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GDPR Compliance Risk

Mixpanel is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

Mixpanel logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Mixpanel

🇺🇸Mixpanel · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Mixpanel is a web analytics platform based in the United States, designed to help businesses track and analyze user behavior on their websites and applications. It provides real-time insights into user interactions, allowing companies to understand how users engage with their products. Key features include cohort analysis for segmenting users, funnel analysis for monitoring conversion rates, and A/B testing to optimize features. Additionally, Mixpanel offers retention reports to track user engagement over time and custom event tracking capabilities for tailored data collection. The platform also integrates with various third-party tools and presents data through interactive dashboards for easy visualization. Mixpanel's target audience includes product managers, marketers, and data analysts who require detailed insights into user behavior. It is important to note that Mixpanel stores user data in the United States, making it subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. The pricing model is typically based on the volume of data events tracked, allowing businesses to scale their usage according to their needs.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Mixpanel

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Mixpanel has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based web analytics is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Mixpanel, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Mixpanel, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

4 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

4 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Mixpanel

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Plausible logo

Plausible

🇪🇪

by Plausible

Plausible is a web analytics service designed to provide essential insights without compromising user privacy. It operates without cookies, ensuring a lightweight and straightforward experience for website owners who prioritize user trust. Key features include real-time data tracking, simple integration, and a user-friendly dashboard that delivers clear and actionable insights. Plausible stands out by being hosted entirely within the EU, offering full compliance with GDPR regulations and ensuring data sovereignty. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses, bloggers, and developers who are conscious of privacy and legal compliance. The service is particularly beneficial for those who want to avoid the complexities and intrusiveness of traditional analytics tools. Plausible's pricing model is transparent and straightforward, based on the number of monthly page views, making it accessible for websites of all sizes. With Plausible, users can enjoy peace of mind knowing their analytics are both effective and ethically managed.

EU-hostedEU-BasedISO 27001Green HostingOpen SourceSelf-HostableGDPR Compliant
subscriptionMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Plausible is cookie-less, reducing privacy concerns.
  • Fully GDPR compliant with EU-based servers.
  • Lightweight script, only 1.4 KB, faster loading.

Consider

  • Lacks advanced cohort analysis features.
  • Migration may require data export and reconfiguration.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Plausible
Pirsch logo

Pirsch

🇩🇪

by Pirsch

Pirsch is a web analytics service based in Germany, designed to provide insightful data while prioritizing user privacy. It offers a streamlined approach to tracking website performance without compromising on data protection. Key features include real-time analytics, user-friendly dashboards, and seamless integration with various platforms. Pirsch stands out with its commitment to privacy, ensuring that all data is processed and stored within the EU, adhering to GDPR regulations. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses and website owners who prioritize data sovereignty and compliance. The platform is particularly suited for small to medium-sized enterprises, digital marketers, and privacy-conscious developers seeking a reliable analytics tool. Pirsch operates on a transparent pricing model, offering scalable plans that cater to different levels of usage, ensuring flexibility and affordability. By choosing Pirsch, users benefit from a secure, privacy-focused analytics solution that respects user data and delivers actionable insights.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen Source
freemiumMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Pirsch is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring data protection.
  • EU-hosted servers reduce latency for European users.
  • Open source allows for customization and transparency.

Consider

  • Pirsch lacks Mixpanel's A/B testing feature.
  • Migration may require significant data reformatting.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Pirsch
Matomo logo

Matomo

🇪🇺

Matomo is a comprehensive web analytics platform that empowers businesses to gain insights into their website traffic and user behavior. As an open-source, self-hosted solution, Matomo offers users complete control over their data, ensuring privacy and compliance with EU regulations. Key features include customizable dashboards, real-time data tracking, and detailed reports on visitor interactions. Unlike many analytics tools, Matomo is EU-hosted, providing a significant advantage for organizations prioritizing GDPR compliance and data sovereignty. This makes it particularly appealing to European businesses and any global entity concerned with stringent data protection standards. Matomo's pricing model is straightforward, with a free version available, allowing users to explore its capabilities without financial commitment. Its target audience includes small to medium-sized enterprises, digital marketers, and web developers who require robust analytics without compromising on data privacy. By choosing Matomo, users benefit from a reliable analytics service that respects user privacy and adheres to the highest standards of data protection.

EU-hostedISO 27001GDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-Hostable
freeMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance with EU-hosted servers
  • ISO 27001 certification ensures data security
  • Open source allows for full code transparency

Consider

  • Migration requires significant time and resources
  • Fewer built-in integrations than Mixpanel
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Matomo
Simple Analytics logo

Simple Analytics

🇳🇱

by Simple Analytics

Simple Analytics is a Dutch web analytics service designed for businesses and individuals who prioritize privacy and data protection. Unlike many analytics tools, Simple Analytics provides essential insights into website traffic without compromising user privacy. It offers a streamlined interface that allows users to track visitor behavior, page views, and referral sources with ease. Key features include its commitment to privacy, as it does not use cookies or track personal data, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other European data protection regulations. Simple Analytics is hosted entirely within the EU, providing users with the assurance of data sovereignty and security. This makes it an ideal choice for European businesses and organizations that need to adhere to strict data protection standards. The service is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized enterprises, non-profits, and privacy-conscious individuals who require straightforward analytics without the complexity and privacy concerns of larger platforms. Simple Analytics operates on a subscription-based pricing model, offering various plans to accommodate different needs and budgets.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR Compliant
subscriptionMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted servers ensure compliance with GDPR regulations.
  • Simple Analytics offers a clear privacy policy, enhancing user trust.
  • Focus on essential metrics reduces data overload for better insights.

Consider

  • Lacks advanced features like A/B testing and cohort analysis.
  • Migration from Mixpanel may disrupt ongoing analytics processes.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Simple Analytics

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Mixpanel
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇪🇪PlausibleEEYesYesYessubscription
🇩🇪PirschDEYesYesYesfreemium
🇪🇺MatomoEUYesYesYesfree
🇳🇱Simple AnalyticsNLYesYesYessubscription

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mixpanel GDPR compliant?

Mixpanel is a US-based service operated by Mixpanel. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Mixpanel?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Mixpanel?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Mixpanel include Plausible, Pirsch, Matomo. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Mixpanel to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Mixpanel using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Mixpanel?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Mixpanel. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

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Last updated: January 26, 2026