Best Keyword research tools free and paid 2023

Quik and Decisive Answer (Best Free Keyword Research Tools)

1.) SurferSEO: (Best Overall)

FREE TO TRY
Basic: $59/month
Pro: $99/month
Business: $199/month

2.) Google Keyword Planner: (Best Free)

Free, but requires an active Google Ads account to access the full range of data.

3.) SEMRush: (Most Available Features – Pricier)

Pro: $119.95/month
Guru: $229.95/month
Business: $449.95/month

4.) Wordtracker: (Best Price for Paid)

Bronze: $27/month
Silver: $69/month
Gold: $99/month

5.) Ubersuggest:

Individual: $29/month
Business: $49/month
Enterprise/Agency: $99/month

When it comes to getting people to visit your site, a focus on search engine optimization is a must. Furthermore, keyword research is an essential part of any successful SEO strategy. It will help you to understand what your target audience is searching for online and to create content that meets their needs. But with so many different keyword research tools available; it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at ten of the best free and paid keyword research tools available, and how they can be used to boost your SEO efforts.

Why take the time to do keyword research?

Search engines have algorithms that help them determine if a webpage (blogpost) has topical authority in a particular subject. One part of this algorithm for any search engine looks at the number of keywords related to the subject used on the page. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can just plug a bunch of words related to your content and you’re going to shoot to the top of Google. The quality of the content you produce also has to be good, but by accessing useful keyword data, building a keyword list, discovering monthly search volume for your keywords, knowing search trends, and generating related content ideas, you can set yourself up to bring the most organic traffic to your pages possible.

The goal is to get your page to the top of the search engine results on page 1 for specific keywords or key phrases in that your niche. There are many search engines although typically only Google is thought about. As you probably know, Google is the big kahuna when it comes to online search also have created a free keyword tool to help you in keyword analysis for your website or blog. Just because google hold dominancy over search engines doesn’t mean that Google has the best keyword research tools, however that is where I choose to start my list. I’m not completely new to SEO. In the past I’ve dabbled in creating content for myself and others, and during those earlier years I certainly didn’t have the extra funds to pay for SEO tools. So, I of course used Google Keywords back then.

#1 SurferSEO

SurferSEO is a keyword research tool that provides data on search volume, competition, and related keywords. It offers both a free and a paid version, with the paid version providing more features and data.

To use SurferSEO, simply enter a keyword or phrase into the search bar. The tool will then provide you with a list of related keywords, along with their search volume and competition level. SurferSEO also provides data on related keywords and phrases, which can be useful in identifying new keywords to target.

One of the key features of SurferSEO is its ability to provide data on the ideal content length and structure for a particular keyword. This can be useful in optimizing content for SEO, as it provides insight into the types of content that are ranking well for a specific keyword.

SurferSEO also provides data on the backlinks that are pointing to the top-performing content for a particular keyword. This can be useful in analyzing competitor strategies and identifying opportunities for building backlinks to your own content.

Using Surfer SEO means no more spending hours researching the right keywords or trying to identify the best topic related to your chosen niche. With just a few clicks, you can quickly identify the optimal search terms that relate to your target audience and create posts or pages around them quickly and easily.

Surfer SEO also includes built-in analysis tools that help you make informed decisions about where to place your keywords, how many words make up your post, what type of language works best with readers, etc., allowing you to optimize your posts for maximum impact without wasting time guessing which strategies are most effective.

Surfer SEO helps improve writing quality by providing comprehensive data on readability scores, keyword densities, topic relevancy, etc., giving writers an unprecedented level of insight into each piece they create for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. This ensures that each post is optimized for both readers and search engines, making it easier to reach wider audiences who might not find your content otherwise.

The combination of accuracy, speed, optimization features and improved writing quality all contribute towards generating more traffic as well as better search engine rankings—both of which are essential if you want a successful website or blog. You’ll be able to track how your website is performing in real-time so there’s no guesswork involved when it comes to understanding what’s working and what needs improvement.

