Heap vs GrowthBook: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Heap and GrowthBook 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Heap
Digital insights platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need product analytics features specifically
- • Heap is a digital analytics platform that captures all user interactions automatically
- • It provides retroactive analytics without manual event tracking for product insights
GrowthBook
Open-source feature flags and A/B testing
Best for you if:
- • You need feature flags features specifically
- • Open-source feature flags
- • Self-host for full control
| At a Glance |  GrowthBook | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Product Analytics | Feature Flags |
Rating | 84/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Heap | GrowthBook |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Product AnalyticsWeb Analytics | Feature FlagsA/B Testing |
Understanding the Differences
Both Heap and GrowthBook solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Heap positions itself as "digital insights platform" while GrowthBookfocuses on "open-source feature flags and a/b testing". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Heap
Heap makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 84/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose GrowthBook
GrowthBook is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Heap lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Heap
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Heap handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Heap
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Heap
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Heap, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Heap higher (84/100). But the community has upvoted GrowthBook more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Heap Does Better
- Higher overall score (84/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider GrowthBook If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Heap (84/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Heap scores higher in our analysis, but GrowthBook might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Heap or GrowthBook better?
Based on our analysis, Heap scores higher with 84/100. Heap isfreemium while GrowthBook is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Heap to GrowthBook easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Heap and GrowthBook offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Heap is freemium with a free tier.GrowthBook is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.