Hotjar vs Plausible: which should you pick in 2026?

Both are strong choices. The short answer: pick Hotjar if you are conversion optimization research. Pick Plausible if you are privacy-conscious sites that want simplicity.

HotjarPlausible
In one lineHeatmaps, recordings and feedback polls.Lightweight, privacy-first analytics without cookie banners.
PricingFree plan; from $32/moFrom $9/mo
Free tierYesNo
Best forConversion optimization researchPrivacy-conscious sites that want simplicity
CategoryAnalytics & HeatmapsAnalytics & Heatmaps
Websitehotjar.complausible.io

Hotjar details Plausible details

Other options

Google Analytics 4FathomMicrosoft ClarityMixpanelPostHog