Simple Analytics vs Plausible
Simple Analytics and Plausible are both privacy-focused web analytics alternatives to Google Analytics. This comparison focuses on practical differences without recommending one over the other.
Overview
Simple Analytics is a privacy-first analytics tool focused on simplicity and EU data processing. Plausible is an open-source analytics platform with both cloud hosting and self-hosting options.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Simple Analytics | Plausible |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $9/month | $9/month |
| Free Plan | No | No |
| Open Source | Partially | Yes |
| Self-Hosting | No | Yes |
| Cookie-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Events | Yes | Yes |
| Data Location | EU | EU (cloud) |
| Tweet/Referral Track | Yes | No |
Key Differences
Open Source and Self-Hosting
Plausible is fully open-source (AGPL-3.0) with self-hosting options. Simple Analytics is cloud-only without self-hosting capability.
Data Processing
Both process data in the EU. Simple Analytics emphasizes minimal data collection. Plausible offers more configuration options.
Unique Features
Simple Analytics includes social media referral tracking (tweets, etc.). Plausible offers more customization through its open-source nature.
Pricing Tiers
Both start at $9/month. Pricing scales differ based on pageviews and feature access.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Simple Analytics | Plausible |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Hosting | No | Yes |
| Open Source | Partial | Yes (AGPL-3.0) |
| Data Location | Netherlands | EU (configurable) |
| API Access | Yes | Yes |
| Goals/Events | Yes | Yes |
| Email Reports | Yes | Yes |
| Ad Blocker Bypass | Optional | No |
Use-Case Fit
- Self-hosting requirements: Only Plausible supports self-hosting
- Minimal setup: Both offer simple implementation
- Open-source preference: Plausible is fully open-source
- Social tracking: Simple Analytics tracks social referrals
- EU compliance: Both meet GDPR requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Which supports self-hosting?
Only Plausible supports self-hosting. Simple Analytics is cloud-only.
Are both GDPR compliant?
Yes, both Simple Analytics and Plausible are designed for GDPR compliance with EU data processing.
Which is more minimal?
Simple Analytics emphasizes minimalism in data collection. Plausible offers more features while remaining lightweight.
Do both bypass ad blockers?
Simple Analytics offers optional ad blocker bypass. Plausible uses a custom domain proxy approach for similar results.
Which has better custom events?
Both support custom events. Implementation approaches differ slightly but capabilities are comparable for most use cases.