Looking for the right A/B testing tool for your Shopify store? Here's what you need to know:
Store Size | Best Tool | Starting Price | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Small (<1K orders) | Shoplift | $99/month | Basic testing, theme changes |
Growing | Convert | $559/month | Unlimited tests, no data storage |
Mid-Size | VWO | $199/month | Heatmaps + testing suite |
Enterprise | Dynamic Yield/Optimizely | Custom | Cross-channel testing |
Quick Tool Breakdown:
- Optimizely: Enterprise-grade, needs 5K+ monthly visitors
- VWO: Full testing suite with heatmaps
- AB Tasty: AI-powered personalization
- Convert: No test limits, GDPR ready
- Dynamic Yield: AI testing + product recommendations
- Neat A/B Testing: Simple price testing from $29/month
- Shoplift: Basic testing with minimal speed impact
Before You Start Testing:
- Need at least 1,000 monthly visitors
- Wait two business cycles for reliable data
-
Focus on testing:
- CTA buttons
- Page layouts
- Product descriptions
- Checkout flow
- Pricing display
Real Results:
Store | Tool | Outcome |
---|---|---|
Bukvybag | VWO | 45% more orders |
Goldelucks | Convert | 66.2% revenue increase |
Shiseido | AB Tasty | 159% more add-to-carts |
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Optimizely
Optimizely helps Shopify stores run A/B tests without coding. Here's what you need to know:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Test Types | - A/B tests - Multivariate tests - Personalization campaigns |
Key Functions | - WYSIWYG editor - Statistical engine - Audience targeting - SDKs in 10 languages |
Setup Requirements | - Optimizely snippet in theme.liquid - Development theme copy - Shopify Plus for checkout tracking |
Setting up Optimizely is pretty straightforward:
- Sign up for an account
- Drop their code into your theme
- Pick your goals and split your traffic
- Start testing
- Clean up when you're done
But heads up - there are some limits:
- You'll need Shopify Plus to track revenue
- Your checkout and store domains must match
- Your store needs at least 5,000 monthly visitors
Plan Type | Trial Period | Billing |
---|---|---|
Basic Shopify | 7 days | Custom pricing |
Advanced | 7 days | Custom pricing |
Shopify Plus | 7 days | Custom pricing |
Here's a real example: Chubbies Shorts (on Shopify Plus) used Optimizely to track how their A/B tests affected sales. They connected their checkout page to their store to get accurate numbers.
Want better results? Remember to:
- Test on a development theme first
- Know what you want to measure
- Delete test code when done
- Keep an eye on load times
- Stay GDPR-friendly
Users give Optimizely 4.2/5 stars (based on 2,179 reviews). They love how easy it is to use and the support team. But small stores might want to look elsewhere:
"Don't bother if you have a smaller store with traffic of only 5000 + per month. They wouldn't allow me to keep using their app after the trial." - Heatercraft, United States
2. VWO
VWO is an A/B testing platform that helps Shopify stores boost their conversion rates. Here's what it does:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Test Types | - A/B testing - Split URL testing - Multivariate testing - Behavioral targeting |
Key Functions | - Visual editor - Heatmaps - Session recordings - Funnel analysis |
Setup Requirements | - VWO SmartCode in theme.liquid - Revenue tracking setup - Shopify Plus for checkout tracking |
The platform can handle 25,000 requests per second. Here's how to get started:
1. Add VWO to Your Store
Go to your Shopify admin panel, find theme.liquid, and paste the VWO SmartCode before the closing tag. Then use their SmartCode Checker to make sure it's working.
2. Set Up Revenue Tracking
Drop the SmartCode in your "Additional Scripts" section. If you use ReCharge, turn on cross-domain tracking. Data360 accounts need custom event setup.
Plan Type | Features | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Web Testing | Basic A/B testing | $99-$467/month |
FullStack | Advanced features | $1,999/month |
Enterprise | Custom solutions | Custom pricing |
The numbers speak for themselves: VWO scores 4.5/5 from 425 reviews, with over half giving it top marks.
"VWO has provided us a solid framework with which to scale our CRO services as an agency." - Trevor A., Product Owner, CRO Services
What You Should Know:
- Use code-only mode for dynamic content testing
- Set specific goals for each test
- Track element-level conversions
- Link with Google Analytics
Big names like Microsoft and Dominos use VWO. But heads up:
- Complex tests need coding skills
- You'll need lots of visitors for good data
- Multiple page tests can get tricky
- Data collection isn't always quick
Want to try it out? VWO offers a 30-day free trial, no credit card needed.
