Ahrefs vs Yoast SEO
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Ahrefs and Yoast SEO are credible seo tools tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Ahrefs — All-in-one SEO toolset with a huge backlink index.
Choose Yoast SEO if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $99/yr) and a free plan to start on. The original WordPress SEO plugin.
Ahrefs vs Yoast SEO: side by side
| Dimension | Ahrefs | Yoast SEO |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $129/mo | Free – $99/yrWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Seo Pros, Agencies, Content Teams | Bloggers, Smb |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Web |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 |
Ahrefs key facts
- Vendor
- Ahrefs Pte. Ltd.
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $129/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Seo Pros, Agencies, Content Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Singapore
Yoast SEO key facts
- Vendor
- Yoast
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $99/yr
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web
- Best for
- Bloggers, Smb
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Wijchen, Netherlands
Frequently asked questions
Is Ahrefs better than Yoast SEO?
Neither is universally better — Yoast SEO edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Ahrefs or Yoast SEO cheaper?
Yoast SEO is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $99/yr. Ahrefs starts at from $129/mo; Yoast SEO starts at free – $99/yr.
Can Ahrefs replace Yoast SEO?
Yes for most teams — both are seo tools tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.