We’ve found some of the best Semrush alternatives: SEO AI Agent, Ahrefs, SE Ranking, SEO Powersuite, and more. But how do these tools rival Semrush and which one should you choose? Find out in this guide.
There’s no doubt that Semrush is one of the most powerful all-in-one SEO tools on the market. With millions of users and glowing reviews on platforms like G2 and Capterra, it has earned its reputation as a go-to for digital marketers, SEO pros, and content strategists alike.
But that doesn’t mean it’s the perfect fit for everyone.
If you’re here, it’s likely because something about your Semrush experience isn’t quite clicking. Maybe it’s one of these:
- It’s just too expensive. Especially for solo marketers or small teams, Semrush’s pricing feels steep — and adding features or users? That costs even more.
- You only get one user seat per plan. Scaling a team? Be prepared to pay a premium.
- Features are locked behind projects or plan limits. Want to audit more than a few websites or compare multiple competitors? Better upgrade.
- Data reliability isn’t always consistent. From keyword search volume to competitor spend, some users find Semrush’s data lacking precision.
- It can be overwhelming. With so many features packed in, it’s easy to feel lost if you only need a few specific tools.
- Add-ons and global data cost extra. Want to access advanced reports or global search volume? More hidden costs.
- Even the free trial isn’t easy. Requiring a credit card just to test the platform turns many potential users away.
We’ve taken all of this into account and carefully selected alternatives that solve these pain points — while still offering the kind of in-depth SEO and marketing features Semrush is known for.
These aren’t basic keyword tools. They’re true Semrush-style platforms with smart pricing, intuitive UX, and powerful insights baked in, offering genuine alternatives Semrush users can confidently switch to.
Let’s dive in.
1. SEO AI Agent by Writesonic – The Best Semrush Alternative
SEO AI Agent is one of the best Semrush alternatives out there — especially if you’re tired of doing everything manually.
Instead of spending hours running reports, analyzing data, and organizing spreadsheets, you just type in a prompt — like “Find low competition keywords for AI writing tools” — and the agent handles the rest.
It connects with trusted SEO tools like Semrush, Ahrefs, Google Search Console, and Keywords Everywhere.
Then it fetches the right data, analyzes it using AI, and delivers a polished, actionable report in under 10 minutes.
No need to jump between tools or decipher complex dashboards. You just ask, and it delivers.
We might be biased towards the SEO AI Agent. This shouldn’t prevent you from choosing the best Semrush alternative for yourself. Sign up for the SEO AI Agent’s free trial, use the tool for a while and decide if that’s the best alternative for you.
Key Features
- AI-powered SEO tasks based on your prompt
- Connects with Semrush, Ahrefs, GSC, Keywords Everywhere, and more
- Auto-analyzes data and builds strategy-ready reports
- Built-in Site Audit tool that flags and auto-fixes SEO issues with AI (on-page, off-page, and technical)
- Works for keyword research, audits, content planning, SERP analysis, and beyond
- Article Writer 6 generates SEO-optimized, fact-checked articles based on search intent
- Outputs include search volume, keyword difficulty, topic clusters, and actionable tips
Pros
- Eliminates the manual grind of traditional SEO tools
- You can still use Semrush data — without having to use Semrush manually
- Auto-fix SEO issues with a single click
- Generates well-researched content that’s optimized out of the box
- Ideal for beginners, solopreneurs, and small teams
Cons
- Still new — some advanced or edge-case SEO workflows might need refinement
- Less suited for users who prefer full manual control over every step
What I think about SEO AI Agent as a Semrush alternative
With Semrush, you need to know what to look for, which tool section to use, and how to interpret every metric. It’s hands-on and powerful, but often overwhelming and time-consuming. You’re doing the research, running the numbers, and building the strategy yourself.
SEO AI Agent flips that experience. Unlike other tools similar to Semrush, SEO AI Agent uses AI to eliminate manual research and reporting tasks.
You type a prompt, and it figures out everything — from which tools to use, to how to run the research, to what action plan to suggest. It even writes the content and fixes SEO errors for you.
