FullStory vs Smartlook: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between FullStory and Smartlook 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
FullStory
Digital experience intelligence
Best for you if:
- • You need web analytics features specifically
- • FullStory is a digital experience platform that records and analyzes user sessions
- • It captures every click and scroll to help teams understand and improve UX
Smartlook
Session recordings and behavior analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need screen recording features specifically
- • Smartlook is a product analytics tool with session recordings
- • It combines quantitative analytics with qualitative insights
| At a Glance |  FullStory |  Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Web Analytics | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose FullStory or Smartlook?
Choose FullStory if
Digital experience intelligence
- Great session replay
- Frustration signals
- Rich analytics
- Your work is web analytics-shaped, not screen recording-shaped
Choose Smartlook if
Session recordings and behavior analytics
- Session recordings
- Good analytics
- Mobile support
- You want a free tier before you commit
- Your work is screen recording-shaped, not web analytics-shaped
| Feature | FullStory | Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 936 reviews | ★4.6/5 873 reviews |
| Categories | Web AnalyticsProduct Analytics | Screen RecordingWeb Analytics |
In-Depth Analysis
FullStory
Digital experience intelligence
Strengths
- +Great session replay
- +Frustration signals
- +Rich analytics
Weaknesses
- -Expensive
- -Privacy concerns
Key features
Smartlook
Session recordings and behavior analytics
Strengths
- +Session recordings
- +Good analytics
- +Mobile support
- +Fair pricing
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Privacy concerns
- -Storage limits
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Learning curve
- -Feature gaps
Key features
Pricing: FullStory vs Smartlook
| Plan | FullStory | Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | Contact Sales Business | $55 month Pro |
| Tier 3 | Contact Sales Enterprise | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on FullStory pricing and Smartlook pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Smartlook has a free tier. FullStory is paid only.
Go with: Smartlook
Want the highest-rated option?
FullStory: 4.5/5 (936 reviews). Smartlook: 4.6/5 (873 reviews).
Go with: Smartlook
Value user reviews?
FullStory: 936 reviews (4.5/5). Smartlook: 873 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: FullStory
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
FullStory is paid. Smartlook is freemium. Smartlook lets you start free.
What's your use case?
FullStory is a web analytics tool. Smartlook is in screen recording. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Smartlook is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
FullStory
- Larger review base (936 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Smartlook
- Has a free tier
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5
- Better fit for screen recording
The Bottom Line
FullStory is our pick. Smartlook has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FullStory or Smartlook better?
FullStory is rated in our evaluation. FullStory is paid and Smartlook is freemium.
What are FullStory and Smartlook used for?
FullStory: Digital experience intelligence. Smartlook: Session recordings and behavior analytics.
What does FullStory cost vs Smartlook?
FullStory is a paid tool. Smartlook is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.