Top 15 Ahrefs Alternatives & Competitors in 2024

Ahrefs is a well-known platform for SEO tools and insights. Founded to help marketers increase their search traffic, Ahrefs has positioned itself as a strong competitor in the industry, particularly among Fortune 500 companies. Users can explore competitor websites, audit their own sites, and track keywords. This focus on practical data makes it a favorite for agencies and internal teams seeking better online visibility.

Over the years, Ahrefs has expanded its offerings, maintaining its edge in the SEO tool market. It provides a complete suite that includes content optimization tools and rank tracking. This platform relies on a large amount of data, collected through its own search engine and web crawler. As more marketers adopt data-driven strategies, Ahrefs stands out as a trustworthy partner, giving users the insights needed to navigate the complexities of digital marketing. Businesses looking to improve their online presence often rely on this platform to develop effective strategies.

While Ahrefs is a great product, it’s always good to shop around and look for alternatives. This article identifies some top competitors and their pros and cons.

SEMrush

SEMrush is a recognized player in digital marketing, serving as a complete solution for SEO, content marketing, competitor research, PPC, and social media management. Launched to assist marketers, SEMrush has become a key tool for professionals looking to improve their online presence. This platform stands out for its adaptability, addressing various marketing needs through one interface.

A major advantage of SEMrush is its large database, providing access to over 26 billion keywords across 130 countries. This resource enables users to perform detailed keyword research and analysis, revealing opportunities that can drive traffic. Its technical SEO audits assess over 130 checkpoints to identify areas for improvement, which is crucial for anyone focused on improving their site’s visibility.

The platform includes features that appeal to specific roles. For content creators, the Content Marketing Toolkit offers practical recommendations to improve content for engagement and organic reach. SEMrush extends beyond SEO; it helps users monitor competitors, analyze their strategies, and offers insights into PPC campaigns, making it a comprehensive tool for digital marketers.

SEMrush has gained the trust of leading brands and marketing professionals globally. Many users value how the platform combines multiple marketing tools, simplifying workflows and reducing the need for various subscriptions.

Pros

• Complete suite covering SEO, content, PPC, and social media
• Large keyword database and competitor analysis tools
• Strong technical SEO audit capabilities
• User-friendly interface with many resources for beginners

Cons

• Pricing may limit access for smaller businesses
• Some features might be challenging for new users
• Potential learning curve for advanced functions

Moz

Moz is a respected player in the SEO tools market. Founded in 2004, it has a reputation as a reliable source for businesses and agencies wanting to improve their online presence and SEO strategies. Over 500,000 brands depend on its insights, with Moz known for its complete suite of tools that address various digital marketing needs.

A key feature of Moz is Moz Pro, an all-in-one SEO toolkit designed to boost rankings and attract quality traffic. It makes SEO campaigns easier through straightforward keyword insights and competitor tracking, making it a practical option for businesses of all sizes. Moz also offers STAT, focusing on large-scale rank tracking. This platform supports those managing multiple sites or many keywords, providing daily analytics that show market visibility and competitor positioning.

Another important offering is Moz Local, which helps businesses manage their online reputation and local search visibility. Whether a company has one location or thousands, Moz Local organizes business listings, review management, and performance analytics in one platform. This is essential for businesses that depend on local traffic.

What distinguishes Moz is its community focus. The Moz blog and Whiteboard Friday videos are valuable educational resources, helping users stay updated on SEO trends and strategies. This community engagement builds trust and loyalty, setting Moz apart from alternatives like Ahrefs.

Pros

• Comprehensive SEO toolkit
• Excellent for local SEO with Moz Local
• Strong community and educational resources
• Daily analytics for market visibility

Cons

• May be seen as complex for beginners
• Some advanced features come at a higher cost
• Not as focused on backlink analysis as others

Ubersuggest

Ubersuggest is an SEO tool developed by Neil Patel to help businesses improve their online presence. It serves marketers and entrepreneurs seeking a simple way to improve their website’s performance. Unlike many complex tools, Ubersuggest emphasizes user-friendliness, making it accessible to both experienced users and newcomers.

A key feature of Ubersuggest is its keyword research capabilities. Users can find keyword ideas, view search volumes, and evaluate competition levels without getting lost in technical terms. They can also explore content ideas based on popular topics, which saves time and inspires new articles or blog posts. The tool includes site audit functions, enabling users to pinpoint areas for improvement, from backlinks to overall SEO health.

