This guide will help you make sense of the leading AI SEO tools and how to use them effectively. I\u2019ve been selective about tools included because I didn\u2019t want to write an article listing a bunch of AI for content creation. (I feel like this is the AI we all know about!) Instead, I\u2019ve provided a tool for as many components as AI and SEO as possible, including internal linking, technical SEO, and backlinking.<\/p>\n I\u2019ll uncover the essential features to look for in each tool you consider and share valuable insights gained from testing top solutions. Whether you’re a freelancer, in-house marketer, or consultant, this guide will help you identify the AI SEO tools that align with your goals.<\/p>\n Table of Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n I\u2019ve worked in marketing for over a decade now. My primary role is SEO, but as the co-founder of boutique SEM agency, Forank<\/a>, I also use AI tools to help manage the SEO side of my business.<\/p>\n Here are some ways in which AI supports my marketing workflows:<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n \n It\u2019s easy to get wrapped up in the AI versus humans<\/a> argument, but AI doesn’t replace humans. It enhances it through intelligent automation. AI unveils insights and optimization opportunities that would be challenging for SEO professionals to identify manually and in a timely manner.<\/p>\n AI in SEO involves using advanced algorithms, including machine learning and natural language processing, to process and analyze large volumes of data, allowing SEO professionals to optimize their SEO strategies<\/a> and automate specific tasks.<\/p>\n Simply put, AI allows SEO professionals to do the work they love while they outsource the time-consuming and mundane.<\/strong><\/p>\n The impact of AI on SEO is significant, with 98% of organizations increasing AI usage<\/a>. Better, marketers are measuring AI success in the form of ROI across many dimensions, including:<\/p>\n Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n According to HubSpot\u2019s recent State of AI report<\/a>, data shows that 86% marketers who use AI for creative ideation save an hour a day, which equates to 37 working days per year, assuming a working day is five days per week and seven hours per day.<\/p>\n Here are some of the key ways I\u2019ve used AI in my SEO process.<\/p>\n LLMs like ChatGPT and Perplexity are pretty useful for brainstorming topics based on your target audience.<\/p>\n Currently, I\u2019m using ChatGPT more than anything else.<\/p>\n To get the most out of topic brainstorms, try a strong prompt like:<\/p>\n I’m creating a content strategy for a leading [industry] brand. I need content ideas tailored to my target audience, who are [demographics, psychographics, job roles, industries].<\/em><\/p>\n They are typically at the [awareness\/consideration\/decision] stage of the buyer’s journey and struggle with [pain points, common challenges]. Their key goals are [primary objectives or motivations].<\/em><\/p>\n We\u2019ve already created content on [list existing content], and our top-performing content includes [examples or content types that have resonated well]. However, there are gaps in our content around [missing topics, underperforming themes], which we\u2019d like to address.<\/em><\/p>\n Right now, I want to focus on the topic cluster of [main topic or theme], and ideally generate ideas that explore related subtopics such as [related keywords, long-tails, semantic variations]. It would be helpful to factor in [seasonal trends, news, industry updates], if relevant.<\/em><\/p>\n Please generate ideas for the website, including [service pages, landing pages, blog posts]. The content should support our goals of [increase traffic\/drive leads\/educate\/generate backlinks\/improve engagement].<\/em><\/p>\n Our key competitors are [competitor names or content examples], and I\u2019d like to differentiate our ideas from theirs by [unique POV, targeting a niche angle, depth, storytelling, etc.].<\/em><\/p>\n We plan to promote this content primarily via [SEO and the website], so please factor this into the ideation.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Pro tip:<\/strong> if you export your sitemap to an XML file, those on ChatGPT subscriptions can provide the file, and ChatGPT will analyze and understand topics already covered, which might help the ideation process. You can also add competitor sitemaps if you\u2019re interested in closing content gaps.<\/p>\n Technical SEO can feel like a minefield. It\u2019s complex and there\u2019s nearly always a lot to do, especially on a site that\u2019s been a little neglected. Usually, it\u2019s nothing to worry about, but lots of little issues that are better resolved.<\/p>\n Technical SEO can become more palatable with AI and SEO tools that bring issues to the forefront and break down how to fix them, and how important they are.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what that looks like in HubSpot:<\/p>\n The prioritization helps you see what\u2019s high priority, how difficult it is to fix, and which role is responsible for resolving it.<\/p>\n You can complete keyword research with LLMs. It\u2019s a good way to get ideas, but I\u2019d be careful assuming that LLMs know what keyword search volumes are. Using LLMs for keyword research with a keyword research tool is best.<\/p>\n I like Semrush\u2019s Keyword Magic Tool<\/a> for this, or there\u2019s Keywords Everywhere<\/a> for a cheaper alternative.<\/p>\n Research with AI is undoubtedly faster with AI than without. Here are some use cases for how AI speeds up research:<\/p>\n Research for content briefs is made so fast with AI. The AI can do the foundations of brief creation incredibly well, so you can spend time adding value and E-E-A-T<\/a>.<\/p>\n AI tools like SurferSEO<\/a> have content optimizers that use AI. Content tools can help you spot gaps in your content to ensure you create the most detailed content on the web, giving you the best chance of ranking.<\/p>\n AI in content is nothing new. I\u2019ve used Grammarly<\/a> for years. While not an SEO tool per se, Grammarly\u2019s AI brings a lot of benefits to SEO:<\/p>\n Within Google Analytics (GA4), AI features (insights) make light work of gathering and understanding data. Instead of manually navigating to reports and filtering them, you can use natural language to ask about specific KPIs.