GoatCounter vs Umami: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GoatCounter and Umami 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: Umami 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:
- • GoatCounter is a simple, privacy-friendly web analytics tool
- • It tracks page views without cookies and respects visitor privacy by default
Umami
Privacy-first, self-hosted web analytics without cookie banners
Best for you if:
- • Umami is a simple, privacy-focused web analytics alternative
- • It provides essential metrics without cookies or personal data
| At a Glance |  GoatCounter |  Umami |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/monthPersonal | $9/monthCloud |
Best For | Web Analytics | Web Analytics |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GoatCounter or Umami?
Choose GoatCounter if
Privacy-friendly web analytics
- Privacy-focused analytics
- Simple and lightweight
- Open source
- Budget matters ($5/month vs $9/month)
Choose Umami if
Privacy-first, self-hosted web analytics without cookie banners
- Open source
- Self-hostable
- Free cloud option
| Feature | GoatCounter | Umami |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.5/5 204 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
Umami
Privacy-first, self-hosted web analytics without cookie banners
Strengths
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Free cloud option
Weaknesses
- -Basic features
- -Self-host complexity
Key features
Pricing: GoatCounter vs Umami
| Plan | GoatCounter | Umami |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Self-hosted |
| Tier 2 | $5 month Personal | $9 month Cloud |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GoatCounter pricing and Umami pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
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: Umami
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
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
Umami
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
GoatCounter
- Choose if you want privacy-friendly web analytics
The Bottom Line
Umami is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GoatCounter or Umami better?
Umami is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are GoatCounter and Umami used for?
GoatCounter: Privacy-friendly web analytics. Umami: Privacy-first, self-hosted web analytics without cookie banners.
What does GoatCounter cost vs Umami?
GoatCounter is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Umami is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.