Smartlook vs Hotjar: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Smartlook 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.
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:
Smartlook
Session recordings and behavior analytics
Best for you if:
- • You want session recordings
- • You want good analytics
Hotjar
Heatmaps and session recordings
Best for you if:
- • You want easy to use
- • You want visual heatmaps
| At a Glance | Smartlook | Hotjar |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screen Recording | Heatmaps |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 3.8/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Smartlook or Hotjar?
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
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
| Feature | Smartlook | Hotjar |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 874 reviews | ★3.8/5 948 reviews |
| Categories | Screen RecordingWeb Analytics | HeatmapsAnalytics |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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
Pricing: Smartlook vs Hotjar
| Plan | Smartlook | Hotjar |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Basic |
| Tier 2 | $55 month Pro | $39 Plus |
| Tier 3 | custom Enterprise | $99 Business |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Smartlook pricing and Hotjar pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Smartlook
Want the highest-rated option?
Smartlook: 4.6/5 (874 reviews). Hotjar: 3.8/5 (948 reviews).
Go with: Smartlook
Value user reviews?
Smartlook: 874 reviews (4.6/5). Hotjar: 948 reviews (3.8/5).
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?
Smartlook is a screen recording tool. Hotjar is in heatmaps. 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 Smartlook or Hotjar better?
Hotjar is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Smartlook and Hotjar used for?
Smartlook: Session recordings and behavior analytics. Hotjar: Heatmaps and session recordings.
What does Smartlook cost vs Hotjar?
Smartlook is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hotjar is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.