If you’re selling on Etsy, you already know that standing out among millions of listings is a challenge. The secret weapon that separates thriving Etsy shops from struggling ones? Strategic keyword research. When you understand exactly what shoppers are searching for and optimize your listings accordingly, you transform your products from invisible to irresistible.
After testing the leading Etsy SEO tools and analyzing what top sellers use to dominate search results, I’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect keyword research tool for your shop. Whether you’re a new seller with your first few listings or an established store looking to scale, you’ll discover the exact tools and strategies you need to increase visibility, attract more buyers, and boost sales.
Tools Covered in This Guide
This comprehensive review covers the 10 best Etsy keyword research tools available in 2026:
- eRank – Free and comprehensive Etsy SEO platform
- Marmalead – Real-time keyword forecasting with AI
- EtsyHunt – Largest Etsy product database
- Sale Samurai – Powerful keyword research with Chrome extension
- Alura – All-in-one Etsy growth platform
- Everbee – Chrome extension with sales estimates
- Keyword Tool for Etsy – Simple autocomplete-based research
- Keywords Everywhere – Browser extension for multiple platforms
- Pinterest Trends – Discover what Etsy’s traffic source searches for
- Etsy Search Bar – Free built-in autocomplete data
Why Etsy Keyword Research Matters
Before diving into the tools, let’s understand why keyword research is absolutely critical for Etsy success:
Discovery Is Everything: Etsy has over 95 million active buyers but also millions of sellers. Without proper keywords, your beautiful handmade jewelry or digital downloads remain hidden in the depths of search results, never reaching the customers actively looking for them.
Etsy’s Algorithm Rewards Relevance: Etsy’s search algorithm prioritizes listings that match what shoppers search for. The right keywords in your titles, tags, and descriptions tell Etsy exactly when to show your products, dramatically increasing your visibility.
Buyer Intent Means Higher Conversions: When someone searches “boho macrame wall hanging large” they know exactly what they want. Ranking for specific, descriptive keywords brings you highly qualified buyers ready to purchase, not just browsers.
Competition Varies Wildly: Some keywords have thousands of competing listings; others have just dozens. Strategic keyword research reveals low-competition, high-demand opportunities where you can actually rank and get sales.
SEO Is Free Traffic: Unlike Etsy Ads, organic search traffic costs nothing. Invest time in keyword research once, and your optimized listings can bring customers for months or years without ongoing ad spend.
Now let’s explore the tools that will transform your Etsy SEO strategy.
Top Etsy Keyword Research Tools Reviewed
1. eRank – Free and Comprehensive Etsy SEO Platform
eRank is the most popular free Etsy SEO tool, used by over 1 million Etsy sellers worldwide. It offers an impressive suite of features without requiring payment, making it perfect for beginners and budget-conscious sellers.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Keyword Tool: Research keywords with search volume, competition, and engagement data
- Keyword Explorer: Discover related keywords and long-tail variations
- Trend Buzz: See what’s trending on Etsy, Amazon, Pinterest, and Google Shopping
- Listing Audit: Get letter grades (A-F) for each listing’s SEO quality
- Competitor Analysis: Track and compare competitor shops
- Rank Checker: See where your listings rank for specific keywords
- Calculators: Profitability, fees, and pricing calculators
- Google Analytics Integration: Connect your shop for deeper insights
Pricing
- Free: Basic features with limitations
- Basic: $9.99/month
- Pro: $19.99/month
- Expert: $29.99/month
Pros
- Excellent free plan with substantial features
- 12 months of historical search data
- Comprehensive listing audit with actionable grades
- Great calculators for pricing and profitability
- Large, active community and support
- Trend Buzz shows opportunities across multiple platforms
- Regular updates and new features
- Best value for beginners
Cons
- Historical data (12-month average) vs real-time forecasting
- Interface can feel overwhelming with so many features
- Some advanced features require paid plans
- Data accuracy varies compared to Etsy’s actual results
- Free plan has daily lookup limits
Best For
New Etsy sellers learning SEO, budget-conscious shops wanting comprehensive free tools, and sellers who value historical trend data over real-time forecasting.
