PostHog
Self-HostedOpen-source product analytics for engineers and data-driven teams
Overview
PostHog is an all-in-one product analytics platform that enables teams to track user behavior, record sessions, run A/B tests, manage feature flags, and analyze funnels—all while retaining full control over their data. It supports self-hosting via Docker Compose, Kubernetes, or cloud providers like AWS/GCP, making it ideal for teams prioritizing privacy and avoiding vendor lock-in. With APIs for custom integrations, SQL query support for deep analysis, and plugin extensibility, PostHog caters to both technical and non-technical users looking for enterprise-grade analytics without the SaaS cost.
Key Features
- Event tracking & user behavior analysis
- Session recordings & heatmaps
- Feature flags & A/B testing
- Funnel & retention analysis
- Self-hosted deployment (Docker/Kubernetes/cloud)
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is PostHog hard to install?
PostHog offers a simple one-line Docker Compose setup for self-hosting, which is easy for beginners. Production deployments may require knowledge of Kubernetes or cloud infrastructure to scale effectively.
? Is it a good alternative to Mixpanel?
Yes—PostHog includes most core Mixpanel features (event tracking, funnels, retention) plus extra tools like feature flags and session recordings. Its self-hosted option makes it better for teams needing data privacy.
? Is it completely free?
The open-source self-hosted version is 100% free. PostHog also offers a paid cloud plan with additional features like SLA support and advanced analytics, but the self-hosted core has no cost.
Top Alternatives
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Full data ownership (self-hosted option)
- ⊕ No vendor lock-in (open-source core)
- ⊕ All-in-one platform (no need for multiple tools)
- ⊕ Extensible via plugins & APIs
Cons
- ⊖ Requires technical setup for self-hosted production
- ⊖ Resource-intensive for large datasets (needs scaling)
- ⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced features