GoatCounter vs Simple Analytics: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GoatCounter and Simple 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.
Bottom line: Simple Analytics wins this matchup. Google Analytics is our overall Web Analytics pick. Google Analytics is our free Web Analytics pick. Pick GoatCounter if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
GoatCounter
Privacy-friendly web analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
Simple Analytics
Privacy-first website analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want privacy-focused analytics
| At a Glance | GoatCounter | Simple Analytics |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free Free plan | $15/month Simple |
Category | Web Analytics Analytics | Web Analytics Analytics |
Rating | n/a | 4.6/5 Capterra 4.8 · G2 4.4 68 reviews |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose GoatCounter or Simple Analytics?
Choose GoatCounter if
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want privacy-focused analytics
- You want simple and lightweight
- Budget matters (Free vs $15/month)
Choose Simple Analytics if
- You want privacy-focused analytics
- You want simple setup
In-Depth Analysis
GoatCounter
Privacy-friendly web analytics
GoatCounter's pricing is exceptionally generous, offering a fully-featured free tier for non-commercial use.
Strengths
- Pro: Privacy-focused analytics
- Pro: Simple and lightweight
- Pro: Open source
- Pro: Self-hostable
- Pro: Free for small sites
Weaknesses
- Con: Very basic features
- Con: Limited insights
- Con: No advanced analytics
- Con: Minimal UI
- Con: Self-hosting needed
Key features
Simple Analytics
Privacy-first website analytics
Simple Analytics offers a fair and competitive pricing structure, especially with its generous Free tier and the well-priced Simple plan at $15/month for individuals.
Strengths
- Pro: Privacy-focused analytics
- Pro: Simple setup
- Pro: GDPR compliant
- Pro: No cookies
- Pro: Good documentation
Weaknesses
- Con: Limited features
- Con: Expensive for what it is
- Con: Basic reporting
- Con: No events on starter
- Con: Less data than GA
Key features
Pricing: GoatCounter vs Simple Analytics
| Plan | GoatCounter | Simple Analytics |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $5 month Personal | $15 month Simple |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $40 month Team |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GoatCounter pricing and Simple Analytics pricing.
Key Takeaways
Simple Analytics
- Our pick for this comparison
GoatCounter
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Simple Analytics wins this matchup. Google Analytics is our overall Web Analytics pick. Google Analytics is our free Web Analytics pick. GoatCounter has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GoatCounter or Simple Analytics better in 2026?
Simple Analytics wins this matchup. Google Analytics is our overall Web Analytics pick. Google Analytics is our free Web Analytics pick. Pick GoatCounter for web analytics workflows (main strength: privacy-focused analytics). Pick Simple Analytics for web analytics workflows (main strength: privacy-focused analytics).
What are GoatCounter and Simple Analytics used for?
GoatCounter: Privacy-friendly web analytics. Simple Analytics: Privacy-first website analytics.
What does GoatCounter cost vs Simple Analytics?
GoatCounter's paid plans start at Free (Personal). Simple Analytics's paid plans start at $15/month (Simple).
What's the main difference between GoatCounter and Simple Analytics?
GoatCounter's main strength: privacy-focused analytics. Simple Analytics's main strength: privacy-focused analytics.