What analytics app should I install first on Shopify?
Start with Google Analytics 4 (free) for basic ecommerce tracking. Then add Hotjar for user behavior insights. This combination provides comprehensive data without overwhelming complexity or high costs.
Do I need paid analytics tools if I have Google Analytics?
Yes, for deeper insights and optimization. Google Analytics shows what happened, but tools like Hotjar show how users behave, Mixpanel tracks specific events, and Kissmetrics focuses on customer lifetime value.
Which analytics tool is best for conversion optimization?
Hotjar and Crazy Egg excel at conversion optimization. Their heatmaps and session recordings show exactly where users struggle on your site, making it easy to identify and fix conversion bottlenecks.
How much should I spend on analytics tools monthly?
Start with $50-100/month for most stores. Hotjar Basic ($32/month) plus Google Analytics 4 (free) covers most needs. Scale up to advanced tools like Mixpanel or Kissmetrics as revenue grows.
What's the difference between analytics and attribution tools?
Analytics track user behavior, attribution tracks marketing effectiveness. Analytics show what users do on your site, while attribution shows which marketing channels drive conversions and revenue.
Do I need multiple analytics tools or just one?
Multiple tools provide different insights. Each tool specializes in different data types: Google Analytics for traffic, Hotjar for behavior, Mixpanel for events, Kissmetrics for customer journey analysis.
Need More Detailed Comparisons?
Get in-depth reviews, pricing breakdowns, and expert recommendations
See Full Analytics Guide