WordStream (by LocaliQ) review: our take
WordStream is now a free-tools and content site run by LocaliQ, and its centre of gravity is paid search. The Free Keyword Tool returns suggestions with search volume and cost-per-click for a keyword or URL, the graders audit Google Ads and Facebook Ads accounts, and the benchmarks give an advertiser industry figures to measure against.
For a small business setting up Google Ads, that is a useful afternoon at no cost. There is no rank tracking, site audit or backlink data, and the paid services behind it are sold through LocaliQ demos. Keyword work that continues past the first list belongs in a priced tool such as Ahrefs, which starts at $29 a month for keyword and competitor lookups.
What WordStream (by LocaliQ) does
WordStream is now a content and free-tools site run by LocaliQ, focused on paid search and online advertising. Its Free Keyword Tool returns keyword suggestions with search volume and cost-per-click data for a keyword or URL, and its graders audit Google Ads and Facebook Ads accounts. Paid marketing services are sold through LocaliQ via demo requests, with no public price list.
Who WordStream (by LocaliQ) is for
Best for
- small businesses running Google Ads
- marketers needing quick keyword ideas with CPC data
Not for
- ongoing SEO work: there is no rank tracking, site audit or backlink tool
- users wanting self-serve paid software: paid services go through LocaliQ demos
WordStream (by LocaliQ) features
- F1Free Keyword Tool (volume and CPC data)
- F2Free Google Ads Performance Grader
- F3Facebook Ads Grader
- F4Google Ads and Facebook Ads industry benchmarks
- F5PPC guides and blog
WordStream (by LocaliQ) pricing and plans (2026)
| Plan | Monthly | Billed yearly, per month | What it includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free tools | $0 | $0 | Free Keyword Tool, Google Ads Performance Grader, Facebook Ads Grader; paid LocaliQ services by demo only |
Free plan: yes. Prices as listed by the vendor, before tax; they change, so check the pricing page before you buy.
WordStream (by LocaliQ) interface
WordStream (by LocaliQ) FAQ
- Is WordStream (by LocaliQ) free?
- Yes. WordStream (by LocaliQ) is free to use.
- What are the alternatives to WordStream (by LocaliQ)?
- Tools that cover the same jobs include Google Trends, Semrush, Google Keyword Planner, AnswerThePublic.