ScaleUp vs Elevar
ScaleUp vs Elevar for Shopify tracking. Compare simple 1-click setup with advanced server-side GTM integration, pricing, and features.
Quick Summary
ScaleUp is free, automatic, and requires no technical knowledge. Perfect for straightforward Google Ads tracking. Elevar offers deep server-side tracking via GTM with multi-platform support, but costs $150+/month and requires technical expertise. Choose ScaleUp for simplicity; choose Elevar for advanced GTM customization.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ScaleUpRecommended | Elevar |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | From $150/month |
| Setup Time | 5 minutes | 1-4 hours |
| Technical Skills Required | None | GTM knowledge needed |
| Google Ads Tracking | Automatic | Via GTM |
| Enhanced ConversionsKey | Automatic | Manual GTM config |
| Server-Side Tracking | Shopify Web Pixel API | GTM Server Container |
| Multi-Platform (Meta, TikTok) | Google Ads only | Many platforms |
| Custom Event Tracking | Standard e-commerce | Highly customizable |
| Maintenance | None - Auto updates | Ongoing GTM management |
| Shopify Installs | Growing | 6,300+ |
Pricing Comparison
ScaleUp
Elevar
What is Elevar?
Elevar specializes in server-side tracking for Shopify stores. It creates a data layer that captures every e-commerce event and sends that data to ad platforms through Conversions APIs (CAPIs), bypassing browser limitations.
Key Features
Server-Side GTM
Routes through GTM server containers
Conversions API
Direct server-to-server connections
Data Layer
Custom implementations
Multi-Platform
GA4, Meta, Pinterest, TikTok
Elevar is popular with technical teams who want granular control over their tracking setup and need to support multiple advertising platforms.
Key Technical Difference
ScaleUp uses Shopify's native Web Pixel API. Tracking is handled automatically without GTM. Elevar requires you to set up and maintain Google Tag Manager (server-side), giving more control but requiring ongoing management.
If you're not comfortable with GTM, ScaleUp is the simpler choice.
When to Choose Each
Choose ScaleUp If:
- You primarily use Google Ads
- You don't have GTM experience
- You want zero maintenance tracking
- You need a free solution
- Standard e-commerce events are sufficient
Choose Elevar If:
- You need server-side GTM specifically
- You advertise on Meta, TikTok, Pinterest, AND Google
- You have a developer or GTM expert on staff
- You need highly custom event tracking
- Budget isn't a primary concern
The Bottom Line
Elevar is a powerful tool for technical teams who need server-side GTM and multi-platform tracking. But for most Shopify stores that primarily use Google Ads, it's overkill. ScaleUp provides the same Google Ads tracking accuracy without the complexity or $1,800+/year price tag.
Try ScaleUp Free
No GTM required. No monthly fees. 5-minute setup.
Install Free on Shopify