I’ve been thinking about using some free tools for SERP tracking, but not sure which ones are actually worth it. Anyone have experience with tools like Ahrefs Webmaster Tools or Google Search Console?
Ahrefs Webmaster Tools (AWT) is pretty solid for tracking your keywords. You can see which keywords bring traffic and even check rankings in different countries. Plus, it’s free!
ContentCraftingChris said:
Ahrefs Webmaster Tools (AWT) is pretty solid for tracking your keywords. You can see which keywords bring traffic and even check rankings in different countries. Plus, it’s free!
I’ve heard about AWT. How’s it different from Google Search Console though?
@Magdalina
GSC is good too, especially for tracking your rankings in video, news, and image search results. But AWT gives you a bit more control with filters and tracking backlinks. You should try both and see which one fits your needs.
@ContentCraftingChris
Nice! Might have to give them both a shot. Can you track multiple locations with either of them?
Magdalina said:
@ContentCraftingChris
Nice! Might have to give them both a shot. Can you track multiple locations with either of them?
Yeah, you can track by country in AWT and even go more granular with zip code tracking if you upgrade to Ahrefs Rank Tracker. GSC, on the other hand, gives you a broad view of performance by country and search type.
For quick checks, I like using the SERP Checker by Ahrefs. You just type in a keyword and see the top 10 pages in different countries without needing to sign up or anything. Super convenient.
Sadie said:
For quick checks, I like using the SERP Checker by Ahrefs. You just type in a keyword and see the top 10 pages in different countries without needing to sign up or anything. Super convenient.
That sounds handy! Does it show traffic data too or just rankings?
@Happy
It shows sample SEO data like traffic potential and domain rating for the top pages. But if you want more in-depth data, you’ll need to use the Ahrefs Toolbar or subscribe to Ahrefs.
Sadie said:
@Happy
It shows sample SEO data like traffic potential and domain rating for the top pages. But if you want more in-depth data, you’ll need to use the Ahrefs Toolbar or subscribe to Ahrefs.
So basically it’s good for a quick look but not for deeper analysis, right?
@Calvine
Exactly. It’s quick and free, but if you need deeper insights, you’ll want to upgrade or use more advanced tools.
Google Search Console is great if you’re already working on your SEO. It gives you a lot of insights into your organic traffic and even alerts you to issues that might be affecting your performance. Plus, it’s free forever.
@LillyGrace
Is GSC good for tracking click-through rates too? I want to improve my page titles and meta descriptions.
David said:
@LillyGrace
Is GSC good for tracking click-through rates too? I want to improve my page titles and meta descriptions.
Yeah, you can track your CTR on SERPs directly in GSC. It’s a great way to see which titles and descriptions need work. Just go to Performance > Search results > Search type filter, and you’ll see your CTR there.
Has anyone tried the Ahrefs Toolbar? I heard it’s good for checking SEO data right in Google Search.
LizCampbell said:
Has anyone tried the Ahrefs Toolbar? I heard it’s good for checking SEO data right in Google Search.
I’ve used it a few times. It’s awesome for showing keyword traffic potential, domain rating, and other SEO metrics without leaving the search page. Plus, you can de-personalize your search results, which is helpful for tracking accurate SERP positions.
@EdwardGenesis
That sounds super useful. Do you need an Ahrefs subscription to use it though?
LizCampbell said:
@EdwardGenesis
That sounds super useful. Do you need an Ahrefs subscription to use it though?
For basic features, like checking local search results, it’s free. But if you want the advanced SEO metrics, you’ll need a subscription.
If you’re willing to spend a little, Ahrefs Rank Tracker is amazing. You can track rankings down to the zip code level and even get daily ranking updates. It’s super useful if you want really detailed reporting.
@varencia
Is it worth paying for if you’re just starting out though? I feel like free tools should be enough at first.