Fathom Analytics vs Google Analytics: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Fathom Analytics and Google Analytics comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Fathom Analytics
Simple privacy-first analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Privacy-first analytics without cookies
- • GDPR compliant with simple dashboard
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Industry standard web analytics, free and deeply integrated with Google Ads
- • Event-based tracking model for flexible interaction measurement
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Real-Time Analytics | Real-Time Analytics |
Rating | 85/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Fathom Analytics | Google Analytics |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 43 | 0 |
| Categories | Real-Time AnalyticsWeb Analytics | Real-Time AnalyticsWeb Analytics |
How Fathom Analytics and Google Analytics Compare
Fathom Analytics
Simple privacy-first analytics
Paid · 85/100 score
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Google Analytics has a free tier. Fathom Analytics is paid only.
Go with: Google Analytics
Want the highest-rated option?
Fathom Analytics: 85/100. Google Analytics: 82/100.
Go with: Fathom Analytics
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Fathom Analytics
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Fathom Analytics is paid. Google Analytics is freemium. Google Analytics lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are real-time analytics tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Fathom Analytics scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Fathom Analytics
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- More community upvotes (43)
- Our pick for this comparison
Google Analytics
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Fathom Analytics (85/100) is our pick. Google Analytics has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fathom Analytics or Google Analytics better?
Fathom Analytics scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Fathom Analytics is paid and Google Analytics is freemium.
What are Fathom Analytics and Google Analytics used for?
Fathom Analytics: Simple privacy-first analytics. Google Analytics: The free analytics standard that tracks most websites.
What does Fathom Analytics cost vs Google Analytics?
Fathom Analytics is a paid tool. Google Analytics is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.
