Semrush vs Ahrefs for Keyword Research: Which Is Better? (2026)
TL;DR: For keyword research, Semrush excels at versatility while Ahrefs offers more specialized features. The best choice depends on your specific workflow needs.
Semrush vs Ahrefs for Keyword Research
When it comes to keyword research (difficulty, volume, SERP analysis), both Semrush and Ahrefs are excellent choices. Here’s how they compare for this specific use case.
Key Differences for Keyword Research
| Aspect | Semrush | Ahrefs |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Versatility in keyword research | Specialized keyword research features |
| Difficulty | Very Good | Excellent |
| Volume | Excellent | Very Good |
| Ease of Use | Very Easy | Easy |
Our Recommendation
- Choose Semrush if you need a versatile tool that handles keyword research alongside other tasks
- Choose Ahrefs if keyword research is your primary focus and you want specialized features
- Use both if your budget allows — they complement each other well
FAQ
Which is better for keyword research: Semrush or Ahrefs?
For most users focused on keyword research, Ahrefs has a slight edge in difficulty. However, Semrush is more versatile if you need a single tool for multiple purposes.
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