Keyword research is a crucial part of search engine optimization (SEO) – understanding the search terms people are using to look for a website like yours is one of the fundamental building blocks of SEO. That’s why using keyword research tools can give your SEO a really boost. In this guide, we’ll look at a range of keyword research tools that will suit every budget and skill level.
Related: 5 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) elements that you need to keep a close eye on in 2019
Keyword research tool 1: GoDaddy Search Engine Optimization
GoDaddy Search Engine Optimization is a great tool if you have little or no SEO knowledge.
Not only will it suggest keywords for you to uses on your website, it will also track your rankings so you can see if your SEO is working.
Pricing starts at just 13 AED a month, and GoDaddy is on hand to help you with any questions you have. You can learn more about using GoDaddy Search Engine Optimization here.
Keyword research tool 2: Google Keyword Planner
The Google Keyword Planner is actually designed to be used with Google’s paid-ad scheme, AdWords.
But you can also use it to discover the number of people who are searching for a keyword or phrase.
Unfortunately, Google only tends to provide a broad range for search volume, making the planner less useful than it might be.
And although the planner is free to access, beginners face a steep learning curve if they’re going to get the most out of the tool. You can find a guide to using the Google Keyword Planner for research here.
Related: 8 Free Google Products that your business should be using
Keyword research tool 3: SEM Rush
SEM Rush is the most powerful tool we’ve looked at so far in this guide, and as you might imagine that has an impact on complexity and pricing.
Pricing starts at $99.95 a month, but if you’re willing to learn how to get the most out of SEM Rush then it’s a sum worth paying.
Not only will the tool show you search volume data for keywords, it will also suggest related keywords and content ideas.
You can also use it to track your rankings and that of your competitors.
It’s an exceedingly powerful tool, but you will need to put effort in to get the most out of it.
Keyword research tool 4: The Hoth
The Hoth offers a range of free keyword tools that are actually powered by SEM Rush data, and data from other leading SEO tools.
Now before you get too excited, these free tools aren’t as powerful as the paid-for versions.
However, if you want to dip your toe in the water of higher-end SEO tools, but aren’t willing to spend money on a subscription just yet, then The Hoth’s free tools can provide you with some great insights.
Keyword research tool 5: Ahrefs
Ahrefs is another top-end SEO tool in a similar vein to SEM Rush. Pricing starts at $99, although there is a 7-day trial for $7.
As with SEM Rush, getting the most out of Ahrefs will take time and effort, although there are a range of guides to help you get started.
Keyword research tool 6: Moz Pro
Moz Pro is the third and final top-end keyword tool we’ll look at in this guide. Again, its complexity is reflected in its pricing, which starts at $79 a month if you’re willing to play yearly, or $99 a month if you’re not.
However, Moz does offer a 30-day free trial, so there’s plenty of time to get to grips with it. (Although the trial is only available on the medium plan which starts at $143 a month.)
Moz also offers a selection of free SEO tools, including Moz Keyword Explorer. These free tools are limited, but they are a good start if you’re on a budget.
Keyword research tool 7: Autocomplete tools
You’ve probably noticed that if you type a query into Google, it tries to guess what you’re writing. This autocomplete function can be harnessed for keyword research and there are a couple of tools you should consider.
The first of these is Ubersuggest, which has the benefit of being free. Simply type a couple of keywords and the tool will suggest keywords based on autocomplete.
The second tool is Keywordtool.io. This does offer a free option, but there’s also a paid option which promises access to more data, and a smoother experience. Pricing starts at $69 a month (if you pay annually).
Keyword research tool 8: Keywords Everywhere
Keywords Everywhere is a browser plugin that lets you view keyword data on 16 websites, including Google.
Currently, it’s available for Chrome and Firefox. As it’s free, it’s a great tool for beginners looking to expand their keyword research skills, and for experienced SEOs looking to work more efficiently.
Summing up
So, there we have it – nine keywords tools that will help you boost SEO by targeting the right words and phrases.
