E-commerce App Test Cases: End-to-End Scenarios for Web & Mobile (Checkout, Payments, Shipping)

• Rigorous testing ensures a positive user experience, which is a competitive edge in such a crowded field.
• Retail e-commerce sales are projected to grow considerably in the next few years.
• E-commerce website performance directly affects conversion rates, and performance testing reveals areas for improvement (e.g., slow loading speeds, poor responsiveness).
• Users visit e-commerce websites from a wide variety of devices, browsers, and OSes, requiring robust cross-browser testing.

• A user is browsing through the product catalog, searching for a product.
• Adding chosen items to a cart.
• Applying discounts offered on items.
• Completing a payment using the appropriate payment method.
• Tracking an order that has been successfully placed and shipped.
• Requesting a return or refund in case the customer is not satisfied with the product or if the product is damaged.

Categories of Test Cases for an E-commerce App

1. Functional Test Cases
2. UI and Usability Test Cases
3. Security Test Cases
4. Performance Test Cases
5. Compatibility Test Cases
6. Data Validation Test Cases

Each category above tests a different quality aspect of the application.

Functional Test Cases for an E-commerce App

Functional testing verifies that all features of the app function according to the business requirements. Here are the test cases:

1. User Registration and Login Test Cases

User accounts are the foundation of most e-commerce platforms. For the proper functioning of an e-commerce app, the user registration and login process should be excellent.

• Verify that a new user can register on an e-commerce app with valid details.
• Validate mandatory fields such as email, password, and phone number.
• Verify that the email format is validated, and proper error messages are given for invalid email formats.
• Verify password policy and strength rules.
• Confirm account creation with email or OTP verification.
• Validate successful login with correct credentials.
• Verify the error message for the incorrect username or password.
• Test “Forgot Password” functionality.
• Validate session timeout after inactivity.
• Verify logout functionality.
• Test logging in to the app with a locked or suspended account.
• Test login using social media account credentials.
• Check usernames and passwords for case sensitivity.
• Ensure the “Remember Me” functionality works as expected.
• Check for security measures, such as CAPTCHA, during login.
• Test login on multiple devices and browsers.
• Verify that login attempts are logged for security monitoring.
• Test login with two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) (if supported).
• Verify login with biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint or Face ID).
• Validate login with a security token or smart card (if supported).
• Test login using a hardware security key (e.g., YubiKey).
• Test new user registration with missing required fields (e.g., email, password).
• Check for proper error messages when registration fails.
• Test registration with a pre-existing email or username.
• Check if registration data is stored securely.
• Test registration using different browsers.
• Verify that registration confirmation emails are sent.
• Test the redirection after successful registration.

2. User Profile Management Test Cases

Once logged in, users should be able to manage their profiles efficiently.

• Verify users can view their profile details in the e-commerce app’s dashboard.
• Check the updation of personal information (name, phone, address).
• Verify adding, editing, and deleting shipping addresses.
• Validate default address selection.
• Confirm changes persist after logout and login to an e-commerce app.

3. Product Search and Browsing Test Cases

Searching and browsing to discover products directly impacts conversions.

• Verify that the product search works correctly with valid keywords and produces appropriate search results.
• Validate search suggestions and the autocomplete feature in the search bar.
• Check search behavior when no results are found.
• Verify filtering by category, price, brand, rating, size, color, and so on.
• Test search with a combination of filters.
• Check that sorting options (price low to high, popularity, newest) work correctly.
• Verify category navigation and subcategories.
• Confirm product count matches filtered results.
• Check that empty search fields provide a proper message.
• Test the searching functionality by inputting special characters in the query.
• Check for case insensitivity in search queries.
• Verify that advanced search filters work as expected.
• Verify that the search bar is present on all pages.
• Test searching for out-of-stock products.
• Verify that the searching functionality works on mobile devices.
• Test the responsiveness of the search results page.
• Check if the search functionality respects user permissions.
• Test search with a very long query string.
• Verify that the “Clear” button in search filters works.
• Test the performance of the search functionality when the search results are huge.

4. Product Catalog Test Cases

The product catalog contains all the products that are available on the e-commerce app for sale. Testing this component is essential as the entire functionality is central to this aspect.

• Verify that all product categories available are listed.
• Test filtering products by category.
• Check that product images are displayed correctly.
• Validate the accuracy of product descriptions.
• Verify that prices are correctly displayed.
• Test sorting products by price.
• Check for product availability and out-of-stock indicators.
• Test the “New Arrivals” section for accuracy.
• Verify that product ratings are displayed and reviews are available.
• Test the product comparison feature.
• Verify related product recommendations.
• Test the “Quick View” feature for product details.
• Verify that the catalog page loads within an acceptable time and is not stuck.
• Test the responsiveness of the product catalog page.
• Check for accessibility of product information for screen readers.

