Safe pricing page tests: Test presentation (plan names, feature emphasis, layout) NOT actual prices. If you must test prices, use server-side testing with strict user-level consistency—never show the same user different prices. Test annual toggle prominence, number of plans (anchoring), and CTA copy first.
The Golden Rule
Never show the same user different prices.
If a user sees $99/month, then comes back and sees $149/month, they'll lose trust and complain. Price consistency per user is non-negotiable.
Safe Pricing Page Tests
| Test | Example | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Plan names | "Pro" vs "Business" vs "Premium" | Low |
| Number of plans | 3 plans vs 4 plans (anchoring) | Low |
| Feature emphasis | Which features to highlight per plan | Low |
| Annual toggle | Prominence and savings display | Low |
| CTA copy | "Start Free Trial" vs "Get Started" | Low |
| Social proof | Customer logos, testimonials placement | Low |
Dangerous Tests (Require Special Handling)
Actual prices (High Risk)
Users will notice and complain if they see different prices
Feature availability (High Risk)
Creates expectation mismatch
Trial length (Medium Risk)
Must be consistent per user
If You MUST Test Actual Prices
Requirements for safe price testing:
- Use server-side testing — Assign variant before page renders
- User-level consistency — Same user always sees same price (persistent cookie/account)
- New users only — Don't change prices for existing customers
- Document in ToS — "Prices may vary for testing purposes"
- Monitor complaints — Have support team ready
- Short duration — Run for minimum time needed, then standardize
High-Impact Tests (No Price Changes)
Anchoring with 4th plan
Add expensive "Enterprise" plan to make middle plans seem affordable
Annual savings emphasis
"Save 20%" vs "$240/year savings" vs no mention
Feature list order
Which features to show first per plan
Plan recommendation badge
"Most Popular" or "Best Value" badge placement
Test Pricing Safely
Use ExperimentHQ to test pricing page presentation. Start with safe tests (layout, copy, anchoring) before considering price tests.