SuferSEO Pros:

Provides data on related keywords and phrases.
Provides data on the ideal content length and structure for a particular keyword.
Provides data on the backlinks that are pointing to the top-performing content for a particular keyword.
Time-saving features
Improved writing quality
Increased traffic generation

SurferSEO Cons:

The free version has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed.
The tool’s interface may not be as user-friendly as other keyword research tools.
Can be complex for beginner users due to its advanced features

#2 Google Keyword Planner

Google’s Keyword Planner is one of the most widely used keyword research tools available. It’s a free tool that allows you to see the search volume for specific keywords, as well as their competition level. It’s particularly useful for businesses that are targeting Google search results, as it provides data directly from the search engine

To use Google Keyword Planner, you’ll need to sign up for a Google Ads account. Once you’re logged in, you can access the Keyword Planner tool from the main menu. From here, you can enter search keywords or search phrases that are relevant to your business, and Google will provide you with a list of related keywords, along with their search volume and competition level.

One of the benefits of using Google Keyword Planner is that it provides a lot of data. You can see the average monthly searches for a keyword, the competition level, and even the estimated cost per click if you were to run an ad campaign targeting that keyword. This makes it a useful tool for both SEO and paid advertising.

Google Keyword Planner is a part of Google Ads, and businesses that run Google Ads campaigns can access additional features such as:

Detailed competition data: This feature provides a breakdown of competition by ad placement, which can be helpful in determining where to place ads.
Historical metrics: This feature provides historical data on keyword performance over time, which can be useful in identifying trends and optimizing ad campaigns.
Keyword forecasting: This feature provides projections on keyword performance over time, which can be helpful in planning ad budgets and strategies.:

Google Keyword Planner Pros:

Provides data directly from the search engine.
Provides a lot of data, including average monthly searches, competition level, and estimated cost per click.
Useful for both SEO and paid advertising.

Google Keyword Planner Cons:

Requires a Google Ads account to use.
Competition-level data is often broad and not very specific.

My Take on Google Keyword Planner:

For a free keyword research tool, Google Keyword Planner is the best option. You get data directly from the search engine that will provide the most organic traffic to your site, search volume data is provided, good PPC keywords information and search engine optimization, keyword difficulty info is provided, and best of all it’s a keyword research tool that won’t break the bank.

#3 SEMRush

SEMRush is a popular keyword research tool used by many SEO professionals. While it is primarily a paid tool, it does offer some free features that can be useful for businesses that are just getting started with SEO.

To use SEMRush, simply enter a keyword or domain into the search bar. The tool will then provide you with data on that keyword or domain, including organic search volume, paid search volume, and competition level. SEMRush also provides data on related keywords, as well as the top-performing content for a particular keyword.

One of the key features of SEMRush is its ability to provide data on the backlinks that are pointing to a particular domain or page. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to improve their own backlink profile, as well as for analyzing the backlink profiles of their competitors.

SEMRush also provides data on keyword difficulty, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting based on their level of competition.

SEMRush Pros:

Provides a lot of data on specific keywords, including search volume, competition level, related keywords, and top-performing content.
Provides data on backlinks and domain authority, which can be useful for analyzing competitor strategies and improving your own backlink profile.
Provides data on keyword difficulty, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting.

SEMRush Cons:

Most features require a paid subscription, with limited free access.
Some users may find the interface overwhelming or confusing.

#4 Wordtracker

Wordtracker is a keyword research tool that provides data on search volume, competition, and related keywords. It offers both a free and a paid version, with the paid version providing more features and data.

To use Wordtracker, simply enter a keyword or phrase into the search bar. The tool will then provide you with a list of related keywords, along with their search volume and competition level. Wordtracker also provides data on related keywords, which can be useful in identifying new keywords to target.

One of the key features of Wordtracker is its ability to provide data on long-tail keywords. These are keywords that are less competitive than broader keywords and can be useful in targeting specific niches or industries.

Wordtracker also provides a keyword competitiveness score, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting based on their level of competition.

