IT'S NUANCED
Featured snippets steal traffic
The Myth
"Appearing in featured snippets reduces clicks to your site."
The Truth
It depends on the query. For simple informational queries (definitions, conversions), featured snippets can satisfy users without clicks—'no-click searches.' For complex topics, snippets often increase clicks by showcasing your expertise and generating interest. The traffic loss from simple queries is often offset by traffic gains from complex ones and brand visibility benefits.
Ahrefs Study
Featured snippets get significant CTR, often at expense of position #1 organic.
Sparktoro/Jumpshot
No-click searches have increased, partly due to featured snippets.
DInsight from @dejanseo
"Featured snippets are a trade-off. You might get fewer clicks from simple queries, but you get brand visibility and authority signals. For complex topics, snippets often increase traffic."