The integration with Semrush is still there, so you’re not missing out on the data. But you’re just finding a smarter and way more efficient tool to use it.
If you’re the kind of user who values outcomes over dashboards, and strategy over spreadsheets, SEO AI Agent is a no-brainer. It’s SEO, automated and elevated.
Writesonic Pricing
- Free Trial: Access to 3 AI Agent generations, 1 article, 1 site audit (up to 100 pages).
- Lite Plan: Includes 100 AI Agent generations/month, 15 articles, 6 site audits (200 pages each). Starts at $39/month.
- Standard Plan: Offers unlimited AI Agent generations, 30 articles/month, 15 site audits (750 pages each). Starts at $79 per month.
- Professional Plan: Provides 100 articles/month, 40 site audits (1,200 pages each), Brand Presence Tracking (GEO). Starts at $199/month.
- Enterprise Plan: Customizable features with unlimited users, projects, and content generation, plus dedicated support and advanced analytics.
Reviews
2. Ahrefs – Link-Focused Semrush Alternative
Ahrefs is one of the most popular Semrush competitors — and for good reason. If your SEO strategy leans heavily on backlink analysis and competitive research, Ahrefs is a top-tier choice. Its massive link index and intuitive interface make it a favorite among SEO professionals focused on understanding and outperforming their competition.
However, when it comes to content marketing and generation, Ahrefs doesn’t quite match up to Semrush. While it offers tools for content analysis, they aren’t as comprehensive or user-friendly as Semrush’s offerings.
Key Features
- Site Explorer: Dive deep into any website’s backlink profile and organic search traffic.
- Keywords Explorer: Discover keyword ideas and analyze their potential.
- Content Explorer: Find the most popular content for any topic based on social shares and backlinks.
- Rank Tracker: Monitor your website’s ranking progress over time.
- Site Audit: Identify and fix SEO issues on your website.
Pros
- Exceptional backlink analysis: Ahrefs is renowned for its extensive and up-to-date backlink database.
- Robust competitor analysis: Easily uncover your competitors’ top-performing content and keywords.
- User-friendly interface: Clean and intuitive design makes navigation straightforward.
Cons
- Limited content marketing tools: Compared to Semrush, Ahrefs falls short in content planning and generation features.
- Usage-based credit system: Actions like opening reports or applying filters consume credits, which can quickly add up and become costly.
What I think about Ahrefs as a Semrush alternative
Ahrefs is one of the tools frequently mentioned in Semrush alternative Reddit discussions. Many experts, too, consider it better than Semrush specifically for backlink analysis and competitor research, so there’s no doubt it’s popular. However, it also has drawbacks.
If your primary focus is on backlinks and understanding your competitors’ SEO strategies, Ahrefs is a formidable tool. Its strength lies in providing detailed insights into link profiles and competitive landscapes.
But if you’re looking for a more holistic SEO tool that encompasses content marketing, PPC, and social media management, Semrush might be the better fit.
We have a dedicated Ahrefs vs Semrush comparison if you want more details about the tools.
Ahrefs Pricing
Ahrefs starts at $108/month billed annually, with higher-tier plans offering more features, keyword limits, and access to tools like Content Explorer and advanced API access.
Reviews
3. SE Ranking – Complete SEO Platform Similar to Semrush
If you’re seeking a cost-effective alternative to Semrush that doesn’t compromise on essential SEO features, SE Ranking is a compelling choice. As a tool similar to Semrush, SE Ranking provides comparable data quality at a fraction of the cost.
While it may not boast the most polished interface, its user-friendly design and comprehensive toolset make it a favorite among small businesses and local SEO practitioners.
SE Ranking excels in competitor analysis, offering detailed insights that rival those of more expensive platforms. Its Website Audit tool is particularly noteworthy, uncovering technical issues like broken links, crawl errors, and keyword cannibalization.
However, users should be aware that some warnings, such as those related to word count, may require manual review to determine their relevance.
Key Features
- Website Audit: Identifies technical SEO issues to enhance site performance.
