Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs – Introduction
Surfer SEO and Ahrefs are two of the most popular SEO tools available in the market. Both tools offer features that can help businesses improve their website’s ranking on search engines. Surfer SEO is a cloud-based tool that focuses on on-page optimization, while Ahrefs is an all-in-one SEO tool that provides a comprehensive analysis of a website’s backlink profile, keyword research, and competitor analysis.
When it comes to on-page optimization, Surfer SEO’s algorithm analyzes the top-ranking pages for a specific keyword and provides recommendations on how to optimize the content. It also provides a content editor that allows users to create content that is optimized for search engines.
On the other hand, Ahrefs provides a suite of tools for keyword research, content analysis, and backlink analysis. Its Site Explorer tool provides a comprehensive analysis of a website’s backlink profile, including the number of backlinks, referring domains, and anchor text distribution.
Both Surfer SEO and Ahrefs offer unique features that can help businesses improve their website’s ranking on search engines. The choice between the two tools ultimately depends on the specific needs of the business. Surfer SEO is ideal for businesses that are looking for a tool that focuses on on-page optimization, while Ahrefs is a comprehensive SEO tool that provides a complete analysis of a website’s backlink profile, keyword research, and competitor analysis.
What is Surfer SEO?

Surfer SEO is a cloud-based on-page optimization tool that allows users to analyze and compare their own pages against what currently ranks on the SERPs. The tool provides data-driven analysis of exactly what’s missing from a page, site, content plan, and more, instead of guessing what Google likes to rank.
Surfer SEO offers a wide range of features, including:
- Keyword research and analysis
- Content optimization recommendations
- Site structure analysis
- Competitor analysis
- Page speed analysis
- Backlink analysis
One of the key benefits of Surfer SEO is its focus on on-page optimization, which is crucial for ranking higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). By analyzing the top-ranking pages for a given keyword, Surfer SEO can provide specific recommendations for optimizing content and improving rankings.
Surfer SEO is a powerful tool for optimizing website content to outrank competitors and improve organic traffic. While it may not offer the same level of in-depth information about backlink analysis as Ahrefs, it is a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their on-page SEO.
What is Ahrefs?

Ahrefs is a popular SEO tool that provides a comprehensive suite of features to help website owners improve their search engine rankings. It is known for its extensive backlink database, which is one of the largest in the industry. With Ahrefs, users can analyze their own website as well as their competitors’ websites to identify areas for improvement.
One of the main features of Ahrefs is its Site Explorer, which allows users to see a detailed analysis of any website’s backlink profile. This includes information such as the number of backlinks, the quality of those backlinks, and the anchor text used in those backlinks. Ahrefs also provides a range of other tools, such as keyword research, content analysis, and rank tracking.
Ahrefs is a powerful tool that can provide valuable insights into a website’s SEO performance. However, it is important to note that Ahrefs is primarily focused on backlink analysis, whereas other tools such as Surfer SEO may offer more in-depth on-page optimization features. When comparing Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs, it is important to consider the specific needs of your website and choose the tool that best meets those needs.
Surfer SEO Main Features
Surfer SEO is an SEO tool that provides a variety of features to help users optimize their website content. Here are some of the main features of Surfer SEO:
Content Editor

The Content Editor is a tool that allows users to optimize their website content for specific keywords. It provides a list of recommended changes to the content, such as adding or removing keywords, changing the length of the content, and adjusting the formatting. The Content Editor also provides a score for the content, indicating how well it is optimized for the target keyword.
Keyword Research

The Keyword Research tool allows users to find the best keywords for their website. Users can enter a keyword and the tool will provide a list of related keywords, along with information on their search volume and competition level. The tool also provides suggestions for content topics based on the selected keyword.
SERP Analyzer

The SERP Analyzer is a tool that provides a detailed breakdown of the search engine results page (SERP) for a specific keyword. It provides information on the average word count, keyword density, use of partial match keywords, hidden content, page speed, character count in title tags, and alt text. The tool also provides a list of the top-ranking pages for the selected keyword, along with information on their backlinks and social signals.
Overall, Surfer SEO offers a range of features to help users optimize their website content for specific keywords. While it may not have the same level of backlink analysis and competitor research as Ahrefs, it is a powerful tool for on-page optimization.
Ahrefs Main Features
Ahrefs Rank Tracker
Ahrefs offers a rank tracker that allows users to monitor their website’s search engine rankings over time. The tool provides daily updates and allows users to track up to 10,000 keywords per project. The rank tracker also provides insights into keyword difficulty, search volume, and click-through rates. Users can also track their competitors’ rankings and compare them to their own.
Ahrefs Site Explorer

