RankMath vs Yoast SEO: Which is Better for SEO in 2023?

SEO plugins like RankMath and Yoast help optimize WordPress sites for better rankings. But which one is better (RankMath vs Yoast SEO) for SEO in 2023? This article compares the features and performance of RankMath and Yoast to help you decide.

Introduction

RankMath and Yoast SEO are among the most popular SEO plugins for WordPress. While Yoast SEO has been around longer, RankMath is steadily gaining popularity for its features and performance.

So which one should you choose for your WordPress site? This guide compares the key features, content optimization capabilities, keyword tools, site speed impacts, pricing, and other factors to help you decide.

Feature Comparison

Both RankMath and Yoast SEO share basic SEO features like meta title/description editor, XML sitemaps, schema markup support etc.

However, RankMath offers more advanced capabilities:

Focus Keyword: Yoast lets you optimize for 1 primary keyword while RankMath supports up to 5 keywords.
Content Scoring: RankMath offers an advanced 100-point content analyzer compared to just 3 severity indicators in Yoast.
Role Manager: RankMath has user roles and capabilities manager missing in Yoast.
Redirection Manager: RankMath has a built-in redirection manager that Yoast lacks.
Custom Fields and AMP Support:
- RankMath offers robust support for custom fields and AMP, providing users with flexibility and improved SEO.
- Yoast also supports these features but may not be as smooth in implementation.

So in terms of features, RankMath seems more fully-equipped for WordPress SEO needs.

Flexibility and User Experience

RankMath’s continuous updates reflect its commitment to adapt to evolving SEO standards, making it flexible and responsive. However, Yoast’s established reputation ensures reliability, making it a preferred choice for those who value tradition.

Content Optimization

For on-page SEO, well-optimized content is crucial. Both plugins offer content analysis and recommendations – but RankMath seems better aligned with latest Google guidelines.

For instance, RankMath strictly adheres to ideal word counts and formatting guidelines prescribed by Google’s E-A-T standards. On the other hand, Yoast’s content analysis feels somewhat outdated and simplistic at times.

So for robust, up-to-date content optimization, RankMath has an edge over Yoast.

Keyword Optimization

Choosing the right keywords is imperative for ranking higher in Google search results.

Both RankMath and Yoast suggest relevant keywords and help optimize posts for them during content creation. However, RankMath seems to offer richer keyword optimization capabilities:

Database of 750+ million keywords
Keyword difficulty metrics
Keynote suggestions and analyzer
Focus keyword density

So for superior keyword research and on-page optimization, RankMath is ahead of Yoast.

Benchmarks and SEO Benchmarks

Analyzing the benchmarks of these plugins reveals that RankMath places more emphasis on certain factors, potentially making it a more detailed tool for website optimization.

Site Speed and Performance

Site speed is a crucial ranking factor monitored by Google. Faster loading pages can improve user experience and SEO.

In terms of site performance, RankMath has a lighter codebase that adds less bloat to WordPress sites compared to Yoast. So if site speed is important for your business, then RankMath would be the better choice.

Pricing

The free versions of both plugins offer adequate features for basic SEO needs. However, RankMath’s free version seems more capable and stable compared to Yoast’s free plugin.

For premium features, RankMath is more affordable at $99 per year compared to Yoast SEO priced at $149 per year.

As a bonus, all premium RankMath plans come with a 7-day free trial – allowing you to test drive pro features at zero risk.

Conclusion

To summarize, both RankMath and Yoast SEO cater to common WordPress SEO needs. However, RankMath offers more features, better content optimization, superior keyword tools, faster site speed and affordable pricing compared to Yoast.

So if you are setting up SEO for a new WP site, RankMath would be your best bet for an all-in-one WordPress SEO plugin in 2023.

FAQs: RankMath vs Yoast SEO – Which is best?

Q1. Is RankMath SEO free?

Yes, RankMath has a free plugin with adequate features for basic search optimization.

Q2. Does RankMath work with Yoast?

Yes, RankMath and Yoast SEO can function together on the same WordPress site. However, this may cause site speed issues due to code conflicts.

Q3. Does RankMath have a redirect manager?

Yes, RankMath has an in-built redirect manager to create, manage, and monitor site redirects for better SEO.

Q4. Is RankMath better than All in One SEO?

Yes, RankMath is rated as the #1 SEO plugin compared to All in One SEO based on reviews, site performance impacts and features offered.

Q5. Does RankMath offer support?

Yes, all premium plans of RankMath come with stellar email and chat support along with detailed documentation.

Q6. How do custom fields impact SEO?

Custom fields enhance SEO by allowing users to include specific details and metadata for improved search engine visibility.

Q7. Is AMP support crucial for SEO?

Yes, AMP support is crucial for mobile optimization and can positively impact SEO rankings.

Q8. Can I use both plugins simultaneously?

While it’s possible, it’s not recommended, as using multiple SEO plugins can lead to conflicts and affect performance.

Q9. Which plugin offers better content optimization?

RankMath is known for its detailed content optimization features, offering a more in-depth analysis.

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