Wordtracker positions itself as a direct competitor to using Google Keyword Planner and compares itself directly on the front page. I would have to agree that Wordtracker offers many more useful marketing research tools, but that comes with a $27 a month price tag as well. The price is on the low end and worth at least giving a try if you are not getting what you need from free keyword research tools.

Wortracker Pros:

Provides data on related keywords and long-tail keywords.
Provides a keyword competitiveness score, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting.
Offers both a free and a paid version.

Wordracker Cons:

The free version has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed.
The tool’s interface may not be as user-friendly as other keyword research tools.

#5 Ubersuggest

Ubersuggest is a free keyword research tool created by Neil Patel, one of the most well-known figures in the digital marketing industry. It’s a web-based tool that provides a lot of data about specific keywords, including their search volume, competition level, and related keywords.

One of the key features of Ubersuggest is its ability to provide data on the top-performing content for a particular keyword. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to create content that will perform well in search engine results pages (SERPs). By analyzing the top-performing content, you can get a better understanding of what your target audience is looking for, and create content that meets their needs.

Ubersuggest also provides data on the backlinks that are pointing to the top-performing content for a particular keyword. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to improve their own backlink profile, as it provides insight into the types of websites and content that are linking to their competitors.

Ubersuggest offers a paid version called Ubersuggest Pro, which provides additional features such as:

Unlimited data: The free version of Ubersuggest has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed, while the Pro version offers unlimited access to data.
Keyword suggestions: The Pro version provides more keyword suggestions than the free version.
Competitor analysis: The Pro version offers more detailed competitor analysis, including backlink data and top-performing content.

Ubbersuggest Pros:

Provides a lot of data on specific keywords, including search volume, competition level, and related keywords.
Can provide data on top-performing content and backlinks for a specific keyword. This info can be used to see how your competitors rank.
Created by Neil Patel, a well-known figure in the digital marketing industry.

Ubbersuggest Cons:

The free version has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed.
Some users may find the interface overwhelming or confusing.

#6 ahrefs

Ahrefs is a powerful keyword research tool used by many SEO professionals. While it is primarily a paid tool, it does offer some free features that can be useful for businesses that are just getting started with SEO.

To use Ahrefs, simply enter a keyword or domain into the search bar. The tool will then provide you with data on that keyword or domain, including organic search volume, paid search volume, and competition level. Ahrefs also provides data on related keywords, as well as the top-performing content for a particular keyword.

One of the key features of Ahrefs is its ability to provide data on the backlinks that are pointing to a particular domain or page. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to improve their own backlink profile, as well as for analyzing the backlink profiles of their competitors.

Ahrefs also provides data on keyword difficulty, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting based on their level of competition.

ahref Pros:

Provides a lot of data on specific keywords, including search volume, competition level, related keywords, and top-performing content.
Provides data on backlinks and domain authority, which can be useful for analyzing competitor strategies and improving your own backlink profile.
Provides data on keyword difficulty, which can be useful in determining which keywords are worth targeting.

ahrefs Cons:

Most features require a paid subscription, with limited free access.
The tool’s interface may not be as user-friendly as other keyword research tools.

#7 AnswerThePublic

AnswerThePublic is a free keyword research tool that provides data on the questions that people are asking about a particular topic. It’s particularly useful for businesses that are looking to create content that answers common questions or solves common problems.

To use AnswerThePublic, simply enter a keyword or phrase into the search bar. The tool will then provide you with a list of questions that people are asking about that keyword, as well as related topics and search terms.

One of the benefits of using AnswerThePublic is that it provides insight into the types of questions that people are asking about a particular topic. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to create content that is both relevant and useful to their target audience. By answering common questions, businesses can establish themselves as experts in their field and build trust with their audience.

AnswerThePublic also provides data on related searches and prepositions, which can be useful for businesses that are looking to create content around a specific topic. By including these related searches and prepositions in their content, businesses can increase their chances of appearing in search results for a wider range of keywords.