- Rank Tracker: Monitors keyword positions across various search engines.
- Competitor Analysis: Provides insights into competitors’ strategies and performance.
- Backlink Monitoring: Tracks backlinks and analyzes their impact.
- Local Marketing Tool: Optimizes local SEO efforts by managing business listings and reviews.
Pros
- Cost-effective pricing plans suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
- Intuitive interface that simplifies complex SEO tasks.
- Strong competitor analysis tools that provide actionable insights.
- Comprehensive website audit capabilities.
Cons
- Initial keyword tracking reports may take a few hours to generate, which can be inconvenient for users expecting immediate results.
- The keyword database isn’t as extensive as some competitors, but it suffices for most business needs.
- Some audit warnings, like word count alerts, may not always be applicable and require user discretion.
What I think about SE Ranking as a Semrush alternative
SE Ranking stands out as a budget-friendly alternative to Semrush, especially for those focused on local SEO and competitor analysis.
While it may lack some of the advanced features and extensive databases of its pricier counterparts, it delivers where it counts. The platform’s intuitive design ensures that even those new to SEO can navigate and utilize its tools effectively.
If you’re looking to achieve solid SEO results without breaking the bank, SE Ranking is a worthy contender.
SE Ranking Pricing
SE Ranking’s plans start at $52/month billed annually, including support for multiple users. Custom plans are available for agencies with large teams or specific reporting needs. A free trial is available — no credit card required.
Reviews
4. SEO PowerSuite – Desktop Semrush Alternative
If you’re looking for a comprehensive desktop-based SEO toolkit that doesn’t require a recurring monthly fee, SEO PowerSuite is a solid option.
While it doesn’t have the massive keyword database of Semrush, it offers a range of features that will still meet the needs of most SEO professionals and even beginners.
The suite includes four main tools: Rank Tracker, WebSite Auditor, SEO SpyGlass, and LinkAssistant, which cover keyword research, site auditing, backlink analysis, and link management.
While the data accuracy might not always be as precise as Semrush’s, SEO PowerSuite provides more granular data points, which can be helpful if you want to dive deep into the details.
Plus, it’s continually updated, and the support team is always ready to help when needed.
Key Features
- Rank Tracker: Track your keyword rankings across multiple search engines.
- WebSite Auditor: Run in-depth site audits to pinpoint technical SEO issues.
- SEO SpyGlass: Analyze your backlink profile and uncover link-building opportunities.
- LinkAssistant: Manage your link-building campaigns and outreach efforts.
- Customizable Reports: Create white-label reports with your branding.
Pros
- One-time payment model helps you save long-term, especially if you’re not keen on recurring fees.
- A comprehensive suite that covers almost all aspects of SEO.
- Regular updates and a responsive customer support team.
- Free version available with plenty of features for beginners.
Cons
- Desktop-based software might not be ideal if you prefer cloud-based solutions.
- Smaller keyword database compared to bigger tools like Semrush.
- Some users have reported false positives during site audits, which might need manual checking.
What I think about SEO PowerSuite as a Semrush alternative
SEO PowerSuite is an excellent alternative if you’re on a budget and don’t mind the desktop-based setup. While it doesn’t offer the same level of keyword data as Semrush, it still provides a very capable SEO toolkit.
The one-time payment option makes it especially attractive if you want to avoid monthly subscriptions, and the free version is a great starting point if you’re just beginning your SEO journey.
If you don’t mind checking for false positives now and then, it can serve as a solid and affordable choice for your SEO needs.
SEO PowerSuite Pricing
- Free Version: Limited features, but still enough to get started.
- Professional Plan: $29.10/month.
- Enterprise Plan: $49.95/month.
Reviews
5. Moz Pro – Established Semrush Alternative
If you’re managing a limited number of websites and prefer a straightforward SEO toolset, Moz Pro is a great Semrush alternative. It’s particularly beneficial for small businesses or solo marketers who don’t need the extensive features of larger platforms like Semrush.