2. Marmalead – Real-Time Keyword Forecasting with AI
Marmalead is one of the original Etsy keyword research tools, now enhanced with Marma AI that provides automated listing audits and step-by-step optimization guidance.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Keyword Research: Forecasted search data for the next 30 days (not historical)
- Marma AI: Automated listing audit with specific fix recommendations
- Storm Tool: Advanced keyword brainstorming using machine learning
- Competition Analysis: Analyze up to 100-500 listings per keyword
- Pricing Insights: See bargain, midrange, and premium price points
- Listing Grading: Shop-wide grading system
- Trend Data: Seasonal and emerging trend identification
- SEO Recommendations: Clear, actionable optimization steps
Pricing
- Free: Very limited access
- Entrepreneur: $19/month (or $15.83/month annually)
Pros
- Real-time forecasting data instead of historical averages
- Marma AI provides beginner-friendly guidance
- Storm tool finds unique, less obvious keywords
- Simple, straightforward pricing (one paid tier)
- Can analyze 500 listings per keyword (vs competitors’ 100)
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Strong focus specifically on Etsy SEO
Cons
- More expensive than eRank for similar features
- Limited features compared to newer tools
- No product research tools
- Free plan barely functional
- Some users report data accuracy concerns
- Smaller feature set than all-in-one platforms
Best For
Sellers who prefer real-time forecasted data over historical trends, beginners wanting AI-guided optimization, and established shops focused purely on keyword optimization.
3. EtsyHunt – Largest Etsy Product Database
EtsyHunt has built the largest database of Etsy products on the market, making it exceptional for both keyword research and product research.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Massive Product Database: Analyze millions of Etsy listings
- Similar Keyword Feature: Get keyword ideas with demand vs competition analysis
- Shop Analysis: Deep dive into competitor strategies
- Product Research: Find best-selling products in your niche
- Inactive Product Database: See sold-out competitor products
- Amazon Handmade Integration: Unique cross-platform research
- Shop Optimization: AI-powered listing recommendations
- EtsyGPT: AI-powered listing creation
Pricing
- Basic: $5.99/month
- Advanced: $14.99/month
- Premium: $29.99/month
Use code GYC for 10% off
Pros
- Largest Etsy product database available
- Very affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Similar keyword feature is excellent for finding opportunities
- Amazon Handmade integration is unique
- Great for product research, not just keywords
- AI listing creation saves time
- Strong demand vs competition insights
Cons
- Interface can be long and clunky
- Some features require digging to find
- Not as established as eRank or Marmalead
- Learning curve for all features
Best For
Sellers doing product research alongside keyword research, shops expanding into new niches, and budget-conscious sellers wanting comprehensive features.
4. Sale Samurai – Powerful Keyword Research with Chrome Extension
Sale Samurai stands out with its Chrome extension that provides keyword data directly on Etsy, plus comprehensive desktop dashboard features.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Chrome Extension: Get keyword data while browsing Etsy
- Keyword Research: Extensive keyword suggestions and volume data
- Competition Analysis: Detailed competitor insights
- Advanced Filters: Narrow results by price, shipping, etc.
- Trend Tracking: Historical keyword performance
- Bulk Upload Tool: Streamline product creation
- Price Analytics: Determine optimal pricing strategies
- Downloadable Data: Export keywords and insights
Pricing
- Basic: $9.99/month
- Professional: $19.99/month
- Enterprise: $29.99/month
Pros
- Chrome extension is incredibly convenient
- Strong keyword research with large suggestion database
- Advanced filtering capabilities
- Great for multi-platform sellers (works on other marketplaces)
- Bulk upload features save massive time
- Detailed analytics and data export
- Good value for the feature set
Cons
- Chrome extension can slow browser slightly
- Not as many features as all-in-one platforms
- Focuses heavily on keywords vs broader SEO
- Some features only on higher tiers
Best For
Sellers who want keyword data while browsing Etsy, shops uploading many products, and sellers who value convenience and workflow integration.
