When’s the best time to show a popup?
Popups can be amazing tools to grab attention and turn visitors into customers… but only if you show them at the right time. Too soon, and you scare people off. Too late, and you miss the chance.
So, when’s the best time to show a popup?
The truth: it depends on what you want to achieve and where your visitor is in their journey. Let’s look at some scenarios.
- Right when they land (but only sometimes)
Best for: welcoming new visitors, growing your email list
Why it works: First impressions matter. If someone’s just landed on your homepage, a warm welcome + incentive (like “Get 10% off your first order”) can encourage them to stick around.
Pro tip: Don’t block the whole screen instantly. Use a small smart bar or wait a few seconds before showing your popup so it feels like a natural part of the visit.
- After they’ve browsed for a while
Best for: engaging curious shoppers who are exploring products
Why it works: If someone is scrolling around, it means they’re interested. A timed popup (say, after 30–60 seconds) can nudge them further, like offering free shipping info or highlighting a bestseller.
Scenario: A visitor spends a minute on your sofa collection page, a popup appears: “Need help choosing? Chat with our design expert today.”
- When they add something to cart
Best for: boosting order value or reminding about perks
Why it works: Shoppers in buying mode are easier to upsell. A cart-triggered popup can suggest bundles, upgrades, or reinforce benefits like free returns.
Scenario: Someone adds a chair to their cart. A popup appears: “Complete the look — add a matching cushion and get 20% off.”
- When they’re about to leave (exit intent)
Best for: saving abandoning carts and keeping hesitant visitors
Why it works: Exit-intent popups appear just as someone’s about to click away. It’s your last chance to catch their attention with a discount, reminder, or offer.
Scenario: A shopper is about to close the tab with $150 worth of items in their cart. A popup appears: “Wait! Here’s 10% off if you check out now.”
- During special events or holidays
Best for: time-sensitive promotions
Why it works: Shoppers expect deals during Black Friday, Valentine’s, or a store anniversary. Popups with countdown timers work wonders here.
Scenario: It’s Black Friday weekend. A popup appears: “Today only — 25% off sitewide. Ends in 4 hours!”
- For mobile users, later rather than sooner
Best for: keeping the experience smooth on smaller screens
Why it works: Mobile visitors are quick to leave if interrupted. Delay your popup until they’ve scrolled or tapped a few times.
Scenario: A mobile visitor scrolls halfway down a product page. A small slide-in popup appears: “Tap here to get free shipping.”
The “best time” isn’t one-size-fits-all — it depends on your goal and your visitor’s behavior. Think of popups as gentle nudges rather than loud interruptions. If the timing feels natural, your visitors will see them as helpful, not annoying.
Updated on: 27/08/2025
Thank you!