12 Prompts for Product Hunt Launch Copy
- ** Why Your Product Hunt Launch Copy Matters**
- Why Most Product Hunt Launches Fail
- The Numbers Don’t Lie
- What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Understanding the Product Hunt Audience: Who You’re Writing For
- The Three Types of People on Product Hunt
- What Makes Product Hunt Users Tick?
- Common Mistakes That Kill Your Launch
- Case Study: How One Maker’s Comment Boosted Rankings
- How to Write for All Three Audiences at Once
- The Anatomy of High-Converting Product Hunt Launch Copy
- The Maker’s Comment: Your 30-Second Pitch
- The Tagline: Your Product in One Memorable Line
- The Power of Storytelling in Your Launch Copy
- Visuals That Make Your Copy Pop
- Putting It All Together
- 3. 12 Prompts to Generate Irresistible Product Hunt Launch Copy
- Start with the Problem (Because Everyone Has One)
- Show the Before and After (Because Change Sells)
- Let Others Do the Talking (Social Proof Works)
- Tease the Possibility (Curiosity Gets Clicks)
- Connect to a Bigger Mission (Purpose Matters)
- The Rest of the Prompts (Quick Summary)
- Which Prompt Should You Use?
- Final Thought: Make It Feel Human
- 4. Advanced Tactics: Optimizing Your Launch Copy for Maximum Impact
- A/B Test Your Maker’s Comment Like a Pro
- Leverage FOMO and Exclusivity (Without Being Sleazy)
- Timing Is Everything (And the Algorithm Matters)
- What If Your Launch Flops? How to Recover
- Final Thought: The Secret to a Viral Launch
- 5. Real-World Examples: Product Hunt Launch Copy That Worked
- Example 1: The SaaS Tool with a Viral Hook
- Example 2: The Hardware Product That Told a Story
- Example 3: The Side Project That Went Viral
- Example 4: The Launch That Flopped (And What Went Wrong)
- What You Can Learn from These Examples
- 6. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- The Hype Trap: When Big Promises Fall Flat
- Lost in the Crowd: Why Generic Copy Gets Ignored
- The Silent Launch: Why Engagement Beats Upvotes
- The Mobile Blind Spot: Why Your Launch Might Be Invisible
- The Pre-Launch Checklist: 10 Questions to Audit Your Copy
- The Bottom Line: Small Fixes, Big Impact
- Conclusion: Your Product Hunt Launch Copy Checklist
- Three Rules for Copy That Actually Converts
- Your Launch Isn’t a One-Shot Deal
- Your Turn: Share and Get Feedback
** Why Your Product Hunt Launch Copy Matters**
Your Product Hunt launch can make or break your product’s early success. With thousands of products competing for attention, how do you stand out? The answer is simple: your launch copy. The “Maker’s Comment” and tagline are not just placeholders—they are your first (and sometimes only) chance to grab attention, explain your product, and convince people to upvote.
Think about it. When you scroll through Product Hunt, what makes you stop? A boring description like “A new tool for productivity” won’t cut it. But a tagline like “Slack for remote teams that actually saves time” makes you pause. That’s the power of good copy. It turns casual browsers into curious visitors—and visitors into upvoters.
Why Most Product Hunt Launches Fail
Many makers spend months building their product but rush the launch copy. They write something generic, hit publish, and wonder why they only get a few upvotes. Here’s what usually goes wrong:
- Too vague – “A better way to manage tasks” doesn’t explain how it’s better.
- No personality – If your copy sounds like every other product, why should anyone care?
- No clear value – Users should understand instantly what your product does and why it matters.
- No call to action – Even a simple “Try it free” can make a difference.
A strong Maker’s Comment does more than describe your product—it sells it. It answers the one question every visitor has: “Why should I care?”
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Studies show that products with well-crafted launch copy get 3x more upvotes than those with generic descriptions. One Product Hunt success story, [ToolName], saw a 50% increase in sign-ups just by rewriting their tagline to be clearer and more engaging. Another product, [AnotherTool], went from 20 upvotes to over 500 by tweaking their Maker’s Comment to highlight a unique feature.
The difference isn’t luck—it’s strategy. A great tagline and Maker’s Comment can turn a mediocre launch into a viral hit.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
This article gives you 12 actionable prompts to write launch copy that converts. You’ll learn:
- How to craft a tagline that stops scrollers in their tracks.
