Keyword research is essential for SaaS businesses to attract the right audience – users actively searching for software solutions. There are two main approaches to keyword research: tools and manual methods. Each has its strengths and limitations, and the best choice depends on your goals, budget, and market focus.
- Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner are fast, scalable, and provide data on search volume, competition, and trends. They excel in competitor analysis but can be expensive (starting at $129/month) and may miss niche queries.
- Manual methods rely on competitor analysis, SERP research, and customer feedback to find keywords. They’re cost-free but time-intensive, offering deep insights into customer language and intent.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Keyword Research Tools | Manual Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $99–$599/month | Free (time investment only) |
| Time Investment | Fast | High |
| Scalability | Handles large datasets | Limited |
| Data Accuracy | Provides metrics | Qualitative insights only |
| Niche Discovery | Moderate | High |
For SaaS startups, manual methods are budget-friendly and great for niche markets. Growing or enterprise SaaS companies benefit from tools for large-scale analysis. A hybrid approach – combining tools for data and manual methods for customer insights – delivers the best results.
Topicmojo Review – Research Keywords, Topics & Questions like Pro (Lifetime Deal Back)
Popular Keyword Research Tools for SaaS Businesses
Keyword research is a cornerstone for SaaS companies looking to gain a competitive edge. Specialized tools make this process faster and more data-driven, offering insights into search volumes, competition levels, and the keywords your competitors are targeting.
Among the most widely used tools are Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner. Each has its strengths, making them indispensable for different aspects of keyword strategy.
Features of Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner
Google Keyword Planner serves as a free entry-level tool for keyword research. It pulls data directly from Google Ads, offering search volume ranges, competition levels, and suggested bid prices for keywords. While it’s straightforward and reliable for basic research, it lacks advanced features like tracking specific terms over time.
Ahrefs, on the other hand, takes keyword research to the next level. It aggregates data from multiple sources, including its own crawlers, Google Keyword Planner, Google Trends, and Google Search Console. This tool excels in competitor analysis, revealing the keywords your rivals rank for and pinpointing gaps in your strategy. Its database is massive, boasting 28.7 billion keywords across 217 locations, including 2.2 billion keywords specific to the U.S.. Ahrefs also provides keyword difficulty scores and has an extensive backlink database with 35 trillion backlinks and 267 million referring domains.
SEMrush combines SEO and marketing features, offering a robust solution for visibility and competitor tracking. Its keyword database includes 26.5 billion keywords across 142 locations, with 3.6 billion keywords in the U.S. alone. SEMrush allows users to analyze both organic and paid search strategies, and its local ranking tracking at the city level is particularly useful for SaaS businesses targeting specific geographic markets. It also boasts a backlink database with 43 trillion backlinks and 390 million referring domains.
These tools provide invaluable capabilities for refining SaaS keyword strategies and staying ahead in a competitive market.
Benefits of Using Keyword Research Tools
The biggest advantage of these tools is the efficiency they bring. Instead of relying on manual estimates, you get instant access to data – an essential feature for managing the fast pace of SaaS marketing.
Accuracy is another key benefit, though it varies between platforms. For example, Ahrefs’ search volume data is accurate about 60% of the time, while Google Keyword Planner often overestimates search volumes by more than 50%. This highlights the importance of selecting the right tool for reliable insights.
These platforms also excel in competitive intelligence. They help identify the keywords driving traffic to your competitors, uncover gaps in your content strategy, and spot opportunities you might be missing.
Additionally, they simplify the process of finding long-tail keywords – those highly specific phrases that make up 92% of all search queries. For SaaS companies, targeting these terms can help connect with users who are closer to making a decision, aligning perfectly with conversion-driven goals.
Advanced features like search intent analysis add even more value. By understanding whether users are seeking information, comparing options, or ready to buy, you can tailor your content to address their needs at every stage of the customer journey.
Drawbacks of Keyword Research Tools
Despite their many advantages, these tools aren’t without flaws. One major drawback is cost. Ahrefs starts at $129 per month, while SEMrush begins at $139.95 per month. For startups with tight budgets, this can be a significant hurdle.
Another limitation is the scope of their data. With around 20% of Google searches being entirely new, no tool can capture every emerging trend or niche query. This means you might miss opportunities tied to evolving search behaviors.
There’s also a learning curve to consider. Tools like SEMrush, with their extensive feature sets, can take weeks to master. This can slow down your team’s ability to extract full value from the platform.
