Keyword Rank Tracking: Semrush vs Ahrefs - Who is More Accurate?

1.Overview of Semrush and Ahrefs

1.1. Introduction to Semrush

Semrush , launched in 2008, started out as a simple SEO tool but has quickly grown into a comprehensive digital marketing platform. Initially focused on keyword and competitor analysis, Semrush has expanded into other areas such as backlink analysis, website auditing, social media management, and content marketing. To date, Semrush has served millions of users worldwide, from individual SEOers to large enterprises.

One of the standout features of Semrush is its powerful keyword ranking tracking capabilities. This tool allows users to monitor a website’s position in Google search results for a list of target keywords. Semrush provides detailed data on rankings over time, ranking fluctuations, and competitor analysis. In particular, the ability to track rankings by geographic location and across multiple devices (desktop, mobile) gives users a comprehensive view of SEO performance.

1.2. Introducing Ahrefs

Ahrefs , founded in 2011, has quickly established itself as one of the leading SEO tools, especially known for its in-depth backlink analysis. Ahrefs offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including competitor analysis, keyword research, website auditing, and rank tracking. Its massive backlink database and the ever-evolving AhrefsBot crawler have made Ahrefs a valuable resource for SEO professionals around the world.

In addition to backlink analysis, Ahrefs also offers an effective keyword ranking tracking feature, known as Rank Tracker. This tool allows users to track the position of a website in search results for target keywords, providing information on ranking history and ranking fluctuations. Ahrefs also updates ranking data regularly, although the frequency may vary depending on the service package the user subscribes to, thereby helping users to promptly grasp changes in search results rankings and adjust SEO strategies accordingly.

2. Detailed comparison of rank tracking capabilities between Semrush and Ahrefs

2.1. Data Accuracy

Semrush uses a massive keyword database of over 25 billion keywords from around the world. It collects data by scanning search results from engines like Google, updating keyword positions daily or on demand. SEMrush is particularly strong in its ability to provide real-time data for SEO campaigns, helping users quickly detect changes in rankings and adjust strategies accordingly.

Ahrefs stands out for its accuracy, especially on local keywords. It uses Rank Tracker to update rankings weekly, and incorporates data directly from Google. Ahrefs scores high on its ability to track detailed rankings by geographic location and specific devices, helping SEOs accurately assess keyword performance.

In terms of update speed and data refresh frequency , Semrush often has the advantage . Semrush updates data daily for popular keywords and allows for on-demand updates, helping users grasp ranking fluctuations quickly. Meanwhile, Ahrefs' update frequency depends on the service package that users subscribe to, from every 3 days to daily. This means that Semrush often reflects ranking fluctuations faster than Ahrefs, which is especially important in highly competitive markets or when there are major changes in search algorithms.

2.2. Data sources

Semrush: Using data from multiple sources

Semrush uses a complex data collection system that combines multiple sources to ensure comprehensiveness and accuracy. The highlight is the use of clickstream data, which collects information about user search behavior. In addition, SEMrush also uses data from search bots, data from third-party providers, and self-collected information. This diversity helps SEMrush get the full picture and minimize errors caused by relying on a single source.
Ahrefs: Relying on crawling bots

Ahrefs uses AhrefsBot, a powerful web crawler, to build its keyword and backlink database. AhrefsBot regularly crawls billions of web pages, providing fast search data updates and keyword performance metrics. However, relying on bots means that the data mostly reflects theoretical results rather than actual user behavior.
Semrush’s clickstream data has the advantage of accurately reflecting user behavior, helping businesses optimize their strategies more specifically. In contrast, AhrefsBot focuses on collecting comprehensive data from the web, which is suitable for technical analysis but can be less accurate in estimating real traffic.

2.3. Ability to track competitors

Semrush: Compare Keyword Rankings with Competitors

Semrush offers a "Position Tracking" feature that helps compare keyword rankings between your website and your competitors. This tool allows you to import a list of direct competitors to track, clearly showing rankings, position differences, and changes over time. SEMrush also supports SERP Features analysis, helping you determine the position of keywords in featured snippets, knowledge panels, or ads, thereby optimizing your SEO strategy more accurately.
Ahrefs: Track Your Competitors' Keyword Strategy

Ahrefs stands out for its ability to analyze your competitors' keyword strategies through its "Site Explorer" tool. You can see the top keywords that bring in the most traffic to your competitors, along with their respective rankings. Ahrefs also tracks backlinks related to those keywords, providing deeper insight into your competitors' content strategy.
Comparison : Sem rush is strong in direct comparison and tracking rankings for specific keywords, suitable for step-by-step competitive strategies. Meanwhile, Ahrefs focuses on comprehensive analysis of SEO strategies, helping to identify long-term competitive opportunities.

2.4. Reporting and data export

Semrush supports exporting detailed reports in many formats such as PDF, Excel, and Google Sheets. This tool provides ready-made custom report templates or allows you to design your own reports according to your needs. Special features such as "My Reports" help Semrush score with businesses that need to send periodic reports, easily integrate logos and brand styles to increase professionalism.

Ahrefs also offers data export and reporting capabilities, however, the level of customization may not be as great as SEMrush. Ahrefs allows exporting data in CSV and Excel formats, and offers pre-designed reports for key features like Site Explorer, Keywords Explorer, and Content Explorer.

Comparison : Semrush is superior in terms of flexibility in creating reports thanks to its high level of customization and integration with Google Data Studio. Ahrefs focuses on providing accurate data and clear reports, but customization is more limited.

3. Keyword Rank Tracking: Semrush vs Ahrefs - Who is More Accurate?

Choosing an effective keyword rank tracking tool is a key factor in SEO. SEMrush and Ahrefs are the two leading candidates, but the accuracy of each tool is still a subject of debate. To evaluate objectively and make information easily accessible to readers, we need to analyze based on specific criteria.

Semrush:  Semrush is known for its rich data, including clickstream data, which allows for traffic estimates and search trends. This helps SEMrush understand keyword popularity, but can sometimes lead to slight deviations from actual rankings on SERPs. SEMrush has the advantage of being able to track rankings across multiple devices and geographies.
Ahrefs : Ahrefs focuses on robust backlink data and the AhrefsBot bot system that works around the clock. While known for its backlink analysis, Ahrefs also offers rank tracking. However, accuracy can fluctuate depending on how often the bot crawls and how competitive the keyword is. Ahrefs is strong in competitive analysis through ranking data.
So which is more accurate? It’s hard to say for sure which tool is more accurate. Both use different methodologies and can produce different results. Instead of arguing about “which is more accurate,” use both SEMrush and Ahrefs flexibly and effectively. Combining data from both tools, along with real-world testing on Google, will help you get a comprehensive view and make informed SEO decisions. Don’t get caught up in pointless debates, and focus on the ultimate goal: improving your website rankings in a sustainable way.

4. Conclusion

Which tool you choose depends on your specific needs and goals. SEMrush excels in versatility and comprehensive analysis, while Ahrefs is strong in backlink analysis and keyword research. Don’t hesitate to experiment with both to find the tool that best suits your SEO strategy. And if you need in-depth advice or want to upgrade to SEO tool packages at the most preferential prices, contact SaDesign immediately for dedicated support.