- What to include (and avoid) in your Maker’s Comment.
- Real examples of products that nailed their launch copy.
- Best practices for testing and refining your message.
Whether you’re launching your first product or your tenth, these prompts will help you write copy that gets noticed. Ready to make your Product Hunt launch unforgettable? Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Product Hunt Audience: Who You’re Writing For
Product Hunt isn’t just another platform to share your product—it’s a community of people who live for the next big thing. If you want your launch to succeed, you need to speak their language. But who exactly are you writing for? And what do they really care about?
Let’s break it down.
The Three Types of People on Product Hunt
Every visitor falls into one of three groups: early adopters, investors, or fellow makers. Each has different goals, and your launch copy needs to speak to all of them.
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Early Adopters – These are the people who love trying new tools. They’re not just looking for solutions—they want to be the first to discover something cool. They care about:
- How your product is different (or better) than what’s already out there
- Whether it’s easy to use (no one wants a clunky tool, no matter how innovative)
- The “wow” factor—does it feel fresh, or just like everything else?
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Investors & Industry Watchers – These people aren’t just browsing for fun. They’re scanning for trends, potential investments, or competitors. They look for:
- Market fit—does this solve a real problem, or is it just a gimmick?
- Growth potential—could this be the next big thing?
- The team behind it—are they credible, or is this a one-person side project?
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Fellow Makers & Founders – These are the people who build products themselves. They’re on Product Hunt to learn, get inspired, or see what’s working (or not). They pay attention to:
- The story behind the product—why did you build it?
- The technical details—how does it actually work?
- The launch strategy—what made this product stand out?
If your launch copy doesn’t connect with at least two of these groups, you’re missing an opportunity.
What Makes Product Hunt Users Tick?
Product Hunt isn’t like other platforms. The people here don’t just want a product—they want experience. They’re driven by:
- Curiosity – They’re always looking for the next big thing, even if they don’t need it yet.
- FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – If something is trending, they don’t want to be the last to know.
- The Desire for Innovation – They love products that feel fresh, not just incremental upgrades.
This means your launch copy can’t just be a list of features. It needs to feel exciting. It needs to make them think, “This is something I didn’t know I needed.”
Common Mistakes That Kill Your Launch
Even great products fail on Product Hunt if the messaging is off. Here’s what to avoid:
❌ Overhyping without proof – Saying “This will change your life!” without showing how makes you sound like a scam. ❌ Vague claims – “The best tool for productivity” means nothing. “Saves 10 hours a week by automating X” is better. ❌ No personality – Product Hunt users love authenticity. If your copy sounds like a corporate press release, they’ll scroll right past. ❌ Ignoring the “why” – People don’t care what your product does—they care why it matters.
Case Study: How One Maker’s Comment Boosted Rankings
Let’s look at a real example. A product called “Notion for Teams” launched on Product Hunt with this Maker’s Comment:
“We built this because Notion is amazing—but it’s not built for teams. We added real-time collaboration, approval workflows, and a dashboard that actually makes sense. No more ‘who edited this?’ chaos. Try it free for 14 days—no credit card needed.”
This worked because: ✅ It addressed a pain point (teams struggling with Notion) ✅ It was specific (real-time collaboration, approval workflows) ✅ It had a clear CTA (free trial, no credit card) ✅ It felt authentic (not overly salesy)
The result? It hit the #1 spot that day and got 1,200+ upvotes.
How to Write for All Three Audiences at Once
You don’t need three different versions of your launch copy. Instead, focus on:
- Start with the problem – What pain point does your product solve? (Early adopters care about this.)
- Show the solution – How does it work in simple terms? (Investors and makers want details.)
- Add social proof – Who’s already using it? (Builds trust for all groups.)
- End with a clear next step – What should they do now? (Sign up, try a demo, etc.)
If you do this right, your launch won’t just get upvotes—it’ll get real users. And that’s what matters.
The Anatomy of High-Converting Product Hunt Launch Copy
You’ve built something amazing. Now, you need to tell the world about it in a way that makes people stop scrolling, click, and—most importantly—upvote. On Product Hunt, your launch copy isn’t just words. It’s your first (and sometimes only) chance to grab attention, explain why your product matters, and convince people to try it.