Reliance on historical data is another issue. While these tools are great for analyzing past trends, they can’t predict future shifts in search behavior. As Daniela Furtado, a consultant and digital marketing expert, explains:
"Keyword data is nuanced and flawed and needs to be used with discernment. Despite all its problems, I still rely on keyword software. Just not too much".
Discrepancies between platforms can also complicate decision-making. For instance, one tool might report 279 searches for a keyword, while another shows just 30, and yet another reports 40. This inconsistency makes it hard to know which data to trust.
Finally, while these tools do a great job capturing broad search patterns, they can sometimes miss the specific language your target audience uses when searching for solutions. This can lead to gaps in your strategy if you rely on them exclusively.
Despite these challenges, keyword research tools remain essential for SaaS companies. When used thoughtfully, they can provide valuable insights that drive smarter decisions and better results.
Manual Keyword Research Methods for SaaS
Manual keyword research relies on time and effort rather than expensive tools, making it a great choice for uncovering niche opportunities that automated systems might miss. This approach is particularly useful when launching a new SaaS product, targeting a specific audience, or working with a limited budget. In fact, a 2024 survey by Backlinko revealed that 41% of SEO professionals use manual SERP analysis as a primary method for identifying keyword opportunities in niche markets. Let’s dive into some specific manual techniques that can uncover valuable insights.
Competitor Analysis and Search Results Research
A key part of manual keyword research is studying your competitors and analyzing what Google displays for users. This hands-on approach offers insights into keyword performance and user intent that automated tools might not fully capture.
Start by reviewing the websites, blogs, landing pages, and meta tags of your top 3–5 SaaS competitors. Look for recurring themes, specific terminology, and areas where their content falls short. Pay close attention to the language used in headlines, product descriptions, and calls-to-action – it often reveals what resonates with their audience.
Next, perform a SERP analysis by entering your seed keywords into Google. Study the top-ranking pages, and take note of features like the "People Also Ask" section, autocomplete suggestions, and related searches. These elements provide real-world keyword ideas based on actual user queries.
To keep your findings organized, create a spreadsheet to track competitor keywords. Highlight frequently used terms and identify gaps in their content strategies. This method not only helps you find high-potential keywords but also uncovers content angles your competitors might have overlooked.
Brainstorming and Customer Input
Some of the best keyword ideas come directly from your team and your customers. Hosting brainstorming sessions with your marketing, product, sales, and support teams can generate a wealth of relevant keywords.
During these sessions, ask team members to step into the shoes of your customers. Prompts like "How would someone describe this problem?" or "What terms would a user search for if they didn’t know our solution existed?" can spark creative ideas. Document these suggestions and rank them based on relevance and potential impact.
Customer feedback is equally valuable. Review support tickets to find recurring phrases, study testimonials for authentic language, and conduct short interviews to understand how users searched for solutions before finding your product. Social media and industry forums are also excellent places to pick up natural language and emerging queries.
A 2023 SaaS SEO case study highlighted the power of manual keyword research, showing a 27% increase in organic traffic for a B2B SaaS company that targeted a new vertical using these methods.
Pros and Cons of Manual Methods
Manual keyword research comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| No cost – No need for paid tools or subscriptions | Time-consuming – Requires significant effort and attention |
| Niche insights – Identifies specialized terms and trends | Limited scale – Not ideal for processing large datasets |
| Real language – Reflects authentic customer vocabulary | Subjective results – Outcomes can vary based on the researcher’s perspective |
| Adaptability – Easily adjusted for new markets or products | No search volume data – Lacks precise metrics for keyword potential |
| Deeper understanding – Offers more context about user intent | Inconsistency – Results may differ across team members |
While manual methods take time, they offer a deeper understanding of your audience and market. They are especially appealing to startups and small SaaS teams looking to save on costs.
That said, manual research works best when paired with tool-based validation. For instance, you can manually identify promising keywords, then use free tools like Google Keyword Planner to check search volume. Manual approaches shine during the early stages of a project, when exploring niche markets, or when targeting very specific audiences where automated tools might fall short. The challenge lies in scaling these methods for larger campaigns, but their value in niche discovery and audience insights is undeniable.
Tools vs Manual Methods: Side-by-Side Comparison
When it comes to keyword research, the debate between using tools and relying on manual methods often boils down to your specific circumstances, budget, and goals. Each approach has its own strengths, and the right choice depends on what your SaaS company needs most.
