Free Trial

By /

A Free Trial is a marketing strategy that allows potential customers to use a product or service for free for a short time so they can try using it.

Depending on the provider’s terms and conditions, this period typically ranges from a few days to a month.1

Purpose

The main goal of a free trial is to let users try out all the features and benefits of a product or service before they buy it.

This helps build trust and shows the product’s value, encouraging users to become paying customers.2

Key Characteristics

  1. Limited Time Access: Users can use the product or service for a period without paying.
  2. Full Feature Availability: Users often get access to all or most features during the trial, allowing them to fully test the product.
  3. No Obligations: Users can cancel anytime during the trial without any charges, making it a risk-free way to try the product.3

Benefits

  • Risk-Free Evaluation: Users can see if the product or service meets their needs without spending money.
  • Informed Decision Making: Trying the product helps users decide based on their experience.
  • Higher Conversion Rates: Providers often get more paying customers after a positive free trial experience.4

Examples

  • Software and Apps: Many companies offer free trials for tools like productivity software, design programs, and mobile apps.
  • Streaming Services: Platforms like Netflix and Spotify give free trials to attract new subscribers.
  • Subscription Boxes: Some services send a free trial box to encourage potential customers to subscribe.

Related Terms

References:

1. Free trial | english meaning – cambridge dictionary. (n.d.). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/free-trial

2. What is free trial?: Chargebee Glossaries. Chargebee. (n.d.). https://www.chargebee.com/resources/glossaries/what-is-free-trial/

3. Tanner, M. (2023, December 1). Adding a free trial to your API monetization model. Adding a Free Trial to Your API Monetization Model | Moesif Blog. https://www.moesif.com/blog/api-monetization/Adding-a-Free-Trial-to-Your-API-Monetization-Model/

4. Datta, H., Foubert, B., & Van Heerde, H. J. (2015). The challenge of retaining customers acquired with free trials. Journal of Marketing Research, 52(2), 217-234. https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/abs/10.1287/mksc.1030.0052

Scroll to Top