3. AB Tasty
AB Tasty helps Shopify stores run A/B tests and personalize their customer experience. Here's what they offer:
Feature Category | Capabilities |
---|---|
Testing Options | - A/B testing - Split testing - Funnel testing - AI-driven personalization |
Core Tools | - Visual editor - Code editor - Feature flag management - Cloud-based platform |
Analytics | - Transaction tracking - Visitor behavior analysis - Conversion metrics - Average basket size |
Here's how to get started:
1. Add the Tag
Put the AB Tasty tag in your Shopify store's </head> section. Use the synchronous version to avoid screen flicker.
2. Set Up Your Account
Connect your AB Tasty account with your store ID. The system automatically tracks:
Metric Type | What's Measured |
---|---|
Sales | - Transaction rates - Average basket size - Revenue per visitor |
User Data | - Browser info - Operating system - Browsing behavior |
Campaign Stats | - Visitor counts - Conversion rates - Click-through rates |
Success Stories:
Brand | Test Type | Results |
---|---|---|
Shiseido | CTA Optimization | +159% increase in "add to cart" clicks |
Me Undies | Promo Banner Test | +10% increase in transactions |
Clarins | Personalization Campaign | +89% increase in conversions |
"The platform is easy to learn and utilize. The AB Tasty account team is EXCELLENT! They take the time to listen to their customers and provide solutions instead of empty promises." - Jerrod H., Verified User in Retail
What You Need to Know:
- Works with Shopify's Pixel tracking
- Tags auto-inject on all pages (except checkout)
- AB Tasty account required
- Contact sales for pricing
The platform supports over 1,000 brands with their testing needs. Their basic "Essentials" plan includes A/B testing, personalization, and both visual and code editors.
Tech Specs:
Component | Details |
---|---|
Installation | Through Shopify App Store |
Tag Type | Synchronous (recommended) or asynchronous |
Data Access | Requires customer and store data permissions |
Compatibility | Works with Google Tag Manager |
Before running big tests, start with a small campaign to check your setup and data tracking.
4. Convert Experiences
Convert Experiences is an A/B testing tool for Shopify stores that doesn't need developer support. Here's what it offers:
Feature Type | What's Included |
---|---|
Testing Options | - A/B testing - Split URL testing - Multipage testing - Multivariate testing |
Core Tools | - Visual editor - Code editor (CSS/JS) - Advanced Rule Builder - 40+ Filter Targeting Engine |
Data Analysis | - Real-time reports - Audience segments - JavaScript tester - Live debugging logs |
Here's how to get started:
1. Install the App
Get Convert Experiences from the Shopify App Store. It uses first-party cookies for tracking (GDPR ready).
2. Set It Up
Setting Type | Options |
---|---|
Traffic Control | - Visitor allocation - Subdomain access - Client accounts |
Targeting Rules | - Past action tracking - Cookie segments - JavaScript events |
Revenue Tracking | - Shopify checkout - UTM campaigns - Transaction data |
What It Costs:
Plan | Cost | Features |
---|---|---|
Kickstart | $699/month | Basic A/B testing toolkit |
Pro | +$100 from Plus | DMP Profiling included |
All Plans | Included | API access, unlimited tests |
"Couldn't live without this, no other tool does precisely what we need them to do." - Verified User
By the Numbers:
Metric | Data |
---|---|
Market Share | 0.03% in A/B Testing |
Customer Base | 44 customers across 9 countries |
Track Record | 5000+ websites optimized |
Support Speed | 4x faster than competitors |
Proof It Works:
One test with 900,000 users showed:
- 50% boost in conversions
- 9,000 new reviews
- Results in hours, not days
Under the Hood:
Component | Specification |
---|---|
Infrastructure | Akamai-powered |
Cookie Type | First-party only |
Testing Speed | Top market performer |
Data Storage | GDPR compliant |
Start with the Advanced Rule Builder to set your test conditions, then use audience targeting to zero in on specific visitors.
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5. Dynamic Yield
Dynamic Yield, now part of Mastercard, brings AI-powered A/B testing to Shopify stores. Here's what you get:
Feature Category | Capabilities |
---|---|
Testing Types | - A/B testing - Multivariate testing - Product recommendations - Email personalization |
Core Functions | - Visual editor - HTML/CSS/JS templates - Machine learning algorithms - Customer segmentation |
Data Management | - Real-time analytics - Behavioral tracking - 3rd party integrations - CRM data unification |
Getting started takes 4 simple steps:
1. Installation
Drop a JavaScript tag into your Shopify theme. That's it.
2. Connect Your Data
Set up event tracking to monitor customer behavior and connect your product catalog.
3. Set Your Rules
Build personalization rules based on what you want to test.