Complete Comparison of Tools and Manual Methods
The differences between tools and manual methods extend far beyond cost. Each option offers distinct benefits depending on your resources and objectives.
| Factor | Keyword Research Tools | Manual Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $150–$600/month for standard tools; $1,000+ for enterprise solutions | Free (time investment only) |
| Time Investment | Quick data retrieval; marketers spend up to 40% of their SEO time on research | High time commitment; thorough but slower |
| Scalability | Handles thousands of keywords instantly | Limited to smaller keyword sets |
| Data Accuracy | Provides real-time metrics and search volumes | Relies on manual observation and qualitative assessment |
| Focus | Buyer intent and contextual understanding | Volume and difficulty metrics |
| Keyword Discovery | Offers automated suggestions and related terms | Uncovers deep niche insights and authentic customer language |
| Learning Curve | Requires tool-specific training | Intuitive, though it demands strong analytical skills |
| Market Coverage | Broad market analysis capabilities | Excellent for niche and specialized markets |
Tools are fantastic for automating large-scale data analysis, while manual methods shine when it comes to uncovering nuanced, context-driven insights. For example, tools can process massive datasets and provide real-time, predictive insights. On the other hand, manual methods often focus on deep niche exploration and can reveal long-tail keywords or unique customer language that tools might overlook.
For SaaS companies in established markets, tools can help identify opportunities and track competitors effectively. Meanwhile, if you’re targeting niche markets or launching a new product, manual methods might be better suited to uncovering specific use-case keywords that tools might miss. The choice ultimately depends on aligning your strategy with your business goals.
Matching Methods to Your SaaS Business Goals
Your business stage and goals play a significant role in determining which method – or combination of methods – works best.
- Early-stage SaaS companies with tight budgets often benefit from starting with manual methods. As Dmytro Sokhach, CEO and co-founder of Admix Global, notes:
"The biggest mistake companies make when budgeting for SEO is that they don’t do niche analysis and competitor analysis, and don’t fully understand what budget they need".
Manual research can help clarify your market’s needs before you invest in expensive tools.
- Growing SaaS businesses with more budget flexibility should consider a hybrid approach. Start with manual brainstorming sessions involving your sales, support, and customer success teams. These sessions can reveal the language your customers actually use, which you can then validate and expand using keyword research tools.
- Enterprise SaaS companies often require the scalability that tools provide. When managing hundreds of keywords or targeting multiple markets, manual methods become impractical.
ROI remains a critical factor. Optimized keyword research – whether done manually or with tools – can significantly improve conversion rates. The most effective strategy often combines the two approaches. According to a 2024 HubSpot report, 60% of marketers say AI has improved their SEO ROI – but only when paired with human validation and strategic oversight. This points to a future where blending automation with human insight becomes the norm.
For SaaS companies targeting niche markets, consider using the Zero-Volume Keyword strategy. This approach focuses on long-tail or low-search keywords that might not show up in tools but can still attract highly qualified traffic. Pairing this strategy with manual customer research allows you to pinpoint the specific challenges your audience faces.
Ultimately, the best method depends on your goals. If you’re aiming for rapid market expansion, tools can deliver the speed and scale you need. If you’re building credibility in a specialized niche, manual methods help uncover the unique pain points and language of your audience. Combining both approaches ensures you get the best of both worlds.
sbb-itb-d46ea71
How to Choose the Right Method for Your SaaS Business
Picking the right keyword research method depends on your company’s unique circumstances – your budget, market focus, and growth objectives all play a role.
Key Factors: Budget, Market Niche, and Growth Goals
Let’s start with budget. Keyword research tools can range from $99 to $599 per month, with enterprise-level solutions exceeding $1,000 monthly. For early-stage SaaS startups, these costs can feel out of reach. That’s where manual methods come in – they’re less expensive financially but require a significant time investment, making them a practical choice for resource-strapped teams.
But don’t stop at subscription fees. Some tools, like SEMrush, charge $45 for each additional user, while Ahrefs’ basic plans limit monthly credits and restrict access to just one user. It’s important to factor in these hidden costs when planning your approach.
Then there’s market niche complexity. If your SaaS product serves a highly specialized audience, mainstream tools might not have enough data to provide meaningful insights. In such cases, manual methods – like competitor analysis or customer interviews – can help you uncover niche, low-competition keywords. Of course, if you’ve got a strong SEO team, advanced tools can be a game-changer. But if your team lacks SEO experience, simpler, manual approaches may be the better fit.
Finally, consider your growth timeline. Companies aiming for rapid expansion will benefit from the scalability of keyword tools, especially when managing hundreds of keywords across multiple markets. On the other hand, if your focus is on building credibility in a specific niche, manual research could help you tap into the exact language and pain points of your audience.
To make the right choice, follow these six steps: assess your budget, define your niche and audience, evaluate your SEO expertise, test tools with free trials, brainstorm manually, and compare the results.
