semrush vs serpstat
Semrush vs Serpstat — features, pricing, and which to choose for your SEO workflow in 2026.
Quick Verdict
Semrush and Serpstat are both comprehensive SEO platforms competing for the same market, but they serve different user needs. Semrush has established itself as the premium choice with extensive features and data accuracy, while Serpstat positions itself as the budget-friendly alternative with solid core functionality.
The key difference comes down to depth versus value. Semrush offers more advanced features, better data coverage, and stronger integrations, but at nearly double the price. Serpstat provides the essential SEO tools most users need with some unique features like AI-powered keyword clustering, making it attractive for cost-conscious teams.
Feature Comparison
Semrush delivers superior keyword research with access to over 25 billion keywords across 142 countries, while Serpstat covers about 230 million keywords across 194 countries. The data quality difference is noticeable — Semrush's keyword difficulty scores and search volume estimates are consistently more accurate based on third-party testing. Both platforms offer site audits, rank tracking, and backlink analysis, but Semrush's tools are more sophisticated. Semrush's Site Audit crawls up to 100,000 pages and provides more detailed technical recommendations. Its Backlink Audit tool is particularly strong, with better spam detection and disavow file generation. Serpstat's unique strength is its keyword clustering feature, which automatically groups related keywords — something Semrush doesn't offer natively. Content tools show the biggest gap. Semrush includes AI-powered content optimization through ContentShake AI, topic research, and content gap analysis. Serpstat offers basic content analysis but lacks the advanced content creation and optimization features that have become essential for modern SEO.
Pricing Comparison
Semrush starts at $130/month for the Pro plan, which includes 5 projects, 500 keywords to track, and 10,000 results per report. The Guru plan at $250/month adds content gap analysis and historical data. Enterprise pricing starts around $500/month with custom limits. Serpstat undercuts significantly at $69/month for the Lite plan, covering 5 projects, 300 keywords to track, and 7,000 results per report. The Standard plan at $149/month roughly matches Semrush Pro features but costs $20 more. Advanced plans go up to $299/month but still offer better value than comparable Semrush tiers.
Best For
Semrush is the better choice for agencies, enterprise teams, and businesses that need the most accurate data and comprehensive feature set. If you're doing client reporting, need advanced content tools, or require the deepest keyword database, the premium pricing pays off. It's also better for PPC management with its Google Ads integration. Serpstat works well for small businesses, solo SEOs, and startups that need solid SEO capabilities without the premium price tag. If you primarily focus on keyword research, basic site auditing, and rank tracking, Serpstat covers these needs effectively. The keyword clustering feature is genuinely useful for content planning.
The Verdict
Semrush wins for most professional use cases despite the higher cost. The data accuracy, feature depth, and regular updates justify the premium for businesses serious about SEO. However, Serpstat offers legitimate value for budget-conscious users who don't need Semrush's advanced features. If $130/month strains your budget and you can work with less comprehensive data, Serpstat delivers solid SEO functionality at nearly half the price.