This article presents a comparative analysis of transparency reporting practices by Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Search Engines (VLOSEs) in the context of the Digital Services Act (DSA), aiming to assess the legislation’s impact on enhancing transparency in online platforms’ operations. The DSA, a landmark EU regulation, mandates rigorous transparency obligations to promote accountability. Through an examination of transparency reports from 19 VLOPs and VLOSEs, this article reveals the changes induced by the DSA transparency mandates. Despite the regulatory push for enhanced transparency, the findings suggest that post-DSA transparency reports continue to fall short in providing the depth, breadth, and quality necessary for effective cross-comparison and scrutiny. The article proposes specific implementation measures to address the gaps left by the DSA as well as recommendations for DSA-like regulatory efforts outside of the European Union.