Google Analytics vs Fathom Analytics: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Google Analytics and Fathom 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Industry standard web analytics, free and deeply integrated with Google Ads
- • Event-based tracking model for flexible interaction measurement
Fathom Analytics
Simple privacy-first analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Privacy-first analytics without cookies
- • GDPR compliant with simple dashboard
| At a Glance |  Google Analytics |  Fathom Analytics |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Real-Time Analytics | Real-Time Analytics |
Rating | 82/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Google Analytics | Fathom Analytics |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 43 |
| Categories | Real-Time AnalyticsWeb Analytics | Real-Time AnalyticsWeb Analytics |
How Google Analytics and Fathom Analytics Compare
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Fathom Analytics
Simple privacy-first analytics
Paid · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Google Analytics has a free tier. Fathom Analytics is paid only.
Go with: Google Analytics
Want the highest-rated option?
Google Analytics: 82/100. Fathom Analytics: 85/100.
Go with: Fathom Analytics
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Fathom Analytics
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Google Analytics is freemium. Fathom Analytics is paid. Google Analytics lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are real-time analytics tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Fathom Analytics scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Fathom Analytics
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- More community upvotes (43)
- Our pick for this comparison
Google Analytics
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Fathom Analytics (85/100) is our pick. Google Analytics has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Analytics or Fathom Analytics better?
Fathom Analytics scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Google Analytics is freemium and Fathom Analytics is paid.
What are Google Analytics and Fathom Analytics used for?
Google Analytics: The free analytics standard that tracks most websites. Fathom Analytics: Simple privacy-first analytics.
What does Google Analytics cost vs Fathom Analytics?
Google Analytics is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Fathom Analytics is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.