In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, having access to accurate and timely data is essential for making informed decisions. For agencies and marketers managing multiple Google AdWords and SEO campaigns, third-party reporting tools offer a streamlined way to track performance, automate reporting, and deliver professional insights to clients. However, many of these tools come with hefty price tags, making them inaccessible for small businesses and solo consultants.
This guide explores the lowest-priced third-party Google AdWords and SEO reporting tools available in the market, comparing their features, pricing, and value for money. We'll look at what makes each tool unique, how they can benefit your campaigns, and what to consider when selecting the right tool for your needs.
Understanding the Value of Third-Party Reporting Tools
Third-party reporting tools integrate with platforms like Google AdWords and Google Search Console to pull data, analyze performance, and generate reports. These tools are particularly valuable for agencies managing multiple accounts, as they reduce the time spent on manual data collection and reporting.
For small businesses and solo consultants, the key benefits include:
- Time Savings: Automate report generation and scheduling.
- Professional Presentation: White-label reports with your branding.
- Cross-Platform Data: Combine data from AdWords, Search Console, Analytics, and other sources.
- Client Satisfaction: Deliver clear, data-driven insights that help clients make informed decisions.
The Lowest-Cost 3rd Party Google AdWords and SEO Reporting Tools
1. Sitechecker
Sitechecker is one of the most affordable SEO reporting tools on the market, making it ideal for solo consultants and small agencies. Starting at just $29/month, Sitechecker offers a comprehensive suite of features that help with technical SEO audits, keyword analysis, and performance tracking.
Key Features:
- Affordable pricing at $29/month.
- Multiple website analysis in one dashboard.
- Comprehensive technical audits with page speed and HTML tag analysis.
- Keyword density analysis for content optimization.
- Automated alerts for ranking and technical changes.
- Large crawl capacity for up to 50,000 pages.
Pricing Comparison:
| Feature | Sitechecker | Whatagraph | DashThis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $29/month | $199/month | $135/month |
| White-Labeling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Keyword Research | Yes | Limited | No |
| Integration with Google Ads | No | Yes | No |
| Data Sources | 20+ | 40+ | 30+ |
Pros:
- Extremely affordable for budget-conscious marketers.
- Offers a clean interface and easy-to-use features.
- Strong technical SEO capabilities.
Cons:
- Lacks integration with Google Ads.
- Limited keyword research features compared to more expensive tools.
2. DashThis
DashThis is another affordable reporting tool that focuses on simplicity and automation. It is ideal for marketers who need to deliver clean, professional reports without getting bogged down in technical details. Starting at $135/month, DashThis offers a range of pre-built templates and automated scheduling to streamline the reporting process.
Key Features:
- Pre-built report templates for SEO and Google Ads.
- Automated scheduling for regular report delivery.
- Drag-and-drop dashboards for easy customization.
- White-label branding to match your agency’s look.
- Integration with 30+ tools, including Google Analytics and Search Console.
Pricing Comparison:
| Feature | DashThis | Sitechecker | Whatagraph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $135/month | $29/month | $199/month |
| White-Labeling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Google Ads Integration | No | No | Yes |
| Automation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Data Sources | 30+ | 20+ | 40+ |
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface for building and scheduling reports.
- Offers professional templates that can be customized.
- Supports white-labeling and integrations.
Cons:
- No direct integration with Google Ads.
- Limited technical SEO analysis features.
3. Google Looker Studio (Formerly Data Studio)
Google Looker Studio is a free tool that allows marketers to create custom reports using data from Google AdWords, Search Console, and other sources. While it doesn’t offer the same level of automation as paid tools, it provides a cost-effective way to build and share reports with clients.
Key Features:
- Free to use with no monthly fees.
- Integrates directly with Google AdWords and Search Console.
- Customizable dashboards and visualizations.
- No white-labeling capabilities.
Pros:
- Free access to powerful reporting features.
- Direct integration with Google’s platforms.
- Highly customizable reports.
Cons:
- Requires manual setup and configuration.
- No automation or scheduling.
- No white-labeling for agencies.
4. Whatagraph
Whatagraph is a premium reporting tool that offers extensive features for agencies and marketers. While its starting price is higher at $199/month, it provides a comprehensive suite of tools for cross-channel reporting and automation.
Key Features:
- Over 100 report and dashboard templates.
- Cross-channel reporting across multiple platforms.
- White-labeling for agency branding.
- Automated report delivery.
Pros:
- Robust feature set for agencies.
- Strong automation and scheduling capabilities.
- Comprehensive data sources.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other tools.
- Annual plan commitment required.
5. DashThis vs. Whatagraph: A Feature Comparison
To better understand the differences between these two tools, let’s compare their features side by side.
| Feature | DashThis | Whatagraph |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $135/month | $199/month |
| White-Labeling | Yes | Yes |
| Automation | Yes | Yes |
| Data Sources | 30+ | 40+ |
| Google Ads Integration | No | Yes |
| Custom Templates | Yes | Yes |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
6. Sitechecker vs. DashThis: A Closer Look
For marketers on a tight budget, Sitechecker and DashThis offer similar value propositions but with different strengths.
| Feature | Sitechecker | DashThis |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $29/month | $135/month |
| White-Labeling | Yes | Yes |
| Automation | Yes | Yes |
| Technical SEO Features | Yes | No |
| Google Ads Integration | No | No |
| Integration with Analytics | Yes | Yes |
Sitechecker is better suited for technical SEO audits, while DashThis is ideal for creating visually appealing, automated reports.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Reporting Tool
When selecting a third-party Google AdWords and SEO reporting tool, consider the following factors:
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a reporting tool. There are affordable options like Sitechecker and DashThis, as well as more expensive tools like Whatagraph and Databox.
- Features: Assess which features are most important to your workflow. If you need technical SEO analysis, Sitechecker is a good choice. If automation and scheduling are your priorities, consider DashThis or Whatagraph.
- Integration: Ensure the tool integrates with the platforms you use, such as Google AdWords, Search Console, and Analytics.
- Automation: Look for tools that offer automated report generation and scheduling to save time.
- White-Labeling: If you’re working with clients, choose a tool that allows you to brand your reports with your logo and colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between free and paid reporting tools?
Free tools like Google Looker Studio offer basic reporting capabilities at no cost but require manual setup and lack automation. Paid tools like Sitechecker and DashThis offer automation, scheduling, and white-labeling but come with a monthly fee.
Can I use multiple reporting tools together?
Yes, many marketers use a combination of tools to get the best of both worlds. For example, you might use Google Looker Studio for free reporting and DashThis for automated scheduling.
How often should I run reports?
The frequency of your reports depends on your campaign goals and client expectations. Most agencies run reports on a weekly or monthly basis. Automated tools like DashThis and Whatagraph make it easy to schedule reports for regular delivery.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right third-party Google AdWords and SEO reporting tool depends on your budget, feature needs, and workflow requirements. For agencies and marketers looking for affordable options, tools like Sitechecker and DashThis offer excellent value with robust features and automation. While more expensive tools like Whatagraph provide additional capabilities, they may not be necessary for small teams or solo consultants.
Ultimately, the best tool is the one that fits your specific needs and helps you deliver clear, actionable insights to your clients. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each tool, you can make an informed decision that supports your marketing goals.