AnswerThePublic also offers a paid version called AnswerThePublic Pro, which provides additional features such as:

Unlimited data: The free version of AnswerThePublic has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed, while the Pro version offers unlimited access to data.
Priority support: Pro users have access to priority support, which can be helpful in resolving issues or getting assistance with the tool.
Customization: The Pro version allows for customization of the tool’s visualizations and reports.

AnswerThePublic Pros:

Provides data on the questions that people are asking about a specific topic.
Can provide insight into the types of questions that people are asking about a particular topic.
Can help businesses establish themselves as experts in their field by answering common questions.

AnswerThePublic Cons:

The free version has limitations on the amount of data that can be accessed.
Some users may find the tool’s visualizations confusing or overwhelming.

#8 Google Trends

Google Trends is a free tool that provides data on the popularity of specific keywords over time. It’s particularly useful for businesses that are looking to create content around trending topics or seasonal events.

To use Google Trends, simply enter a keyword or phrase into the search bar. Google will then provide you with data on the search volume for that keyword over time, as well as related keywords and topics that are currently popular.

One of the benefits of using Google Trends is that it allows you to see how the popularity of a keyword has changed over time. This can be useful for businesses that are looking to create evergreen content that will remain relevant for years to come.

Google Trends Pros:

Provides data on the popularity of specific keywords over time.
Can provide data on related topics and keywords that are currently popular.
Useful for businesses that are looking to create content around trending topics or seasonal events.

Google Trends Cons:

Data may be limited for less popular or niche topics.
Only provides data on popularity, not search volume or competition level.

#9 Keyword Tool

Keyword Tool is a keyword research tool that provides users with a comprehensive list of keywords related to a specific topic. The tool can be used for SEO and PPC purposes, helping businesses to identify high-value keywords and create effective ad campaigns.

One of the key advantages of Keyword Tool is its simplicity. The interface is easy to use, with a clean design and intuitive navigation. Users simply enter a keyword or phrase into the search bar and Keyword Tool provides a list of related keywords, along with data on search volume, competition, and estimated cost per click.

Keyword Tool offers several features that make it stand out from other keyword research tools. For example, the tool provides data on keyword search volume for a variety of platforms, including Google, Bing, Amazon, YouTube, and eBay. This allows users to tailor their keyword research to their specific needs and target the platforms that are most relevant to their business.

Another unique feature of Keyword Tool is its ability to generate long-tail keywords. Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific keywords that are less competitive than broader, more generic keywords. By targeting long-tail keywords, businesses can improve their search engine rankings and drive more targeted traffic to their website.

Keyword Tool offers both a free and a paid version. The free version provides a limited number of keyword suggestions, while the paid version offers unlimited keyword suggestions and additional features such as competitor analysis and historical data.

Overall, Keyword Tool is a powerful and user-friendly keyword research tool that offers a range of features to help businesses improve their SEO and PPC strategies. Its ability to generate long-tail keywords and provide data on multiple platforms makes it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes and industries.

One of the potential drawbacks of Keyword Tool is that the free version is somewhat limited in its capabilities. While it provides a useful starting point for keyword research, businesses that require more advanced features may need to upgrade to the paid version. Additionally, some users may find the pricing of the paid version to be higher than other similar tools in the market.

Another potential limitation of Keyword Tool is that it doesn’t provide data on keyword difficulty or competition. While it provides data on estimated cost per click and search volume, it doesn’t provide information on how difficult it will be to rank for a particular keyword. This may make it more challenging for businesses to prioritize their keyword targeting and develop an effective SEO strategy.

Despite these potential limitations, Keyword Tool remains a popular and widely used keyword research tool. Its simplicity and ease of use make it an attractive option for businesses that are new to keyword research, while its ability to generate long-tail keywords and provide data on multiple platforms makes it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes and industries.

