Google Analytics 4 vs Plausible: Which Is Better in 2026?
A detailed comparison to help you choose the right analytics tool for your needs.
Too Close to Call
Both tools are closely matched with similar overall ratings
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | G Google Analytics 4 | P Plausible |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Starting Price | Free | $9/mo |
| Free Plan | ||
| Free Trial | ||
| Best For | any | solo |
| Ease of Use | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Features | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Value for Money | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Support | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Overview
Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is Google's latest analytics platform with event-based tracking, cross-platform measurement, and machine learning insights. Free for most use cases.
Plausible is a lightweight, open-source analytics tool that's GDPR compliant without cookies. Perfect for privacy-conscious site owners wanting simple metrics.
Pricing Comparison
Better value: Google Analytics 4Google Analytics 4
Better ValuePlausible
Features Comparison
Winner: Plausible| Feature | Google Analytics 4 | Plausible |
|---|---|---|
| Web Analytics | ||
| Product Analytics | Basic | |
| Heatmaps | ||
| Session Recording | ||
| Funnel Analysis | Basic | |
| Privacy Focused | ||
| Real Time | ||
| Ab Testing | Via Optimize | |
| Data Retention | 14 months free | Unlimited |
| Custom Events |
0
features unique to Google Analytics 4
1
features unique to Plausible
Pros & Cons
Google Analytics 4
Pros
- Completely free for most users
- Integrates with Google ecosystem
- Cross-platform tracking
- Machine learning insights
- Industry standard
Cons
- Steep learning curve (especially from UA)
- Privacy concerns in EU
- Interface can be confusing
- Data sampling on free tier
Plausible
Pros
- No cookies, GDPR compliant
- Incredibly lightweight (<1KB)
- Simple, clean dashboard
- Open source option
- Easy to understand
Cons
- Limited advanced features
- No user-level tracking
- No heatmaps or recordings
- Paid only (no free tier)
The Verdict: It's a Tie
Both Google Analytics 4 and Plausible are excellent analytics tools that deliver strong value. With nearly identical overall ratings, the choice between them comes down to your specific requirements rather than one being objectively better.
Google Analytics 4 shines in any website needing free analytics, while Plausible excels at privacy-conscious site owners. Consider trying both with their free trials to see which fits your workflow better.
Our recommendation: We recommend Google Analytics 4 if you prioritize completely free for most users, and Plausible if no cookies, gdpr compliant matter more to you.
Choose Google Analytics 4 if you...
- • Need any website needing free analytics
- • Need google ads advertisers
- • Need cross-platform tracking needs
Choose Plausible if you...
- • Need privacy-conscious site owners
- • Need simple website analytics
- • Need eu-based businesses
Ready to Get Started?
Read our full reviews:
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