This study investigates the effectiveness of two navigation systems, menu-based and search-based on e-commerce websites, with a focus on how they impact users’ ability to efficiently find information. As digital services become increasingly integrated into our life, understanding how users interact with different navigation models is essential for user experience and usability. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining observed usability tests, structured interviews and a survey. The study was conducted on Zalando which has both navigation systems. Participants completed a series of tasks using both methods. The results show differences in efficiency and user satisfaction depending on the navigation method and the user’s experience. The findings also suggest that user preferences in everyday navigation do not always align with actual task efficiency. By applying theoretical frameworks such as Wilson’s model of information behavior and Bates’ berrypicking model, the study offers a deeper understanding of how navigation choices interact with cognitive processes. The results contribute to the field of information architecture and user-centered design by offering practical insights for optimizing navigation structures on e-commerce websites.