How do I launch on Product Hunt?

HOW Question

Quick Answer

Build maker karma 30+ days before launch. Schedule for Tuesday–Thursday at 12:01 AM PST. Lead tagline with outcome, not feature. Make a 60-second demo video. Pin a story-driven first comment. Reply to every comment within 30 minutes for 24 hours.

Detailed Explanation

Product Hunt remains a top free distribution channel in 2026. Playbook: (1) Build maker karma — comment thoughtfully on 3 launches/day for a month. (2) Pick the right day. (3) Tagline = ad copy. (4) Demo video — 60 seconds. (5) First comment — pinned, story-driven, 250 words max. (6) Launch day — reply to every comment for 24 hours. (7) Drive network in waves. Never ask for upvotes directly.

Real-World Examples

Beehiiv: built newsletter audience pre-launch, hit #1 PoTD

Cal.com: built in public for 6 months

Key Takeaways

  • Maker karma matters — 30+ days prep
  • Outcome > feature in tagline
  • Story > feature list in first comment
  • Reply to every comment for 24 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Best time to launch on PH?

12:01 AM PST on Tuesday–Thursday.

Upvotes for #1?

~700–1500 for #1. Top 5 daily usually requires 400+.

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