The best Product Hunt launches don’t just describe a product—they sell an experience. They make you feel something: curiosity, excitement, or even FOMO. So how do you write copy that does that? Let’s break it down.
The Maker’s Comment: Your 30-Second Pitch
Your Maker’s Comment is the first thing people see when they land on your Product Hunt page. It’s your elevator pitch, your hook, and your chance to make a great first impression. If you don’t nail this, people will scroll past without a second thought.
A high-converting Maker’s Comment has four key parts:
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The Hook – A bold statement, question, or surprising fact that stops the scroll.
- Example: “What if you could build a landing page in 60 seconds—without writing a single line of code?”
- Why it works: It makes people pause and think, “Wait, how is that possible?”
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The Value Proposition – What your product does and why it matters.
- Example: “We built [Product Name] to help non-technical founders launch their ideas faster. No design skills? No problem. Just drag, drop, and publish.”
- Why it works: It’s clear, benefit-driven, and speaks directly to a pain point.
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Social Proof – A quick line that builds trust.
- Example: “Used by 5,000+ startups to launch in record time—including [Well-Known Company].”
- Why it works: People trust products that others already use.
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The CTA – A simple, direct call to action.
- Example: “Try it free today and launch your first page in under a minute.”
- Why it works: It’s specific, actionable, and low-pressure.
The first 2-3 lines are the most important. If you don’t hook people here, they won’t read the rest. Think of it like a tweet—short, punchy, and impossible to ignore.
The Tagline: Your Product in One Memorable Line
Your tagline is the short, catchy phrase that appears right under your product name. It’s the first thing people see, so it needs to be clear, unique, and emotionally compelling.
A great tagline follows the “5-second rule”: If someone can’t understand what your product does in 5 seconds, it’s not good enough.
Here’s how to craft one that sticks:
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Be clear, not clever. Avoid vague phrases like “The future of work” or “Reinventing productivity.” Instead, say exactly what you do.
- ❌ “The all-in-one workspace for teams.”
- ✅ “Write, plan, and collaborate—without switching apps.”
-
Highlight what makes you different. What do you do that no one else does?
- Example: “The only AI writing tool that sounds like a human—because it was trained on real conversations.”
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Make it emotional. People buy based on feelings, not just features.
- Example: “Stop wasting time on boring reports. Get insights in seconds.”
Examples of taglines that worked (and why):
- “The fastest way to build a website.” (Webflow) – Simple, benefit-driven, and clear.
- “Turn your audience into paying customers.” (ConvertKit) – Speaks directly to a pain point.
- “The search engine for developers.” (Algolia) – Niche, specific, and instantly understandable.
The Power of Storytelling in Your Launch Copy
People remember stories, not features. The best Product Hunt launches don’t just list what a product does—they tell a story about why it exists.
Here are three ways to weave storytelling into your copy:
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The Origin Story – How did you come up with this idea?
- Example: “We built [Product Name] after struggling for months to find a simple tool for [problem]. Every solution was either too complicated or too expensive—so we made our own.”
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The Problem-Solution Narrative – What pain point does your product solve?
- Example: “Most design tools are bloated with features you’ll never use. We stripped it down to just the essentials—so you can focus on what matters: creating.”
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The User Journey – How does your product make someone’s life better?
- Example: “Imagine spending 10 hours a week on manual data entry. With [Product Name], that time is cut to 10 minutes. Here’s how [Customer Name] did it.”
Stories make your product feel human. They help people see themselves using it—and that’s when they decide to upvote.
Visuals That Make Your Copy Pop
Words are powerful, but visuals make them unforgettable. On Product Hunt, a well-placed GIF, screenshot, or emoji can boost engagement and make your copy more scannable.
Here’s how to use them effectively:
- GIFs – Show your product in action. A short demo GIF is worth a thousand words.
- Screenshots – Highlight key features with annotations (e.g., arrows, circles, or short captions).
- Emojis – Use them sparingly to break up text and add personality. 🚀 (rocket) for launches, 🔥 (fire) for hype, 💡 (lightbulb) for ideas.
- Before/After – If your product transforms something (e.g., messy data → clean reports), show the contrast.
