10 Best Ahrefs Alternatives in 2026
Ahrefs is powerful but expensive ($99-999/month). Here are the best alternatives for different use cases—from free tools to specialized options that do specific things better.
Quick Summary: Best Ahrefs Alternatives by Use Case
Why Look for Ahrefs Alternatives?
Ahrefs is undeniably one of the best SEO tools available. Its backlink database is industry-leading, and its keyword research capabilities are top-notch. However, there are legitimate reasons to consider alternatives:
- • Price: Starting at $99/month (Lite plan), Ahrefs is expensive for solopreneurs and small teams. The Standard plan at $199/month is what most users need.
- • Feature Overlap: If you only need keyword research or content planning, you're paying for backlink analysis you may not use.
- • Specialization: Some tools do specific things better—like AI-powered topical maps or content optimization.
- • Learning Curve: Ahrefs can be overwhelming for beginners who just need simple keyword research.
1. Topical Map AI
If you're using Ahrefs primarily for content strategy and keyword clustering, Topical Map AI does this specific job better and faster. It generates complete topical maps with 800-1,200 semantically-clustered keywords in 60 seconds.
Why It's Better Than Ahrefs For This
- ✓ AI-powered semantic clustering (Ahrefs is manual)
- ✓ 60-second generation vs hours of manual work
- ✓ Built-in content briefs for each cluster
- ✓ Export to Claude Projects for AI writing
Where Ahrefs Is Still Better
- × No backlink analysis
- × No rank tracking
- × No site auditing
2. Semrush
Semrush is Ahrefs' main competitor and offers a comparable feature set. It's particularly strong in PPC research and content marketing tools. Many consider it the best overall Ahrefs alternative.
Advantages Over Ahrefs
- ✓ Better PPC and advertising tools
- ✓ Built-in content optimization (SEO Writing Assistant)
- ✓ Social media management tools
- ✓ Topic research feature
Disadvantages vs Ahrefs
- × Smaller backlink database
- × Higher starting price ($129 vs $99)
- × Can be overwhelming with features
3. Ubersuggest
Neil Patel's Ubersuggest offers a generous free tier and affordable paid plans. It's perfect for beginners and small businesses who need basic keyword research without breaking the bank.
Advantages
- ✓ Free tier with 3 searches/day
- ✓ Very beginner-friendly interface
- ✓ Lifetime deal available ($290 one-time)
- ✓ Chrome extension included
Limitations
- × Much smaller database than Ahrefs
- × Limited backlink analysis
- × Data accuracy concerns
4. SE Ranking
SE Ranking offers most Ahrefs features at a fraction of the price. It's particularly popular among agencies who need white-label reports and client management.
Advantages
- ✓ 55% cheaper than Ahrefs
- ✓ White-label reporting
- ✓ Marketing plan feature
- ✓ Good local SEO tools
Limitations
- × Smaller backlink index
- × Less historical data
- × Limited keyword database
5. Moz Pro
Moz is one of the original SEO tool providers. While their backlink database is smaller than Ahrefs, their Domain Authority metric remains an industry standard.
Advantages
- ✓ Domain Authority metric (industry standard)
- ✓ Excellent educational resources
- ✓ Free Moz Bar browser extension
- ✓ Strong community
Limitations
- × Much smaller link index than Ahrefs
- × Similar pricing to Ahrefs
- × Interface feels dated
More Ahrefs Alternatives Worth Considering
6. Mangools (KWFinder)
Best for keyword research beginners. Beautiful interface, affordable pricing.
7. Serpstat
Good all-around SEO tool with competitive pricing. Strong in PPC analysis.
8. SpyFu
Best for competitor research and PPC spy. 15+ years of historical data.
9. Majestic
Specializes in backlink analysis. Trust Flow metric is well-respected.
10. Similarweb
Best for traffic analysis and competitive intelligence. Different focus than Ahrefs.
Bonus: Google Search Console
Free and shows your actual search data. Not an Ahrefs replacement but essential.
Ahrefs vs Alternatives: Quick Comparison
| Tool | Starting Price | Best For | Free Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahrefs | $99/mo | Backlinks | No |
| Topical Map AI | $37/mo | Topical Maps | Yes (1 map) |
| Semrush | $129/mo | All-in-one | Limited |
| Ubersuggest | Free | Beginners | Yes |
| SE Ranking | $44/mo | Agencies | 14-day trial |
| Moz Pro | $99/mo | Domain Authority | Limited |
| Mangools | $29/mo | Keyword Research | 10-day trial |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free alternative to Ahrefs? ▼
Yes, several tools offer free tiers. Ubersuggest provides 3 free searches per day. Google Search Console is completely free and shows your actual search data. Topical Map AI offers 1 free map with content briefs. For comprehensive free SEO, combining GSC with Ubersuggest covers the basics.
What's the cheapest Ahrefs alternative with similar features? ▼
SE Ranking ($44/mo) offers the most similar feature set at a lower price. For specific use cases: Topical Map AI ($37/mo) for content strategy, Mangools ($29/mo) for keyword research, and Majestic ($49/mo) for backlink analysis.
Is Semrush better than Ahrefs? ▼
It depends on your needs. Ahrefs has a larger backlink database and is better for link building. Semrush is better for PPC research, content marketing tools, and social media. Both are excellent—choose based on your primary use case.
Can I use multiple tools instead of just Ahrefs? ▼
Absolutely, and this is often more cost-effective. Many SEOs use: Topical Map AI for content strategy ($37/mo), a budget tool like Mangools for keyword research ($29/mo), and Google Search Console (free) for performance data. Total: $66/mo vs $99/mo for Ahrefs Lite.
Need Topical Maps Without Ahrefs?
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