ahrefs vs serpstat
Ahrefs vs Serpstat — features, pricing, and which to choose for your SEO workflow in 2026.
Quick Verdict
Ahrefs and Serpstat are both comprehensive SEO platforms, but they serve different segments of the market. Ahrefs has built its reputation on having the world's second-largest backlink index and premium keyword research data, while Serpstat focuses on delivering solid all-in-one functionality at a more accessible price point.
The core difference comes down to data depth versus value. Ahrefs offers more comprehensive backlink data and keyword metrics, making it the go-to for serious link builders and enterprise SEO teams. Serpstat provides 80% of the functionality at roughly 70% of the cost, with unique features like AI-powered keyword clustering that many find more practical for day-to-day SEO work.
Feature Comparison
Ahrefs dominates in backlink analysis with its massive index of over 40 trillion links, updated every 15 minutes. Its Site Explorer shows detailed backlink profiles, while Keywords Explorer provides search volume data for 171 countries. The platform also includes Content Explorer for finding linkable content and Rank Tracker for position monitoring. Serpstat offers similar core features but with some unique advantages. Its keyword clustering feature automatically groups related keywords, saving hours of manual work during content planning. The platform includes site audit, rank tracking, and backlink analysis, plus AI-powered content optimization suggestions. However, Serpstat's backlink index is significantly smaller than Ahrefs, and its keyword data isn't as granular. Both platforms offer site audit capabilities, but Ahrefs provides more technical depth while Serpstat focuses on actionable recommendations that non-technical users can implement.
Pricing Comparison
Ahrefs starts at $99/month for the Lite plan, which includes basic keyword research and site audit for one user. The Standard plan at $199/month adds more projects and users, while Advanced ($399/month) and Agency ($999/month) plans scale up significantly. Serpstat's pricing is considerably more accessible, starting at $69/month for the Lite plan with keyword clustering and basic features. The Standard plan at $149/month includes advanced features for small agencies, while Business ($299/month) and Enterprise ($499/month) plans offer extensive limits without reaching Ahrefs' price levels. The value proposition is clear: Serpstat delivers roughly 80% of Ahrefs' functionality at 70% of the cost, making it attractive for smaller businesses and solo practitioners who need comprehensive SEO tools without enterprise-level pricing.
Best For
Ahrefs is better when you need the most comprehensive backlink data available, work with enterprise clients, or require detailed competitor analysis. It's the choice for serious link builders, large agencies, and situations where data accuracy and depth matter more than cost. Serpstat is better when you want solid all-in-one SEO functionality without premium pricing, need keyword clustering features, or prefer a more streamlined interface. It's ideal for small to medium agencies, solo practitioners, and businesses that want comprehensive SEO tools without the complexity.
The Verdict
For most SEO professionals, Serpstat offers better value. Unless you specifically need Ahrefs' superior backlink data or work with enterprise clients who demand the most comprehensive tool available, Serpstat delivers the essential SEO features you need at a more reasonable price. The keyword clustering alone saves enough time to justify the switch for many content-focused SEO strategies.