Moz Pro offers a solid suite of tools, including keyword research, site audits, backlink analysis, and rank tracking. One standout feature is the MozBar, a free browser extension that provides on-page SEO insights directly in your browser. This is especially useful for quick assessments without having to log into the full platform.
Key Features
- Keyword Explorer: Discover and analyze keywords to target.
- Site Crawl: Identify and fix on-site SEO issues.
- Rank Tracker: Monitor your site’s keyword rankings over time.
- Backlink Analysis: Evaluate your backlink profile and uncover link-building opportunities.
- MozBar: A free browser extension providing instant SEO insights.
Pros
- Affordable pricing plans suitable for small-scale operations.
- User-friendly interface, making it accessible for beginners.
- MozBar extension offers quick SEO insights without logging into the platform.
- Comprehensive set of tools for basic SEO needs.
Cons
- Limited scalability for managing multiple websites or large-scale operations.
- Some users find the data accuracy less reliable compared to Semrush.
- The interface may feel dated to some users.
What I think about Moz Pro as a Semrush alternative
Moz Pro is a solid Semrush alternative if you’re managing only a few websites and need a straightforward, easy-to-use SEO toolset. While it doesn’t offer the same depth of features or data accuracy as Semrush, its affordability and simplicity make it a practical option for small businesses and solo marketers.
The MozBar extension is a handy tool for quick assessments, and the platform covers all the basics of SEO.
Moz Pro Pricing
Moz Pro starts at $39/month for the Standard plan. Higher tiers unlock additional features like branded reports, higher keyword limits, and API access. A 30-day free trial is available — no credit card required.
Reviews
6. SpyFu – Competitor-Focused Tool Similar to Semrush
SpyFu is a powerful SEO and PPC toolset designed for competitive analysis. Unlike Semrush, SpyFu excels in tracking the paid search strategies of your competitors. It helps you discover which keywords your competitors are bidding on, how long their ads have been running, and how much they are likely spending on their ad campaigns.
This makes SpyFu an excellent choice for digital marketers with a primary focus on paid search and competitive research.
SpyFu offers unlimited data access for a flat fee, allowing you to research as many domains and URLs as you want, without any restrictions on the number of keywords or rows of data you can export. This flexibility gives it a significant edge over other platforms like Semrush, which limit the number of keywords you can export even with higher-tier plans.
Key Features
- Competitor Keyword Research: Discover the keywords your competitors are using in both organic and paid search campaigns.
- Ad History: Track competitor ad campaigns and understand the duration of their ads to see what’s working.
- Backlink Data: Analyze your competitors’ backlink strategies to uncover potential link-building opportunities.
- Keyword Grouping: Organize your keywords into clusters for more strategic campaign planning.
- SEO and PPC Keyword Tools: Provides insights into both SEO rankings and paid search keywords for a complete view of your competitors’ strategies.
Pros
- Unlimited data exports at a fixed price, which makes it highly cost-effective compared to Semrush.
- Powerful competitor insights, especially useful for PPC campaigns.
- Easy-to-use interface that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced marketers.
- Extensive data on competitor ad campaigns and keyword strategies.
Cons
- Doesn’t provide as comprehensive a set of tools for broader SEO tasks (like on-page SEO, site audits, etc.) compared to Semrush.
- Limited for those primarily focused on organic search or who need a full all-in-one SEO toolkit.
- The interface can feel cluttered with the amount of data available.
What I think about SpyFu as a Semrush alternative
SpyFu is a fantastic Semrush alternative for those looking to focus primarily on PPC and competitive analysis. It stands out for its unlimited access to competitor data and PPC insights, which is a big advantage over Semrush’s restrictions.
The pricing model is incredibly cost-effective, especially for digital marketers who need to pull large amounts of keyword and competitor data without hitting limits.
However, if you need an all-in-one SEO suite with more in-depth features for organic search, you might find SpyFu lacking in that regard.
SpyFu Pricing
SpyFu starts at $33/month billed annually for unlimited searches, users, and data exports — something most tools (including Semrush) don’t offer at that price. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available, but no free trial.
