Hotjar vs Smartlook: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hotjar and Smartlook 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: Hotjar wins this matchup. Pick Smartlook if you need screen recording.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Hotjar
Heatmaps and session recordings
Best for you if:
- • You want easy to use
- • You want visual heatmaps
Smartlook
Session recordings and behavior analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want session recordings
- • You want good analytics
| At a Glance | Hotjar | Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Heatmaps | Screen Recording |
Rating | 3.8/5 | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Hotjar or Smartlook?
Choose Hotjar if
Heatmaps and session recordings
- You want easy to use
- You want visual heatmaps
- Budget matters (Free vs Free)
- Your work is heatmaps-shaped, not screen recording-shaped
Choose Smartlook if
Session recordings and behavior analytics
- You want session recordings
- You want good analytics
- Your work is screen recording-shaped, not heatmaps-shaped
| Feature | Hotjar | Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.8/5 948 reviews | ★4.6/5 874 reviews |
| Categories | HeatmapsAnalytics | Screen RecordingWeb Analytics |
In-Depth Analysis
Hotjar
Heatmaps and session recordings
Hotjar (now Contentsquare) offers solid heatmaps and recordings but pricing got complicated after the merger.
Watch out
Three separate products (Observe, Ask, Engage) each billed independently
Strengths
- +Easy to use
- +Visual heatmaps
- +User feedback
Weaknesses
- -Limited analytics
- -Can slow site
Key features
Smartlook
Session recordings and behavior analytics
Smartlook's pricing is fair, offering a generous Free tier with 3,000 sessions/month.
Watch out
Overage fees if session limits exceeded
Strengths
- +Session recordings
- +Good analytics
- +Mobile support
- +Fair pricing
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Privacy concerns
- -Storage limits
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Learning curve
- -Feature gaps
Key features
Pricing: Hotjar vs Smartlook
| Plan | Hotjar | Smartlook |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Basic | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $39 Plus | $55 month Pro |
| Tier 3 | $99 Business | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hotjar pricing and Smartlook pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hotjar
Want the highest-rated option?
Hotjar: 3.8/5 (948 reviews). Smartlook: 4.6/5 (874 reviews).
Go with: Smartlook
Value user reviews?
Hotjar: 948 reviews (3.8/5). Smartlook: 874 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: Hotjar
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?
Hotjar is a heatmaps tool. Smartlook is in screen recording. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Smartlook is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 3.8/5.
Key Takeaways
Hotjar
- Larger review base (948 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Smartlook
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 3.8/5
- Better fit for screen recording
The Bottom Line
Hotjar wins this matchup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hotjar or Smartlook better?
Hotjar is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Hotjar and Smartlook used for?
Hotjar: Heatmaps and session recordings. Smartlook: Session recordings and behavior analytics.
What does Hotjar cost vs Smartlook?
Hotjar is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Smartlook is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.