Happy Valley

Counter vs Google Analytics

Counter and Google Analytics are both analytics tools. Counter is aimed at freelancers and developers, while Google Analytics is aimed at small businesses and enterprise. Both have a free plan.

Counter

Free, minimal, privacy-respecting analytics

Google Analytics

Google's free web and app analytics

PricingFreeFree
Starting priceNot publishedNot published
Free planYesYes
Free trial——
Built forFreelancers, DevelopersSmall businesses, Enterprise, Agencies
Platformswebweb
CountryDE · 2020US · 2005
Rating——

Choose Counter if

Hobby sites.

  • Free
  • Private
  • Lightweight

Look elsewhere if: Business analytics.

Choose Google Analytics if

Businesses running paid acquisition on Google or needing warehouse-level event data for free.

  • Free with enormous capability
  • Unmatched integration with Google Ads and Search Console
  • BigQuery export enables custom analysis

Look elsewhere if: Small content or SaaS sites wanting simple, compliant traffic numbers.

Counter vs Google Analytics pricing

Counter

  • Free$0Donation-funded; pay when ready, AGPL-3.0 source

Google Analytics

  • Google Analytics 4$0Standard property with data limits
  • Google Analytics 360CustomEnterprise tier sold via Google sales; no public price

Counter · Key features

  • Minimal script
  • No cookies
  • Referrers and devices
  • Open source
  • Free
  • Simple dashboard

Cons

  • Very basic
  • No events
  • Limited support

Google Analytics · Key features

  • Event-based model across web and apps
  • Explorations: funnels, paths, segment overlap, cohorts
  • Google Ads integration and data-driven attribution
  • Free BigQuery export of raw events
  • Predictive audiences and anomaly detection
  • Consent Mode and server-side tagging via Tag Manager

Cons

  • Complex interface and steep learning curve
  • Sampling and thresholds obscure data
  • Consent requirements shrink EU data

Counter vs Google Analytics: FAQ

Do Counter and Google Analytics have a free plan?

Yes, both Counter and Google Analytics have a free plan; paid plans add more usage and features.

Which is better for small businesses, Counter or Google Analytics?

Google Analytics lists small businesses as a core audience, while Counter is aimed more at freelancers and developers.

Not sure yet?