Keyword Research Tools
Find what people are searching for. Most of these tools pull from the same data sources, so don't overthink it.
Google Search Console + Ahrefs
Search Console shows you what you're already ranking for (free, accurate). Ahrefs shows you what competitors rank for and estimates search volume. That combination covers 90% of keyword research needs.
The others are variations on a theme. Don't spend hours comparing keyword tools. Pick one and start creating content.
The Keyword Research Trap
Keyword research is where SEO projects go to die. People spend weeks in tools, building massive spreadsheets, feeling productive while accomplishing nothing. The tool isn't the bottleneck. Creating good content is.
All these tools estimate search volume from the same limited data. None of them are accurate. Use them for directional guidance, not precise planning.
All Tools in This Category
ahrefs.com/keywords-explorer
Most comprehensive keyword database. Excellent for finding what competitors rank for. Part of Ahrefs suite.
ads.google.com
Free with a Google Ads account. Actual Google data, though volume ranges are broad. Still the primary source.
alsoasked.com
Maps "People Also Ask" questions visually. Great for understanding search intent and content structure.
neilpatel.com/ubersuggest
Budget option with decent keyword suggestions. Free tier is useful. Owned by Neil Patel.
keywordtool.io
Good for autocomplete suggestions across Google, YouTube, Amazon, etc. Free version limited.
keywordinsights.ai
AI-powered keyword clustering and content briefs. Good for large-scale content planning.
lowfruits.io
Finds keywords where weak sites rank (forums, Reddit, Quora). Great for finding easy wins.
mangools.com
Clean interface, budget-friendly suite including keyword research, rank tracking, backlinks.
keysearch.co
Budget keyword tool popular with bloggers. Simple, gets the job done.
ahrefs.com/keyword-generator
Free tool from Ahrefs. Limited but useful for quick keyword ideas.
soovle.com
Autocomplete suggestions from multiple search engines at once. Simple, free.
seedkeywords.com
Crowdsources keyword ideas by asking people how they'd search. Interesting concept, limited practical value.
lsigraph.com
"LSI keywords" aren't a real thing. Google has said so. This tool perpetuates a myth.
Related Resources
Optimize content after you've chosen keywords.
Platforms that include keyword research.
Why endless keyword research kills productivity.
Help with keyword research and content planning.