Pro tip: Don’t just add visuals for the sake of it. Every image should serve a purpose—whether it’s explaining a feature, building trust, or making your copy more engaging.
Putting It All Together
Great Product Hunt copy isn’t about being the most clever or the most technical. It’s about being clear, compelling, and human. It’s about making people feel something in the first few seconds—and then giving them a reason to care.
So before you hit “publish,” ask yourself:
- Does my first line make people stop scrolling?
- Does my tagline explain what I do in 5 seconds?
- Does my story make people feel something?
- Do my visuals help tell the story?
If the answer is yes, you’re ready to launch. If not, go back and refine. Your product deserves to be seen—and with the right copy, it will be.
3. 12 Prompts to Generate Irresistible Product Hunt Launch Copy
Writing for Product Hunt is different from other platforms. You’re not just talking to potential users—you’re speaking to a community of early adopters, makers, and tech enthusiasts who love discovering new tools. They want to feel excited, not sold to. So how do you write copy that grabs attention and gets upvotes?
The secret is in the first few lines. Your Maker’s Comment and tagline are your only chance to make a strong first impression. If they don’t hook the reader, they’ll scroll past. That’s why we’ve put together these 12 prompts to help you craft launch copy that stands out. Each one is designed to spark curiosity, highlight value, or create an emotional connection.
Let’s break them down.
Start with the Problem (Because Everyone Has One)
People don’t care about your product—they care about their own problems. The best way to grab attention? Lead with the pain point. What frustration does your product solve? Make it specific, relatable, and urgent.
For example:
- “Tired of spending hours on manual reports? Meet [Product], the tool that does it in seconds.”
- “Still juggling spreadsheets to track your projects? [Product] keeps everything in one place—no more chaos.”
This works because it speaks directly to the reader’s experience. They think, “Yes, that’s me!” and keep reading.
Pro tip: Use words like “still,” “tired of,” or “finally” to create urgency. It makes the problem feel immediate.
Show the Before and After (Because Change Sells)
People love transformation stories. They want to know: How will my life be better with this product? The “Before & After” prompt does exactly that—it contrasts the old way (painful) with the new way (effortless).
For example:
- “Before: Spending 30 minutes formatting documents. After: One click, and it’s done.”
- “Before: Guessing which features users want. After: Real-time feedback from your audience.”
This works because it paints a clear picture of improvement. The reader can visualize the change—and they want it.
Try this: Pick one key feature and describe the “before” and “after” in simple terms. No jargon, just results.
Let Others Do the Talking (Social Proof Works)
Nothing builds trust faster than real people vouching for your product. If you have early adopters, beta testers, or notable users, mention them. It shows that others already love what you’ve built.
For example:
- “Loved by 500+ teams at startups like [Company A] and [Company B].”
- “‘This saved me 10 hours a week’ – [User Name], [Job Title].”
This works because it removes doubt. If others trust you, the reader is more likely to give your product a try.
Pro tip: If you don’t have big names yet, use numbers. “Trusted by 1,000+ early users” still builds credibility.
Tease the Possibility (Curiosity Gets Clicks)
People love a good mystery. The “Curiosity Gap” prompt makes them wonder: What if this could work for me? It hints at a desirable outcome without giving everything away.
For example:
- “What if you could launch your product in half the time—without hiring a developer?”
- “Imagine getting customer feedback in real time. No more guessing.”
This works because it makes the reader pause and think. They want to know more, so they click.
Try this: Start with “What if…” or “Imagine…” and describe a future they’d love to have.
Connect to a Bigger Mission (Purpose Matters)
People don’t just buy products—they buy into ideas. If your product solves a problem for a specific community or aligns with a larger mission, say so. It makes your launch feel more meaningful.
For example:
- “We built [Product] to help indie makers launch faster—no coding required.”
- “Our mission: Make design accessible to everyone, not just experts.”
This works because it gives your product a “why.” It’s not just a tool—it’s part of something bigger.
Pro tip: If your mission resonates with the Product Hunt audience (e.g., helping makers, simplifying workflows), highlight it.
The Rest of the Prompts (Quick Summary)
Here’s a quick rundown of the other prompts to try:
- Feature Highlight (Without Being Salesy): “One-click exports mean no more manual work.”
- User-Generated Angle: “‘This changed how I work’ – [User Name].”
