Ahrefs: the benchmark for backlink analysis

Ahrefs is made for SEO freelancers and consultants who need reliable backlink data, whether for client audits, link building strategies, or analyzing why a competitor ranks better. SEO copywriters also like Keywords Explorer for finding editorial angles their competitors haven't used.

• Site Explorer: full analysis of a domain, including backlinks, estimated organic traffic and ranking keywords
• Keywords Explorer: keyword research with volume, difficulty and traffic potential data in more than 150 countries
• Site Audit: complete technical audit with an SEO health score
• Content Explorer: finds the most shared and linked content on any topic
• Ahrefs Webmaster Tools: free version for analyzing your own site

• Lite: 129 USD/month, 5 projects, limited historical data. For solo freelancers.
• Standard: 249 USD/month, 20 projects, full history.
• Advanced: 449 USD/month, unlimited projects, advanced features.

Ahrefs Webmaster Tools is free and gives you access to an audit of your own site, your backlinks and your ranking keywords. A good entry point before subscribing.

Ahrefs has the best backlink database on the market, a decisive advantage when you have to explain to a client why their competitor is beating them. The Content Gap feature (identifying keywords your competitors rank for but you don't) is especially valuable for building a well-argued content strategy.

The weak point: no French interface, and the Lite plan at 129 USD/month is as expensive as Semrush Pro for a narrower scope.

For a smaller budget, Mangools (from 18 USD/month billed annually) covers the essentials. SE Ranking is a cheaper full-featured alternative for consultants managing several clients.

→ See all Ahrefs alternatives