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s an example:<\/p>\n Structured data and schema is a great use case for AI because it allows SEO teams to generate schema even if they’re not the most technical.<\/p>\n I use ChatGPT for this. I ask the tool to help me create a specific type of schema. It\u2019s useful because schema has different properties and types, and the LLM can recommend which properties can be used with which types.<\/p>\n Start by asking which properties and types you can use, then go ahead and generate the schema. The AI will do it for you.<\/p>\n Important note:<\/strong> The AI doesn\u2019t always get it right. It\u2019s important to validate the schema using the Schema Validator tool<\/a>. Also, you must check the schema with a technical SEO or schema professional who knows how to implement schema correctly. Even the Schema Validator tool can only confirm whether or not your schema is technically accurate; it cannot tell you if the properties and types are used correctly.<\/p>\n AI’s data processing capabilities can help you develop a smarter content strategy<\/a> that prioritizes and aligns with your target audience’s needs.<\/p>\n For instance, use an AI-powered toolkit to analyze survey data, customer reviews, interviews, and sales call records to uncover valuable insights for your messaging.<\/p>\n These insights will help you identify high-value keywords and topic clusters to target. Additionally, you can uncover gaps, opportunities, and trends.<\/p>\n From there, you can map out a focused content calendar that targets high-opportunity terms and create content formats that resonate with your audience.<\/p>\n While you should focus on implementing your SEO strategy, use AI to automate repetitive tasks that are challenging to manage at scale, such as:<\/p>\n For example, an AI content optimization tool can suggest improvements, but changes must always be reviewed and approved manually.<\/p>\n Before publishing your content, use an AI SEO tool to suggest and automatically create internal links within your website.<\/p>\n This can improve \u200csite structure and user experience and help distribute link equity more effectively.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n As an SEO professional, I\u2019ve been testing AI-powered tools for SEO for years. In fact, I\u2019ve written many<\/em> articles for HubSpot covering topics like this.<\/p>\n Here are two favorites:<\/p>\n I\u2019m always eager to see how the latest AI SEO tools can help me improve my SEO workflows and drive better results.<\/p>\n All that said, I\u2019m conscious that not all AI SEO tools are created equal. For this article, I\u2019ve kept my testing and recommendations fair using the following criteria:<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n While your specific needs and preferences will determine the AI SEO tool you pick, there are essential features that every dependable AI SEO tool should have.<\/p>\n To help you select the most effective solution, consider these features and capabilities:<\/p>\n Look for tools that incorporate advanced natural language processing (NLP) and deep learning algorithms.<\/p>\n As you do this, don\u2018t just take the vendor\u2019s word for it. Dig into \u200cdocumentation, examine case studies, and seek user feedback on platforms like G2 and TrustRadius.<\/p>\n A robust AI core will have a track record of success and continuous improvement.<\/p>\n The tool you choose should cover crucial aspects of SEO, from conducting in-depth keyword research<\/a> to optimizing on-page content, from performing technical site audits to tracking data to improve rankings<\/a> in real time.<\/p>\n It should also provide insights into your competitors\u2018 strategies, giving you a comprehensive view of your SEO landscape.<\/p>\n These specialized features ensure that you get generic AI assistance and targeted support for your SEO efforts.<\/p>\n No tool exists in isolation. The most effective AI SEO tools offer seamless integration capabilities through APIs and connectors, allowing them to work well with your existing tech stack.<\/p>\n The integration process should also be straightforward and cause minimal disruption to your workflow.<\/p>\n Look for tools that have established partnerships with leading platforms, which often indicates better integration possibilities.<\/p>\n Even the most advanced AI SEO tools can’t replace good old-fashioned customer support. Seek out vendors known for their reliability and commitment to product development.<\/p>\n They should offer quick, accessible technical assistance through multiple channels.<\/p>\n Finally, consider the tool’s ability to handle increasing amounts of data and usage without compromising speed or accuracy.<\/p>\n Your AI SEO tool\u2019s pricing should be flexible, offering options that fit various budgets and needs.<\/p>\n Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best, so look for a balance between cost-effectiveness and reliable performance.<\/p>\n Considering these factors, you can identify an AI SEO tool that meets your current needs and can evolve alongside your business, providing long-term value in your SEO efforts. Let\u2019s look at the 21 best AI SEO tools.<\/p>\n I have included free and paid tools to help with all parts of the SEO process, including strategy planning, content optimization, and technical SEO.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Price: <\/strong>Create a bundle<\/a><\/strong> to get a quote.<\/span><\/p>\n Best for: <\/strong>Writing marketing copy.<\/p>\n Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n I use HubSpot\u2019s suite of AI tools to work more efficiently, develop my SEO strategy, and create optimized content that ranks higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).<\/p>\n What I love about these tools is that they are designed to allow for easy transitions between manual and AI-assisted creation, giving me the best of both worlds.<\/p>\n The most impressive thing about HubSpot\u2019s AI-driven content generation tools is that they\u2019re adept at generating copy for various needs, from blog posts to landing pages to marketing emails.