cm – Google Keyword Planner (GKP) is one of the most well-known keyword research tools used by many SEO practitioners.
However, this tool seems to be less popular among bloggers, especially those focused more on developing organic content than paid advertising.
This article will discuss the reasons why Google Keyword Planner is less popular among bloggers and compare it with other SEO tools that are more favored.
Limitations of Google Keyword Planner
Focus on Paid Advertising: GKP is primarily designed for Google Ads needs. This means that the data provided is more relevant for paid ad campaigns than for organic SEO strategies.
Many bloggers focused on organic SEO feel that GKP does not provide enough in-depth insights for their needs.
Limited and Inaccurate Data: GKP often provides limited and not always accurate data. For example, keyword search volumes are often given in broad ranges, which is less helpful for detailed analysis.
Additionally, some relevant keywords may not appear if there is not much related ad data.
Complexity of Use: To use GKP, users must create a Google Ads account and run ad campaigns. This process can be complicated and time-consuming, especially for beginner bloggers who are not familiar with paid advertising platforms.
SEO Tools Preferred by Bloggers
SEMrush: SEMrush is one of the most popular SEO tools used by bloggers. It not only offers comprehensive keyword research but also features such as competitor analysis, site audits, and rank tracking.
SEMrush provides more detailed and accurate data compared to GKP, making it more suitable for organic SEO strategies.
Ahrefs: Ahrefs is another highly favored tool among bloggers. With its large backlink database and ability to analyze keywords and competitors.
Ahrefs provides deep insights into which keywords are most effective to use. The tool is also known for its ability to find long-tail keywords often overlooked by GKP.
Ubersuggest: Developed by Neil Patel, Ubersuggest is a popular free tool among bloggers. It offers easy-to-use keyword research features with clear search volume data, CPC, and competition levels.
Ubersuggest also helps in finding long-tail keywords and provides relevant content suggestions.
Moz Keyword Explorer: Moz offers a powerful keyword research tool with metrics such as difficulty score and potential score, helping bloggers choose the right keywords. The tool also provides related keyword suggestions and detailed SERP analysis.
Google Trends: Google Trends is another free tool from Google that provides real-time search trend data. It is very useful for bloggers to identify trending topics and plan content based on these trends.
Although not as comprehensive as other tools, Google Trends is very helpful in understanding seasonal and geographic search patterns.
Comparison Table of SEO Tools
| SEO Tool | Key Features | Advantages | Disadvantages | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Keyword Planner | Search volume, CPC, competition | Free, integration with Google Ads | Limited data, focus on paid advertising | Free |
| SEMrush | Keyword research, competitor analysis, site audit | In-depth data, many features | Expensive | Paid |
| Ahrefs | Backlink, keyword research, competitor analysis | Large database, strong backlink analysis | Expensive | Paid |
| Ubersuggest | Keyword research, content suggestions | Easy to use, long-tail keyword suggestions | Limited data in free version | Free/Paid |
| Moz Keyword Explorer | Difficulty score, potential score, SERP analysis | Useful metrics, keyword suggestions | Limited data in free version | Free/Paid |
| Google Trends | Real-time search trend data | Free, easy to use, seasonal trend data | Not as comprehensive as other tools | Free |
Conclusion
Google Keyword Planner remains a useful tool for many SEO practitioners, but it is less popular among bloggers due to several limitations.
Bloggers tend to choose tools that offer more accurate data and features better suited for organic SEO strategies.
Tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Ubersuggest provide more comprehensive and efficient solutions for keyword research and SEO analysis, making them more popular among bloggers.
Choosing the right tool largely depends on the specific needs and budget of the user. For bloggers serious about increasing organic traffic and optimizing SEO, investing in paid tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs may yield better results.
However, for those just starting out, free tools like Google Trends or Ubersuggest can be a very good starting point.
