Ahrefs is an all-in-one SEO platform best known for its backlink index. It helps you research keywords, analyze competitors, audit your site for technical issues, track rankings and find link-building opportunities.
In 2026 Ahrefs has expanded into AI search. Every plan now includes AI prompt checks that show whether ChatGPT, Gemini and other assistants mention your site, and the Brand Radar AI add-on tracks brand mentions across AI answers at scale.
Key features
- Site Explorer for backlinks, organic traffic, top pages and competitor analysis.
- Keywords Explorer with search volume, difficulty, intent and SERP history.
- Site Audit that crawls your site and flags technical SEO issues.
- Rank Tracker with daily or weekly position tracking.
- AI prompt checks and Brand Radar to measure visibility in AI assistants.
- Content Explorer and AI content tools to find topics and draft content.
- GSC Insights built on your Google Search Console data (Standard and above).
Ahrefs pricing
| Plan | Monthly price | Key limits | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahrefs Free | $0 | Limited Site Explorer and Site Audit for your own sites | Site owners |
| Starter | $29/month | Entry-level research access | Beginners |
| Lite | $129/month | 6 months history, 750 tracked keywords, 150 AI prompt checks | Small businesses |
| Standard | $249/month | 2 years history, 2,000 tracked keywords, 300 AI prompt checks | Freelancers and consultants |
| Advanced | $449/month | 5 years history, 5,000 tracked keywords, 600 AI prompt checks | Growing teams |
| Enterprise | $1,499/month (annual) | Unlimited history, API, SSO, audit log | Agencies and large companies |
Extra users cost $40 to $80 per month depending on plan. Brand Radar AI starts at $199 per month and Report Builder costs $99 per month. Annual billing saves up to 17% and is set up through Ahrefs support.
Our experience using Ahrefs
For backlink audits and competitor research, Ahrefs is still our first choice: the link index is huge, fresh and easy to filter, and Site Explorer makes it simple to see why a competitor outranks you. Keywords Explorer’s difficulty scores and SERP overview are reliable for planning content.
The new AI visibility features are useful for anyone working on GEO and AEO, but the most complete tracking needs the Brand Radar add-on. Small sites on a budget may find Ubersuggest or Moz easier to justify.
Who should use Ahrefs?
Ahrefs is best for SEO specialists, content marketers, link builders and agencies who need deep competitor and backlink data. Website owners can start free with Ahrefs Webmaster Tools features, while Standard is the sweet spot for most professionals.
Ahrefs vs alternatives
Ahrefs’ main rival is Semrush, which covers more marketing channels such as PPC and social. Moz is cheaper and known for Domain Authority, and Ubersuggest is the budget option. For on-page content optimization, pair Ahrefs with Surfer SEO or Frase.
Compare all AI for SEO tools and more AI for Marketing tools.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Ahrefs free?
Ahrefs offers free tools and limited free Site Explorer and Site Audit access for verified website owners. Full access needs a paid plan.
How much does Ahrefs cost?
Lite costs $129 per month, Standard $249, Advanced $449 and Enterprise $1,499 per month on annual billing. A $29 Starter plan is also available.
Does Ahrefs track AI search visibility?
Yes. Every plan includes AI prompt checks, and the Brand Radar AI add-on tracks brand mentions across AI assistants.
Is Ahrefs better than Semrush?
Ahrefs is often preferred for backlink data and link building, while Semrush covers more marketing channels such as PPC and social.
Does Ahrefs have a free trial?
Ahrefs does not offer a classic free trial, but its free tools and the $29 Starter plan let you try it cheaply.
