Ahrefs vs Semrush: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Ahrefs and Semrush comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Ahrefs
All-in-one SEO toolset
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 9.1/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need seo tools features specifically
- • Comprehensive SEO toolset
- • Industry-leading backlink database
Semrush
Online visibility management platform
Best for you if:
- • You need advertising features specifically
- • Comprehensive SEO and digital marketing platform with keyword research, site audits, and competitor analysis.
- • Features Domain Authority metrics, backlink analysis, content optimization, and rank tracking.
| At a Glance |  Ahrefs |  Semrush |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | SEO Tools | Advertising |
Rating | 92/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | Ahrefs | Semrush |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 92 | 91 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | SEO ToolsWeb Analytics | AdvertisingWeb Analytics |
How Ahrefs and Semrush Compare
Ahrefs
All-in-one SEO toolset
Free tier available · 92/100 score
Semrush
Online visibility management platform
Paid · 91/100 score
Ahrefs is a seo tools tool. Semrush is in advertising.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Ahrefs has a free tier. Semrush is paid only.
Go with: Ahrefs
Want the highest-rated option?
Ahrefs: 92/100. Semrush: 91/100.
Go with: Ahrefs
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ahrefs
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Ahrefs is freemium. Semrush is paid. Ahrefs lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Ahrefs is a seo tools tool. Semrush is in advertising. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Ahrefs scores higher: 92/100 vs 91/100.
Key Takeaways
Ahrefs
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 91
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Semrush
- Better fit for advertising
The Bottom Line
Ahrefs (92/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ahrefs or Semrush better?
Ahrefs scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Ahrefs is freemium and Semrush is paid.
What are Ahrefs and Semrush used for?
Ahrefs: All-in-one SEO toolset. Semrush: Online visibility management platform.
What does Ahrefs cost vs Semrush?
Ahrefs is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Semrush is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.