A product configurator allows customers to put together a product entirely as they wish. Unlike a standard product selection, where you choose a predefined variant, a configurator allows users to determine the features of a product themselves. This can range from simple adjustments such as color choices to complex customization options where functionality and design are fully customizable.
A well-designed configurator not only improves the customer experience, but also increases conversions, reduces returns and provides an efficient shopping experience. There are several types of product configurators, each with its own uses and benefits:
The 2D step-by-step configurator (wizard)
This configurator guides the user through a series of steps, with each choice affecting the next. This type is ideal for complex products with many dependencies, such as:
- Printing: Customers go through the design process step-by-step for business cards, for example, first choosing a size, then a paper type and then a finish such as gloss or matte.
- Furniture configurators: The user first chooses a basic model and can then select materials, colors and additional modules.
- Car configurators: The customer chooses a base model and then gets options for motorization, color, rims and interior trim.
- PC builders: The choice of motherboard determines which processors and RAM options are compatible.
For examples, see our EFKA case and our DutchLabelShop case.
The 2D configurator for personalized designs
This configurator is often used for personalized print products such as labels, T-shirts and packaging. Customers can upload their own text, logos and images and instantly see what the final product will look like.
Examples:
- T-shirt printing: Customers choose a model, color and add their own design.
- Stickers and labels: Color choices, shapes and text are instantly displayed in a live preview.
- Packaging Materials: Customers can add their own designs to boxes, bags and labels and instantly see what the packaging material will look like.
The 3D configurator for product visualization
A 3D configurator provides an interactive way to assemble products in a three-dimensional environment. This type is often used for products where shape and dimensions are crucial, such as furniture, machinery, jewelry and cars.
Examples:
- Furniture configurators: Customers can run a 3D model and see what different fabrics and materials look like.
- Jewelry configurators: Users select gemstones, metals and engravings and get a realistic 3D preview.
- Industry & Construction: For custom structures such as aluminum frames or modular building systems.
Custom configurators: hybrid solutions (2D & 3D combinations)
Some companies need configurators that do not fit into a standard model. Custom configurators can combine both 2D and 3D and are fully tailored to specific customer requirements.
Examples:
- Industry & Engineering: A 2D configurator that allows customers to modify technical drawings, combined with a 3D view of the final product.
- B2B custom solutions: For companies building complex machines or structures that require a combination of technical parameters and visual representation.
- Gaming and virtual production: Configurators that simulate and apply product designs in a 3D environment.
Which configurator fits your business?
The choice of a product configurator depends greatly on the industry, the level of personalization and the complexity of the product.
- Want a streamlined user experience with clear choices? Choose a step-by-step wizard.
- Do you have a platform where customers can create their own designs? A 2D design configurator is ideal.
- Want a visually appealing product display? Consider a 3D configurator with real-time visualization.
- Do you have unique customization needs? Then a hybrid solution with 2D and 3D is the best choice.
Want to discover which product configurator is the best fit for your e-commerce platform? Contact our team and we'll help you build the perfect solution!