Understanding online review characteristics: A cross-categorical analysis of product types in E-Commerce

Online reviews have become very important in e-commerce decision-making. However, the relationship among review characteristics, product categories and consumer demographics is still less examined. This study investigates how online review attributes vary across product types. Deployed study surveyed 612 e-commerce consumers across four product categories (Consumer Electronics & Household Appliances, Personal Care & Healthcare, Retail, Travel & Hospitality). Chi-square tests were done to assess associations between review attributes and categorical variables. Cross-sectional design limits causal inference. The study advances understanding of how product characteristics influence consumption patterns. This study indicates that e-commerce platforms should implement category-specific review interfaces: structured attribute ratings for functional products, narrative prompts for experiential products.