5. Product Details Page Test Cases

The product detail page must provide accurate and complete information about the product.

• Verify product name, description, price, and availability.
• Validate product images/videos and zoom functionality.
• Check product variants (size, color, model) and ensure the appropriate image is displayed when you change the variants.
• Verify stock availability message and validate “Notify” button functionality.
• Validate the display of reviews and ratings for products.
• Test “Related Products” or “Recommended Items” feature.
• Verify the “Add to Wishlist” functionality and confirm that items added appear in the wishlist.

6. Shopping Cart Test Cases

The shopping cart is a critical conversion point in an e-commerce app.

• Test the “Add to Cart” functionality of the app.
• Check cart item count update.
• Check updating product quantity in the cart and validate price recalculation after quantity changes.
• Verify the deletion of items from the cart.
• Confirm the item persists in the cart after logout/login.
• Verify cart behavior when a product goes out of stock.
• Check cart functionality for guest users (those who have not yet registered).
• Verify that the cart icon updates to reflect the item count.
• Test applying promo code and coupons to the cart and verify that they are used correctly.
• Test the “Continue Shopping” button in the cart.
• Verify that the “Proceed to Checkout” button works.
• Verify that the cart is emptied once the order is placed.
• Test cart interactions on mobile devices.
• Check for security measures to prevent cart manipulation.
• Test for price change for items already in the cart.
• Validate “Save for Later” functionality for items in the shopping cart.

7. Wishlist Test Cases

Wishlist functionality enhances user engagement by allowing users to save products for future purchase.

• Verify that adding items to the wishlist works correctly and that items appear in the wishlist.
• Validate removing/deleting items from the wishlist.
• Check moving items from the wishlist to the cart.
• Verify wishlist persistence across sessions.
• Validate wishlist access for logged-in users only.

8. Checkout Process Test Cases

Checkout must be error-free and straightforward.

• Verify checkout flow from the shopping cart.
• Validate shipping address selection and check add/update.
• Test shipping method selection.
• Verify order summary accuracy.
• Validate tax and shipping charge calculation as well as discount application.
• Check mandatory fields during checkout and confirm that the checkout does not proceed unless these fields have valid values.
• Verify error handling for missing information.
• Confirm order placement success message.
• Verify if users can add/edit payment methods.
• Validate the “Place Order” button functionality.
• Verify the display of order confirmation details.
• Test the “Continue Shopping” option after checkout.
• Test the ability to review and edit the order before placing it.
• Verify that the checkout process remains secure.
• Test the responsiveness of the checkout page.
• Check for accessibility of checkout steps for users with disabilities.
• Test payment processing using valid credit/debit card details.
• Verify that the payment gateway processes transactions successfully.
• Test payment processing with an invalid credit card number.
• Verify how the app handles declined payments.
• Test payment using alternative payment methods (e.g., PayPal, Apple Pay).
• Verify that payment confirmation emails are sent.
• Test payment processing with international currencies.
• Validate payment using wallet balance and test whether insufficient funds in the wallet affect the checkout process.
• Verify that the billing address matches the payment details.
• Test payment processing while changing the payment method.
• Verify the payment gateway’s behavior under high traffic.
• Test checkout process and payment processing on mobile devices.
• Check for security measures, such as CVV validation.
• Test the cancellation of payment during checkout.
• Verify that users receive payment receipts upon successful payment.
• Test payment processing on different browsers.
• Verify the encryption of payment data for security.

9. Payment Gateway Test Cases

Payment failures are one of the biggest causes of cart abandonment. Hence, you need a set of test cases to evaluate the payment gateway’s effectiveness.

• Verify the payment process using credit/debit cards.
• Validate UPI, net banking, and wallet payments and their respective behavior in case of insufficient funds.
• Check how payment failure is handled.
• Verify retry payment functionality in case of a failed payment.
• Validate correct redirection to the payment gateway (for example, when netbanking is selected, it takes you to the appropriate bank login page).
• Confirm secure handling of payment data.
• Verify order confirmation after successful payment.

10. Order Confirmation and Notifications Test Cases

Once the shipping address is selected, the checkout process is completed, and payment is made, the order is successfully placed. An e-commerce app should then confirm the order and send an appropriate notification. This transparent communication builds trust.

• Verify the order confirmation page displays once the order is placed.
• Ensure an order ID is generated and that there is an expected delivery date for the order items.
• Check confirmation email and SMS notifications sent after confirming the order.
• Verify order details in the user account of the e-commerce app.
• Test invoice generation for the order.
• Confirm notification content accuracy.

11. Test Cases For Shipping And Delivery

Shipping and delivery of items are critical steps once the order is confirmed. Prompt shipping and delivery of items place the e-commerce app at the top of the spectrum.