Ahrefs Site Explorer is a comprehensive tool that provides users with a detailed analysis of their website’s backlink profile. The tool allows users to see which websites are linking to their site, as well as the quality and relevance of those links. Site Explorer also provides insights into the top pages on a website, the organic search traffic they receive, and the keywords they rank for.
Keyword Explorer

Ahrefs’ Keyword Explorer is a powerful tool that allows users to find new keyword opportunities and analyze their competitors’ keyword strategies. The tool provides accurate search volume data, as well as insights into keyword difficulty, click-through rates, and cost-per-click. Users can also see which websites are ranking for specific keywords and analyze their content to gain insights into their strategy.
Overall, Ahrefs provides a comprehensive suite of tools for SEO professionals and website owners. While it may not be as focused on on-page SEO as Surfer SEO, its backlink analysis tools and keyword research capabilities make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their website’s search engine rankings. When it comes to surfer seo vs ahrefs, it ultimately depends on the specific needs of the user and their budget.
Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs: Pricing Plans
Surfer SEO Pricing Plans
Surfer SEO offers different pricing plans that can suit different budgets and needs. These plans are:

- Hobby plan: This plan costs $29 per month and offers limited features.
- Basic plan: This plan costs $59 per month and offers more features than the Hobby plan.
- Pro plan: This plan costs $99 per month and includes all Basic features, as well as additional features such as content editor and SERP analyzer.
- Business plan: This plan costs $199 per month and includes all Pro features, plus additional features such as API access and white-label reports.
- Business Plus plan: This plan is the most expensive at $649 per month and includes all Business features, as well as priority support and custom limits.
Ahrefs Pricing Plans
Ahrefs has four pricing plans that cater to different needs and budgets. These plans are:

- Lite plan: This plan costs $99 per month and provides limited features such as 5 campaigns and 500 tracked keywords.
- Standard plan: This plan costs $179 per month and includes all Lite features, as well as additional features such as 10 campaigns and 1,500 tracked keywords.
- Advanced plan: This plan costs $399 per month and includes all Standard features, as well as additional features such as 25 campaigns and 4,000 tracked keywords.
- Agency plan: This plan is the most expensive at $999 per month and includes all Advanced features, as well as additional features such as 100 campaigns and 10,000 tracked keywords.
In terms of pricing, Surfer SEO is more affordable than Ahrefs. However, Ahrefs offers more features and is better suited for larger businesses or agencies with more complex needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the specific needs and budget of the user.
Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs Conclusion
Both Surfer SEO and Ahrefs have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Surfer SEO is an excellent tool for on-page optimization and keyword research, while Ahrefs is a comprehensive suite of tools for backlink analysis and competitor research.
When it comes to choosing between the two, it really depends on what your specific needs are. If you’re looking to optimize your website’s content and improve search engine visibility, Surfer SEO is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a tool to help with backlink analysis and competitor research, Ahrefs is the better choice.
It’s worth noting that both tools come with a price tag, so it’s important to consider your budget when making a decision. Surfer SEO starts at $29 per month, while Ahrefs starts at $99 per month.
Ultimately, the decision between Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs comes down to what you need and what you can afford. Both tools are powerful and effective in their own ways, so it’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your business.
Surfer SEO vs Ahrefs – FAQ
Which tool is better for keyword research?
Ahrefs is generally considered to be better for keyword research due to its vast keyword database and accurate search volume data.
Can I try Surfer SEO or Ahrefs before buying?
Yes, both Surfer SEO and Ahrefs offer free trials for new users to test out their features and capabilities before committing to a paid plan.
Can I use Surfer SEO and Ahrefs together?
Yes, both tools can be used together to gain a more complete picture of a website’s SEO performance and identify areas for improvement.
Are there any other similar tools to Surfer SEO and Ahrefs?
Yes, there are several other popular SEO tools, such as SEMrush, Moz, and Google Analytics, which offer similar features and capabilities for optimizing websites for search engines.

I’m Jesse Geitzmuni, a 29-year-old internet marketer with 10+ years of experience. I mostly focus on eCommerce, affiliate marketing, cryptocurrency, seo, print-on-demand, and nowadays I’m dabbling with artificial intelligence. My expertise in these areas has earned me a reputation as a knowledgeable expert. I share my insights and strategies through my blog to help others succeed in the ever-evolving world of online marketing. Read more…