Interesting. I had those experiences a few years ago but today it's different. I alsways received my money back with in a few days. I no longer see a dispute or the option to talk to the seller first. I simply put my claim and after I did they ask what the seller said. I always leave that open. After I sent the complain I can contact the seller, but all sellers have a bot answeringthat the shop is closed or Aliexpress is handling the complaint.
The only minus is I always need to search how to complain plus you have to wait till the date passed they should have delivered.

Tried https://www.sunsky-online.com? There are more.