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 is our overall pick for web analytics workflows. Pick GoatCounter if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GoatCounter
Privacy-friendly web analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • GoatCounter is a simple, privacy-friendly web analytics tool
- • It tracks page views without cookies and respects visitor privacy by default
Simple Analytics
Privacy-first website analytics
Best for you if:
- • Simple Analytics is a privacy-friendly web analytics tool
- • It provides essential metrics without cookies or personal data tracking
| At a Glance |  GoatCounter |  Simple Analytics |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/monthPersonal | $15/monthSimple |
Best For | Web Analytics | Web Analytics |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GoatCounter or Simple Analytics?
Choose GoatCounter if
Privacy-friendly web analytics
- Privacy-focused analytics
- Simple and lightweight
- Open source
- Budget matters ($5/month vs $15/month)
Choose Simple Analytics if
Privacy-first website analytics
- Privacy-focused analytics
- Simple setup
- GDPR compliant
| Feature | GoatCounter | Simple Analytics |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 67 reviews |
| Categories | Web AnalyticsAnalytics | Web AnalyticsAnalytics |
In-Depth Analysis
GoatCounter
Privacy-friendly web analytics
Strengths
- +Privacy-focused analytics
- +Simple and lightweight
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Free for small sites
Weaknesses
- -Very basic features
- -Limited insights
- -No advanced analytics
- -Minimal UI
- -Self-hosting needed
Key features
Simple Analytics
Privacy-first website analytics
Strengths
- +Privacy-focused analytics
- +Simple setup
- +GDPR compliant
- +No cookies
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Limited features
- -Expensive for what it is
- -Basic reporting
- -No events on starter
- -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.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GoatCounter has a free tier. Simple Analytics is paid only.
Go with: GoatCounter
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GoatCounter
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Simple Analytics
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GoatCounter is freemium. Simple Analytics is paid. GoatCounter lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are web analytics tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Simple Analytics
- Our pick for this comparison
GoatCounter
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Simple Analytics is our pick. GoatCounter has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GoatCounter or Simple Analytics better?
Simple Analytics is rated in our evaluation. GoatCounter is freemium and Simple Analytics is paid.
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 is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Simple Analytics is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.