SEO · Head to head
Google Search Console vs Ahrefs: which is better?
Short answer
Google Search Console costs less in the first year ($0 vs $1,548). Pick Google Search Console for free Google search performance data; pick Ahrefs for backlink analysis and competitor research.
| Fact | Google Search Console | Ahrefs | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free Google search performance data | Backlink analysis and competitor research | — |
| Free plan | Yes, all features free | Yes, Ahrefs Free: data on your own site | Tie |
| Entry plan | — | Lite: $129 / mo | — |
| Mid plan | — | Standard: $249 / mo | — |
| Top plan | — | Enterprise: $1,499 / mo | — |
| 1st year | $0 | $1,548 | Google Search Console |
| Platforms | Web | Web, API | Ahrefs |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Google Search Console or Ahrefs?
Neither stands out: Google Search Console: Yes, all features free; Ahrefs: Yes, Ahrefs Free: data on your own site.
Should you pick Google Search Console or Ahrefs?
Pick Google Search Console if
- you want free Google search performance data
- the free plan is enough (all features free)
Pick Ahrefs if
- you want backlink analysis and competitor research
- the free plan is enough (Ahrefs Free: data on your own site)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Google Search Console pricing | search.google.com/search-console/about | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Ahrefs pricing | ahrefs.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare