9 Best Keyword Tracking Tools in 2025

Every agency has been there—clients asking, “Where do we rank?” and expecting an immediate, confident answer. Without SEO rank tracking software, responding to that question means scrambling through search results, manually checking keyword positions, or relying on outdated reports. That’s not just inefficient—it’s a surefire way to lose trust.

Rank tracking, the process of monitoring keyword positions over time, is how agencies prove they’re making those things happen. 

Rather than attempting to keep track of positioning manually, most agencies use rank tracking tools to automate the process. These SEO tools monitor keyword movements as they shift, giving clients up-to-date insights on their performance in search engine results pages. In this article, we’ll share a curated list of the best SEO rank tracking software, highlighting standout features and potential drawbacks to help you find the best fit for your team. 

The Best Keyword Tracking Tools: A Quick Comparison 

Want to skip ahead? Head straight to our tool reviews here:

1. AgencyAnalytics – Purpose-built for digital marketing agencies.

2. Semrush – A comprehensive tool for overall rank analysis. 

3. Moz Pro – A solid choice for those advanced integrations. 

4. Ahrefs – A powerful tool for in-depth keyword analysis.

5. Mongools – A user-friendly option for targeting low-volume keywords.

6. The Hoth – A solid choice for handling high-volume keyword tracking. 

7. RankTracker – A scalable solution for enterprise SEO needs.

8. Keyword.com – A reliable free option for basic keyword tracking.

9. Nightwatch – A focused tool for local SEO tracking. 

What is Rank Tracking in SEO?

Rank tracking is a key SEO analysis task that involves monitoring where a website or web page appears in search engine results for target keywords. Most rank-tracking tools include features like keyword position monitoring, SERP analysis, competitor tracking, and reporting. While they share similarities with keyword research tools and all-in-one SEO platforms, rank tracking software focuses specifically on how a site ranks for chosen keywords over time. 

Rank tracking is of utmost importance for agencies and their clients. It provides the data needed to measure SEO success, validate strategies, and uncover optimization opportunities before rankings decline. Without accurate SEO rank tracking, agencies risk making decisions in the dark, missing critical changes, and failing to prove their impact to clients.  

Keyword ranking is usually the most impactful, and clients want to see this number continually moving up or remaining steady in a high position.

Bec Moloney, Senior Account Manager, Redsteps Consulting

Why Rank Tracking is So Important That It’s Non-Negotiable

Every client wants to see their website climbing search rankings and their organic traffic growing—but they don’t just want to hear that rankings are improving. They expect clear, verifiable proof that their SEO investment is paying off. 

As an SEO consultant, evaluating how well various SEO strategies are working is essential. To retain my clients, I need to be able to show them that their rankings are improving over time.

Kelly Fitzgerald, Founder, Savvy Marketing Services

Manually tracking rankings is unreliable, time-consuming, and riddled with inaccuracies. Personalization factors, algorithm updates, and search volatility affect rankings in ways that make manual tracking ineffective (we’ll cover these challenges in the next section). Without an automated rank tracking tool, agencies risk misreading performance trends, reacting too late to ranking drops, and missing competitor shifts.

A good rank tracking tool provides real-time, accurate data, eliminating the guesswork. It helps agencies demonstrate SEO wins, identify content issues, and fine-tune strategies before rankings decline. Moreover, providing precise ranking data helps build client trust and strengthen long-term relationships. 

Personalized vs. True Rankings: How Rank Tracking Software Ensures Accuracy

Ever wonder why two people searching for the same keyword get different results? That’s because the SERPs personalize results based on several different factors, like: 

• Geographic location

• Search and browsing history

• Social media activity

• Device type

• Date and time

• Data center processing the search

• Language settings 

Because of these variables, a website’s ranking position may vary significantly, so what data do you present clients with? 

The beauty of SEO rank tracking tools is that they bypass these variables to give an accurate picture of what the average user sees. 

Let’s explore some of these personalization factors in more detail: 

Search Location 

Google and other search engines prioritize local relevance, meaning the same keyword will yield different results depending on where the user searches from. 

For example, searching “pizza” in New York City will pull up pizzerias in NYC, while searching “pizza” in Los Angeles will show L.A.-based restaurants instead. The same logic applies to service-based businesses, retail stores, and content recommendations—Google tailors results to what’s most relevant for users in a specific location.

Local SEO humanizes and brings local businesses closer to their target audience in an increasingly globalized, digitalized, and competitive business context.

Anthony Guilhem, President, Momentumm Digital

Search Intent

Search engines don’t just personalize results based on location—they also interpret search intent differently depending on where the search happens.  

For example, a search for "chips" in Canada returns only one image of fries (since ‘chips’ usually refers to potato chips in Canada).

However, searching for "chips" in Australia shows fries in 8 out of 12 images, as Australians use the word ‘chips’ to describe potato fries (as in “Fish and Chips”).

This is a perfect example of how Google always tries to show you what it thinks you want to see based on language, cultural norms, and common search patterns in a given region.

Search History and User Behavior 

Search engines know a lot about you. They track your user behavior to personalize search results—especially if you use their other services. Google, for example, gathers data from Chrome, YouTube, Maps, Gmail, and more to tailor what you see in search results. 

Since Google is primarily an advertising business (raking in $146 billion from ads in 2020), it invests heavily in understanding user behavior. One way this affects rankings is by prioritizing sites you’ve visited frequently, making them appear higher in your search results than they would for someone else.

This personalization makes manual rank checking even more unreliable. Without SEO rank tracking tools, there’s no way to see where a site truly ranks. 

A Combination of Personalization Factors  

Even if you try your best to figure out what’s influencing different search results, the problem is that search engines combine multiple signals to tailor what you see. 

For example, searching for “pizza” likely brings up a local map with nearby restaurants. If you search for “cerveza” (meaning beer) while your browser is set to English, Google may translate the word before showing results.

Often, these adjustments happen simultaneously. A single search could trigger translations, local business listings, pages you’ve visited before, and other personalized content—all of which influence what appears on your screen. 

Why VPNs and Incognito Mode Don’t Yield Accurate Rankings  

You could attempt to bypass search personalization with a VPN or Incognito Mode, hoping to see unbiased rankings. But while these methods can change your location settings, they don’t completely erase your digital fingerprint.

Even with a VPN, Google and other search engines still track your:

• Device type and specifications

• Browser settings and preferences

• Search and browsing history (outside of Incognito Mode)

• Cookies stored before entering Incognito Mode

• Unique identifiers from your internet connection

Because of this, simply using a VPN or Incognito Mode won’t provide an accurate, unbiased view of search rankings. The only way to see precise keyword rankings—without these personalization factors interfering—is to use a dedicated SEO rank checker. 

AI Search is Here: What It Means for Search Engines 

Another thing to keep in mind is that AI-driven search is changing how rankings work altogether. Personalization isn’t the only factor affecting visibility—AI-powered search engines are now reshaping how users search too. 

AI-driven search is reshaping how people find information online. Instead of showing a list of links, AI-powered search engines generate direct answers, summaries, and insights pulled from multiple sources. 

Google’s AI Overviews (formerly Search Generative Experience) display AI-generated summaries at the top of search results, reducing users' need to click through to websites. Meanwhile, competitors like Perplexity AI and Microsoft’s AI-powered Bing are reshaping search beyond Google’s dominance.

For agencies, this means rankings aren’t just about blue links anymore. Clients need visibility in AI-generated search results, making it just as important to track presence in AI overviews as monitoring traditional SERPs.

While it’s still early, agencies that adapt now will be better positioned as AI-driven search evolves.

What Makes The Best Rank Tracking Tool?

Now that you know why rank tracking software is necessary, how do you pick the right tool? Choosing the right one isn’t just about tracking keyword positions—it’s about ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and seamless reporting for clients. 

Here are a few key features to look for when looking for search engine rank tracking software: 

• Accurate Rank Tracking: Ensures keyword rankings are measured without personalization factors skewing the data.

• Local & Global Tracking: Tracks rankings at both national and local levels—essential for agencies managing clients in different markets.

• Mobile & Desktop Tracking: Monitors rankings across devices, as search results often vary between mobile and desktop.

• Competitor Analysis: Provides insights into how client rankings compare to competitors, helping you identify opportunities.

