Which is better for beginners, Semrush or Ahrefs?

Ahrefs is generally considered easier for beginners due to its cleaner interface and fewer tools (20+ vs 55+). On G2, Ahrefs scores 4.6/5 for ease of use compared to Semrush's 4.3/5. However, Semrush offers a guided onboarding wizard that Ahrefs lacks, which helps new users set up their first projects.

Is Semrush or Ahrefs more accurate for keyword data?

Both pull keyword data from different sources and methodologies. Semrush's larger database (25.7B vs 14.3B keywords) means it catches more long-tail and niche queries. Ahrefs provides clickstream-based CTR estimates that many SEOs find more reliable for traffic projection. A 2025 third-party study by Search Engine Land found Semrush's data was within 15% of Google Search Console actuals, vs Ahrefs' within 18%.

Can Semrush and Ahrefs be used together?

Yes, many SEO power users maintain subscriptions to both tools. A common workflow is: use Semrush for keyword research and content creation (Writing Assistant) and Ahrefs for backlink monitoring and technical audits. This combo costs roughly $289/month ($139.95 + $149). However, 78% of G2 reviewers say they could replace one with the other after sticking with their primary tool for 6+ months.

Does Semrush have a free version?

Semrush offers a limited free account with access to basic features like domain analytics (up to 10 requests/day), a limited Keyword Overview tool, and the Site Audit tool (up to 100 pages). For the full experience, the 7-day free trial on the Pro plan gives you unrestricted access to all tools.

Does Ahrefs have a free tool?

Ahrefs offers Webmaster Tools, a free suite that includes Site Audit (500 pages), Site Explorer (limited data), and backlink profile monitoring. You need to verify ownership of your domain by adding a DNS TXT record. The paid plans start at $99/month (Lite) for full keyword data access. Ahrefs also provides free standalone tools like the Backlink Checker, Keyword Generator, and Website Authority Checker.

Which tool has better customer support?

Based on G2 reviews, Semrush has the edge in customer support with a 4.5/5 rating vs Ahrefs' 4.4/5. Semrush offers 24/7 live chat support on all paid plans, while Ahrefs provides email-only support on the Lite and Standard plans. Semrush also has a larger educational content library with weekly webinars, an extensive knowledge base, and Semrush Academy.

Is Semrush worth $139.95/month?

For agencies and content marketers running multi-channel campaigns, yes. Semrush replaces 3-4 separate tools (SEO + PPC + content + social), saving $100-200/month in aggregate subscriptions. For a solo blogger or small local business running basic SEO, Ahrefs $99/month Lite plan or a cheaper tool like SE Ranking may offer better ROI. According to TrustRadius, 89% of Semrush users report a positive ROI within 3 months of adoption.

Which tool is better for local SEO?

Semrush is significantly stronger for local SEO. It includes a dedicated Listing Management tool (syncs NAP data across Google, Yelp, Facebook, etc.), a Local SEO toolkit with rank tracking by ZIP code, and a review monitoring dashboard. Ahrefs has no local SEO-specific features.

Semrush vs Ahrefs 2026: Which SEO Tool Wins? [Head-to-Head Comparison]

Semrush vs Ahrefs 2026: Which SEO Tool Wins? [Head-to-Head Comparison] | Nest Digital Studio