4. Start Testing
Launch your first test using either:
- The visual editor (no coding needed)
- Custom code (for advanced users)
"Dynamic Yield hits the sweet spot between ease-of-use and power. Non-technical folks can jump right in, while developers can dive deep with custom code." - Craig K., Verified User in Retail
The platform plays nice with your other tools:
Platform | Integration Options |
---|---|
Analytics | Google Analytics |
Any email platform | |
Other Tools | Checkout, Emarsys, Tealium, Smartling |
The numbers speak for themselves: One store saw 3X ROI in just 60 days.
"Dynamic Yield gives you everything upfront - no frustrating tier upgrades like VWO. Their personalization game is strong." - Leke Tade, Frontend Engineer, Swanky Australia
Pricing:
- No setup fees
- Free trial available
- Custom quotes based on your needs
- Includes premium support
What makes it different? The AI engine automatically tweaks your tests and personalizes content based on real-time customer behavior. Plus, it works with modern Shopify themes right out of the box.
6. Neat A/B Testing
Neat A/B Testing makes split testing dead simple for Shopify stores. Here's what you get:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Testing Types | - Product pricing - Copy variations - Image testing - Product page layouts - Homepage layouts (beta) |
Data Tracking | - Full conversion funnel - Product views - Cart additions - Purchase tracking |
Test Duration | - 24-hour rotation - Custom time periods |
Analysis | - Bayesian testing - Plain-English results - Zero stats knowledge required |
Getting started takes just 4 steps:
1. Install From Shopify
Grab it straight from the app store.
2. Choose Your Test
Pick what you want to test - from prices to page layouts.
3. Set Your Timeline
Stick with 24 hours or pick your own schedule.
4. Watch The Numbers
Keep tabs on your results in the dashboard.
Price Tier | Cost |
---|---|
Basic Plan | $29/month |
Trial | 14 days free |
Support | 24-hour help |
Store owners love it:
"We love this app! Beyond the straight-forward setup process and detailed results, Neat A/B's customer service is next level." - Atmo Home
"Not only is the app great in what it does, enabling extremely useful price (and not only) split testing, but the entire team behind it is a joy to talk to." - TheImpostor.us
The new homepage testing lets you experiment with:
- Value props
- Hero images
- Page designs
Here's what makes it different: The app switches test versions on its own, so shoppers see the same version throughout their visit. Found a winner? Make it permanent with one click.
"Very impressed by the customer service offered by Lorne and Randy, living up to the promise of 24-hour support!" - Blake Mill
With a 4.8-star rating (42 reviews), Neat A/B Testing helps store owners get clear answers without diving into complex statistics.
7. Shoplift
Shoplift makes A/B testing simple for Shopify stores. Here's what you get:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Test Types | - Product pages - Landing pages - Collections - Homepage layouts - Search results - Global elements |
Analytics | - Revenue Per Visitor (RPV) - Average Order Value (AOV) - Conversion Rate (CVR) - Click-Through Rate (CTR) - Add-to-cart rate |
Speed Impact | Only 2-point reduction in page speed |
Bot Handling | Built-in SEO protection |
The standout Lift Assistâ„¢ feature builds tests based on millions of shopper sessions - with pixel-perfect accuracy.
Plan | Monthly Cost | Traffic Limit |
---|---|---|
Core | $99 | 50,000 visitors |
Advanced | $299 | 100,000 visitors |
Pro | $599 | 1,000,000 visitors |
Every plan comes with:
- 14-day free trial
- No test limits
- Theme testing
- Zero coding required
Here's what store owners say:
"With a quick app install, we have an AB testing tool that is fully integrated to OUR Shopify storefronts. Plus we have access to a powerhouse mentor and advisor to employ best practice tests and explore deeper optimizations for our store KPIs." - Skullcandy
"We've been using Shoplift for 5 months and are thrilled with the results! Installation and setup were simple, and the user-friendly design enables quick, impactful tests." - Health-Ade
The app tracks these key metrics:
- Average order value
- Conversion rate
- Revenue per visitor
- Click-through rate
- Add-to-cart rate
91 brands use Shoplift to run tests without page flicker or speed problems. The platform's 4.7-star rating (93% five-star reviews) speaks for itself. It works with ALL Shopify themes - including custom ones - and connects with Checkout, Replo, PageFly, and Klaviyo.
