In a recent Business Bloomer Club discussion, members weighed in on the best options for WooCommerce analytics, especially in light of Google Analytics 4 (GA4) becoming the standard.
With GA4’s complexity and GDPR-related concerns, many store owners are looking for privacy-friendly alternatives that are simpler and more suited to WooCommerce’s needs.
This change has sparked interest in tools that don’t rely on cookies or complex setups but still provide essential insights for managing an eCommerce store.
Recommended Alternatives to Google Analytics for WooCommerce
Two standout options are Plausible Analytics and Fathom Analytics. Both of these tools are lightweight, focus on privacy compliance, and don’t use cookies, making them ideal for European-based WooCommerce stores or any shop where GDPR is a concern.
They provide core metrics without overwhelming users, offering straightforward, understandable reports. For store owners wanting WordPress-integrated analytics, Independent Analytics has also been recommended, though it requires a paid plan to unlock WooCommerce integrations.
Considering a Custom Solution
For those with development experience, a custom analytics setup could be worth exploring. Members suggested using a custom AJAX trigger, fired after the page fully loads to screen out bot traffic, and storing this data in a dedicated WordPress table.
This method keeps tracking minimal and efficient, ideal for WooCommerce stores needing more control and customization.
Conclusion
As WooCommerce store owners navigate the shift away from traditional Google Analytics, alternatives like Plausible and Fathom provide compelling options for straightforward, compliant tracking. And for those seeking a hands-on approach, custom solutions offer a unique way to maintain control over data without relying on third-party tools.