5. Alura – All-in-One Etsy Growth Platform
Alura is a comprehensive Etsy growth platform that combines keyword research with product research, shop analytics, and marketing tools.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Keyword Finder: Research keywords with competition and demand data
- Product Research: Find winning products to sell
- Shop Analyzer: Analyze any Etsy shop’s strategies
- Listing Optimization: Get recommendations based on Etsy’s handbook
- Email Marketing: Send automated follow-up emails
- Pinterest Integration: Grow your shop through Pinterest
- Review Generation: Automated review request campaigns
- Analytics Dashboard: Track shop performance
Pricing
- Free trial available
- Starter: $19.99/month
- Growth: $39.99/month
- Professional: $79.99/month
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform
- Great for beyond just keywords (marketing, reviews, analytics)
- Listing optimization based on Etsy’s official guidelines
- Email marketing integration is valuable
- Pinterest integration captures major traffic source
- Good product research tools
- Free trial to test before committing
Cons
- More expensive than keyword-only tools
- Can be overwhelming with features
- May have more than you need if only wanting keywords
- Requires time investment to use all features
Best For
Serious Etsy sellers wanting an all-in-one growth platform, shops ready to invest in marketing beyond SEO, and sellers who value integrated tools over specialized ones.
6. Everbee – Chrome Extension with Sales Estimates
Everbee focuses on making Etsy research fast and easy through a Chrome extension that shows estimated sales and revenue directly on Etsy listings.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Chrome Extension: View estimated sales and revenue on Etsy
- Product Analytics: See which products are selling best
- Keyword Research: Find relevant keywords and search volume
- Tag Analysis: View and analyze listing tags
- Competitor Tracking: Monitor competitor performance
- Revenue Estimates: Understand profit potential
- Trend Identification: Spot trending products early
Pricing
- Hobby: $9.99/month (20 searches/month)
- Growth: $29.99/month
- Pro: $79.99/month
Pros
- Chrome extension makes research seamless
- Sales estimation feature is valuable
- Quick insights without leaving Etsy
- Good for product validation
- Easy to use for beginners
- Revenue estimates help with decision-making
Cons
- Hobby plan’s 20 searches/month is very limiting
- Expensive for what you get (Growth plan needed for real use)
- Sales estimates are approximations, not exact
- Limited features compared to comprehensive tools
- Primarily focused on product research over keywords
Best For
Sellers researching product opportunities, shops validating product ideas before creating listings, and sellers who prioritize convenience over depth.
7. Keyword Tool for Etsy – Simple Autocomplete-Based Research
Keyword Tool (keywordtool.io) offers a straightforward approach to Etsy keyword research by pulling suggestions from Etsy’s autocomplete feature.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- 750+ Keyword Suggestions: From a single seed keyword
- Etsy Autocomplete Data: Real search suggestions from Etsy
- Tag Generation: Quick tag creation
- Hashtag Suggestions: Find relevant hashtags
- Multiple Locations: 192 countries and languages
- Export Options: Download keywords for offline use
Pricing
- Free: Limited keywords, no search volume
- Pro: $89/month (or $69/month annually)
Pros
- Simple, straightforward interface
- Generates many keyword variations quickly
- Good for international sellers (192 countries)
- Autocomplete data reflects real searches
- Useful for tag and hashtag research
- Free version provides basic functionality
Cons
- Expensive for the limited feature set
- No search volume on free plan
- Basic competition data
- Better as supplementary tool than primary
- Lacks advanced features like competitor analysis
Best For
Sellers needing quick keyword lists, international sellers targeting multiple regions, and supplementary keyword generation.
8. Keywords Everywhere – Browser Extension for Multiple Platforms
Keywords Everywhere is a freemium browser extension that displays keyword data across 15+ websites, including Etsy, Amazon, eBay, and Google.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Multi-Platform Data: Works on Etsy, Amazon, eBay, Google, YouTube, and more
- Inline Keyword Data: See search volume and CPC directly in search results
- Related Keywords: Discover keyword variations
- Trend Charts: Historical volume data from 2004
- Competitor Gap Analysis: Find keywords competitors rank for
- SEO Metrics: Difficulty scores and competition data
- Export Options: Download keyword data
Pricing
- Free: Limited features
- Credits: $10 for 100,000 credits (pay-as-you-go)
Pros
- Works across multiple ecommerce platforms
- Very affordable credit system
- No subscription required (pay-as-you-go)
- Convenient inline data while browsing
- Great for cross-platform sellers (Etsy + Amazon + eBay)
- Historical trend data valuable
- Free version offers useful features
Cons
- Credit system can be confusing
- Not Etsy-specific (generalized data)
- Limited advanced features
- Free version quite restricted
- Less comprehensive than dedicated Etsy tools
Best For
Multi-platform sellers (Etsy, Amazon, eBay), sellers on a tight budget, and quick keyword validation across platforms.
