Differences Between UA and GA4 Metrics {Complete Information}

The biggest difference between UA and GA4 Metrics is the conversion counting. Note that Google Analytics 4 counts one conversion per event while Universal Analytics counts one goal conversion per session.

This can be simply understood by the given example, when users complete a goal in a single session 5 times, UA will show it as one conversion while GA4 will show 5.

To get more details about UA and GA4, read the entire blog. Below, you’ll get detailed information about the differences between the UA and GA4 data models. So, let’s proceed!

Differences between UA and Google Analytics 4

Here, you’ll learn how GA4 works compared to Universal Analytics. Let’s go through them:

1.   Reporting Interface

Due to the modification of reports and metrics, there is a huge report interface. When you sign in to the panel, you will see some GA4 reports rather than what you see in Universal Analytics. Thus, you can create other report templates and various data using manual setup.

2.   Page Views

Page Views in UA are known as Views in GA4. This view is the same in both UA and GA4. ​​​​however, the differences can differ as it’s based on filters that you’ve created in Universal Analytics or Google Analytics 4.

3.   Different Data Models

UA collects data using a hit-based while GA4 collects using an event-based. There are many hit types available in UA including Social, Transaction, PageView, etc. Alternatively, they are determined as GA4 Events with different parameters and names. It lets you access reports and capabilities.

4.   Sessions

Sessions in UA and GA4 are different. It is because of the different methods used in the two versions. If a user crosses midnight then a new session begins in UA while in GA4, the session continues and results in different session counts.

If you use view filters in UA, it might result in the session count but in GA4, there is no concept of view filters. Moreover, GA4 uses a statistical estimate of sessions that occurred on your app or website while Universal Analytics properties don’t assess the number of sessions.

5.   IP Anonymization

Your IP address is determined as personal information under GDPR. In UA, you’ve to arrange IP addresses to deidentify to agree with GDPR legislation. These addresses are depersonalized automatically with GA4.

6.   AI & Machine Learning

GA4 provides business understanding through AI and Machine Learning. It shows that you’ve complete knowledge of your data based on expected predictions.

7.   Automated Event Tracking

GA4 allows you to track various events using DataLayer like page_view, session_start, etc. The Enhanced measurement feature allows you to do site searches, monitor file downloads, video management, etc without additional setup.

8.   Improved Google Signals

Google signals can be enhanced with GA4. This signal lets you see how you use the website across devices and sessions that offer you enhanced personalization.

9.   Customizable Dashboards

GA4 allows users to rearrange data cards by using the customize report button while Universal Analytics doesn’t let users modify report pages.

10.               Bounce Rate and Engagement Rate

Bounce rates are not found in GA4 metrics. Thus, there is a new metric named engagement rate. This rate measures the time spent on the landing page. Alternatively, using it you can monitor the visitors who do not visit another page on our site.

What does GA4 have in common with Universal Analytics?

There are some differences between these two platforms. Have a look at them:

Pricing:

Both GA4 and UA are free; hence, it’s efficient for users.

Data and Reporting Functions:

  • UA and GA4 offer similar data and reporting capabilities.
  • The measurements of UA can be done in GA4 and provide possible results.

Interface:

  • The user interface of GA4 is similar to Universal Analytics.
  • Users who know UA very well and access and use GA4 easily.

The Bottom Line

While comparing UA to GA4, it has been found that GA4 describes a huge advancement in digital analytics. UA is based on the manual event while GA4 is automatic and does its work using Enhanced Measurement. However, if you find this blog helpful, share your experience in the sections below.

FAQs

What are the differences between GA4 and UA discrepancies?

The differences between GA4 and UA discrepancies are GA4’s improved measurement by changing default pages while UA doesn’t. Doing this will result in higher page views in GA4 than in UA and create discrepancies.

What is the difference between GA4 and UA audiences?

Like UA, GA4 audiences update everywhere automatically rather than choosing the destination. If you require more audiences, combine UA audiences with GA4 property.

What is the difference between GA4 conversions and UA goals?

In UA, you measure conversions by setting e-commerce transactions and goals. While, in GA4, there are no differences between e-commerce and goals. All conversions are measured through GA4 events.

What is the biggest difference between universal Analytics and GA4?

The biggest difference between UA and GA4: UA uses a session-based while GA4 uses an event-based data model. It means GA4 tracks user interaction as an individual event, rather than grouping them by session.