Plausible Analytics vs Fathom Analytics
Plausible Analytics and Fathom Analytics are two of the most popular web analytics tools, so choosing between them is a common dilemma. Plausible Analytics is best known for cookie-free tracking and suits privacy-conscious, small business, bloggers teams, while Fathom Analytics stands out for privacy-first design and is a strong fit for privacy-focused, small business, content sites. Below we break down pricing, features, pros and cons so you can decide quickly.
Quick verdict
If budget is the priority, Fathom Analytics is the more accessible option ($14-$74/mo). For overall user satisfaction, Plausible Analytics edges ahead with a 4.8/5 rating. Most teams should pick Plausible Analytics for privacy-conscious use cases and Fathom Analytics for privacy-focused use cases — and many growing companies end up running both together.
| Feature | Plausible Analytics | Fathom Analytics |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Price range | $9-$99/mo | $14-$74/mo |
| Free tier | No | No |
| Category | Web Analytics | Web Analytics |
| Best for | Privacy-conscious, Small business, Bloggers | Privacy-focused, Small business, Content sites |
| Key features |
|
|
| User rating | ★ 4.8 (1,200) | ★ 4.7 (890) |
Choose Plausible Analytics if…
- ✓You're focused on privacy-conscious, small business, bloggers
- ✓No cookie banner required
- ✓< 1KB script keeps pages fast
- ✓Open source and EU-hosted
Choose Fathom Analytics if…
- ✓You're focused on privacy-focused, small business, content sites
- ✓GDPR/CCPA compliant by default
- ✓Fast, distraction-free dashboard
- ✓Bypasses ad-blockers accurately
Plausible Analytics vs Fathom Analytics: pros & cons
Plausible Analytics
Pros
- ✓No cookie banner required
- ✓< 1KB script keeps pages fast
- ✓Open source and EU-hosted
Cons
- ✕No deep funnel/cohort analysis
- ✕Limited historical drill-down
- ✕Paid only after trial
Fathom Analytics
Pros
- ✓GDPR/CCPA compliant by default
- ✓Fast, distraction-free dashboard
- ✓Bypasses ad-blockers accurately
Cons
- ✕Fewer features than GA4
- ✕No multi-touch attribution
- ✕Paid only
Frequently asked questions
Is Plausible Analytics or Fathom Analytics cheaper?
Fathom Analytics is generally the more affordable option ($14-$74/mo). Plausible Analytics is priced at $9-$99/mo and Fathom Analytics at $14-$74/mo, so the best value depends on your data volume and which features you need.
Is Plausible Analytics free?
No, Plausible Analytics does not have a permanent free plan. Pricing starts in the $9-$99/mo range.
Is Fathom Analytics free?
No, Fathom Analytics does not have a permanent free plan. Pricing starts in the $14-$74/mo range.
Can I use Plausible Analytics and Fathom Analytics together?
Yes. Many teams run Plausible Analytics and Fathom Analytics side by side — Plausible Analytics for privacy-conscious and Fathom Analytics for privacy-focused. A customer data platform (like Segment or RudderStack) makes it easy to send the same events to both.
Which is better for privacy-conscious, Plausible Analytics or Fathom Analytics?
For privacy-conscious, Plausible Analytics is typically the stronger choice thanks to cookie-free tracking and lightweight script. Fathom Analytics is the better pick when you need privacy-first design.