Tool Comparison: What Works Best
Here's a breakdown of the top A/B testing tools for Shopify stores:
Feature | Optimizely | VWO | Convert | Dynamic Yield | Shoplift |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $36,000/year | $199/month | $559/month | Custom | $99/month |
Target Users | Enterprise | SMB to Enterprise | SMB | Enterprise | Small to Mid-size |
Test Types | A/B, MVT, Split URL | A/B, MVT, Split URL | A/B, MVT | A/B, MVT, Personalization | A/B, Theme Testing |
Support | 24/7 with packages | 24/7 included | Email, Chat, Phone | Custom | Standard |
Analytics | Advanced | Built-in heatmaps | Basic | Cross-channel | Core metrics |
Speed Impact on Your Store
Each tool affects your store's loading speed differently:
- Shoplift drops page speed by 2 points
- Convert keeps things fast
- VWO slows things down when using all features
- Dynamic Yield's impact depends on how you set it up
What Store Owners Say
"With a quick app install, we have an AB testing tool that is fully integrated to OUR Shopify storefronts. Plus we have access to a powerhouse mentor and advisor to employ best practice tests and explore deeper optimizations for our store KPIs." - Skullcandy
Real Store Results
Company | Tool | Results |
---|---|---|
Pulse Boutique | Convert | 25% more revenue per user, 14% higher conversions |
Saltrock | Dynamic Yield | 12% more conversions in 3 weeks |
Snocks | VWO | 24.5% more sales per visitor |
Security & Privacy
Tool | Certifications |
---|---|
VWO | GDPR, CCPA, PCI DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II |
Convert | GDPR, PCI DSS |
Optimizely | GDPR, CCPA, PCI DSS |
Dynamic Yield | GDPR, CCPA |
Shoplift | GDPR, PCI DSS |
What Works With What
Each tool connects differently with your tech stack:
- Shoplift: Works with every Shopify theme, Checkout, Replo, PageFly, Klaviyo
- VWO: Comes with heatmaps and click tracking
- Convert: No limits on testing, doesn't store personal data
- Dynamic Yield: Tests across mobile and email
- Optimizely: Plugs into FullStory and Hotjar
"We've used Convert, Optimizely, and VWO to successfully run A/B tests on all sorts of Shopify clients. Convert is a frequent tool recommendation to new clients who don't have one yet since it's cost-friendly." - Ryan Lucht, CroMetrics
Which Tool Should You Choose?
Here's how to pick the right A/B testing tool for your Shopify store:
Store Size | Best Tool | Why It Fits | Monthly Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Small Stores (<1000 orders) | Shoplift | Basic A/B testing, theme testing, works with all Shopify themes | $99 |
Growing Stores | Convert | No test limits, good price-to-feature ratio | $559 |
Mid-Size Stores | VWO | Built-in heatmaps, full testing suite | $199 |
Enterprise | Dynamic Yield or Optimizely | Cross-channel testing, advanced features | Custom |
Let me break this down by store size:
Small Stores (Up to 1000 Monthly Orders) Shoplift is your best bet. It's built for Shopify, handles basic A/B testing, and won't break the bank at $99/month.
Growing Stores Convert steps up the game. You get unlimited tests and strong features without storing personal data. The proof? Pulse Boutique boosted their revenue per user by 25% with Convert.
Mid-Size Stores VWO brings more to the table with heatmaps and click tracking. Snocks is a perfect example - they bumped up sales per visitor by 24.5%.
Enterprise Stores Dynamic Yield and Optimizely are the big guns. They offer cross-channel testing and deep analytics. Saltrock saw this firsthand with a 12% conversion boost in just 3 weeks using Dynamic Yield.
Here's a quick way to decide:
If You Need | Choose |
---|---|
Basic testing on a budget | Shoplift |
Multiple tests without limits | Convert |
Heatmaps + testing | VWO |
Cross-channel capabilities | Dynamic Yield |
Enterprise-grade features | Optimizely |
"We've used Convert, Optimizely, and VWO to successfully run A/B tests on all sorts of Shopify clients. Convert is a frequent tool recommendation to new clients who don't have one yet since it's cost-friendly." - Ryan Lucht, CroMetrics
Pro tip: You'll need at least two full business cycles of data for solid test results. Make sure your store gets enough traffic - small sites might not collect enough data to run meaningful A/B tests.
FAQs
What is the best ab testing tool for Shopify?
Here's what you need to know about A/B testing tools for your Shopify store:
Store Type | Best Tool | Monthly Traffic | Key Feature |
---|---|---|---|
Small Stores | Shoplift | Up to 10,000 visits | Basic A/B tests |
Mid-Market | VWO | 10,000-100,000 visits | Full testing suite |
Enterprise | Optimizely/Dynamic Yield | 100,000+ visits | Cross-channel testing |
Your choice boils down to three things:
Traffic Numbers Matter You need enough visitors to get reliable test results. Here's a real example: Testing two different product images can boost your add-to-cart rates by 10%.
Pick the Right Features Different tools offer different testing options:
- Product page layouts
- Checkout flow
- Price testing
- Image variations
- CTA buttons
Match Your Budget Start small and scale up. No need to spend big money on advanced features if you're just starting out.
"You might discover by comparing two images of the same product that 10% more people click and add, increasing your revenue for this product by 10% just from this change!" - Convert Experiences
Bottom Line: Don't jump into A/B testing without enough traffic. Start with basic tools if you're small, then upgrade as you grow.