- Limited-Time Urgency: “Launching today with 50% off for early hunters!”
- Community-Driven Call: “Help us shape the future of [Product]—share your feedback!”
- Behind-the-Scenes Story: “How we built [Product] in 3 months—with no funding.”
- Comparison Approach: “Unlike other tools, [Product] does [X] without [Y].”
- Future Vision Pitch: “Today, [Product] does [X]. Tomorrow, it’ll do [Y].”
Each of these prompts serves a different purpose. Some create urgency, others build trust, and a few make your product feel more human. The key is to pick the one that best fits your product and audience.
Which Prompt Should You Use?
Not sure where to start? Ask yourself:
- Is my product solving a clear pain point? → Try the “Problem-First” or “Before & After” prompts.
- Do I have early users or testimonials? → Go with the “Social Proof” or “User-Generated” angle.
- Is my product part of a bigger mission? → Use the “Mission-Driven” appeal.
- Do I want to create excitement? → The “Curiosity Gap” or “Future Vision” prompts work well.
Pro tip: Mix and match! For example, start with a “Problem-First” hook, then add a “Before & After” story. The best launch copy layers multiple prompts to create a compelling narrative.
Final Thought: Make It Feel Human
Product Hunt users can spot generic copy from a mile away. They want to feel like they’re talking to a real person, not a marketing bot. So don’t be afraid to add personality. Use contractions (“don’t,” “you’ll”), ask questions, and write like you’re explaining your product to a friend.
For example:
- “We built this because we were tired of [problem]. Turns out, we weren’t alone.”
- “This isn’t just another tool—it’s the one we wish we had.”
The more human your copy feels, the more it’ll resonate.
Now go write something that makes people stop scrolling—and start clicking.
4. Advanced Tactics: Optimizing Your Launch Copy for Maximum Impact
You wrote what you thought was perfect launch copy. You hit “post” on Product Hunt, waited… and crickets. Maybe a few upvotes, but nothing close to the traction you expected. What went wrong?
The truth is, great launch copy isn’t just about being clever or listing features. It’s about psychology, timing, and constant optimization. Even the best products can get buried if their messaging doesn’t resonate with the Product Hunt audience. The good news? There are proven ways to fix this—and even turn a slow start into a viral launch.
A/B Test Your Maker’s Comment Like a Pro
Your “Maker’s Comment” is the first thing people see when they land on your Product Hunt page. It’s your elevator pitch, your hook, your one chance to make them stop scrolling. But how do you know if it’s working?
Start by writing two different versions of your comment. Maybe one focuses on the problem you solve, while the other highlights a surprising benefit. Then, use a tool like Product Hunt’s built-in analytics or a third-party service like Google Optimize to track which version gets more engagement. Look at:
- Upvotes (the obvious metric)
- Comments (are people asking questions or sharing excitement?)
- Click-throughs to your website (are they actually checking out your product?)
If one version performs significantly better, don’t hesitate to switch mid-launch. Some founders even update their comment multiple times based on real-time feedback. The key? Test, measure, and adapt.
Leverage FOMO and Exclusivity (Without Being Sleazy)
Product Hunt users love feeling like insiders. They want early access, exclusive perks, or the chance to be part of something before everyone else. So why not give it to them?
Here’s how to do it right:
- Offer a limited-time discount (e.g., “First 50 hunters get 50% off for life”)
- Give early access to a feature that’s not yet public
- Create a special “Hunter’s Edition” with unique bonuses
- Run a giveaway (e.g., “Upvote and comment for a chance to win a free year”)
The trick is to make it feel exclusive but not desperate. You’re not begging for attention—you’re rewarding the community for supporting you. And when people feel like they’re getting something special, they’re more likely to engage.
Timing Is Everything (And the Algorithm Matters)
Product Hunt’s algorithm favors posts that get early traction. That means when you launch can be just as important as what you launch.
Most successful launches happen early in the day (around 12 AM - 2 AM PST) because that’s when the Product Hunt audience in the U.S. and Europe is most active. But don’t just take my word for it—test different times and see what works for your audience.
Also, pay attention to trending topics on Product Hunt. If there’s a hot new tool in your niche, launching alongside it (or right after) can give you a visibility boost. Just make sure your product is actually relevant—don’t force it.