• Verify that the user-entered shipping address is valid and complete.
• Test entering an incomplete or invalid shipping address to ensure it’s rejected.
• Test the selection of various shipping methods during checkout (e.g., standard or express delivery).
• Verify that the estimated delivery dates for each option are accurate.
• Test the precise calculation of shipping costs based on the chosen shipping method and destination.
• Ensure shipping costs are clearly displayed to the user during checkout.
• Test the tracking functionality to track the status and location of a shipped order.
• Verify that users receive tracking information and updates via email, SMS, or WhatsApp notification.
• Test if an app sends out notifications to users when their package is out for delivery.
• Verify that users receive notifications (email, SMS, or WhatsApp) upon successful delivery.
• Test the ability to process and track international shipments, including customs documentation.
• Verify that users are informed of any additional import duties or taxes on items.

12. Order Management Test Cases

Users should be able to easily manage their orders.

• Verify the order history display in the app.
• Validate that the order status (processing, shipped, delivered) is updated appropriately.
• Check order tracking functionality and ensure that all updates are displayed correctly.
• Verify order cancellation rules.
• Validate partial and complete cancellation scenarios.
• Confirm refund initiation after cancellation.

13. Returns and Refunds Test Cases

Post-purchase experience is equally vital for an e-commerce app to succeed.

• Verify the initiation of a return request for an item.
• Validate return eligibility conditions for a specific item.
• Verify the reasons provided for returning an item.
• Verify the refund amount calculation if the refund option is selected.
• Validate the pickup functionality for returning items.
• Confirm refund status updates once the item is returned.
• Validate the refund completion notification and confirm that the refunded amount has been credited to your original payment method.

UI and Usability Test Cases

Usability determines how easily users can interact with the app. While testing the usability of an e-commerce app, all aspects, including UI, design, responsiveness, and accessibility, should be tested.

• Verify consistent UI across the e-commerce app’s pages.
• Validate responsive design on devices such as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
• Check the visibility and alignment of the buttons on each app page.
• Verify that fonts are readable and the color scheme used is visually appealing to the user.
• Validate navigation menu functionality and ensure app navigation is easy, with users not needing to struggle to reach the intended page.
• Check accessibility features (keyboard navigation, screen readers).
• Verify that error messages are clear and user-friendly when the user performs an incorrect operation.

Security Test Cases for an E-commerce App

Security is crucial due to sensitive user and payment data; hence, the app should be rigorously tested from a security perspective.

• Verify HTTPS implementation for the e-commerce app.
• Validate secure password storage (using encryption).
• Check unauthorized access prevention and test how the app behaves in this case.
• Verify session management and expiration for the app.
• Validate which protective measures the app employs against SQL injection and XSS attacks.
• Check the app’s payment data compliance (PCI DSS).
• Verify that the account is locked after multiple failed login attempts.

Performance Test Cases

Performance issues can directly impact sales and even affect conversion rates.

• Verify page load time under regular traffic and test checkout process performance.
• Test the performance of the app during peak traffic.
• Validate the response time for product search and checkout.
• Check application behavior under stress.
• Verify database performance with extensive product catalogs.
• Validate scalability during sales events such as Black Friday or Festival Sales.
• Test the product search response time.

Compatibility Test Cases

With users increasingly relying on various devices for internet browsing and shopping, e-commerce apps must work across environments and devices.

• Verify the app functionality on different browsers.
• Validate the app’s compatibility with various OS versions.
• Check mobile app behavior on Android and iOS.
• Verify the app’s backward compatibility across devices and platforms after updates.
• Validate third-party integrations across the app’s platforms.

Data Validation Test Cases

Accurate data across an e-commerce app ensures trust and compliance.

• Verify price consistency for products across pages.
• Validate the app’s tax calculation accuracy.
• Check inventory updates after purchase.
• Verify that the app’s user data storage and retrieval are performed correctly and test their accuracy.
• Validate reporting and analytics data for the app.
• Check the currency conversion accuracy of the app.

Best Practices for Writing E-commerce Test Cases

• Understand the requirements through features, user stories, and acceptance criteria, and focus on real user scenarios.
• Prioritize business-critical flows of the e-commerce app so that all major workflows are tested.
• Automate repetitive and regression test cases.
• Use data-driven testing for multiple inputs.
• Collaborate closely with product and business teams.
• Use simple language; keep steps focused, avoiding unnecessary detail.
• Include screenshots or videos for complex steps or visual elements.
• Start at a high level and add details as needed; align with user stories.

Conclusion

E-commerce applications are complex systems that demand rigorous testing to ensure reliability, security, and a seamless user experience. Well-written, concise, and clear test cases help identify defects early, reduce production issues, and protect business revenue.

By covering functional flows, usability, performance, security, and compatibility, testers can ensure that an e-commerce app performs flawlessly across all customer touchpoints and experiences no hiccups when users shop. As competition in the e-commerce space continues to grow, investing in comprehensive and high-quality test cases is no longer optional; it is essential for success.