• Daily Keyword Rank Tracking: Captures fluctuations over time so your team stays ahead of ranking changes.

• Historical Data & Trends: Helps measure long-term SEO progress and adjust strategies accordingly.

• Automated Reporting: Saves time by generating professional, white labeled reports that keep clients informed.

• SERP Feature Tracking: Monitors featured snippets, AI overviews, local packs, and other SERP elements beyond traditional rankings.

• Third-Party Integrations: Seamlessly connects with SEO, PPC, and analytics tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and Semrush.

• Strong Customer Support: Provides reliable customer support to help resolve technical issues, receive platform guidance, and troubleshoot issues. 

The Best Keyword Ranking Tools   

Now, let’s dive into our curated list of the best rank tracking tools for 2025 and what makes each one stand out. 

1. AgencyAnalytics

AgencyAnalytics’ Rank Tracker delivers precise, daily keyword rankings by running real-time searches, ensuring agencies get the most accurate, up-to-date results—without relying on third-party APIs. 

Its intuitive interface makes it easy for both agency teams and clients to track keyword rankings across specific locations, languages, and devices, with built-in mobile vs. desktop tracking for deeper insights. Using proxies to perform searches eliminates personalization biases, giving agencies an accurate, unbiased view of search engine rankings.

What truly sets AgencyAnalytics apart is that it’s more than just a rank tracking tool—it’s a full-service reporting platform built for marketing agencies. AgencyAnalytics is the only tool on this list designed to integrate with over 80 marketing platforms, helping agencies analyze SEO rankings alongside PPC, social media, email campaigns, and more to deliver a holistic view of client performance.

Its white label reports and dashboards further enhance client communication, allowing you to generate automated, professional reports tailored to each client’s needs. With highly praised customer support, AgencyAnalytics stands out as the ultimate agency reporting and management solution, giving agencies everything they need to track, analyze, and showcase their SEO success.  

We found that our clients needed a nice visual report that clearly showed the improvements in traffic and keyword rankings each month. AgencyAnalytics offers reports that are simple to understand for clients with zero SEO knowledge. They can still see how our work has helped benefit their website.

Guy Hudson, Founder, Bespoke Marketing Plans

Pricing: Client reporting plans start at $59/month, supporting 5 staff users and unlimited client users. The AgencyAnalytics Rank Tracker can be added to all AgencyAnalytics plans for $50/mo for 500 keywords. 

2. Semrush

Semrush is a powerhouse for keyword rank tracking, offering detailed competitor analysis, local SEO tracking, and a massive keyword database. It’s a good option for agencies that need in-depth ranking insights and are willing to invest in a feature-heavy SEO platform.

However, its complex interface and steep pricing make it less accessible for agencies that need straightforward rank tracking software. Even though the platform is rich with data, users complain that it’s not always intuitive, which means new users may struggle with the learning curve. Additionally, its reporting tools don’t always integrate seamlessly across PPC, social, and other marketing channels, requiring extra effort to consolidate data.

Semrush delivers powerful tracking and analytics for agencies focused solely on SEO. But its complexity and cost may be worth reconsidering for those juggling multiple digital marketing disciplines.

Pricing: Plans start at $139.95/month for 500 keywords, and each additional user costs $45 per month, making it one of the pricier options for rank tracking software. 

Discover how AgencyAnalytics compares to Semrush in this article. 

3. Moz Pro

Moz Pro stands out for its intuitive interface and educational resources, making it a solid agency rank tracking software for teams wanting to avoid a steep learning curve. It’s designed to help users track rankings, optimize on-page SEO, and improve local search visibility, all while offering helpful insights through its Moz Blog and Academy.

Despite its usability, Moz Pro has certain limitations that may not make it the best fit for every agency. The lower-tier plans limit the number of target keywords you can track and seem to lack robust historical data. Some users find its data refresh rates slower than other rank tracking tools, making it less ideal for agencies that need daily keyword rank tracking. When it comes to client reporting, users have also flagged that Moz provides fewer data points in client reports compared to other tools. 

For agencies that want a simpler alternative to complex tools like Semrush, Moz Pro is a reliable option—just be sure to weigh its pricing and feature limitations against your specific needs.