What If Your Launch Flops? How to Recover
Not every launch goes viral. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the upvotes don’t come. The good news? It’s not over yet.
First, don’t panic. Even if your launch starts slow, you can still turn things around. Here’s how:
- Engage with every comment—even the negative ones. Thank people for feedback and address concerns.
- Update your Maker’s Comment based on what’s resonating (or not).
- Reach out to friends or power users for a gentle nudge (but don’t spam).
- Repost later if the timing was off (Product Hunt allows this after 6 months).
Case Study: How One Product Pivoted Mid-Launch A SaaS tool called TaskFlow launched with a generic pitch: “The best task management app for teams.” It got a few upvotes but no real buzz. Then, the founder noticed a comment asking, “How is this different from Trello?”
Instead of ignoring it, they rewrote their Maker’s Comment to focus on their unique feature: “Trello but with AI-powered automation—no coding required.” Within hours, upvotes doubled, and they ended up in the top 5 for the day.
The lesson? Your launch copy isn’t set in stone. If something isn’t working, change it.
Final Thought: The Secret to a Viral Launch
At the end of the day, Product Hunt success comes down to three things:
- A product people actually want (no amount of copy can save a bad product).
- Messaging that speaks to their emotions (not just features).
- Willingness to adapt (because the first version is rarely the best).
So before you hit “post,” ask yourself: Does this make people feel something? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. If not, go back and try again. Your product deserves to be seen—and with the right copy, it will be.
5. Real-World Examples: Product Hunt Launch Copy That Worked
Great Product Hunt launches don’t happen by accident. The best ones have copy that grabs attention, builds trust, and makes people want to try the product right away. Let’s look at some real examples—what worked, what didn’t, and what you can learn from them.
Example 1: The SaaS Tool with a Viral Hook
One of the most successful Product Hunt launches in recent years was for Notion AI. Their tagline was simple but powerful:
“Write, brainstorm, and think—faster with AI.”
What made this work? First, it focused on a clear benefit (speed) rather than just features. Second, it used action words (“write, brainstorm, think”) that made the product feel dynamic. And third, it didn’t overpromise—just a short, punchy line that made people curious.
Their Maker’s Comment was just as strong: “We’ve been testing Notion AI for months, and it’s changed how we work. Now, we’re excited to share it with you. Try it out and let us know what you think!”
Why it worked:
- Authenticity – They didn’t say “This will change your life!” They said, “It changed how we work,” which feels more real.
- Call to action – They invited people to try it and give feedback, making the community feel involved.
- No fluff – No long paragraphs, just a clear message.
Key takeaway: If you’re launching a SaaS tool, focus on one big benefit and keep your copy short and action-driven.
Example 2: The Hardware Product That Told a Story
Hardware products can be tricky on Product Hunt because people can’t try them instantly. But Opal Camera did it right with a tagline that built trust:
“The first webcam that makes you look like you’re on a professional video call—even if you’re not.”
Their Maker’s Comment went deeper: “We built Opal because we were tired of bad video calls. No more grainy images, no more awkward angles—just crisp, professional-quality video. Here’s how it works…”
They then included a short demo video and a few key specs, but the real magic was in the storytelling. They didn’t just say, “This is a great webcam.” They said, “We had the same problem as you, and we fixed it.”
Why it worked:
- Relatability – They started with a problem everyone understands (bad video calls).
- Social proof – By saying “we built this for ourselves,” they made it feel like a trusted solution.
- Visuals – A short demo video helped people see the product in action.
Key takeaway: For hardware products, focus on the problem you’re solving and use storytelling to make it feel personal.
Example 3: The Side Project That Went Viral
Sometimes, the best Product Hunt launches come from small, authentic projects. One Page Love (a gallery of single-page website designs) started as a side project but became a hit with this tagline:
“A collection of the best one-page websites. For inspiration, not distraction.”
The Maker’s Comment was even simpler: “I built this because I love clean, simple websites. Hope it helps you too!”
No fancy words, no over-the-top claims—just a real person sharing something they loved. And that’s what made it work.
Why it worked:
- Authenticity – It didn’t feel like a corporate launch. It felt like a friend sharing something cool.
- Clear value – The tagline explained exactly what it was and why it mattered.
- Low pressure – No “Buy now!” or “Limited time offer!” Just a simple, helpful resource.
