Image Size Test

Despite requiring more scrolling, the larger image enticed 63% more visitors to click to start the bidding process. Even better, a whopping 329% more visitors who started bidding actually filled out all the online forms required to place a bid. So, the larger image helped fickle bidders maintain their initial excitement as they worked their way through the bidding process.

This test was part of a multivariate testing series conducted by marketers at renowned auction house Skinner, Inc. The team used testing technology and Web optimization services from their longtime vendor, SiteSpect, Inc., to conduct the tests.

As you probably know, product image size tests are famous for high-impact results. Also, according to past eyetracking studies conducted on various ecommerce sites such as Wal-Mart, when it comes to product images, scrolling is often a red herring. Shoppers don’t mind scrolling (within reason) to see more of an image. In fact, some tests have shown shoppers would rather scroll to see more of the default image than click to see a larger version.

So, why don’t more ecommerce, auction, and even lead generation sites test bigger, default product images? Some marketers are stuck in page templates with size constraints. Some think as long as visitors can click to enlarge images, you don’t need to test the originals’ size. Others figure if an image size is good enough for Amazon (275 pixels wide) or eBay (300 pixels wide), then it’s good enough for them.

The lesson from this test is: Test your image size! Anything that could significantly lift both your ‘Add to Cart’ and ‘Check Out’ rates is worth going to the mat for.

WhichTestWon.com is sponsored by: WiderFunnel Conversion Optimization, the A/B and multivariate testing firm that guarantees Conversion Rate Lift. Click here for info on improving your site’s results – risk free – today!