A control type decides how an option looks and behaves on the product page — a menu to pick from, a box to type in, a file to upload, and so on. Pick the one that matches what you're asking the buyer for.
Quick picker — which type do I need?
| If you want the buyer to… |
Choose |
| Pick one thing from a tidy menu |
Drop-down list |
| Pick one thing with every choice on show |
Radio button list |
| Pick several things at once |
Checkboxes |
| Type a short line of text (a name, a reference) |
Textbox |
| Type a longer message or instructions |
Multiline textbox |
| Choose a date (event, requested delivery) |
Date picker |
| Upload a file (artwork, logo, photo) |
File upload |
| See a read-only note on the page |
Info |
| Enter a number (quantity, amount, copies) |
Number |
Html Schema, System and Hidden are managed automatically and aren't shown to buyers — see the bottom of this panel.
The options in detail
Drop-down list — A compact menu the buyer opens to pick one choice. Best when the list is long or you want to save space. Each choice can change the price.
Radio button list — Like a drop-down list, but every choice is visible at once and the buyer picks one. Best for short lists (about 2–5 choices). Each choice can change the price.
Checkboxes — A set of tick boxes the buyer can select independently. The only type that allows more than one choice at a time — ideal for optional add-ons. Each ticked box can add to the price.
Textbox — A single-line field for free text such as a name or a reference. No preset choices; the buyer types whatever they need.
Multiline textbox — A larger free-text field for longer input over several lines, such as special instructions or a message.
Date picker — A calendar for the buyer to choose a date, such as an event or requested delivery date. Note: date options can't be used to build pre-priced product combinations.
File upload — Lets the buyer attach a file (artwork, logo, photo), with a preview and the option to replace it. Mark it required and the buyer is reminded to upload before checkout.
Info — A read-only note shown on the page — guidance, a notice, or an estimate the buyer can see but not edit. It can also apply a surcharge, handy for handling or setup fees.
Number — A numeric field with optional default, minimum, maximum and step values, in whole numbers or decimals. It can drive the order quantity or adjust the production turnaround — the most flexible option for anything counted or measured.
Managed automatically (not shown to buyers)
You'll rarely set these by hand; the platform uses them behind the scenes.
Html Schema — Adds hidden product information that helps search engines (Google and others) list your products. Improves how products appear in search results; the buyer never sees it.
System — Used internally for certain checkout features, such as additional delivery addresses. Stays hidden on the storefront but travels with the order.
Hidden — An internal marker the platform attaches to an order to track related information. Created automatically, not added through the product screen.
Good to know
- Required vs optional — Mark an option required when the order can't be produced without it; the buyer is prompted if they skip it.
- Pricing — Drop-down, radio and checkbox choices can each adjust the price; Info and Number options can affect price too.
- Keep it clear — Use a radio button list for a few choices and a drop-down list when the list grows long. Write friendly option names and help text for a non-expert audience.