# ScaleUp vs Elevar

*ScaleUp vs Elevar for Shopify tracking. Compare simple 1-click setup with advanced server-side GTM integration, pricing, and features.*

**Updated January 2025**

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## 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 | ScaleUp | 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 Conversions | ✅ 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+ |

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## Pricing Comparison

| | ScaleUp | Elevar |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Monthly cost | $0 | $150+ |
| Annual cost | $0 | $1,800+ |
| Setup cost | $0 (self-service) | $500-2,000+ |


**Save $1,800+/year with ScaleUp**

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## 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

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## 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.*

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## 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

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## 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.