Alpha Testing is a type of software testing performed to identify bugs before releasing the product to real users or to the public. Alpha Testing is one of the user acceptance tests.
Beta Testing is performed by real users of the software application in a real environment. Beta testing is one type of User Acceptance Testing.
Difference between Alpha and Beta Testing:
The difference between Alpha and Beta Testing is as follows:
Alpha Testing | Beta Testing |
---|---|
Alpha testing involves both the white box and black box testing. | Beta testing commonly uses black-box testing. |
Alpha testing is performed by testers who are usually internal employees of the organization. | Beta testing is performed by clients who are not part of the organization. |
Alpha testing is performed at the developer’s site. | Beta testing is performed at the end-user of the product. |
Reliability and security testing are not checked in alpha testing. | Reliability, security and robustness are checked during beta testing. |
Alpha testing ensures the quality of the product before forwarding to beta testing. | Beta testing also concentrates on the quality of the product but collects users input on the product and ensures that the product is ready for real time users. |
Alpha testing requires a testing environment or a lab. | Beta testing doesn’t require a testing environment or lab. |
Alpha testing may require a long execution cycle. | Beta testing requires only a few weeks of execution. |
Developers can immediately address the critical issues or fixes in alpha testing. | Most of the issues or feedback collected from the beta testing will be implemented in future versions of the product. |
Multiple test cycles are organized in alpha testing. | Only one or two test cycles are there in beta testing. |