Many SaaS companies find success with a hybrid approach. Start with manual insights from your sales, support, and customer success teams. Then, validate and expand those findings using keyword research tools. This method avoids overly generic keyword lists while balancing the time demands of manual research.
How Young Nomads Can Help
Once you’ve outlined your strategy, expert guidance can take it to the next level. That’s where Young Nomads comes in. We specialize in crafting custom SEO strategies tailored specifically for SaaS businesses. By combining advanced tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush with hands-on manual research, we ensure your keyword strategy aligns with your goals, market conditions, and resources.
For startups just beginning their SEO journey, we can help establish effective manual research processes that deliver results without requiring a hefty upfront investment. For scaling SaaS companies ready to dive into advanced tools, we offer the expertise to maximize their value while avoiding common pitfalls.
Our approach doesn’t stop there. We regularly review and adapt your strategy as your product and market position evolve. Whether you lean on manual methods, advanced tools, or a mix of both, Young Nomads is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you achieve sustained growth in organic visibility.
Conclusion: Main Points for SaaS Keyword Research Success
To nail SaaS keyword research, blending tools with manual methods is the way to go. A 2024 survey by Backlinko found that 70% of SEO professionals use a mix of tools and manual research to uncover keywords, as this combo leads to better accuracy and more relevant content.
By regularly updating your keyword strategy with both approaches, your SaaS business can see real results. Companies that adopt this hybrid strategy often achieve up to 40% higher organic growth compared to those relying on just one method. Tools provide speed and scale, while manual research adds the nuanced insights you need to tailor your strategy to your business.
Where you are in your growth journey matters. If you’re just starting out, free tools and manual techniques can do the trick. As you grow, investing in advanced tools for deeper data and competitor analysis becomes essential. Pair this with manual validation to ensure your keywords stay relevant and aligned with your audience.
A smart approach combines the strengths of both methods: use tools to identify keywords, analyze search volumes, and study competitors. Then, refine your list by manually reviewing search results, gathering customer feedback, and assessing relevance.
Keep in mind, keyword research isn’t a one-and-done task. Search trends shift, and as your SaaS product evolves, so do your customers’ needs. Companies that treat keyword research as an ongoing effort stay ahead of the curve, driving traffic that matches user intent.
Striking the right balance between data-driven insights and human judgment is the secret sauce. This thoughtful blend will help you craft a strategy that not only attracts the right audience but also keeps you ahead of competitors in the ever-changing SaaS landscape. By combining both approaches, you’ll stay agile, relevant, and ready to grow.
FAQs
What’s the best way for SaaS startups to combine manual keyword research with tools to create an effective and budget-friendly SEO strategy?
Cost-Effective SEO Strategies for SaaS Startups
SaaS startups can build an effective SEO strategy without breaking the bank by combining manual keyword research with budget-friendly tools. Start by brainstorming ideas and analyzing competitors to pinpoint niche-specific keywords. This step helps you identify terms your target audience is actively searching for.
Once you’ve got a list of potential keywords, tools like Google Keyword Planner or other free alternatives can help you validate and expand your list. These tools provide data on search volume and relevance, ensuring you focus on the keywords that matter most.
This mix of creativity and data-driven insights allows you to target the right keywords for your SaaS niche while keeping expenses in check. It’s a smart way to refine your content strategy and maximize results without overspending.
What are the benefits of combining keyword research tools with manual methods for SaaS businesses, and how does it support organic growth?
Using a hybrid approach for keyword research in SaaS combines the precision of tools like keyword research platforms with the creativity of manual techniques such as competitor analysis and brainstorming. This blend creates a balanced strategy to identify high-value keywords, keep up with industry trends, and effectively reach niche audiences.
By combining data-driven insights from tools with the creative edge of manual methods, SaaS companies can build an SEO strategy that’s both flexible and scalable. This method not only boosts organic traffic but also drives conversions by targeting the keywords that align most closely with your business objectives.
How should a SaaS company decide between using keyword research tools or manual methods?
When choosing between keyword research tools and manual methods, SaaS companies need to weigh factors like budget, the complexity of their niche, and content objectives. Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner offer detailed, up-to-date data. However, they often come with subscription costs and might require some level of technical know-how.
On the flip side, manual techniques – such as competitor analysis or brainstorming sessions – are more budget-friendly but might not provide the same depth or speed as these tools.
For many SaaS businesses, combining both approaches can be the sweet spot. Tools can deliver data-driven insights, while manual methods allow for creativity and adaptability. The best approach depends on your specific needs, resources, and long-term plans.