Fast answer
Start with free search console data and lower-cost SEO tools before paying for a premium suite. Upgrade to Semrush when keyword gaps, competitor research, and rank tracking can directly improve revenue pages.
Tool categories
- Free indexing and query data: Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools.
- Low-cost rank tracking and keyword research: tools such as Mangools or SE Ranking.
- Premium competitive research: Semrush when the site has enough pages to optimize.
Rule
If there are fewer than 20 useful pages live, publish more before over-optimizing.