Pricing: Moz Pro’s pricing starts at $49/month for 50 keywords. 

4. Ahrefs

Ahrefs is a search rank tracking software similar to Semrush. Its keyword rank checker helps agencies track target keyword rankings for any domain. A benefit of Ahrefs is that it takes matters a step further by offering city and town-level tracking, making it a strong choice for agencies focused on local keyword rankings. While Semrush concentrates solely on Google, Ahrefs provides ranking data from up to 10 search engines.  

However, Ahrefs has a steep learning curve, and its interface isn’t as beginner-friendly as other best rank tracking software. The lack of a free trial and a mobile app are also drawbacks for some users. 

While Ahrefs is consistently mentioned as one of the best rank tracking tools, agencies should factor in the added costs and usability challenges before committing to the software. 

Pricing: Aherfs pricing starts at $129/month and includes up to 750 keywords for 1 user. Up to 2 additional users can be added at $40 /mo per user.

Want to combine Ahrefs data with AgencyAnalytics’ stunning client reports? See what you can do with the AgencyAnalytics Ahrefs integration. Try it free for 14 days. 

To learn more on how to create Ahrefs reports with AgencyAnalytics, read this article. 

5. Mangools (SERP Watcher)

Mangools is a cost-effective rank tracking tool that offers basic keyword tracking, SERP analysis, and local SEO insights. Its user-friendly interface makes it appealing for agencies that don’t need an overly complex platform. The tool also includes daily rank tracking and keyword position history, helping agencies monitor performance quickly. 

However, Mangools lacks the advanced features of competitors like Semrush or Ahrefs. It doesn’t offer in-depth competitor analysis or multi-channel reporting, making it less suitable for agencies managing large-scale SEO projects. Third-party integrations are also somewhat limited, which may require extra manual work to consolidate reporting.

For agencies looking for simple, budget-friendly keyword rank tracking software, Mangools is a viable option—but those needing enterprise rank tracking software may find it too limited.

Pricing: Starts at $49/month for 100 keywords. 

6. The Hoth

The HOTH is primarily known for offering managed SEO services, but it also offers a rank tracking tool that provides daily keyword tracking, local SEO monitoring, and automated reporting. This tool is designed for agencies looking to outsource SEO tasks while they focus on other core capabilities. 

As for drawbacks, The HOTH’s rank tracking tool lacks advanced competitor analysis, and its reporting features are fairly basic compared to more robust platforms. Since the company focuses more on done-for-you SEO services, agencies needing hands-on rank tracking software with customizable reporting may find it lacking.

The HOTH is a good option for agencies seeking a set-it-and-forget-it SEO solution. However, other tools may be a better fit for those who prefer direct control over keyword tracking and analysis.

Pricing: The HOTH’s keyword rank tracking tool is included with its SEO packages; no standalone pricing is listed.

7. RankTracker 

Rank Tracker is a keyword rank tracking tool that allows agencies to track unlimited target keywords, making it a strong choice for those managing high-volume SEO campaigns. It offers SERP analysis, local and global tracking, and competitor comparison.

While it offers much flexibility, several product reviewers consider Rank Tracker's interface clunky. Its setup can be overwhelming for agencies looking for a more streamlined experience. Additionally, because it’s a desktop-based tool rather than cloud-based, data syncing and collaboration across teams is more challenging.

Rank Tracker is a solid option for agencies needing a cost-effective solution for bulk keyword tracking. But those who prefer cloud-based SEO rank tracking tools with a more intuitive interface may want to explore other site rank tracking software.  

Pricing: $24/month for 200 keywords. 

8. Keyword.com

Keyword.com is free rank tracking software that focuses on daily keyword tracking and competitor monitoring. It’s a lightweight option for agencies that need ranking data without too many comprehensive SEO features.

While Keyword.com does a good job with basic rank tracking, it lacks deep SERP analysis, backlink insights, and integration options. Agencies looking for a complete SEO suite or advanced reporting features may find it too limited. Its interface also feels outdated compared to some of the newest rank tracking software, which could be a drawback for users who prefer a more modern dashboard. 

