The Best 404 Pages For Inspiration

When a user clicks on a broken link or types in an incorrect URL, they are directed to a 404 error page. While these pages may seem insignificant, they can actually make a big impression on your website's visitors. A well-designed 404 page can provide a positive user experience, guide visitors to the right page, and even add a touch of personality to your website.

The purpose of this article is to provide inspiration for creating a unique and engaging 404 page. We will be showcasing a variety of creative 404 pages and offering tips on how to make your own page stand out. From using humor and personalized messages to incorporating design elements and clear next steps, we will show you how to make the most of this often overlooked page. 

So, whether you are a website designer, developer, or just someone looking for a little inspiration, keep reading to learn how to create an excellent 404 page that will leave a lasting impression on your visitors.

Examples of Creative 404 Pages

One of the best ways to get inspiration for your own 404 page is to see what others have done. Here are a few examples of creative 404 pages that stand out for their unique designs and engaging copy.

1. MailChimp’s interactive 404 page experience

The 404 page of Mailchimp features an interactive experience where users can play with a HorseSnake by using arrow keys to move the snake! This not only keeps the user engaged but also provides a fun and unique experience.

2. The Airbnb’ 404 page with an ice cream

The 404 page of Airbnb will make you smile with an animation of a girl dropping her ice cream, and also offer some useful links. This not only keeps the user engaged but also offers them a chance to explore and discover more about the site's content.

3. The Dogstudio’s 404 page’s cute dogs

The design studio shares funny dog video. 

4. Lego’s 404 page’s frightened man

The 404 page on Lego's website features an amazing picture picture with a running lego man. The page also includes links to the homepage and customer service, making it easy for users to navigate to where they need to go.

5. Hootsuite’s personalized messages

The 404 page on Hootsuite's website features a personalized message and a cartoon owl, which is the company's mascot. The message is friendly and relatable, and the illustration is on-brand and memorable. The page also includes a search bar and links to the homepage, blog, and support, making it easy for users to find what they're looking for.

Each of these examples effectively uses design and copy to engage users and guide them to the right page. A game, quiz, or a personalized message can keep the user engaged and also provide an opportunity to explore the site's content. An interactive experience or product showcase can also be a fun way to keep the user engaged and promote products or services.

It is important to note that a creatively designed 404 page is not only about the design but also about the user experience. A 404 page should be designed to help the user find what they are looking for rather than frustrating them. As a designer, developer, or marketer, you can take inspiration from these examples but also remember to focus on the user experience.

Tips For Creating Great 404 Pages

Creating a great 404 page goes beyond just having a unique design. Here are some tips to help you create the best 404 pages that are both visually appealing and user-friendly.

404 Page Design Best Practices:

• Use a consistent brand style: Your 404 page should match the design and style of your website to create a seamless experience for users.

• Provide clear next steps: Make it easy for users to find what they're looking for by including links to the homepage, search bar, and popular pages.

• Make it visually appealing: Use graphics and images that align with your brand, and make sure the page is easy to read and navigate.

404 Page Copywriting Tips:

• Use humor: A funny or light-hearted message can help diffuse the frustration of getting a 404 error.

• Personalize the message: Address the user by name or use a friendly tone to create a more human connection.

• Use actionable language: Provide clear instructions on what the user should do next, such as "Go back to the homepage" or "Search for what you're looking for."

404 Page Technical Considerations:

• Redirect users to the homepage or a search results page: This will help users quickly find what they're looking for and reduce frustration.

• Monitor broken links: Use tools like Google Search Console or Ahrefs to monitor broken links on your website and fix them as soon as possible.

Creating a great 404 page is not only about the design but also about the user experience. By following these tips, you can help users quickly find what they're looking for and make the experience less frustrating. Remember to test your 404 page and get feedback from users to ensure it's meeting their needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-designed 404 page can be a valuable opportunity to engage and delight your users, rather than alienating them. We have shown examples of creatively designed 404 pages and provided tips for creating your own. It is important to keep in mind that a great 404 page should be visually appealing, user-friendly, and provide clear next steps for the user. 

We hope this article has provided you with inspiration and valuable insights for creating your own best 404 pages. We would love to see what you come up with, so please share your own 404 pages and any creative ideas you have for designing them in the comment section. Is your organization searching for professional freelance web developers? Our website hosts some of the best software developers, website designers, and UI/UX designers in the industry. Explore it right now.