Overview
Google Analytics UA (Universal Analytics) is the version of Google Analytics that has been around since 2012. It is a web-based analytics solution that collects and reports data about website traffic.
Google Analytics GA4 (Google Analytics 4) is the latest version of Google Analytics (launched in 2020). It is a mobile- and app-focused analytics solution that collects and reports data about user engagement and behavior. It also offers more advanced features and better insights.
Some Key Differences Most Business Should Know:
1. Tracking Methods:
Google Analytics UA is based on a “pageview” tracking method, which tracks and records when a user visits a web page.
Google Analytics GA4 is based on an “event” tracking method, which tracks and records user interactions with the website.
2. Data Collection:
Google Analytics UA collects data from cookies and ja
Google Analytics GA4 collects data from cookies, ja
3. Reporting:
Google Analytics UA offers basic reporting features.
Google Analytics GA4 offers advanced reporting features, including dashboards, custom reports, and predictive analytics.
4. Data Model:
Google Analytics UA uses a session-based data model.
Google Analytics GA4 uses a user-centric data model.
5. Data Insights:
Google Analytics UA provides data insights that are limited to website traffic and user behavior.
Google Analytics GA4 provides a more comprehensive view of user engagement and behavior, such as user demographics, device usage, and user engagement on different channels.
6. Data Sharing:
Google Analytics UA does not allow for data sharing.
Google Analytics GA4 allows data sharing between different Google Analytics accounts.
7. Data Analysis:
Google Analytics UA provides basic data analysis capabilities.
Google Analytics GA4 provides more advanced data analysis capabilities, such as machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics.
8. Data Storage:
Google Analytics UA stores data in the Google Analytics database.
Google Analytics GA4 stores data in the Google BigQuery database.
9. User Interface:
Google Analytics UA has a classic user interface.
Google Analytics GA4 has a modern user interface.
10. Tracking Code:
Google Analytics UA uses the "ga.js" tracking code.
Google Analytics GA4 uses the "gtag.js" tracking code.
Conclusion:
Google Analytics UA and GA4 have many differences that businesses should consider when deciding which version to use. Google Analytics UA is a web-based analytics solution that provides basic data insights and reporting. Google Analytics GA4 is a mobile- and app-focused analytics solution that provides advanced data insights, reporting, and analysis capabilities.