Neil Patel’s branding and marketing background add a unique dimension to Ubersuggest. He often shares insights across different platforms, allowing users to access a community and resources that go beyond just the tool. Ubersuggest’s transparency is another advantage; many features are available for free or at a low cost, which appeals to startups or businesses on a budget.

Ubersuggest provides a clear, user-friendly alternative to more advanced tools with its focus on accessibility and practical functionality.

Pros

• Intuitive layout makes it easy for anyone to start.
• Excellent keyword and content suggestions.
• Comprehensive site audit checks.
• Affordable pricing, with many features available for free.

Cons

• Some advanced features may lack depth compared to other tools.
• Limited third-party integrations.
• Support options can be less robust.

Serpstat

Serpstat is a capable SEO platform offering a range of tools that improve search marketing efforts. Trusted by over 863,000 users, Serpstat helps businesses manage tasks like keyword research, competitor analysis, site audits, and content generation. Its story began with a focus on providing affordable SEO solutions for everyone, from individual marketers to large agencies.

A standout feature of Serpstat is its ability to uncover hidden keyword opportunities by analyzing competitors. Users can easily track keywords across 230 countries, gaining insights into search volume and cost-per-click figures. The tool’s in-depth competitor analysis removes guesswork, allowing businesses to identify successful strategies and improve their own content. Additionally, Serpstat’s site audit features help find and prioritize technical SEO issues, making it easier for users to implement changes without a dedicated SEO agency.

Serpstat also excels in keyword clustering, letting users group keywords based on SERP similarities, which is crucial for effective content planning. The platform’s automatic checks help users monitor site health over time. This commitment to continuous improvement sets Serpstat apart in the competitive SEO tools market.

Serpstat serves as a flexible, user-friendly alternative to alt_15, appealing to those seeking an all-in-one SEO solution focused on practical insights.

Pros

• Offers extensive keyword research tools
• Strong competitor analysis capabilities
• User-friendly interface
• Automatic site audit feature
• Affordable for various business sizes

Cons

• May lack advanced features found in pricier platforms
• New users might need time to explore all options
• Support response time can vary

Mangools

Mangools has been making SEO tools accessible since 2014, carving a niche in the crowded world of SEO software. With a focus on user-friendly tools, they aim to simplify the SEO process for users at every experience level. Unlike larger platforms, Mangools positions itself as approachable, offering a suite of tools that includes keyword research, backlink analysis, and rank tracking within an intuitive interface.

One standout feature is their keyword difficulty metric, which many users find accurate. This allows businesses to evaluate keyword ideas effectively, ensuring they target the right phrases for their campaigns. Additionally, their performance index provides a clear overview of how a site’s rankings are doing in search results, helping users adjust strategies as needed. The Link Strength metric also provides a unique perspective on backlink quality.

Mangools is appreciated for its ease of use. Users don’t feel overwhelmed by complex data; instead, they can quickly grasp the insights their tools provide. For businesses that may lack in-house SEO expertise, Mangools offers a support team of SEO practitioners, making it easier for users to get the guidance they need.

Regarding pricing, Mangools is an affordable option at $29/month, which is appealing for small businesses or individuals starting out. You don’t need to spend a lot to access quality tools.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface that simplifies SEO tasks
• Accurate keyword difficulty metrics
• Support team with real SEO experience
• Affordable subscription pricing

Cons:

• Not as comprehensive as larger competitors
• Limited advanced features for experienced SEO professionals

Screaming Frog

Screaming Frog is a recognized name in the SEO tools space, especially for their main product, the Screaming Frog SEO Spider. Based in the UK, they’ve earned a reputation as a reliable resource for technical SEO audits, serving large brands and smaller businesses alike. The Screaming Frog team combines technical skills and creative strategy, making them a versatile choice for SEO tasks.

One standout feature of the SEO Spider tool is its ability to crawl websites efficiently, enabling users to identify issues like broken links, duplicate content, and page performance through a user-friendly interface. The software is available for free, making it an accessible option for beginners in SEO, while premium licenses offer advanced features. This flexibility appeals to agencies or freelancers managing various clients.

Screaming Frog’s strong community engagement and commitment to user feedback set them apart. Their regular updates and innovations, including collaboration with OpenAI for improved data mapping, demonstrate their dedication to keeping their tools current with technology and SEO practices. They also host events, such as the Crawling Clinic at brightonSEO, creating a community around their tools and methods.