Reviews
7. Surfer SEO – Content-Optimizing Semrush Alternative
Surfer SEO is a specialized tool designed to enhance the performance and structure of individual web pages. It’s particularly effective for optimizing content targeting low-competition keywords and crafting detailed, long-form articles.
While Semrush offers a comprehensive suite for keyword research, competitor analysis, and site performance tracking, SurferSEO focuses on refining the content itself to align with search engine ranking factors.
SurferSEO provides a content optimization workflow that boosts organic traffic, improves your rank in search results, and helps grow your business.
Key Features
- Content Editor: Offers real-time SEO recommendations while you write, including optimal word count, headings, keyword placement, and NLP terms.
- SERP Analyzer: Analyzes top-ranking pages for your target keyword, providing insights into factors like average word count, keyword density, and usage of long-tail keywords.
- Audit Tool: Assesses existing content to identify areas for improvement, ensuring it aligns with SEO best practices.
- AI Integration: Integrates with AI writing tools like Jasper AI and offers its own AI-powered content generation feature, facilitating faster content creation.
Pros
- Focused on in-depth content optimization, providing actionable insights for improving page performance.
- User-friendly interface suitable for both beginners and experienced marketers.
- Integrates with AI tools to streamline content creation processes.
- Offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the platform risk-free.
Cons
- Limited features outside of content optimization; lacks tools for backlink analysis and rank tracking.
- Smaller keyword database compared to Semrush, which may affect comprehensive keyword research.
- Pricing may be considered high for small businesses or solo marketers.
What I Think About Surfer SEO as a Semrush Alternative
Surfer SEO serves as a valuable Semrush alternative for marketers focusing on optimizing individual pages, especially when targeting low-competition keywords and crafting detailed content. Its specialized tools for content analysis and optimization provide a level of detail that can significantly enhance page performance.
However, if you’re seeking a comprehensive SEO platform that includes keyword research, backlink analysis, and rank tracking, Surfer SEO may not fully meet those needs.\
Check out our dedicated Surfer SEO review to learn more.
Surfer SEO Pricing
- Essential Plan: $99/month (or $79/month with annual billing)
- Scale Plan: $219/month (or $175/month with annual billing)
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing – Offers personalized solutions tailored to specific business needs.
Reviews
8. SEO Co-Pilot – Smart Semrush Competitor
SEO Co-Pilot is an AI-powered SEO tool designed to streamline on-page optimization and content creation. It leverages scientific testing to identify which keywords and content structures are most effective for ranking on Google.
This makes it a valuable Semrush alternative, especially for marketers focused on enhancing individual page performance and aligning content with Google’s E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) guidelines.
Key Features
- AI-Powered Keyword Discovery: Identifies low-competition, high-value keywords to target.
- Competitor Analysis: Provides insights into competitors’ keyword strategies and content performance.
- Content Optimization Tools: Offers AI-driven content generation and optimization suggestions to improve page relevance and ranking potential.
- SERP Analysis: Analyzes search engine results pages to understand ranking factors and content gaps.
Pros
- Scientific Approach: Utilizes real-world testing to determine effective SEO strategies.
- E-A-T Focus: Helps create content that aligns with Google’s E-A-T requirements.
- Time Efficiency: Reduces the time needed for keyword research and content planning.
Cons
- Limited to On-Page SEO: Does not offer comprehensive SEO features like backlink analysis or rank tracking.
- Learning Curve: New users may find the array of features overwhelming initially.
- Pricing Information: Pricing details are not readily available on the official website.
What I Think About SEO Co-Pilot as a Semrush Alternative
SEO Co-Pilot serves as a specialized Semrush alternative, focusing on AI-driven on-page SEO and content optimization.
Its scientific approach to keyword discovery and content analysis can significantly enhance page performance. Particularly for those targeting low-competition keywords and aiming to align content with Google’s E-A-T standards. However, if you’re seeking a comprehensive SEO platform that includes backlink analysis, rank tracking, and other advanced features, SEO Co-Pilot may not fully meet those needs.