For agencies that need a no-frills, affordable rank tracking tool, Keyword.com gets the job done—but it may not be enough for those managing more complex SEO campaigns.

Pricing: Keyword.com offers a free plan for up to 10 keywords. Its most affordable paid plan starts at $4/month for 50 keywords. 

9. Nightwatch 

Nightwatch is a rank tracking tool designed for local SEO. It offers granular location tracking, customizable reports, and multi-device rank tracking. Its clean, intuitive interface makes it easier to use than other options, and it integrates with Google Analytics and Google Search Console to give a more complete picture of SEO performance. 

Nightwatch is still a relatively new player in rank tracking, so some users find its features aren’t as extensive as what platforms like Ahrefs or Semrush offer. While it excels in local SEO tracking, it lacks deep backlink analysis and broader SEO tools, meaning agencies may need to supplement it with other platforms.

Nightwatch is an affordable option for agencies focused primarily on local search performance. However it may feel limited for those needing a more comprehensive SEO solution.

Pricing: Starts at $39/month for 250 daily tracked keywords.

Pricing Comparison of the Best SEO Keyword Ranking Tools 

Here’s a quick pricing review of the top keyword ranking tools. This table is based on monthly pricing (USD) for starting plans. 

Google Search Console vs. Keyword Ranking Tools 

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: why don't Google Search Console and rank checking tools always see eye to eye? Here's the scoop:

Different Data Sources and Sampling

Google Search Console is the ultimate authority when it comes to your website's performance in Google's organic search results. It draws its data directly from the source. On the other hand, a good keyword tracking tool relies on its own algorithms and data sources, which may differ from Google's metrics. 

Moreover, both tools employ sampling techniques to process the vast amount of data available. While this helps speed up the analysis, it means that not every data point is considered. So, you might observe variations and discrepancies between the data presented by the two tools.

Keyword Volume and Long-Tail Variations

Keyword ranking tools face challenges when it comes to accurately tracking low-volume keywords or long-tail variations. Since these keywords receive less SEO traffic and have a narrower focus, their search rankings fluctuate, leading to inconsistencies between the keyword ranking tool's data and Google Search Console. 

Additionally, Google Search Console aggregates data based on actual user queries, whereas keyword ranking tools rely on predefined keyword lists. As a result, variations in search behavior and long-tail queries may cause discrepancies between the two sources.

Algorithm Updates and Latency

Search engines, including Google, constantly refine their algorithms to improve search results. These updates impact keyword rankings and cause temporary shifts in ranking positions. Google Search Console provides real-time data, capturing the current state of rankings, while keyword ranking tools often experience delays in reflecting algorithm changes.

Therefore, if you notice disparities between the two tools, it's crucial to consider the timing of algorithm updates and the frequency of data updates in your keyword ranking tool. Despite these potential differences, it's important to remember that both Google Search Console and keyword ranking tools offer valuable insights into a website's search performance. 

Track Google Search Console data alongside ranking data in one centralized location without switching between platforms. Explore AgencyAnalytics with a 14-day free trial. 

Why Agencies Often Use Multiple Keyword Ranking Tools

No single rank tracking software is perfect—as seen in our list above, each has strengths and limitations. Some tools excel in local SEO tracking, while others provide better historical data, competitor analysis, or SERP feature tracking. Agencies often combine multiple tools to fill these gaps, ensuring they get the most accurate, well-rounded view of keyword rankings. 

Another key reason agencies layer tools is for data validation. Search engines use different data centers, meaning rankings fluctuate based on where and when a search is performed. Pulling data from multiple sources is a way to compare results and identify ranking trends more reliably rather than relying on a single tool’s algorithm. 

Why You Need A Rank Tracker With Strong Keyword Reporting 

Tracking rankings is one thing—reporting them effectively to clients is another. Your agency needs accurate rank tracking to measure SEO performance, but clients need clear, digestible reports that show progress in a way that matters to them. Raw ranking data alone isn’t enough—clients don’t just want numbers; they want results.

We sell SEO and PPC Services. Our clients don't care about how they work; they care about calls and their bottom line. I can show them beautiful numbers, traffic patterns, increases in rankings, etc., but at the end of the day, they're paying us for a service to increase their revenue.

