Use hard paywalls after onboarding to maximize conversion for utility apps
For apps providing ongoing utility (habit tracking, health tools), implement a hard paywall that requires free trial commitment before users can access any features. This filters for serious users and dramatically increases conversion versus soft paywalls with limited free tiers.
When to use
After you've built extensive onboarding that primes users on their problem. Works best for utility apps where users return repeatedly, not one-time-use tools.
Don't do this
Offering a freemium tier with limited features that users abuse without converting. Soft paywalls that let users skip payment and use basic features indefinitely.
3 Founders Who Did This
Used subscription model with free download but all features gated behind paywall
Implemented hard (unskippable) paywall requiring free trial commitment before accessing any features, with extensive onboarding before paywall exposure
Uses hard paywall after emotional onboarding sequence. Users see brands they've purchased from and eligible settlements before hitting the subscription wall. Weekly ($4.99) and yearly ($59.99) options with yearly visually prioritized