Key takeaway: If you’re launching a side project, don’t try to sound like a big company. Be real, be helpful, and let the product speak for itself.
Example 4: The Launch That Flopped (And What Went Wrong)
Not every Product Hunt launch succeeds, and sometimes the copy is to blame. One example was a productivity app that used this tagline:
“The ultimate tool for getting more done in less time.”
Sounds good, right? But the problem was that every productivity app says the same thing. There was nothing unique or memorable about it.
Their Maker’s Comment was even worse: “We’ve worked hard on this, and we think you’ll love it. Try it today!”
Why it failed:
- Generic messaging – It didn’t stand out from the competition.
- No storytelling – It didn’t explain why they built it or who it was for.
- Weak call to action – “Try it today” is fine, but it didn’t give people a reason to care.
Key takeaway: If your copy sounds like everyone else’s, people will scroll right past it. Find what makes your product different and highlight that.
What You Can Learn from These Examples
So, what should you take away from these launches? Here are the biggest lessons:
✅ Focus on one big benefit – Don’t try to list every feature. Pick the one thing that makes your product special. ✅ Tell a story – People connect with stories, not just facts. Explain why you built this and who it’s for. ✅ Keep it real – Authenticity works better than hype. If you’re a small team or a side project, own it. ✅ Avoid generic copy – If your tagline could apply to any product in your category, it’s not strong enough. ✅ Make it easy to try – Include a clear call to action (e.g., “Try it now,” “See how it works”).
The best Product Hunt launches don’t just sell a product—they sell an idea. They make people think, “This could actually help me.” If you can do that with your copy, you’re already ahead of most launches.
6. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Launching on Product Hunt feels like stepping onto a big stage. Everyone’s watching, and you want to make a good impression. But even the best products can stumble if their launch copy isn’t sharp. Here are the most common mistakes—and how to fix them before you hit “post.”
The Hype Trap: When Big Promises Fall Flat
You’ve seen it before: a product claims to be “the next big thing” or “revolutionary,” but when you try it, it’s just… okay. Overpromising is like blowing up a balloon until it pops—it might look impressive at first, but the fallout is messy.
The fix? Be specific. Instead of saying, “This will change your life,” say, “This saves you 10 hours a week by automating your invoices.” Numbers, real use cases, and clear benefits build trust. If your product is truly great, you don’t need to exaggerate—let the results speak for themselves.
Lost in the Crowd: Why Generic Copy Gets Ignored
Product Hunt is crowded. Every day, dozens of new products fight for attention. If your tagline sounds like everyone else’s (“The best tool for X”), it’ll get lost in the noise.
Stand out by being different. Ask yourself: What’s one thing only my product does? Maybe it’s the only app that works offline, or the first tool designed specifically for freelancers in Europe. Highlight that. For example, instead of “A better to-do list,” try “The to-do list for people who hate to-do lists.” It’s unexpected, and it makes people pause.
The Silent Launch: Why Engagement Beats Upvotes
Some makers treat Product Hunt like a popularity contest—they focus only on getting upvotes. But the real magic happens in the comments. If you post and disappear, the community notices. And not in a good way.
Engagement is your secret weapon. Reply to every comment, even if it’s just a “Thanks for checking it out!” Ask questions to spark conversations: “What’s the biggest challenge you face with [problem your product solves]?” People remember brands that listen—and they’re more likely to support you in the future.
The Mobile Blind Spot: Why Your Launch Might Be Invisible
Here’s a hard truth: Most Product Hunt users browse on their phones. If your launch post isn’t mobile-friendly, it’s like showing up to a party in a tuxedo… with no pants. Images that don’t load, text that’s too small, or links that are hard to tap will kill your momentum.
Test your post on your phone before launching. Is the text easy to read? Do the images fit the screen? Can you tap the “Get it” button without zooming in? If not, fix it. A smooth mobile experience keeps people engaged—and more likely to upvote.
The Pre-Launch Checklist: 10 Questions to Audit Your Copy
Before you hit “post,” run through this checklist to catch last-minute mistakes:
- Does my tagline pass the “so what?” test? (If someone reads it and thinks, “So what?” it’s not strong enough.)
- Is my Maker’s Comment clear and concise? (No walls of text—get to the point.)