Choosing Screaming Frog as an alternative to alt_15 could benefit businesses seeking a thorough understanding of technical SEO. Their focus on actionable insights and practical execution allows users to make informed decisions that can improve search rankings and online visibility.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Flexible pricing with a free version available
• Strong community engagement

Cons

• Limited features in the free version
• Primarily focused on technical SEO, may not cover broader strategies as thoroughly

SE Ranking

SE Ranking is an SEO platform for professionals and agencies. Established in 2013, it has built a solid reputation, serving over 40,000 businesses worldwide with its easy-to-use interface and dependable data. What sets SE Ranking apart is its all-in-one nature. Unlike alt_15, which focuses mainly on advanced analytics, SE Ranking offers a variety of tools designed to cover different aspects of SEO. From keyword suggestions and competitive research to a robust backlink checker and SERP analysis, SE Ranking provides everything a marketer needs in one place.

A key advantage of SE Ranking is its innovative features powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning. It gathers data from various sources, allowing users to create detailed SEO strategies backed by reliable insights. Its Rank Tracker and Website Audit tools enable monitoring and optimization of SEO efforts, helping users make timely adjustments based on real-time performance data.

For agencies, SE Ranking stands out with its white-label solutions. Users can adjust the platform to match their branding, providing a consistent experience for clients. This includes customized reporting and client seat options, making client management easy and effective.

SE Ranking positions itself not just as an SEO tool but as a partner to businesses aiming to improve their online presence. With flexible pricing plans, it caters to various budgets, supporting growth at any scale.

Pros

• Comprehensive toolset covering all SEO aspects
• AI and machine learning-powered features
• User-friendly interface
• White-label solutions for agencies
• Flexible pricing options

Cons

• May have a learning curve for some users
• Less focus on advanced analytics compared to alt_15

SpyFu

SpyFu is an interesting player in the SEO tools market. Known for its strong approach to competitive analysis, SpyFu provides insight into SEO and PPC strategies. Alternatives to Ahrefs may find SpyFu’s unique features appealing.

A key aspect of SpyFu is its ability to deliver historical data for over 14 years. This gives users a detailed view of a competitor’s journey, showcasing their keywords, backlinks, and ad strategies over time. This perspective helps businesses learn what has worked for others and what hasn’t, allowing them to adjust their strategies so.

SpyFu’s RivalFlow feature is also notable. This tool analyzes existing SEO content and highlights gaps that could be filled with high-ranking content. For businesses looking to keep their content fresh and engaging, this could be a significant advantage.

Positioning itself as a cost-effective option, SpyFu offers unlimited keyword and domain projects, which appeals to small businesses and agencies. Its tools for PPC analysis improve the offering, making it easy to spot competitors’ ad strategies and gain insights into effective Google Ads practices.

The integration of reporting and project management tools into one platform distinguishes SpyFu. Users can create custom reports, set alerts for important keyword changes, and compare domains easily. This all-in-one workspace streamlines processes and helps teams stay organized.

SpyFu provides features like strong competitive analysis, long-term historical data, and innovative content strategies. It’s a solid choice for improving SEO and PPC efforts without overspending.

Pros

• Detailed historical data for 14 years
• RivalFlow for content gap analysis
• Unlimited keyword and domain projects
• Useful PPC analysis tools
• Custom reporting and alerts

Cons

• Learning curve for new users
• Some features may feel overwhelming
• Less brand recognition compared to Ahrefs

Raven Tools

Raven Tools is an SEO and reporting platform that improves online marketing efforts. Focusing on client reporting and campaign management, Raven offers features that appeal to businesses seeking an alternative to Ahrefs. It aims to simplify SEO reporting, helping marketers deliver clear insights to clients.

One standout feature is the Website Audits tool. This function allows users to conduct analyses of their websites, identifying SEO issues that may hinder performance. After a crawl of web pages, users receive a detailed report with a health score out of 100. This feature lets those who aren’t SEO experts understand and share findings with their teams, making it a collaborative tool.

The Backlink Explorer tool is another key feature. It enables users to analyze backlinks of any domain and categorize them by authority and anchor text, aiding strategic decisions around link-building efforts. Raven also integrates with Majestic for extensive backlink data, allowing you to study competitors’ strategies effectively.

Raven’s customizable marketing reports stand out for their simplicity. The drag-and-drop reporting wizard makes it easy to compile data from different sources into tailored reports, saving users time each month. Clients appreciate the visual appeal of these reports, thanks to well-designed graphs and charts that convey important metrics.

