PostHog1. Lead with how many people pay nothing
Starting with free builds trust before any number shows up.
- Open with your free plan story
- List what free includes every month
- Explain why someone would pay later
Freemium vs free trial
Freemium gives a limited plan free forever, so people adopt slowly and upgrade when they hit a limit. A free trial gives the full product for a set time, so people decide fast. Pick freemium when users invite others or the product spreads by use, and a trial when value shows up quickly.
Updated · By Blake Emal · 5 real examples, each linked to its source
What are the steps
- Ask how value shows upIf people see value in the first session, a trial works. If value grows with data or teammates, freemium works.
- Ask how it spreadsProducts that spread through shared links and invites suit freemium.
- Set the limit that upgrades peopleSeats, usage or advanced features, chosen so serious users hit it.
- Say it plainly on the pageCal.com says free with no limits up front. Tally says free and no signup.
- Measure upgrades, not signupsJudge the model by paying users after a few months.
How do the options compare
| Freemium | Free trial | |
|---|---|---|
| Time limit | None | Usually days or weeks |
| Feature limit | Yes | Usually no |
| Best for | Products that spread by use | Products with fast first value |
| Main risk | Many users never pay | People churn before they see value |
| Real examples | PostHog, Cal.com, Tally | Trial offers in many B2B tools |
Which real examples show it
PostHog
Cal.com2. Say free with no limits up front
A generous free line pulls in people who would never book a demo.
- Say what free has no limit on
- Show team plans next to it
- Offer a feature breakdown link
Tally3. Say free and no signup in one place
Removing sign up from the first step gets people building right away.
- Let people try before they sign up
- Say so under the button
- Show the product in the hero
Canva4. Lead with free templates
The word free and a search bar start the product right on the page.
- Say free in the headline
- Put search front and center
- Show categories as visual tiles
PostHog5. Show the free plan right in the hero
Removing price worry at the first glance gets more people to start.
- Put free plan facts next to the headline
- Say no credit card required
- Offer an install with AI option
Get three ideas for your own product
Open the idea generatorPick a channel and a goal. Get real examples and a plan to fill in. Free, no login.
What else do people ask
Can you offer both freemium and a free trial
Yes. Many products keep a free plan and offer a trial of the paid tier on top.
Is freemium cheaper to run
Not always. Free users cost money to serve, so the free plan needs limits.
Which converts better
It depends on the product. Compare paying customers per hundred signups over a few months rather than trusting a general rule.