Hotjar vs FullStory
Hotjar and FullStory are both user experience analytics tools, but they differ in key areas. This comparison focuses on practical differences without recommending one over the other.
This page compares Hotjar and FullStory across pricing, features, integrations, and feedback capabilities.
Overview
Hotjar provides heatmaps and feedback widgets. FullStory offers session replays and journey analytics.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Hotjar | FullStory |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39/month | $0/month |
| Free Plan | Yes | No |
| Free Trial | Yes | Yes |
| Heatmaps | Yes | Yes |
| Session Recordings | Yes | Yes |
| Feedback Widgets | Yes | No |
| Journey Mapping | No | Yes |
Key Differences
Features
Hotjar includes feedback polls and forms. FullStory focuses on detailed session replays.
Pricing
Hotjar has a free tier with paid plans. FullStory offers usage-based pricing.
Integrations
Both integrate with major platforms. FullStory supports more advanced analytics.
User Interface
Hotjar is user-friendly for non-technical users. FullStory provides deeper insights.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Hotjar | FullStory |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Cloud only | Cloud only |
| Data Residency | EU and US | US primary, EU available |
| API Access | REST API | REST API, GraphQL |
| Script Size | ~35KB | ~40KB |
| Recording Retention | 365 days (Scale plan) | Varies by plan |
| Data Export | CSV, API | CSV, API, Segment |
| PII Masking | Automatic and manual | Automatic and manual |
| Mobile SDK | Yes | Yes (iOS, Android) |
Data Handling
Hotjar
- EU-based company (Malta) with GDPR-focused design
- Automatic PII masking for sensitive elements
- User consent management built-in
- Data processing agreements available
- Session recordings stored securely with encryption
FullStory
- SOC 2 Type II certified
- Automatic rage click and error detection
- Private by default with configurable exclusions
- Supports data retention customization
- Enterprise plans offer additional compliance features
Implementation Considerations
- Hotjar installation is straightforward with a single JavaScript snippet
- FullStory requires similar setup but more configuration for advanced features
- Both tools automatically capture DOM elements for session replay
- Privacy settings should be configured before production deployment
- Neither tool requires manual event instrumentation for basic features
Related Pages
Use-Case Fit
- Quick feedback collection: Hotjar provides feedback widgets alongside heatmaps
- Deep session analysis: FullStory offers more detailed replay and journey mapping
- Budget-conscious teams: Hotjar’s free tier includes core features
- Product teams needing journey insights: FullStory provides user path analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hotjar have a free plan?
Hotjar offers a free plan with basic heatmaps, session recordings, and feedback widgets suitable for small sites.
What is FullStory commonly used for?
FullStory excels in session replay and user journey analysis for understanding complex user flows and identifying friction points.
Which tool is easier to implement?
Hotjar typically requires less setup with its simple JavaScript snippet. FullStory offers similar installation but requires more configuration for advanced features.
Can I use both tools together?
Yes, some teams use Hotjar for feedback collection and FullStory for detailed session analysis, though this increases costs and implementation complexity.
How do privacy features compare?
Both tools offer automatic PII masking and privacy controls. Hotjar is EU-based with GDPR as a core focus. FullStory provides configurable privacy settings with SOC 2 compliance.
Which tool has better mobile app support?
Both offer mobile SDKs for iOS and Android. FullStory provides more advanced mobile session replay capabilities. Hotjar’s mobile support is available on higher-tier plans.
How do recording retention periods compare?
Hotjar retains recordings up to 365 days on Scale plans. FullStory retention varies by plan tier. Both offer data export options for long-term archival.
Which platform integrates better with analytics tools?
FullStory offers deeper integrations with analytics platforms like Segment and Amplitude. Hotjar integrates with popular tools but focuses more on standalone feedback workflows.