Ruben Roel, President, Investigator Marketing

That’s where keyword ranking reports come in. Clients care about outcomes, like increased traffic, leads, and revenue—not just whether a keyword moved up a few spots. A strong reporting tool distills ranking data into actionable insights, aligning SEO performance with business growth.

While many SEO rank tracking tools excel at the execution side of rank tracking, they often fall short in crafting comprehensive and easily digestible client reports. These tools capture vast amounts of data but may lack data visualization tools and the means to translate that data into a compelling narrative that a client can easily understand. 

If a tool lacks customizable, client-friendly ranking reports, agencies spend hours manually formatting data—or worse, overwhelming clients with complex stats they don’t understand. This disconnect makes it challenging for agencies to communicate the value of their work, underscoring the need for tools that track keyword rankings effectively and prioritize clear, engaging, and insightful client reporting.  

Choosing a tool with strong reporting features is essential. The right platform should seamlessly integrate ranking data with traffic insights, conversions, and other key metrics—helping agencies prove ROI without unnecessary manual work.

Keyword ranking reports are the easiest to understand and typically the most useful for clients. They also like looking at general traffic and conversion data.

David Friedman, Technical SEO Manager, PaperStreet Web Design

How AgencyAnalytics Turns Keyword Rankings Into Powerful Client Reports 

Raw data alone won’t impress clients, but clear, visually compelling reports that connect rankings to real business impact? That’s a game-changer.

That’s where AgencyAnalytics shines. It pulls all your SEO data into one customizable dashboard, giving agencies a real-time, 360-degree view of rankings, traffic, and conversions—all in one place. No more juggling multiple tools or manually formatting spreadsheets.

Custom Dashboards 

Clients don’t want to dig through endless rows of keyword data—they want to know what’s working and why. AgencyAnalytics’ SEO dashboards make it effortless to visualize rankings alongside organic traffic, backlinks, and even PPC results, so clients instantly see the bigger picture.

And the best part? These dashboards are fully customizable. Whether you want to showcase rankings vs. traffic trends, SERP snapshots, or local SEO insights, it’s all drag-and-drop simple.

“If you're an SEO agency, ensure the top 2 widgets are keyword rankings and traffic. As your rankings go up, so will your traffic, and having these side by side makes it very clear to the client that SEO is working.”  

Joshua George, Founder, ClickSlice

Automated Reports 

Instead of spending hours compiling reports, let AgencyAnalytics’ automated reports do the heavy lifting. Set up scheduled, white labeled reports that go out to clients automatically—whether weekly, monthly, or on-demand.

Want to highlight ranking wins, traffic surges, or conversion increases? Just plug in the right widgets, and AgencyAnalytics will do the rest. Clients get clean, easy-to-read reports that show exactly how your agency is driving results.

The real KPIs every client wants to know are leads and/or sales. We like to include both in our monthly reports. Ultimately, what is their ROI from our efforts? When you can clearly demonstrate this month over month, it increases your retention rate and keeps clients paying you month after month.

Jacob Hicks, Owner, Magnyfi

A Complete SEO & Client Reporting Powerhouse

Other rank tracking tools stop at keyword positions—AgencyAnalytics goes further. Tie rankings to conversions, map keyword trends to ad performance, and prove ROI—all from one platform.

With 80+ integrations, SEO report templates, and unlimited client access, it’s built to scale as your agency grows.

Putting It All Together  

Clients don’t just want good news—they want proof. That’s why a best-in-class rank tracker is a non-negotiable tool for agencies. But tracking Google rankings is just one part of the equation. Reporting that ranking data in a way that makes sense to clients? That’s where many tools fall short! 

Agencies need a solution that delivers accurate ranking data and integrates it into digestible client reports. That’s exactly what AgencyAnalytics does best. More than just an SEO rank tracking tool, it’s a full-fledged reporting platform built for agencies. 

Track rankings, analyze where your competitors stand, and showcase your wins—all in one place. With 80+ integrations, white label reports, keyword ranking report templates, and unlimited client access, it’s the only rank tracker tool designed to scale as your agency grows.

Ready to streamline rank tracking and reporting? Try AgencyAnalytics free for 14 days.