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A virtual product is a digital or intangible item that doesn’t require physical shipping. Customers receive their purchase through a download link, an access code, or an online account. There’s no need for inventory tracking, shipping calculations, or package dimensions.

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When to Use Virtual Products

Use the Virtual product type when you sell:
  • Digital downloads. Ebooks, music, software, templates, presets
  • Online courses. Video courses, tutorials, educational content
  • Software licenses. Activation keys, subscription codes
  • Memberships. Access to premium content or services
  • Digital art. Photos, illustrations, design assets
  • Documents. Reports, guides, legal templates

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What Makes Virtual Products Unique

Virtual products have a simplified configuration compared to physical products:

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Managing Digital Files

The key feature of virtual products is the ability to attach downloadable files that customers receive after purchase.

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Uploading Files

After creating your virtual product, navigate to the Files section:
  1. Click Add file or drag and drop your files
  2. Upload one or more files (PDF, ZIP, MP3, MP4, etc.)
  3. Files are stored securely and only accessible to customers who purchase the product

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File Types

You can upload any file type. Common formats include:
For large files, consider compressing them into a ZIP archive before uploading. This reduces upload time and provides a single download for customers.

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Pricing Virtual Products

Virtual products support the same pricing options as physical products: You can set prices in multiple currencies if your store supports it.
Virtual products often use the compare-at price for limited-time offers or launch promotions. For example, an online course priced at 49withacompare−atpriceof49 with a compare-at price of 99 shows customers they’re getting a deal.

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Example: Creating a Virtual Product

Let’s create a “Photography Masterclass” online course:
  1. Type: Select “Virtual Product”
  2. General info: Name it “Photography Masterclass: From Beginner to Pro”, add a description covering what students will learn, the curriculum outline, and what’s included
  3. Associations: Category “Courses > Photography”, collection “Best Sellers”
  4. Media: Upload a course cover image and preview screenshots of the video content
  5. Stock: Skip, no physical inventory needed
After creation:
  • Files: Upload the course ZIP file containing video lessons, PDF workbook, and preset pack
  • Pricing: 79.00,compareat79.00, compare at 149.00
  • SEO: Title “Photography Masterclass Online Course”, optimize description with keywords like “learn photography”, “photo editing course”

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Best Practices

Clear Deliverables

Clearly describe what files or access customers will receive after purchase.

Preview Content

Use images and descriptions to give customers a preview of what they’re buying.

File Organization

Bundle multiple files into a well-organized ZIP with a README or guide.

Pricing Strategy

Use compare-at pricing for launches and time-limited promotions.

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Differences from Standard Products