SEO Co-Pilot Pricing
There’s a 14-day free trial with paid plans starting at $14 per month.
Reviews
- G2: No reviews yet.
- Capterra: No reviews yet.
9. Sistrix – A Semrush Alternative for Visibility & Competitive SEO Analysis
Sistrix is a specialized SEO platform from Germany, renowned for its Visibility Index, which tracks how a website’s organic search presence evolves over time.
This feature is particularly valuable for monitoring the impact of Google algorithm updates and understanding shifts in search rankings.
While Semrush offers a comprehensive suite of tools, Sistrix’s focus on visibility and competitive analysis provides a unique perspective on SEO performance.
Key Features
- Visibility Index: A proprietary metric that quantifies a website’s visibility in Google’s search results, offering insights into SEO performance trends.
- Keyword Research: Provides detailed keyword data, including search volume and ranking history, to inform content and SEO strategies.
- Competitor Analysis: Enables users to compare their website’s performance against competitors, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
- On-Page Optimization: Offers tools to identify and rectify on-page SEO issues, enhancing website performance.
- Backlink Analysis: Assesses the quality and quantity of backlinks, aiding in link-building strategies.
Pros
- Specialized Focus: Excels in tracking and analyzing organic search visibility, providing insights that are crucial for understanding SEO performance.
- Comprehensive Data: Offers extensive keyword and competitor data, supporting informed decision-making in SEO strategies.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with usability in mind, making complex SEO data accessible and actionable.
Cons
- Niche Focus: Primarily concentrates on visibility and competitive analysis, lacking some of the broader features found in Semrush, such as content creation and social media tools.
- Pricing: Considered premium, which may be a consideration for smaller businesses or individual users.
What I Think About Sistrix as a Semrush Alternative
Sistrix offers a specialized approach to SEO, focusing on visibility and competitive analysis. While it may not provide the extensive range of features that Semrush does, its in-depth analysis of organic search performance makes it a valuable tool for businesses looking to understand and improve their SEO standing.
Sistrix Pricing
Sistrix starts at €119/month. A free demo is available upon request, but there’s no free trial.
Reviews
10. Mangools – User-Friendly Site Like Semrush
Mangools is an intuitive SEO toolkit designed for marketers seeking simplicity without compromising on essential features.
While it may not match Semrush’s extensive capabilities, Mangools offers a streamlined approach to keyword research, rank tracking, and SERP analysis. That makes it a valuable alternative for those prioritizing ease of use and cost-effectiveness.
Key Features
- KWFinder: Provides accurate keyword difficulty scores and search volume data, facilitating effective keyword research.
- SERPChecker: Offers detailed SERP analysis, including insights into competitors’ rankings and SERP features.
- SERPWatcher: Tracks keyword rankings with daily updates, providing a clear overview of SEO performance.
- LinkMiner: Assists in backlink analysis by identifying link opportunities and assessing link quality.
- SiteProfiler: Delivers comprehensive SEO metrics, aiding in competitive analysis and site audits.
Pros
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with a clean and intuitive interface, making it accessible for beginners.
- Affordable Pricing: Offers competitive pricing plans, providing value for money.
- Essential SEO Tools: Covers fundamental SEO aspects, including keyword research, rank tracking, and backlink analysis.
Cons
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some of the advanced functionalities found in more comprehensive tools like Semrush.
- Basic Backlink Analysis: Provides general backlink information, which may not suffice for in-depth link audits.
Mangools Pricing
Mangools starts at $29.90/month (billed annually), making it one of the most affordable options. All plans come with access to the full suite of tools, but with limits based on keyword lookups and tracked terms. A 10-day free trial is available for each plan.
Reviews
11. Keyword Generator by Writesonic – A Free Semrush Alternative for Quick Keyword Ideas
The Keyword Generator by Writesonic is a free, lightweight alternative to Semrush, designed for users who need fast, AI-generated keyword ideas without diving into complex SEO dashboards. You just enter a topic, and the tool instantly gives you a list of relevant keywords with search intent variations.