Keyword Tool Pros:

Easy to use: Keyword Tool has a simple and user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to conduct keyword research.
Long-tail keyword generation: Keyword Tool is known for generating long-tail keywords that are less competitive than broader, more generic keywords.
Multiple platform data: The tool provides data on keyword search volume for a variety of platforms, including Google, Bing, Amazon, YouTube, and eBay.
Free version available: Keyword Tool offers a free version that provides a limited number of keyword suggestions.
Competitor analysis: The paid version of Keyword Tool offers features for competitor analysis, allowing businesses to identify high-value keywords and develop effective ad campaigns.

Keyword Tool Cons:

Limited capabilities in the free version: The free version of Keyword Tool provides limited features and a limited number of keyword suggestions.
No keyword difficulty data: Keyword Tool does not provide data on keyword difficulty or competition, making it more difficult for businesses to prioritize their keyword targeting.
Higher cost for paid version: Some users may find the pricing of the paid version to be higher than other similar tools in the market.
Lack of advanced features: While Keyword Tool offers some advanced features, it may not offer as many advanced capabilities as some other tools.
Limited historical data: Keyword Tool doesn’t provide historical data on keyword performance, which can make it more challenging for businesses to track trends over time.

Overall, Keyword Tool is a solid keyword research tool that offers several valuable features. Its long-tail keyword generation and data on multiple platforms make it a valuable tool for businesses looking to improve their SEO and PPC strategies. However, businesses should be aware of its limitations, particularly in the free version, and evaluate whether the tool meets their specific needs and budget.

#10 Long Tail Pro

Long Tail Pro is a keyword research tool that offers businesses a range of features to improve their SEO and PPC strategies. The tool provides a comprehensive list of long-tail keywords that are related to a specific topic, as well as data on search volume, competition, and other metrics.

One of the key advantages of Long Tail Pro is its ability to generate long-tail keywords. Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific keywords that are less competitive than broader, more generic keywords. By targeting long-tail keywords, businesses can improve their search engine rankings and drive more targeted traffic to their website.

Long Tail Pro offers several features that make it stand out from other keyword research tools. For example, the tool provides data on keyword competitiveness, which helps businesses to identify the most profitable keywords for their niche. It also provides data on search volume trends, so businesses can see how keyword popularity has changed over time.

Another unique feature of Long Tail Pro is its ability to track keyword rankings. The tool allows businesses to monitor their search engine ranking for specific keywords over time, which can help them to identify areas where they need to improve their SEO efforts.

Long Tail Pro offers both a desktop and cloud-based version. The desktop version is a one-time purchase, while the cloud-based version requires a monthly subscription. The cloud-based version offers additional features, such as faster keyword research and real-time updates.

One potential limitation of Long Tail Pro is that it may be more difficult to use for beginners than some other keyword research tools. The interface is more complex than some other tools, which may require some time to learn and understand.

Despite this potential limitation, Long Tail Pro remains a popular and widely used keyword research tool. Its ability to generate long-tail keywords and provide data on keyword competitiveness and search volume trends makes it a valuable tool for businesses looking to improve their SEO and PPC strategies.

Overall, Long Tail Pro is a solid choice for businesses looking to conduct keyword research and improve their search engine ranking. While it may require more time to learn and use than some other tools, its advanced features and ability to generate long-tail keywords make it a great option for businesses that are serious about improving their SEO and PPC strategies.

The Final Verdict on the Best Free and Paid Research Tools for 2023

The 10 keyword research tools for SEO discussed in this review all offer an array of features that can help you find the best keywords for your website. Whether you’re looking for a free or paid option, one of these tools is sure to have what you need. With the right keyword research tool, you’ll be able to confidently create successful digital marketing campaigns for greater visibility and increased return on investment.

When it comes to doing keyword research, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different companies have different needs and budgets. So, when it comes to finding the best keyword research tools free or paid, there are a ton of options available. The great thing is that even the paid tools have free or almost free trials. Try some for yourself and pick what is best for your needs and situation.

If you can’t afford to invest in the use SurferSEO today, then sign up for a trial. It’s only a dollar