforms.

💡 Best For: Buyers who want a curated experience and direct artist support.

5. Society6 & Redbubble (For Décor-Focused Prints)

These platforms are more commercial, offering prints on various products like canvas, framed posters, or even pillows.

  • Pros: Affordable, huge variety, easy ordering.
  • Cons: Not usually limited edition or signed—less collector value.

💡 Best For: Buyers looking for stylish, affordable décor rather than investment-grade prints.

Comparison Table: Best Places to Buy Art Prints Online

Platform Price Range Collector Value Direct Artist Connection Edition Type
Artist’s Website (LudisArtGallery.com) $–$$$ High Yes Limited/Signed
Saatchi Art $$–$$$$ High Sometimes Limited & Open
Etsy (Fine Art Sellers) $–$$$ Medium Yes Limited & Open
Artfinder $$–$$$ High Yes Limited
Society6 / Redbubble $–$$ Low No Open

My Recommendation as a Collector & Artist

If your goal is investment and connection, buy directly from the artist or from a curated platform like Artfinder or Saatchi.
If you’re looking for affordable décor with an artistic feel, platforms like Etsy, Society6, or Redbubble are fine—but know you’re getting mass-printed pieces without the uniqueness of a limited edition.

Start with One Piece You Love

Whether you’re building your first collection or adding to a gallery wall, buying art prints online is about finding a piece that speaks to you.

If you’d like to start with a limited edition from a working artist, explore my High-Quality Prints—each signed, numbered, and crafted to last a lifetime.