Google Analytics vs Mixpanel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Google Analytics and Mixpanel 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 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
Mixpanel
Product analytics for mobile and web
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need web analytics features specifically
- • Product analytics for user behavior insights
- • Best-in-class funnel and retention analysis
| At a Glance |  Google Analytics |  Mixpanel |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Real-Time Analytics | Web Analytics |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Google Analytics | Mixpanel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| 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 Mixpanel Compare
Google Analytics
The free analytics standard that tracks most websites
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Mixpanel
Product analytics for mobile and web
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Google Analytics is a real-time analytics tool. Mixpanel 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. Mixpanel: 86/100.
Go with: Mixpanel
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Mixpanel
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. Mixpanel is in web analytics. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Mixpanel scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Mixpanel
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Google Analytics
- Better fit for real-time analytics
The Bottom Line
Mixpanel (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Analytics or Mixpanel better?
Mixpanel scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Google Analytics and Mixpanel used for?
Google Analytics: The free analytics standard that tracks most websites. Mixpanel: Product analytics for mobile and web.
What does Google Analytics cost vs Mixpanel?
Google Analytics is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Mixpanel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.