Google Analytics vs Matomo: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Google Analytics and Matomo 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 the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need real-time analytics features specifically
- • Industry standard web analytics, free and deeply integrated with Google Ads
- • Event-based tracking model for flexible interaction measurement
Matomo
Open-source web analytics alternative to GA
Best for you if:
- • You need web analytics features specifically
- • Matomo is an open-source web analytics platform alternative to Google Analytics
- • It provides privacy-compliant analytics with full data ownership
| At a Glance |  Google Analytics |  Matomo |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Real-Time Analytics | Web Analytics |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Google Analytics | Matomo |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Real-Time AnalyticsWeb Analytics | Web AnalyticsProduct Analytics |
How Google Analytics and Matomo Compare
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Matomo
Open-source web analytics alternative to GA
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Google Analytics is a real-time analytics tool. Matomo is in web analytics.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Google Analytics
Want the highest-rated option?
Google Analytics: 82/100. Matomo: 80/100.
Go with: Google Analytics
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Google Analytics
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?
Google Analytics is a real-time analytics tool. Matomo is in web analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Google Analytics scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Google Analytics
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Matomo
- Better fit for web analytics
The Bottom Line
Google Analytics (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Analytics or Matomo better?
Google Analytics scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Google Analytics and Matomo used for?
Google Analytics: The free analytics standard that tracks most websites. Matomo: Open-source web analytics alternative to GA.
What does Google Analytics cost vs Matomo?
Google Analytics is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Matomo is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.