If you’re just getting started with Amazon product research and want to keep costs down, there are actually some solid free tools you can use to get the job done. Here’s a quick rundown of a few options I’ve personally found helpful:
Amazon’s Own Search Bar: This might sound basic, but don’t underestimate it. Start typing keywords related to the product niche you’re interested in, and Amazon’s autocomplete will give you insights into what people are actively searching for. It’s a quick, free way to find trending products and related terms.

Helium 10’s Free Plan: Helium 10 offers a free version that gives you limited access to tools like the Chrome extension for product research and some keyword research capabilities. You won’t get the full suite of features, but it’s a good starting point for basic product validation.

Keepa: Keepa’s free version is a lifesaver for tracking price history, sales rank, and product trends over time. The browser extension is straightforward and super valuable for spotting patterns in product demand or seasonal fluctuations.

Jungle Scout’s Free Tools: While their full software is paid, Jungle Scout has a few free resources, like their Sales Estimator. It lets you plug in a product’s category and rank to estimate monthly sales. It’s simple, but it works.

Google Trends: Not Amazon-specific, but a great way to validate product ideas. You can check if the product or niche you’re considering has consistent interest or if it’s just a passing fad.

FBA Calculator (Amazon’s Free Tool): This tool helps you calculate fees and profits for products you’re considering. It’s especially useful if you’re trying to understand your margins before jumping into a niche.

DS Amazon Quick View: It’s a free Chrome extension that lets you see sales rank and other product details without needing to click into each product. It speeds up your research process significantly.

If you’re consistent with these tools and combine them creatively, you can get some great insights without spending a dime. And honestly, when you’re just starting out, keeping things lean is the way to go. Once you’re confident about a product or niche, that’s when it might be worth looking into paid tools for deeper insights. 
 
Hope this helps, and good luck with your Amazon journey!