Marketing & SEO
The best Semrush alternatives
Semrush is one of the best-known tools in Marketing & SEO, but it is not the right fit for everyone. Prices, features and supported languages differ, so here are 5 alternatives worth comparing, with what each one does best.
Quick comparison
| Tool | Pricing | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ahrefs | Paid | Link building · Content strategy |
| Surfer | Paid | SEO writers · Content teams |
| Frase | Paid | Content writers · SEO briefs |
| Writesonic | Paid | SEO content teams · Tracking AI search visibility |
| Clearscope | Paid | Content teams · Editors |
1Ahrefs
AhrefsSEO toolset known for backlink data.PaidAn SEO platform for backlinks, keywords, rank tracking and site audits, with AI content tools and brand tracking in AI answers.
Best for
- Link building
- Content strategy
- Technical SEO
Why choose it
- Excellent backlink index
- Clear, fast interface
Our take: A top choice for backlink research and content strategy.
2Surfer
SurferSEO content planning and optimisation.PaidAnalyses top-ranking pages and guides you to write content that can rank.
Best for
- SEO writers
- Content teams
Why choose it
- Clear on-page guidance
- Content audits
Our take: Useful for teams serious about SEO content.
3Frase
FraseResearch and write SEO content briefs fast.PaidAnalyses top search results to build content briefs and outlines, then helps write and optimise articles.
Best for
- Content writers
- SEO briefs
- Small content teams
Why choose it
- Fast research and briefs
- Affordable compared to rivals
Our take: A quick, affordable way to plan SEO content.
4Writesonic
WritesonicAI content and visibility platform for search and AI answers.PaidA marketing platform for creating SEO content and tracking how brands appear in AI assistants and search, with suggested actions.
Best for
- SEO content teams
- Tracking AI search visibility
- Marketing agencies
Why choose it
- Combines content and AI visibility tracking
- Actionable recommendations
Our take: Useful for brands focused on visibility in AI-powered search.
5Clearscope
ClearscopeContent optimisation trusted by content teams.PaidGrades content against top results and recommends terms and topics, integrated with Google Docs and WordPress.
Best for
- Content teams
- Editors
- Refreshing existing articles
Why choose it
- Simple, clean grading
- Docs and WordPress integration
Our take: A clean, focused optimiser for professional content teams.
How to choose
Start with the job you need done most often, then test two or three options on the same real task. Check the free plan limits, the languages each tool supports and whether it works with the apps you already use.
Some links on Toolniverse may be affiliate links. Pricing and features change often, so check each tool’s website for current details.