Ahrefs vs Semrush
Compare features, pricing, and capabilities to find the best SEO tool for your needs.
All-in-One SEO
Ahrefs
4.8
$99/mo
Industry-leading SEO toolkit with the largest backlink database. Known for accurate data and clean interface.
All-in-One SEO
Semrush
4.7
$129.95/mo
Leading SEO and PPC platform with extensive competitor analysis, advertising research, and content marketing tools.
Quick Verdict
Ahrefs is ideal for Backlink analysis & competitive research, while Semrush shines at Competitor intelligence & PPC research.
Ahrefs vs Semrush: Features
Side-by-Side Feature Comparison
In-Depth Comparison
What is Ahrefs?
Ahrefs is a all-in-one seo. Ahrefs built its reputation on having the most extensive and frequently updated index of live backlinks. Beyond backlinks, it offers keyword research, content analysis, rank tracking, and site auditing capabilities. Key features include Site Explorer, Keywords Explorer, Site Audit. Starts at $99/mo.
Pros:
Largest backlink database
Excellent data accuracy
Clean interface
Great learning resources
Cons:
Expensive for small teams
No keyword difficulty scoring in lower plans
What is Semrush?
Semrush is a all-in-one seo. Semrush is a comprehensive digital marketing suite that combines SEO, PPC, social media, and content marketing tools. Its Keyword Magic Tool contains over 25 billion keywords. Key features include Keyword Magic Tool, Site Audit, Backlink Analytics. Starts at $129.95/mo.
Pros:
Huge keyword database
PPC competitor research
Content Marketing Platform
Social media tools
Cons:
Steep learning curve
Can be overwhelming
Higher price point
Key Differences
Ahrefs specializes in all-in-one seo, while Semrush focuses on all-in-one seo.
Ahrefs starts at $99/mo, compared to Semrush's $129.95/mo.
Choose Ahrefs for Backlink analysis & competitive research. Choose Semrush for Competitor intelligence & PPC research.
Why Consider SEOengine.ai?
While both Ahrefs and Semrush are excellent for analysis, SEOengine.ai actually creates the content for you.
Direct GSC Integration
Import your keywords and data automatically
AI Content Generation
Multi-agent system creates publication-ready content
Brand Voice Learning
AI learns to write in your authentic voice
15-Minute Editing
Content arrives 95% complete, not 50%
Who Should Use Each Tool?
Ahrefs is Best For
All-in-One SEO
Industry-leading SEO toolkit with the largest backlink database. Known for accurate data and clean interface.
Content Teams
Teams focused on Backlink analysis & competitive research will find Ahrefs's feature set aligned with their workflow.
Budget Consideration
Starting at $99/mo, this tool suits teams with budget for all-in-one seo.
Semrush is Best For
All-in-One SEO
Leading SEO and PPC platform with extensive competitor analysis, advertising research, and content marketing tools.
Content Teams
Teams focused on Competitor intelligence & PPC research will find Semrush's feature set aligned with their workflow.
Budget Consideration
Starting at $129.95/mo, this tool suits teams with budget for all-in-one seo.
Why Consider SEOengine.ai Instead?
While Ahrefs and Semrush excel at analysis and planning, they stop short of actual content creation. SEOengine.ai bridges this gap by researching, writing, and publishing SEO-optimized content directly to your CMS. Use Ahrefs or Semrush for research if needed—then let SEOengine.ai handle the writing at scale.
10+ hrs/article
Time Saved
Pay per article
Starting Cost
5+ platforms
CMS Integration
FAQ
Common Questions
About Ahrefs vs Semrush