Show/Hide Options Dynamically Based on Customer Choices in Shopify
In today’s e-commerce landscape, customers expect highly personalized and intuitive shopping experiences. One powerful way to deliver that is through conditional logic—the ability to dynamically show or hide product options based on user selections. This makes complex products feel simple and guides buyers smoothly through customization.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to set up conditional logic for product options on your Shopify store using apps like SM Product Options.
What is Conditional Logic in Product Options?
Conditional logic allows specific options or fields to appear only when certain conditions are met based on the user’s choices.
Example:
- If a customer selects “Yes” for “Add gift wrap?”, then a new option for “Gift Message” appears.
- If they choose “Custom Engraving,” a text field shows up to input their message.
Why Use Conditional Logic?
- Streamlines user experience by hiding irrelevant options
- Reduces confusion and cart abandonment
- Improves conversion with faster decision-making
- Allows complex product customization without overwhelming the customer
Limitations of Shopify’s Native Functionality
Shopify's default product setup (using variants) doesn't support conditional logic. All options are shown at once, regardless of what's relevant to the customer’s selections. That’s where third-party apps come in.
Best App to Add Conditional Logic: SM Product Options
SM Product Options is a powerful Shopify app that allows you to build advanced product forms with conditional logic, pricing, swatches, and more.
Features That Support Conditional Logic:
- Show/hide fields based on selections
- Apply logic to checkboxes, dropdowns, radio buttons, and text fields
- Multi-step product customization flow
- Live preview and validation
How to Set Up Show/Hide Logic Step-by-Step
Step 1: Install SM Product Options
Install the app from the Shopify App Store and integrate it with your theme.
Step 2: Create an Option Set
- Go to the app dashboard
- Click on “Create Option Set”
- Add your base product options like checkboxes, radio buttons, or dropdowns
Step 3: Add Conditional Logic
- Within the option editor, choose the field you want to make conditional
- Select “Show only when” or “Hide unless” rules
- Define the parent field and value that triggers the logic
Example Logic: Show the “Engraving Text” field only when “Add Engraving = Yes”.
Step 4: Preview and Test
Use the live preview in the app to ensure fields appear or hide correctly based on user interaction. Then, test it on the product page before going live.
Real-Life Examples of Dynamic Product Options
- Custom Jewelry: Show engraving field if “Add personalization” is selected
- Gifting Store: Show message box when “Gift Wrap” is chosen
- Subscription Products: Show delivery schedule if “Subscribe & Save” is selected
- Build-Your-Own Kit: Show extra accessories only after a base product is selected
Tips for Better UX with Conditional Logic
- Use clear labels like “Would you like to…” to prompt interaction
- Group related fields visually using blocks or separators
- Use tooltips to explain why certain fields appear
- Keep logic shallow—avoid nesting 3–4 levels deep for better clarity
Alternatives to SM Product Options
| App | Supports Conditional Logic? | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| SM Product Options | Yes | Free + Pro Plans |
| Zepto Product Personalizer | Yes | From $9.99/month |
| Kickflip | Yes | From $49/month |
Conclusion
Showing and hiding options dynamically based on user input transforms your Shopify product page into an interactive and user-friendly experience. Whether you sell personalized gifts, build-your-own boxes, or custom services, conditional logic lets you keep the form clean and focused.
Apps like SM Product Options give you the tools to build these experiences without coding.
Ready to upgrade your product page? Try SM Product Options today and create smart, dynamic product forms that convert.