9. Pinterest Trends – Discover What Etsy’s Traffic Source Searches For
Pinterest is one of Etsy’s largest traffic sources, making Pinterest Trends an invaluable (and free) keyword research tool for Etsy sellers.
Key Features for Etsy Sellers
- Search Trend Data: See what Pinterest users search for
- Demographic Insights: Understand who’s searching
- Seasonal Patterns: Identify when to create seasonal products
- Related Searches: Discover connected topics
- Geographic Data: See where searches happen
- Visual Trends: Understand aesthetic preferences
Pricing
Completely free
Pros
- Absolutely free, no limits
- Pinterest drives massive Etsy traffic
- Great for seasonal planning
- Demographic insights valuable for targeting
- Shows visual trends (helpful for product creation)
- Direct insights into Etsy’s major traffic source
- Easy to use, no account required
Cons
- Not Etsy-specific data
- No Etsy search volume numbers
- Limited to Pinterest searches
- Doesn’t show Etsy competition
- Better for trend identification than specific keywords
Best For
Sellers creating seasonal or trending products, shops optimizing for Pinterest traffic, and sellers wanting free trend insights.
10. Etsy Search Bar – Free Built-In Autocomplete Data
The Etsy search bar itself is a completely free, often overlooked keyword research tool that provides real-time search suggestions.
Key Features
- Real Search Queries: Actual phrases Etsy shoppers type
- Real-Time Data: Current popular searches
- Zero Cost: Completely free, no signup
- Immediate: No tools to install or learn
- Mobile and Desktop: Works everywhere
How to Use It
Simply start typing keywords in Etsy’s search bar and note the autocomplete suggestions. These represent actual popular searches on the platform.
Pros
- Absolutely free
- Data directly from Etsy
- Real-time and accurate
- No learning curve
- Instant access
- Mobile-friendly
Cons
- No search volume numbers
- No competition metrics
- Manual and time-consuming
- Limited to autocomplete suggestions
- No historical data or trends
Best For
Beginners with zero budget, quick keyword validation, and getting started with Etsy SEO basics.
Quick Comparison Table
| Tool | Starting Price | Best For | Key Strength | Free Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eRank | Free | Beginners | Comprehensive free plan | Yes ✓ |
| Marmalead | $19/mo | Real-time data | AI-guided optimization | Limited |
| EtsyHunt | $5.99/mo | Product research | Largest Etsy database | No ✗ |
| Sale Samurai | $9.99/mo | Convenience | Chrome extension | No ✗ |
| Alura | $19.99/mo | All-in-one growth | Marketing integration | Trial |
| Everbee | $9.99/mo | Sales estimates | Revenue predictions | No ✗ |
| Keyword Tool | Free/$69/mo | Quick lists | Simple interface | Yes ✓ |
| Keywords Everywhere | $10 credits | Multi-platform | Cross-platform data | Yes ✓ |
| Pinterest Trends | Free | Seasonal planning | Traffic source insights | Yes ✓ |
| Etsy Search Bar | Free | Quick validation | Direct Etsy data | Yes ✓ |
How to Do Etsy Keyword Research: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know the tools, let’s walk through the exact process of finding and using keywords to grow your Etsy shop.
Step 1: Understand Your Product Completely
Before researching keywords, get crystal clear on what you’re selling:
Product Details:
- What exactly is it? (e.g., “macrame wall hanging” not just “home decor”)
- What materials? (cotton, wood, metal, digital download)
- What style? (boho, minimalist, vintage, modern)
- What size? (small, large, XL, specific dimensions)
- What color options?
Target Customer:
- Who buys this?
- What problem does it solve?
- What occasion is it for? (wedding, birthday, home decor)
- What room/use? (bedroom, office, nursery)
Write down 10-15 descriptive phrases about your product. This becomes your brainstorming foundation.
