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Semrush vs Ahrefs

A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right tool

Feature Semrush AI Ahrefs AI
Starting Price$139/monthFree ★ Best
Free TierFree TrialYes ★ Best
Rating★★★★4.6★★★★4.7 ★ Best
Best ForDigital marketing agencies and enterprise SEO teams needing comprehensive competitive intelligenceSEO professionals and agencies needing the most accurate backlink data and comprehensive research tools
API Access
Team Collaboration
Templates
Browser Extension
Mobile App
Pros
  • Most comprehensive SEO data and competitive intelligence
  • Best-in-class keyword research and backlink analysis
  • AI Visibility Toolkit for monitoring brand in AI results
  • Largest backlink index — most accurate link data
  • Best-in-class keyword difficulty scores
  • Free Webmaster Tools for site owners
Cons
  • Most expensive in the category — $139/mo minimum
  • Overwhelming feature set for new users
  • AI writing add-ons cost extra
  • Expensive — $129/mo minimum for meaningful access
  • AI writing features less developed vs. Surfer/Frase
  • No free trial for paid plans

Our Verdict

Semrush AI and Ahrefs AI serve different needs. Ahrefs AI has a higher user rating (4.7 vs 4.6). Ahrefs AI is more affordable starting at Free. Choose Semrush AI if you need digital marketing agencies and enterprise seo teams needing comprehensive competitive intelligence. Choose Ahrefs AI if you need seo professionals and agencies needing the most accurate backlink data and comprehensive research tools.