Both dropshipping and affiliate marketing have the potential to be profitable, but the profitability depends on several factors such as the niche, marketing strategies, and personal preferences. Let's discuss both business models in detail, including examples and references.

1. Dropshipping:
Dropshipping is a retail fulfillment method where a store doesn't keep the products it sells in stock. Instead, when a store sells a product, it purchases the item from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer. The store owner doesn't have to handle the product directly, making it a popular choice for many entrepreneurs.

Profitability in dropshipping can vary significantly based on the niche, product selection, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts. Here are some factors to consider:

a) Niche selection: Choosing the right niche is crucial for dropshipping success. Niches with high demand and low competition tend to be more profitable. For example, selling trending products like smartwatches or unique niche products like eco-friendly home products can yield higher profits.

b) Product selection and pricing: Finding reliable suppliers with competitive pricing is essential. Successful dropshippers often focus on products with a higher profit margin to maximize their earnings. For instance, if a product costs $10 from the supplier and is sold for $30, the dropshipper can earn $20 as profit.

c) Marketing and customer acquisition: Effective marketing strategies are vital for driving traffic and generating sales. Utilizing social media advertising, influencer marketing, SEO, and email marketing can help attract potential customers. Successful dropshipping stores invest in marketing efforts to increase profitability.

Example: One popular dropshipping success story is the store "Oberlo," which was acquired by Shopify. Oberlo started as a dropshipping app and later became a recognized brand in the dropshipping industry. This example demonstrates the potential profitability of dropshipping when executed correctly.

References:
- Oberlo success stories: https://www.oberlo.com/success-stories

2. Affiliate Marketing:
Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing model where individuals or businesses earn a commission by promoting other people's products or services. Affiliates earn a percentage of the sale when someone makes a purchase through their unique affiliate link.

Profitability in affiliate marketing depends on various factors, such as niche selection, product quality, traffic generation, and conversion rates. Here are some considerations:

a) Niche selection: Similar to dropshipping, selecting a profitable niche is crucial for affiliate marketing success. Niches with high demand and low competition increase the likelihood of generating sales and earning commissions.

b) Product selection and commission rates: Choosing products with higher commission rates can lead to more profitability. For example, promoting high-priced products or services that offer a significant commission percentage can result in higher earnings per sale.

c) Traffic generation and conversion optimization: Successful affiliate marketers focus on driving targeted traffic to their affiliate links through various channels such as blogging, social media, email marketing, and paid advertising. Optimizing conversion rates by creating compelling content, building trust, and utilizing effective call-to-actions can increase profitability.

Example: Pat Flynn, the founder of Smart Passive Income, is a well-known affiliate marketer who generates a significant income through his affiliate marketing efforts. His success showcases the profitability potential of affiliate marketing when executed strategically.

References:
- Pat Flynn's Smart Passive Income: https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/

In conclusion, both dropshipping and affiliate marketing can be profitable business models. The profitability depends on various factors such as niche selection, marketing strategies, product selection, and personal efforts. It is essential to thoroughly research and understand your target market, competition, and industry trends to increase the chances of success in either business model.