Key Features
- Generates keyword ideas based on your topic or seed keyword
- Includes long-tail and intent-based keyword suggestions
Pros
- 100% free to use, with no sign-up required
- Great for content brainstorming and SEO starters
Cons
- Doesn’t show search volume, keyword difficulty, or competition data
- Not suitable for advanced SEO analysis or large-scale research
What I think about Keyword Generator by Writesonic as a Semrush alternative
This tool is great if you’re just getting started or need quick keyword ideas for blog posts, ads, or landing pages. While it lacks the data depth of Semrush, it’s a fast, accessible way to break through creative blocks or kickstart content planning without paying a cent.
Keyword Generator Pricing
- Completely free
Reviews
- Not listed on G2 or Capterra (as it’s a free utility)
12. Google Keyword Planner – A Trusted Free Semrush Alternative Backed by Google
Google Keyword Planner is a go-to free tool from Google, built primarily for advertisers but incredibly useful for SEOs who want reliable keyword data straight from the source. While it doesn’t offer advanced features like competitive domain research or SERP tracking, it gives solid keyword suggestions and accurate search volume ranges — especially if you’re running Google Ads.
Key Features
- Shows keyword suggestions with search volume ranges and CPC data
- Integrates directly with your Google Ads account
Pros
- Accurate search data directly from Google
- Free to use, with no extra tools or software required
Cons
- Limited to Google ecosystem
- Search volume ranges are broad unless you’re actively running ads
What I think about Google Keyword Planner as a Semrush alternative
It’s not a Semrush replacement if you’re looking for full-scale SEO features — but when it comes to keyword research, especially for PPC or blog topic discovery, this tool is still one of the most reliable free options. If you’re already using Google Ads, it’s a no-brainer to include in your workflow.
Google Keyword Planner Pricing
- Free (Google account required)
Reviews
No reviews available.
13. Ubersuggest Free Tier – A Freemium Semrush Alternative for Basic SEO Needs
Ubersuggest by Neil Patel offers a free tier that’s ideal for beginner SEOs or small business owners who want a simplified view of keyword data, SEO audits, and basic competitor analysis. While the free version comes with daily search limits, it still gives you a taste of what paid SEO platforms offer.
Key Features
- Basic keyword research with volume, difficulty, and CPC
- Site audit and backlink data (limited per day)
Pros
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Offers a mix of SEO insights across keywords, content, and backlinks
Cons
- Daily limits on searches and reports
- Data isn’t as deep or reliable as premium tools like Semrush
What I think about Ubersuggest Free Tier as a Semrush alternative
If you’re just dipping your toes into SEO or running a side project, the free version of Ubersuggest gives you enough functionality to get going — without spending anything. It’s no match for Semrush in terms of depth or data scale, but it’s a solid gateway tool for small-scale users.
Ubersuggest Pricing
- Free tier available with daily limits
- Paid upgrades available if you outgrow the limits
Reviews
Semrush Alternatives Table: A Quick Review
Tool Name | Best For | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Paid/Free |
SEO AI Agent (Writesonic) | Automating SEO workflows with AI | Prompt-based SEO, auto-fix audits, content writer, Semrush/Ahrefs integrations | Saves time, beginner-friendly, connects with top tools | Still maturing, limited manual control | Paid |
Ahrefs | Backlink and competitor analysis | Backlink explorer, site audit, rank tracking | Strong link data, content gap tools | Credit system gets expensive, limited content tools | Paid |
SE Ranking | Affordable SEO and local SEO | Site audit, rank tracking, keyword research | Easy UI, great audit insights, competitive data | Delayed keyword tracking, false positives in audit | Paid |
SEO PowerSuite | Desktop-based audits and rankings | Rank tracker, site auditor, backlink SEO spy | One-time license, extensive audit depth | Less intuitive, smaller database | Freemium |
Moz Pro | Small site portfolios, SEO beginners | Keyword explorer, MozBar, site audits | Simple interface, great support | Limited features vs Semrush, data updates slower | Paid |