Compared to Ahrefs, Raven Tools positions itself as a user-friendly option, especially for those who prioritize client reporting and collaboration.

Pros

• Intuitive interface for reporting
• Comprehensive website audit capabilities
• Robust backlink analysis tools
• Customizable and visually appealing reports
• Saves time with ready-to-use templates

Cons

• May not have as extensive a keyword database as some competitors
• Some advanced features may require a learning curve

Majestic

Majestic is a player in the SEO tools space, known for its backlink analysis capabilities. Launched in 2004, the company has spent nearly two decades developing a deep understanding of link intelligence, a key part of SEO. Their focus is on delivering a large amount of backlink data to help businesses improve their online presence and outrank competitors.

A standout feature of Majestic is its scoring system. Trust Flow and Citation Flow metrics help users assess the quality and quantity of backlinks. Trust Flow measures the quality of links pointing to a webpage, while Citation Flow tracks the total number of links. This approach allows users to understand not only how many links they have but also the credibility of those links. Majestic’s Visibility Flow and Topical Trust Flow scores provide additional insight into a website’s relevance within its niche.

Another aspect is the Author Explorer tool, which lets users explore the work of specific authors. By searching for an author, users can discover their published content, analyze its backlinks, and view their social media activity. This feature can give an advantage in targeted link-building efforts.

Majestic has also made its data accessible via an industry-leading API. This allows agencies and developers to create custom applications easily, appealing to those who need tailored solutions.

Majestic stands out due to its history in link intelligence, tailored metrics, and innovative tools that cater to both beginners and experienced SEO professionals.

Pros

• In-depth backlink analysis
• Unique scoring metrics
• Author Explorer tool for content insights
• Powerful API for custom applications

Cons

• May have a steeper learning curve for new users
• Fewer overall features compared to some competitors

BrightEdge

BrightEdge is a key player in the SEO tools market, helping businesses improve their content marketing efforts. The platform offers a range of features that address various aspects of SEO, from real-time research and recommendations to performance tracking. BrightEdge’s focus on revealing the intent behind search queries helps marketers understand what customers are searching for.

Another important aspect of BrightEdge is its ability to analyze competitors for specific content topics. This insight allows brands to prioritize strategies effectively, forecasting impact through data-driven decisions. The platform also integrates social media and local marketing strategies, connecting online and offline efforts. Whether you want to improve mobile responsiveness or boost your presence in local search results, BrightEdge provides tools to meet those needs.

BrightEdge provides a cohesive platform that supports every step in the customer journey. It caters to SEO specialists, digital marketers, content creators, and executives, making it a flexible choice for companies aiming to improve their online presence. With over 1,700 customers gaining from its insights, BrightEdge has made a significant impact in the industry.

Pros

• Offers real-time research and recommendations
• Integrates SEO with social media and local marketing
• Provides insights into competitors and customer intent
• Supports content strategy development and performance tracking
• Serves a wide audience, including SEOs and CMOs

Cons

• May require a steeper learning curve for new users
• Pricing can be higher than some competitors
• Features may feel overwhelming for smaller businesses

Conductor

Conductor positions itself as a platform designed to change websites into growth engines. They help businesses improve traffic, engagement, and conversions through a mix of SEO, content optimization, and technical insights. Unlike other tools, Conductor emphasizes creating a unified system where content, SEO, and performance metrics are monitored together, allowing teams to make data-driven decisions.

One unique feature is its AI-powered content recommendations and workflow automation. This helps streamline processes, enabling organizations to produce and optimize content. With real-time alerts and 24/7 website monitoring, users can quickly address potential performance issues, helping teams maintain site governance and ensure website health. The platform also promotes collaboration among teams, from SEO managers to web developers, making it a suitable choice for organizations aiming to unify their digital strategy.

Their story revolves around providing a platform that centralizes efforts to boost organic visibility, turning website analytics into actionable intelligence. Clients like Samsung and Citibank have effectively integrated Conductor into their digital strategies, benefiting from improved performance and competitive insights.

Conductor offers a strong alternative to platforms like alt_15. Users benefit from a centralized dashboard, proactive monitoring, and advanced content workflows, allowing them to improve SEO effectiveness and streamline their optimization efforts.

