Glossary

Competitive Pricing Strategy

Definition

Competitive pricing is a strategy where you set your product or service price based on what competitors are charging. You can choose to price below, at, or slightly above the competition depending on your positioning.

Why it matters for startups
It’s a quick way to stay market-relevant and avoid pricing yourself out of the game. But if you're only matching others, you risk becoming a commodity. Without a clear value proposition, price wars can erode margins—and your brand.

When to use it

  • Your market is saturated or highly competitive
  • Your product is similar to others on the market
  • You're entering a price-sensitive customer segment

How is competitive pricing different from value-based pricing?

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Competitive pricing looks outward—at your rivals. Value-based pricing looks inward—at the unique value you deliver.

What’s the risk of undercutting competitors?

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You may win short-term sales but lose long-term profitability. Lower prices can also hurt your brand perception.

Can competitive pricing be part of a larger strategy?

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Yes. Many startups start with competitive pricing to enter the market, then shift toward value-based or dynamic pricing as they scale.

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