SpyFu | PPC insights and competitive keyword analysis | Ad history, unlimited exports, domain overview | Great PPC tool, no export limits | Not as deep for SEO, basic UI | Paid |
SurferSEO | On-page SEO and content optimization | SERP analyzer, content editor, NLP scoring | Great for optimizing pages, Google Docs plugin | Not ideal for technical SEO or backlinks | Paid |
SEO Copilot | Quick AI-powered keyword and cluster generation | SERP clustering, grouping, visual competitor layout | Lightweight, fast clustering | Limited features, early-stage product | Free (beta) |
Sistrix | Visibility tracking and structured SEO modules | Visibility index, mobile-first data, modular tools | Excellent for rank tracking and EU markets | Expensive, less intuitive | Paid |
Mangools | Bloggers and small teams | KWFinder, SERPChecker, easy UI | Simple to use, affordable, good value | Smaller database, lacks deep audit tools | Paid |
Keyword Generator (Writesonic) | Quick keyword ideas | Generates keyword suggestions in bulk | Fast and free, good for initial ideas | Lacks deep metrics like CPC/difficulty | Free |
Google Keyword Planner | Basic keyword research | Official CPC & volume data, geo-targeted results | Accurate Google data, ad-based targeting | Limited SEO-specific insights | Free |
Ubersuggest (Free Tier) | Beginners on a budget | Keyword suggestions, backlink data, site audit | Easy for beginners, simple dashboard | Limited data depth, push toward paid plan | Free (limited) |
Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Best Semrush Alternative?
Finding the right alternative to Semrush depends on your specific needs. Whether you want free alternatives to Semrush, cheaper options like Ubersuggest, or comprehensive Semrush competitors like Writesonic, there’s a tool that fits your requirements. Sites like Semrush continue to evolve, so we’ll keep this guide updated with the best Semrush alternatives in 2025 and beyond.
The right alternative depends on your goals:
- Want Semrush-like depth with an AI-powered SEO solution? Writesonic’s SEO AI Agent is built just for that.
- Want better team collaboration? Try SE Ranking or Serpstat.
- Prefer simplicity and speed? Tools like Ubersuggest and Mangools can do the trick.
- Just exploring? Free tools like Keyword Generator or AnswerThePublic are a great place to start.
Each tool on this list was carefully chosen based on its similarity to Semrush and its ability to solve real user frustrations.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Semrush Alternatives
What is the best alternative to Semrush?
For most users looking for a comprehensive Semrush alternative, Writesonic offers the tool in a better, AI-powered interface and at a cheaper price. Ahrefs is also another tool with the most similar feature set with competitive analysis, keyword research, and backlink tools, but it’s quite expensive. If budget is a concern, Ubersuggest provides a cheaper alternative to Semrush with core functionality at a fraction of the price.
What are the best free alternatives to Semrush?
The best free Semrush alternatives include Google Keyword Planner for keyword research, Google Search Console for site performance, and Ubersuggest’s limited free tier. While none match Semrush’s full capabilities, combining these free tools can cover many essential SEO tasks without cost.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Semrush that offers similar features?
Yes, Writesonic and SE Ranking are both excellent, cheaper alternatives to Semrush, with entry-level plans starting at about half the price of Semrush’s basic plan. Both tools provide keyword research, rank tracking, site auditing, and competitor analysis features similar to Semrush but at a more affordable price point.
Which Semrush competitors are better for specific SEO tasks?
For comprehensive SEO reports and keyword research, Writesonic is a great alternative to Semrush. For backlink analysis, Ahrefs is often considered superior to Semrush. For local SEO, Moz Pro offers better features. For competitor keyword analysis, SpyFu specializes in this area and may outperform Semrush. The “best” tool depends on your specific priorities and workflow.
Are there any websites like Semrush that specialize in content optimization?
Yes, while not exact Semrush alternatives, tools like Clearscope, Frase, SEO AI Agent, and SurferSEO specialize in content optimization with more advanced features than Semrush offers in this specific area. These sites similar to Semrush focus more on content creation and optimization rather than comprehensive SEO.