Pros

• Comprehensive platform for SEO, content, and website analytics
• AI-driven recommendations for content creation
• 24/7 site performance monitoring
• Collaborative environment for teams

Cons

• May require time to fully integrate into existing systems
• Some users might find the learning curve challenging

SEO PowerSuite

SEO PowerSuite is an SEO toolset that has been making an impact in digital marketing for nearly 20 years. With over two million users, it provides a platform that addresses every aspect of SEO. This solution integrates four key tools: Rank Tracker, WebSite Auditor, SEO SpyGlass, and LinkAssistant. Together, they cover everything from keyword research to backlink analysis and on-site optimization.

What sets SEO PowerSuite apart is its flexible approach. It’s made for everyone, whether you’re a small business owner or an SEO expert. The tools help users manage the complexities of SEO campaigns without feeling overwhelmed. You get insights into keyword performance, site health checks, and link-building strategies—all in one place.

The story of SEO PowerSuite is built on user feedback; they have shaped their offerings based on customer interviews. This focus on real needs ensures they deliver useful features. Each tool is robust yet simple to use, making it easier to track progress and manage SEO tasks.

The company’s commitment to offering a free version is notable. This allows users to experience the software’s capabilities without any financial commitment. It’s a good way to see if it fits your needs before making a purchase.

SEO PowerSuite provides a balanced SEO solution that combines trusted data with practical tools for various users.

Pros

• Offers a complete toolkit for various SEO tasks
• Free version available for users to try before buying
• Built on user feedback and real-world applications
• Supports both beginners and experienced SEO professionals

Cons

• May require some learning for new users
• Lacks certain advanced features found in alternatives like alt_15
• Not as well-known in the industry compared to bigger names

CognitiveSEO

CognitiveSEO offers a suite of SEO tools for professionals and agencies looking to improve their marketing strategies. They focus on integrating technical SEO and content optimization. Their approach combines advanced AI with natural language processing, helping users connect keyword research, ranking analysis, and content enhancement in straightforward steps. The main feature is the Content Performance Score, which assesses how well content is likely to perform in search engine rankings.

CognitiveSEO was founded to provide businesses with actionable insights. They aim to make SEO processes approachable for everyone, from small business owners to agencies. This user-centered mindset gives them an advantage, as they prioritize the user experience and ease of use over complicated language. Their Site Audit tool scans websites to identify issues before they affect user experience and rankings, offering clear recommendations for fixes that can lead to quick improvements in visibility.

They excel with their backlink analysis, which provides a detailed view of your link profile. Their ability to detect and recover from Google penalties—both algorithmic and manual—also makes them an appealing option for those concerned about compliance with search engine guidelines.

CognitiveSEO’s strength lies in the blend of technical SEO tools and content performance insights, making it a solid alternative to alt_15. Users can conduct thorough site audits, monitor competitors effectively, and manage penalties with ease.

Pros

• Comprehensive tools for various SEO needs
• Strong focus on content optimization and performance
• User-friendly site audit with actionable recommendations
• Effective penalty recovery features
• Competitive analysis tools

Cons

• Less brand recognition compared to alt_15
• May have a learning curve for some users
• Pricing structure may not be ideal for smaller businesses

Woopra

Woopra is a customer journey analytics platform that gives businesses a complete view of their customer interactions. Unlike other SEO tools that mostly target traffic and keyword rankings, Woopra explores how users engage with products and services across various touchpoints. This benefits teams in product development, marketing, sales, and support by helping them understand customer behavior and optimize strategies.

Woopra’s key feature is its real-time individual analysis. This enables companies to track every user interaction, offering insights into who engages with their brand, what actions they take, and how this affects retention and revenue. While most analytics tools provide aggregated data, Woopra’s focus on specific user journeys aids teams in making informed decisions that improve engagement and conversion.

Woopra also stands out with its integrations; with over 50 one-click options, it allows seamless data unification across different platforms. This helps break down silos within an organization, enabling teams to work together with a centralized data source. The ability to set triggers for automation based on user behavior creates new opportunities for personalized marketing, allowing businesses to connect with customers at the right time.

This mix of customer journey mapping, real-time user engagement, and strong data integration makes Woopra a strong alternative to traditional SEO tools. Businesses aiming to improve their understanding of customer interactions will find valuable insights in Woopra, going beyond just traffic metrics.

Pros

• Provides real-time individual analysis
• Strong integration with over 50 tools
• Supports personalized marketing automation
• Centralized view of customer journeys

Cons

• May not emphasize traditional SEO metrics
• Could be more complex for teams focused solely on SEO