What Does Your 404 Page Look Like?

We’ve all been there. Either you’ve typed in a URL you thought existed, or you clicked on a link on a company’s website. Yet to no avail, you hit the dreaded 404 page. What’s the first thing that you would do in this situation? If you answered “close the window,” you’re not alone. When a 404 page pops up, many website users become frustrated that they can’t find what they’re looking for and give up – especially if the page doesn’t provide any helpful information.

In the past few years, website 404 pages have gotten much more creative. They incorporate a joke or a clever saying and give website users a reason to stay on that website rather than navigate elsewhere, even if their page isn’t found. Many also have a “search” feature or include the website’s navigation on the 404 page, giving users a way out and – hopefully – directing them to other areas of the site.

So, what happens when someone hits a broken link on your site or inputs the wrong URL? Are they presented with a witty 404 page that entices them to stay on your site or are they redirected to a bare bones, black and white page that lacks your website’s navigation? If you still have a 404 page that looks like this:

… it’s time for an update. Check out these examples of our favorite 404 pages:

1. Bark Box

Bark Box brings humor into their 404 page, lightening the mood and directing users back to the homepage.

2. HubSpot

HubSpot owns their mistakes (or yours, in the case of user error) and gives users three different options, as well as access to their full site navigation.

3. Wistia

Dog lovers rejoice — Wistia’s 404 page directs users to product information, featuring good old Lenny.

4. Anthropologie

Anthropologie keeps it simple and gives users the option to navigate back to the homepage.

5. Mailchimp

Mailchimp incorporates a search feature, along with their full navigation, in hopes of really helping users find what they’re looking for. Plus, there’s a cheery green monster with welcoming open arms!

6. Pyxl

Of course, we’re pretty fond of our own — because who doesn’t love a cute kitten picture?

Your 404 page can be a useful asset on your website — use it to your advantage! Now that we’ve got you thinking about your 404 page, what does the rest of your website look like? A fully-functioning website is responsive, allowing it to scale to fit any device and will incorporate modern design. Interested in learning more? Download our eBook, Responsive Website Design.

Updated: Apr 13, 2022