Rakuten Affiliate Tracking vs Simple Affiliatefor Shopify (2026)
Rakuten Affiliate Tracking and Simple Affiliate both operate within the Shopify affiliate programs category, but cater to drastically different needs and users. Rakuten Affiliate Tracking serves as a connector between a Shopify store and an existing Rakuten Advertising (RAd) account, providing a streamlined way to integrate tracking and reporting for merchants already leveraging the Rakuten Advertising network. Its focus is on simplifying the technical aspects of integrating with Rakuten's platform. Conversely, Simple Affiliate offers a complete affiliate management solution, encompassing affiliate recruitment, onboarding, commission tracking, payouts, and tax management, all within the Shopify ecosystem. It's designed for merchants who want to build and manage their own affiliate program independently.
At a Glance
Rakuten Affiliate Tracking
3 reviews
Simple Affiliate
82 reviews
Detailed Overview
Rakuten Affiliate Tracking
Quickly install Rakuten Advertising tracking to power your affiliate program and more.
Key Features
- Quickly install the Rakuten Advertising tracking without any coding
- Automated product feed generation (for the affiliate channel only)
- Automates cancellation reporting back to Rakuten Advertising
Simple Affiliate
Drive Sales With an Automated Affiliate Platform to Manage Influencer & Referral Marketing Programs
Key Features
- New Customer Accounts: Register & sign in directly from your store
- Track Sales & Payouts: Affiliates can track commission rates & total sales
- Flexible Reward Structures: Based on products, variants, categories, codes, etc.
- Manage Taxes: All 1099 tax forms are easily handled, automated & consolidated
- Reward Payout: Manually or auto-pay sales commissions based on your preferences
Feature Comparison
| Rating | 3.8/5 | 5/5 |
Rating Rakuten Affiliate Tracking3.8/5 Simple Affiliate5/5 | ||
| Reviews | 3 | 82 |
Reviews Rakuten Affiliate Tracking3 Simple Affiliate82 | ||
| Platform Focus | Rakuten Advertising Integration | Full Shopify Affiliate Management |
Platform Focus Rakuten Affiliate TrackingRakuten Advertising Integration Simple AffiliateFull Shopify Affiliate Management | ||
| Affiliate Management | Managed via Rakuten Advertising Dashboard | Managed within the Shopify App |
Affiliate Management Rakuten Affiliate TrackingManaged via Rakuten Advertising Dashboard Simple AffiliateManaged within the Shopify App | ||
| Affiliate Onboarding | Assumed existing Rakuten Advertising Partnership | Affiliate Registration Directly on Store |
Affiliate Onboarding Rakuten Affiliate TrackingAssumed existing Rakuten Advertising Partnership Simple AffiliateAffiliate Registration Directly on Store | ||
| Target Merchant | Existing Rakuten Advertising Customers | Merchants Building an Independent Affiliate Program |
Target Merchant Rakuten Affiliate TrackingExisting Rakuten Advertising Customers Simple AffiliateMerchants Building an Independent Affiliate Program | ||
| Ease of Use | Streamlines Rakuten integration | Complete affiliate management from within Shopify |
Ease of Use Rakuten Affiliate TrackingStreamlines Rakuten integration Simple AffiliateComplete affiliate management from within Shopify | ||
| Value Proposition | Simplified Rakuten Advertising tracking setup | Comprehensive affiliate program management |
Value Proposition Rakuten Affiliate TrackingSimplified Rakuten Advertising tracking setup Simple AffiliateComprehensive affiliate program management | ||
Our Verdict
For merchants already invested in Rakuten Advertising, the Rakuten Affiliate Tracking app provides a convenient shortcut to setting up tracking integration. Its value lies in its specific integration functionality, not in managing a full affiliate program. The low number of reviews, however, should encourage caution. On the other hand, Simple Affiliate is the clear choice for merchants seeking to build and manage a complete affiliate program directly within their Shopify store, handling everything from affiliate registration to commission payouts. Its higher rating and larger number of reviews suggest greater reliability and user satisfaction for standalone program management.
Common Questions
Can I use Rakuten Affiliate Tracking if I don't have a Rakuten Advertising account?
No. This app requires an existing contract and account with Rakuten Advertising to function.
Does Simple Affiliate handle all affiliate-related tasks?
Yes. Simple Affiliate offers a comprehensive suite of features for managing your entire affiliate program, including recruitment, tracking, payouts, and tax management.
Is coding required to set up either app?
Rakuten Affiliate Tracking states that it allows quick installation without coding for tracking purposes. Simple Affiliate does not mention coding, but emphasizes easy setup and customized support.
Which app provides more control over affiliate commission structures?
Simple Affiliate offers flexible reward structures based on various factors like products, categories, and discount codes, giving you greater control over commission settings.
Does Simple Affiliate help with tax form generation?
Yes, Simple Affiliate offers automated handling and consolidation of 1099 tax forms for affiliates.
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