- Have I included a specific benefit? (Not just features—how does this make life better?)
- Does my post look good on mobile? (Test it!)
- Am I ready to engage with comments? (Set aside time to reply.)
- Have I avoided buzzwords like “game-changer” or “disruptive”? (Be real, not salesy.)
- Is there a clear call to action? (What do I want people to do next?)
- Have I proofread for typos? (Nothing kills credibility faster.)
- Does my visual (GIF/screenshot) add value? (Or is it just filler?)
- Would I upvote this if I saw it? (Be honest.)
If you can answer “yes” to all 10, you’re ready. If not, go back and refine.
The Bottom Line: Small Fixes, Big Impact
A great Product Hunt launch isn’t about luck—it’s about avoiding the small mistakes that trip up most makers. Focus on clarity, engagement, and mobile-friendliness, and you’ll already be ahead of 90% of launches. And remember: The best copy doesn’t just describe your product—it makes people feel something. If you can do that, the upvotes will follow.
Conclusion: Your Product Hunt Launch Copy Checklist
You’ve got 12 powerful prompts to craft copy that stops scrollers in their tracks. But how do you actually use them? Think of these prompts like ingredients in a recipe—you don’t need to use all of them, but the right mix will make your launch irresistible. Here’s a quick reference to pick the best ones for your product:
| Goal | Best Prompts to Use | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Grab attention fast | Curiosity Gap, “What If” Scenario, Bold Claim | ”What if you could automate 10 hours of work in 5 minutes?” |
| Build trust | Social Proof, “Us vs Them” Table, Origin Story | ”Trusted by 5,000+ teams at companies like X and Y” |
| Create excitement | Easter Egg, Superfan Hook, “Before vs After" | "Hidden discount for the first 100 upvoters!” |
| Explain simply | ”How It Works” in 3 Steps, “No Fluff" | "1. Upload. 2. Click. 3. Done.” |
Three Rules for Copy That Actually Converts
Great Product Hunt copy isn’t about being clever—it’s about being clear, authentic, and a little bit emotional. Here’s how to nail it:
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Speak like a human, not a robot
- Avoid buzzwords like “revolutionary” or “game-changing” (everyone uses them).
- Instead, say: “This saves you 3 hours every week—so you can finally take that lunch break.”
- Ask yourself: Would I actually say this to a friend? If not, rewrite it.
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Show, don’t just tell
- Don’t say “We’re the best.” Show why: “Our users reduced errors by 40%—here’s how.”
- Use screenshots, GIFs, or short videos to prove your claims.
- Example: If your product is fast, show a side-by-side speed test.
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Make them feel something
- The best launches tap into emotions—frustration, relief, excitement, or curiosity.
- Example: “Tired of tools that make simple tasks complicated? We fixed that.”
- Pro tip: Read your copy out loud. If it doesn’t make you feel anything, it won’t work on others.
Your Launch Isn’t a One-Shot Deal
Here’s the truth: Even “failed” Product Hunt launches teach you something. Maybe your copy didn’t resonate, or you launched at the wrong time. That’s okay! Every upvote, comment, or message is feedback to improve. Some of the most successful products (like Notion or Loom) didn’t go viral on their first try—they iterated.
So experiment! Try two different taglines and see which one gets more clicks. Ask your early users: “What made you try this?” Their answers will tell you what to double down on. And if you’re stuck, steal this trick: Look at the top 10 products from last week. What made their copy work? Borrow those ideas and make them your own.
Your Turn: Share and Get Feedback
Ready to write your launch copy? Start with one prompt that excites you, draft a version, and then ask yourself:
- Does this make me want to click?
- Would I share this with a friend?
- Does it sound like me—or like a generic ad?
Drop your draft in the comments below! I’ll give you honest feedback, and other makers can chime in too. (Or if you’re shy, just share what prompt you’re trying first.)
Need more help?
- Tools: Use Hemingway Editor to simplify your writing or CoSchedule’s Headline Analyzer to test your tagline.
- Templates: Grab a free Product Hunt launch template here (includes copy examples).
- Community: Join the Indie Hackers or Maker Mindset groups for real-time advice.
Your product deserves to be seen. Now go write something that makes people stop, click, and say: “Finally, someone gets it.” 🚀
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