Mixpanel vs Hotjar: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mixpanel and Hotjar 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:
Mixpanel
Product analytics for mobile and web
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need product analytics features specifically
- • Product analytics for user behavior insights
- • Best-in-class funnel and retention analysis
Hotjar
Heatmaps and session recordings
Best for you if:
- • You need screen recording features specifically
- • Behavior analytics tool with heatmaps, session recordings, and user feedback surveys.
- • Visualizes clicks, scrolls, and mouse movements to understand how visitors interact with pages.
| At a Glance |  Mixpanel |  Hotjar |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Product Analytics | Screen Recording |
Rating | 86/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | Mixpanel | Hotjar |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Product AnalyticsWeb Analytics | Screen RecordingSurvey Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Mixpanel and Hotjar solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Mixpanel positions itself as "product analytics for mobile and web" while Hotjarfocuses on "heatmaps and session recordings". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Mixpanel
Mixpanel makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 86/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Hotjar
Hotjar 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, Mixpanel lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Mixpanel
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Mixpanel handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Mixpanel
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: Mixpanel
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Mixpanel, 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 Mixpanel higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Hotjar more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Mixpanel Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Hotjar 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 Mixpanel (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Mixpanel scores higher in our analysis, but Hotjar 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 Mixpanel or Hotjar better?
Based on our analysis, Mixpanel scores higher with 86/100. Mixpanel isfreemium while Hotjar 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 Mixpanel to Hotjar 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 Mixpanel and Hotjar offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Mixpanel is freemium with a free tier.Hotjar is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.