If you’re using WordPress and care about getting traffic from Google, chances are you’ve come across two big names in SEO plugins:
Yoast SEO and Rank Math.
Both tools help improve your site’s visibility in search engines, but they offer different features. In this guide, we’ll compare their tools, pricing, and usability to help you decide which one fits your goals in 2025.
What Are These Plugins All About?
Yoast SEO
Yoast SEO has been around since 2010 and is one of the most installed SEO plugins for WordPress. It focuses on content readability and keyword use, helping content creators optimize blog posts and pages with ease.
Best for:
- Bloggers and writers
- SEO beginners
- Simple website optimization
Rank Math SEO
Rank Math SEO, launched in 2018, has rapidly gained traction due to its modern UI and impressive feature set—most of which are free. It’s favored by advanced users who want a robust tool without the premium price tag.
Ideal for:
- Digital marketers
- Multi-site managers
- Those needing advanced schema and analytics
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Yoast SEO | Rank Math SEO |
|---|---|---|
| Released | 2010 | 2018 |
| Free Version | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Keywords | 1 | 5 |
| Schema Markup | Basic | Advanced |
| 404 Monitor | No | Yes |
| Redirection Manager | Premium Only | Yes |
| WooCommerce SEO | Paid | Free & Paid |
Setup and User Experience
Yoast SEO
Yoast SEO provides a guided setup wizard that makes it easy to get started. The plugin is designed with simplicity in mind, making it ideal for users who prefer a hands-off approach.
Rank Math SEO
Rank Math includes a more comprehensive setup wizard that integrates with Google Search Console and offers more customization during installation. It’s great for users who want to tweak settings for better control.
Features Compared Side by Side
| Feature | Yoast SEO (Free) | Rank Math SEO (Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Keyword Optimization | 1 keyword | 5 keywords |
| Readability Checks | Yes | Yes |
| Internal Linking Suggestions | Limited | Yes |
| Advanced Schema Markup | No | Yes |
| Google Analytics Integration | No | Yes |
| Image SEO | Partial | Full |
| AI Tools | Premium only | Free (limited credits) |
Pricing Overview
Yoast SEO
- Free version with basic features
- Premium: $99/year per site
Rank Math SEO
- Free plan includes advanced features
- Pro: $69/year (unlimited personal sites)
- Business & Agency plans also available
Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?
If you want simplicity and don’t need many bells and whistles, Yoast SEO is still a solid pick. But if you’re after more features, flexibility, and value—especially in the free version—then Rank Math SEO is tough to beat.
Want to try them out? Check the official plugin pages: