Semrush vs Ahrefs: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Semrush and Ahrefs 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:
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.
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
| At a Glance |  Semrush |  Ahrefs |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Advertising | SEO Tools |
Rating | 91/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Semrush | Ahrefs |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 91 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AdvertisingWeb Analytics | SEO ToolsWeb Analytics |
How Semrush and Ahrefs Compare
Semrush
Online visibility management platform
Paid · 91/100 score
Ahrefs
All-in-one SEO toolset
Free tier available · 92/100 score
Semrush is a advertising tool. Ahrefs is in seo tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Ahrefs has a free tier. Semrush is paid only.
Go with: Ahrefs
Want the highest-rated option?
Semrush: 91/100. Ahrefs: 92/100.
Go with: Ahrefs
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ahrefs
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Semrush is paid. Ahrefs is freemium. Ahrefs lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Semrush is a advertising tool. Ahrefs is in seo tools. 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 Semrush or Ahrefs better?
Ahrefs scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Semrush is paid and Ahrefs is freemium.
What are Semrush and Ahrefs used for?
Semrush: Online visibility management platform. Ahrefs: All-in-one SEO toolset.
What does Semrush cost vs Ahrefs?
Semrush is a paid tool. Ahrefs is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.