Hotjar vs Usabilla: What are the differences?

Introduction

Hotjar and Usabilla are both user experience (UX) analytics tools that help website owners understand how users interact with their site. While both tools provide valuable insights, there are several key differences between Hotjar and Usabilla.

1. Pricing Model: Hotjar offers a relatively affordable pricing model that is based on the number of page views per day. This can be advantageous for small businesses or websites with low traffic. On the other hand, Usabilla's pricing is typically based on a user-based model, which may make it more suitable for larger businesses that need to accommodate multiple users or teams.

2. Feature Set: Hotjar offers a comprehensive set of features, including heatmaps, user recordings, surveys, and conversion funnels. Usabilla, on the other hand, focuses more on usability testing, user feedback, and user research. Depending on the specific needs of the website, one tool may offer more relevant features than the other.

3. Integration Options: Hotjar provides extensive integration options with popular platforms such as WordPress, Shopify, and Google Analytics. This allows users to seamlessly connect their Hotjar data with other tools they are already using for website analytics. Usabilla also provides integrations with popular platforms, but the number of available integrations may be more limited compared to Hotjar.

4. Target Audience: Hotjar is often considered a more accessible tool for a wide range of users, including marketers, UX designers, and product managers. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive features make it easier for individuals with varying levels of technical expertise to use the tool effectively. Usabilla, on the other hand, is typically more popular among UX researchers and professionals who require advanced usability testing and user feedback functionalities.

5. Survey and Feedback Capabilities: While both Hotjar and Usabilla offer survey and feedback capabilities, there are differences in terms of their focus and approach. Hotjar allows users to create and customize on-site surveys, capture feedback from users, and analyze the responses. Usabilla, on the other hand, specializes in targeted feedback tools and remote usability testing. This means that Usabilla might be more suited for in-depth feedback gathering and conducting remote user testing compared to Hotjar.

6. Analytics and Insights: Hotjar provides a wide variety of analytics and insights, including heatmaps, session recordings, funnel analysis, and form analytics. Usabilla, on the other hand, places a stronger emphasis on qualitative insights, such as user feedback, sentiment analysis, and click behavior. Depending on the desired level of quantitative data versus qualitative insights, one tool may be better suited than the other.

In summary, Hotjar is known for its affordable pricing, comprehensive feature set, and accessibility for a wider range of users. Usabilla, on the other hand, emphasizes usability testing, user feedback, and more advanced feedback gathering capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and goals of the website owner or UX professional.