Shopping products are best described as:

Shopping products are characterized by the need for consumers to compare different options before making a purchase. This category of products is typically higher in price than convenience items and might include clothing, electronics, and furniture. The process of comparison shopping involves evaluating attributes such as quality, price, and style, which leads consumers to visit multiple outlets or retailers.

The description provided in the correct answer captures the essence of shopping products, emphasizing the necessity for consumers to assess various alternatives before committing to a purchase. Consumers actively seek out information and often consider multiple retail locations or brands, which is a fundamental behavior associated with this type of product.

In contrast to shopping products, relatively inexpensive items that are readily available are more indicative of convenience products, which do not require significant comparison or decision-making. Items readily accepted as substitutes fall into different categories, as they suggest a level of interchangeability that is not typically a defining characteristic of shopping products. Exclusive high-end products with minimal availability would generally be classified as specialty products, where the focus is on unique attributes and brand loyalty rather than the comparison among multiple options.