GlitchTip vs Exceptionless: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GlitchTip and Exceptionless 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:
GlitchTip
Collect, organize, and alert on software errors and performance in real-time, affordably.
Best for you if:
- • You need monitoring features specifically
- • Real-time error tracking, performance monitoring, and uptime checks.
- • Open-source and compatible with Sentry client SDKs.
Exceptionless
Open-source error and event logging
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need debugging features specifically
- • Exceptionless is an open-source error and event logging service for applications
- • It captures exceptions, logs, and events with real-time dashboards and notifications
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Monitoring | Debugging |
Rating | —/100 | 76/100 |
| Feature | GlitchTip | Exceptionless |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 76 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | MonitoringDebugging | DebuggingMonitoring |
Understanding the Differences
Both GlitchTip and Exceptionless solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.GlitchTip positions itself as "collect, organize, and alert on software errors and performance in real-time, affordably." while Exceptionlessfocuses on "open-source error and event logging". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose GlitchTip
GlitchTip makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Exceptionless
Exceptionless is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 76/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, GlitchTip lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: GlitchTip
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Exceptionless is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Exceptionless
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Exceptionless
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with GlitchTip, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Exceptionless higher (76/100). But the community has upvoted Exceptionless more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Exceptionless Does Better
- Higher overall score (76/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider GlitchTip If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Exceptionless (76/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Exceptionless scores higher in our analysis, but GlitchTip might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GlitchTip or Exceptionless better?
Based on our analysis, Exceptionless scores higher with 76/100. GlitchTip isfreemium while Exceptionless is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from GlitchTip to Exceptionless easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do GlitchTip and Exceptionless offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. GlitchTip is freemium with a free tier.Exceptionless is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.