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how I use HubSpot:<\/strong><\/p>\n What I like:<\/strong> HubSpot\u2019s AI-powered tools are designed to complement your creative process, offering the flexibility to toggle between manual and AI-assisted content creation. It facilitates enough efficiency to produce high-quality content at scale.<\/a><\/p>\n Bonus:<\/strong> HubSpot’s Blog Ideas Generator<\/a> uses AI and Semrush keyword data to craft optimized blog post titles, outlines, and content.<\/p>\n Price: <\/strong>Free<\/span><\/p>\n Best for:<\/strong> Monitoring AI analytics.<\/p>\n Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n Speaking of HubSpot’s AI tools, we recently launched a powerful new one. AI Search Grader is a powerful free tool designed to analyze your brand for today\u2019s AI search engines.<\/p>\n This tool allows you to see how (and if) your brand shows up in AI search results and helps you understand how models \u2014 like ChatGPT and Perplexity \u2014 view your products or services.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how I use HubSpot\u2019s AI Grader:<\/strong><\/p>\n What I like:<\/strong> Let\u2018s face it \u2014 today\u2019s search landscape is pretty <\/em>tumultuous. AI Search Grader shows where you’re doing well and where you can improve to increase brand awareness and sentiment beyond traditional search.<\/p>\n Price: <\/strong>There are multiple packages for Semrush. Given the depth of my work, I\u2019ve used Guru for the last five years. The smallest package, Pro, is $139.95\/month, Guru is $249.95\/month, and Business is $499.95\/month.<\/p>\n Best for: <\/strong>Overall SEO analysis.<\/p>\n Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n Semrush is an agency-focused SEO toolset that helps develop effective SEO strategies and easily solve current SEO challenges. It\u2019s a comprehensive tool, and I log into Semrush daily<\/em>.<\/p>\n I was a Guru subscriber long before AI was part of the package, and Semrush\u2019s AI features have made it even better.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how I use Semrush\u2019s AI:<\/strong><\/p>\n What I like: <\/strong>Semrush is a comprehensive solution to tackle today’s SEO challenges head-on. I have used this tool for many years and haven\u2019t looked back; I highly recommend it!<\/p>\n Alternatives: <\/strong>Semrush is an expensive tool, so try SE Ranking if you\u2019re looking for a cheaper alternative. Over the years, I\u2019ve paid for and tried both. SE Ranking is good, but it doesn\u2019t have the largest database of keywords and backlink data compared to Semrush, and I didn\u2019t like SE Ranking\u2019s UX as much, but that\u2019s my personal preference. I didn\u2019t last long on SE Ranking and switched back within months.<\/p>\n Price: <\/strong>WriterZen\u2019s pricing is straightforward and incredible value, considering what the tool does. The starting price is $135, but I highly recommend the content creation tool, which is $270. Alternatively, you can go all in for $405, which is what I did.<\/p>\n![\"HubSpot's](\"https:\/\/no-cache.hubspot.com\/cta\/default\/53\/b5296305-8ec6-4375-8245-aadbacbd4058.png\")
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How Marketers Use AI<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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![\"bar](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-1-20250721-5815323.webp\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n1. Brainstorm topics based on your target audience.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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2. Detect and fix technical issues, such as broken links.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"screenshot](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-2-20250721-5820220.webp\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n3. Find keywords based on your chosen topics.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
4. Speed up the research process.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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5. Generate content outlines.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
6. Identify opportunities to optimize content.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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7. Analyze KPIs such as page views, clicks, and time on page.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"screenshot](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-3-20250721-1967971.webp\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n8. Generate structured data and schema markup.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
9. Build a smarter content strategy.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
10. Automate repetitive tasks.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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How I Tested the Top AI-Powered Tools for SEO<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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AI SEO Tools: Top Features in 2025<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Robust AI Core<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Tailored for SEO-Specialized Features<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Seamless Integration<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Responsive Support and Active Development<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Scalable Performance and Pricing<\/strong><\/h3>\n
14 Best AI SEO Tools<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. HubSpot AI Tools<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"hubspot](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-4-20250721-3080227.webp\" "\\"\\"")
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2. AI Search Grader<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"hubspot](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-5-20250721-3390046.webp\" "\\"\\"")
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3. Semrush<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"a](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-6-20250721-5290541.webp\" "\\"\\"")
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4. WriterZen<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"screenshot](\"http:\/\/nurseagence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ai-seo-7-20250721-1476016.webp\" "\\"\\"")
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