Top 5 SEO Tools for Keyword Research and Analysis

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is not a single action—it is the result of a structured set of processes applied systematically. Successful SEO is achieved after implementing hundreds of factors in a well-organized manner.

These factors generally include:

• On-page SEO optimizations within the website

• Off-page SEO improvements using external tools and signals

• Keyword research, which plays a critical role in shaping content strategy

While technical infrastructure and external optimization are essential, keyword research provides the highest strategic value. Identifying the right keywords that represent your website’s content is the most important step toward expanding visibility, attracting targeted customers, and achieving sustainable growth.

At Aras Media, keyword research is the foundation of every SEO strategy we build—because ranking without search intent is meaningless.

How Is Keyword Research Done?

Keyword research is typically conducted using third-party tools, often developed by search engine partners such as Google and other advertising platforms.

There are many SEO and keyword analysis tools available on the market, but not all of them provide accurate, actionable data.

Based on years of hands-on experience, we at Aras Media have identified five of the most powerful tools for keyword research—most of them completely free or offering generous free usage.

Top 5 Keyword Research & SEO Analysis Tools

1) Google Ads Keyword Planner

Google Ads Keyword Planner is a completely free tool provided by Google. It allows you to analyze:

• keyword search volume

• competition level

• related keyword suggestions

• advertising cost range (minimum & maximum CPC)

When to Use It

Primarily used for advertising campaigns, but it is also extremely valuable for SEO research. This tool helps distinguish keywords that are suitable for PPC campaigns versus those that present strong SEO opportunities.

In other words, it creates a powerful bridge between SEO and paid advertising—a strategy we frequently apply at Aras Media.

Free or Paid?

Free. However, if ad spend is very low or inactive, Google may display limited search volume ranges instead of exact numbers.

🔗 https://ads.google.com/intl/tr_tr/home/tools/keyword-planner/

2) Answer The Public

Answer The Public is different from traditional keyword tools. Instead of showing raw keywords, it generates search-based questions related to your main keyword—based on real user queries in Google.

This tool is especially useful for:

• blog content ideas

• FAQ sections

• voice search optimization

When to Use It

With its query-based structure, it reflects natural language searches and is expected to become even more important with the rise of voice search SEO.

Free or Paid?

Completely free.

🔗 https://answerthepublic.com

3) Google Trends

Google Trends is an excellent free tool that shows:

• keyword popularity over time

• top countries and regions searching for a term

• comparisons between multiple keywords

This makes it particularly useful for local businesses and seasonal campaigns.

When to Use It

Ideal for geographic targeting, trend analysis, and identifying seasonal fluctuations in keyword demand—helping guide content and campaign planning.

Free or Paid?

100% free from Google.

🔗 https://trends.google.com/

4) Ahrefs

Ahrefs is one of the most powerful SEO tools in the world—not only for keyword research, but also for:

• backlink analysis

• competitor research

• SERP analysis

It is one of the few SEO platforms that operates with its own proprietary algorithm, making its keyword data highly reliable.

When to Use It

Perfect for advanced keyword research, competitor benchmarking, and performance measurement while building SEO strategies.

It provides:

• search volume

• keyword difficulty

• SERP results

• CPC values

Free or Paid?

Offers a 7-day trial (credit card required). Paid plans start at $99/month.

🔗 https://ahrefs.com/

5) Rank Tracker (by Link Assistant)

Rank Tracker provides detailed insights such as:

• search volume

• CPC costs

• competition level

• estimated traffic

Unlike many tools, it offers a wide range of alternative keyword discovery features.

When to Use It

When you need a complete keyword ecosystem, Rank Tracker delivers through features such as:

• suggestions from Google, Bing, Yahoo, Amazon

• integration with Google Ads & Google Search Console

• competitor keyword databases

• long-tail keyword & question generators

• spelling variations and popular substitutions

This makes Rank Tracker one of the most comprehensive keyword research tools available.

Free or Paid?

While a paid version exists, the free version is more than sufficient for most keyword research needs.

🔗 https://www.link-assistant.com/rank-tracker/

🚀 How Aras Media Uses Keyword Research to Drive Results

Keyword research is not about collecting data—it’s about turning insights into rankings and conversions.

At Aras Media, we:

• Analyze search intent, not just volume

• Combine SEO and PPC keyword intelligence

• Build content strategies around real user behavior

• Track keyword performance and adjust continuously

👉 Want a keyword strategy that actually brings traffic and sales?
Contact Aras Media today for a free SEO consultation, and let our experts build a data-driven growth plan for your business.

❓ FAQ – Keyword Research & SEO Tools

Q1: What is the most important tool for keyword research?

There is no single tool. Combining Google Keyword Planner, Google Trends, and Ahrefs provides the most accurate results.

Q2: Are free keyword tools enough for SEO?

Yes, for many projects. Free tools can deliver excellent insights when used strategically.

Q3: How often should keyword research be updated?

Every 3–6 months, or whenever there are changes in market trends or business goals.

Q4: Does Aras Media provide keyword research services?

Yes. We provide in-depth keyword research, content planning, and full SEO strategies.