Keyword Surfer
Keyword ResearchFree Chrome extension for instant SERP keyword data
Overview
Keyword Surfer transforms Google search into a keyword research workstation by overlaying search volume data, related keywords, and competitive insights directly on search results pages. Built by SurferSEO in 2020, this Chrome extension eliminates the need to jump between Google and separate keyword tools for basic research tasks.
The tool's strength lies in its seamless integration with natural search behavior. Instead of interrupting your workflow to check search volumes in another tool, Keyword Surfer displays monthly search data right next to search terms in Google's interface. The sidebar populates with related keywords automatically, turning every Google search into a mini keyword research session.
What sets Keyword Surfer apart from competitors like Keywords Everywhere or SEOquake is its focus on content optimization insights. The word count overlay shows exactly how long top-ranking pages are, giving immediate guidance for content length targeting. This bridges pure keyword research with content strategy in a way most browser extensions don't attempt.
Key features
Search Volume Overlay
Shows monthly search volume directly in Google search results without leaving the SERP. Data appears next to each search term automatically.
Related Keywords Sidebar
Displays similar keywords and search suggestions in a sidebar panel while browsing Google results. Helps identify content gaps and opportunities.
Word Count Analysis
Overlays word counts on top-ranking pages in search results. Shows content length patterns for ranking pages at a glance.
SERP Snapshot
Provides quick keyword difficulty estimates and competitive analysis directly in search results. No need to open separate tools.
Global Search Data
Access to search volume data across multiple countries and regions. Helps with international SEO and localization research.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Search volume data, related keywords, SERP analysis, word count overlay, Chrome extension |
FAQ
Is Keyword Surfer completely free to use?
Yes, Keyword Surfer is completely free with no paid tiers or usage limits. It's offered by SurferSEO as a lead generation tool for their paid content optimization platform.
How accurate is Keyword Surfer's search volume data?
Search volume data comes from Google Ads API and is generally accurate for broader terms, though it may be less precise for very low-volume long-tail keywords compared to paid tools.
Does Keyword Surfer work in countries outside the US?
Yes, Keyword Surfer provides search volume and keyword data for over 19 countries including UK, Canada, Australia, and major European markets.
Can I export keyword data from Keyword Surfer?
No, Keyword Surfer doesn't offer export functionality. It's designed for quick in-SERP research rather than bulk keyword analysis and reporting.
Does using Keyword Surfer slow down Google search?
The extension adds minimal load time to Google searches. Data appears almost instantly since it's pulled from cached databases rather than real-time API calls.
Review Sentiment
1,955 reviews across 3 sources
Bottom line
Hard to beat free. Keyword Surfer is a genuine asset for SEO professionals thanks to completely free Chrome extension, though limited to one keyword at a time keeps it from replacing paid alternatives entirely.
People love
- +Completely free Chrome extension with instant search volume and CPC data on Google SERPs
- +Built by the Surfer SEO team — reliable data backed by a well-known SEO platform
- +Shows related keyword suggestions and on-page word counts directly in search results
Common complaints
- –Limited to one keyword at a time — no batch research or bulk analysis capability
- –Data coverage restricted to 70 countries with limited language support
- –Occasional display glitches requiring wider browser windows to see full results
Last updated Feb 2026