Best Recommended SEO WordPress Plugins (September 2023)

[Contributing Editor]

When it comes to WordPress, there are several SEO plugins that are widely recognized for their features, usability, and effectiveness. As of my last training cut-off in September 2021, here are some of the best SEO plugins for WordPress:

1. Yoast SEO
   • Features: Meta tags customization, content analysis, breadcrumbs control, XML sitemaps, RSS feed enhancements, and more.
   • Pros: User-friendly interface, frequent updates, and a strong track record.
   • Cons: The premium version might be a bit costly for some users. Some advanced features require a learning curve.
2. All in One SEO Pack (AIOSEO)
   • Features: XML sitemap support, Google AMP support, Google Analytics support, advanced canonical URLs, and more.
   • Pros: Beginner-friendly with advanced features for seasoned users. Solid alternative to Yoast.
   • Cons: The interface is not as intuitive as Yoast’s.
3. SEOPress
   • Features: Meta tags, XML and HTML sitemaps, content analysis, breadcrumbs, redirections, Google Analytics integration, and more.
   • Pros: Lightweight and fast. No ads on the backend.
   • Cons: Less popular than Yoast and AIOSEO, but still a robust solution.
4. Rank Math
   • Features: Built-in content analysis, keyword rank tracking, schema markup, XML sitemaps, 404 monitoring, redirections, and more.
   • Pros: Offers a sleek interface and many advanced features in its free version.
   • Cons: Newer to the scene, so might not have the longstanding track record of others like Yoast.
5. The SEO Framework
   • Features: Automated meta tags, social sharing images, breadcrumb optimization, sitemaps, and more.
   • Pros: Lightweight, unobtrusive, and no advertisements in the backend.
   • Cons: Less feature-rich compared to others on this list, but great for those who want a no-fuss solution.
6. Schema Pro
   • Focus: Specifically aimed at adding schema markup to your WordPress site.
   • Features: Configurable schema types, compatibility with other SEO plugins, and more.
   • Pros: Helpful for enhancing search results with rich snippets.
   • Cons: Limited to schema markup; you'll likely want another general SEO plugin in conjunction with this.

Recommendation

If you're just starting out and need a comprehensive solution, Yoast SEO and All in One SEO Pack are solid choices and have been industry leaders for a long time. However, newer plugins like Rank Math have gained a lot of traction due to their rich features and ease of use.

Always remember to test plugins to see which one suits your personal needs and preferences. Also, keep them updated and ensure compatibility with your WordPress version to avoid any security vulnerabilities or functionality issues.