SaaS Comparison

Hotjar vs FullStory: Which is Better in 2026?

SaaS Battle

Hotjar vs FullStory: The Ultimate Comparison

In today’s digital landscape, understanding user behavior is paramount for driving optimal website performance and boosting conversion rates. Two of the leading tools that assist businesses with this are Hotjar and FullStory. Each offers unique features that cater to distinct needs, so choosing the right one can significantly impact your user experience optimization strategy. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the features, pricing, and ideal use cases for both Hotjar and FullStory, helping you make an informed decision.

Hotjar, known for its robust heatmaps and session recordings, excels in visualizing user interactions on your website. Alternatively, FullStory provides an enriched digital experience analytics solution, aimed at delivering holistic insights into user behavior without necessarily requiring a financial commitment for basic features. As we explore the nuances of each platform, you’ll discover which tool aligns better with your business goals and budget, enabling you to leverage user data effectively for growth.

Main Features Compared

Hotjar

  • Heatmaps: Hotjar provides visual representations of user clicks, taps, and scrolling behavior, enabling you to see which areas of your site grab user attention.
  • Session Recordings: This feature allows you to watch actual user sessions, giving insights into their navigation paths and frustrations.
  • Surveys and Feedback: Soon after recordings and heatmap analysis, you can engage users to gather qualitative feedback.

FullStory

  • Digital Experience Insights: FullStory provides in-depth analytics that encapsulate user experience, identifying trends and patterns in user behavior over time.
  • Session Replay: Similar to Hotjar, FullStory enables playback of user interactions, but with enhanced detail on every mouse movement and click.
  • Robust Search Functionality: You can filter sessions based on various parameters, making it easier to focus on key user segments or behaviors.

Pricing Comparison

When evaluating B2B SaaS tools, pricing plays a crucial role. Hotjar starts at $32 per month for essential features, while FullStory offers a $0 entry point with limited features, creating accessible options for businesses of all sizes.

FeatureHotjarFullStory
HeatmapsYesNo
Session RecordingsYesYes
Digital Experience InsightsNoYes
Price$32/month$0/month (limited)
Surveys and FeedbackYesNo
Search FunctionalityBasicAdvanced

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between Hotjar and FullStory ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you’re focused on deep analytics of user interactions and have the budget for comprehensive features, Hotjar is the better choice, especially for those prioritizing heatmaps and user feedback. Conversely, if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to gain insights into user experience without upfront costs, FullStory is an excellent option for businesses that want to start analyzing user interactions immediately. Consider your objectives, team capabilities, and budget when making your decision to ensure you’re equipped with the tool that best aligns with your growth strategies.