When conducting Search Engine Optimization, Ahrefs, and Semrush are two of the most popular tools among marketers, agencies, and websites.
Both tools enable you to gain valuable insights into keyword research, backlink analysis, and overall SEO performance.
However, one common confusion among users is why search volumes are so different on Ahrefs compared to Semrush.
In this blog, we’ve mentioned the legitimate reasons behind these differences. Let’s begin!
Top 5 Reasons Why Search Volumes on Ahrefs and Semrush are Different
Below, we’ve mentioned five reasons why search volumes on Ahrefs and Semrush are different.
1. Differences in Data Sources
One of the crucial reasons for the difference in search volume between Ahref and Semrush is the differences in data sources.
Ahref has its own extensive index of live search data with billions of keywords sourced from its crawler. It also uses data from various other search engines. Hence, this comprehensive approach enables A Href to provide insights into search behavior directly using the source.
Semrush uses data from multiple sources, such as its user database, partners, and third-party data providers. This may lead you to determine inflated or deflated search volume numbers based on data collection methods and the types of users contributing to the dataset.
2. Keyword Filtering and Grouping
Every tool utilizes different ways to define and categorize keywords, and this may also lead to differences in search volume.
Ahrefs lists keywords in a broader context and includes variations and long-tail keywords. It is a comprehensive approach that may lead to higher search volume figures for certain keywords. Hence, it is more prominent in providing keywords than Semrush.
Semrush uses more strict feature filters and categorization methods that may help you group keywords differently. For instance, if Semrush combines related keywords into a single metric, the search volume might appear lower, as it demonstrates a more limited data set.
3. Geographic Focus and Localization
Though both tools have global reach, they may focus on different regions and languages based on data collection efforts.
Ahref usually has a stronger emphasis on specified markets and languages, mainly in English-native countries. Hence, if you’re targeting an audience for a specified niche or a country, Ahrefs may provide more accurate insights.
Semrush is more prominent in providing local databases for numerous countries, which may result in different volume figures for keywords due to their varying popularity in different regions. In simple words, when the keyword ranks in one area but not in another, this may clearly lead to discrepancies.
4. Historical Data and Trends
Both tools have different historical data that they use to calculate search volumes.
Ahrefs mainly relies on current trends and live data to represent search volumes based on real-time search behavior. Hence, this tool may help you better capture the seasonal fluctuations and sudden spikes.
Semrush mainly relied on historical averages that disabled them to capture any recent surge or declines. This can create differences between both.
5. Use Case and Target Audience
Last but not least, differences in search volume can also be possible due to specific use cases and target audiences for each tool.
Ahrefs is mainly preferred by content marketers and SEO professionals who focus on organic search. Their main goals are to determine keyword difficulty and potential traffic.
Semrush provides a broader focus and is mainly used by PPC advertisers and for crafting overall digital marketing strategies. Hence, this may affect keyword data presentation.
Conclusion
In summary, the differences in search volumes between Ahrefs and Semrush are mainly due to these five factors. These reasons clearly indicate that no single tool can be absolutely correct.
Therefore, it is better to use multiple tools to accurately gain more valuable insights that may help you make informed SEO decisions. We hope this blog helps you understand why there is a difference between Semrush and Ahrefs for keyword research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which tool is more accurate Semrush vs Ahrefs?
According to past recorded data, Semrush provides more accurate data than Ahrefs.
Q. How accurate is Semrush?
According to a competitive study conducted by Semrush itself in the USA, the Semrush tool provides the most accurate insights among all the leading competitors.
Q. What is the weakness of Semrush?
One of the major weaknesses of the Semrush tool is its confusing interface, which is not user-friendly at all. This may lead users to face navigation difficulties and not properly understand the toolset.
Q. How does Ahrefs calculate search volume?
Ahrefs fundamentally utilizes Google Keywords Planner data to build the model. This data is mainly used in every third-party keyword tool. This enables Ahrefs to calculate the search volume as per the 12-month average. However, you may even change the search volume graph period from the last year to the last two years and more.
Q. Which search volume is best?
A good search volume depends on factors such as keyword competitiveness, cost, and potential business value. For instance, a keyword with even 100 monthly searches may be good if it comes with low competition, low cost, and high value. This volume is more quality and may lead you to drive quality traffic to your site and even convert.