Step 2: Start with Seed Keywords
Seed keywords are broad terms that describe your product category. Use Etsy’s search bar to validate:
Example for handmade soap:
- Type “handmade soap” → Note autocomplete suggestions
- Type “natural soap” → Note autocomplete suggestions
- Type “organic soap” → Note autocomplete suggestions
What to type:
- Your product category
- Material + product (e.g., “cotton blanket”)
- Style + product (e.g., “boho wall art”)
- Use + product (e.g., “wedding invitation”)
Save all promising autocomplete suggestions.
Step 3: Use eRank or EtsyHunt for Search Volume
Take your seed keywords and plug them into eRank’s Keyword Tool or EtsyHunt:
What to look for:
- Search Volume: How many searches per month?
- Under 100: Very niche
- 100-500: Good for small shops
- 500-2,000: Sweet spot for most sellers
- 2,000+: High volume but very competitive
- Competition: How many listings?
- Under 10,000: Low competition
- 10,000-50,000: Medium competition
- 50,000+: High competition
- Engagement: Click-through rate
- Higher engagement = shoppers clicking multiple listings
- Lower engagement = shoppers finding what they need quickly
Example analysis:
- “handmade soap” – 5,000 searches, 250,000 listings → Too competitive ❌
- “lavender soap natural” – 800 searches, 15,000 listings → Good! ✓
- “organic soap for sensitive skin” – 300 searches, 5,000 listings → Excellent! ✓✓
Step 4: Find Long-Tail Keyword Variations
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases with:
- Lower competition
- Higher buyer intent
- Better conversion rates
How to find them:
Method 1 – eRank Keyword Explorer: Enter your seed keyword and browse related searches
Method 2 – Etsy Autocomplete:
- “handmade soap for…”
- “handmade soap with…”
- “organic handmade soap…”
- “natural handmade soap…”
Method 3 – Marmalead Storm Tool: Use machine learning to discover unique variations
Long-tail examples:
- “handmade goat milk soap for eczema”
- “organic lavender soap wedding favors”
- “natural activated charcoal soap for acne”
- “vegan handmade soap gift set for men”
These specific keywords attract ready-to-buy customers.
Step 5: Analyze the Competition
Search your target keyword on Etsy and study the top 20 results:
Check These Factors:
Listing Quality:
- Are photos professional or amateur?
- Can you create something better?
- What’s the price range?
Seller Size:
- How many sales do top listings have?
- How many reviews?
- Are they established shops or newer?
Title Patterns:
- What words appear in most titles?
- What adjectives are used?
- How long are the titles?
Tags Strategy:
- Use a tool like Sale Samurai or Everbee extension
- See what tags competitors use
- Note common patterns
Gaps to Exploit:
- What’s missing in current results?
- Can you offer different sizes/colors/styles?
- Is there a sub-niche being ignored?
If the first page is dominated by shops with 10,000+ sales and you have 50, that keyword may be too competitive.
Step 6: Check Seasonal Trends
Use Pinterest Trends or eRank’s Trend Buzz to understand timing:
Evergreen Products: Consistent demand year-round
- Example: Coffee mugs, jewelry, planners
- Strategy: Create once, sell continuously
Seasonal Products: Spikes at specific times
- Example: Christmas ornaments, wedding items, back-to-school
- Strategy: Create 2-3 months before peak season
Trending Products: Currently rising in popularity
- Example: Cottagecore decor, Y2K fashion
- Strategy: Jump on trends early, expect them to fade
Declining Products: Losing popularity
- Example: Last year’s viral trends
- Strategy: Avoid unless updating old inventory
Step 7: Evaluate Search Intent
Understand what shoppers actually want when searching:
Gift Intent: “birthday gift for mom”
- They’re buying for someone else
- Price range flexible
- Packaging/presentation matters
- Highlight gift-worthy features
Personal Use: “boho wall decor for bedroom”
- Buying for themselves
- More price-conscious
- Specific style preferences
- Emphasize how it improves their space
Occasion-Specific: “wedding invitation template”
- Urgent need (event date approaching)
- Quality critical
- Willing to pay more
- Fast turnaround important
Problem-Solving: “storage bins for small closet”
- Functional need
- Specific dimensions matter
- Emphasize practical benefits
- Reviews important
Match your listing optimization to the dominant intent.
Step 8: Organize Keywords by Priority
Create a spreadsheet with these columns:
- Keyword: Exact phrase
- Search Volume: Monthly searches
- Competition: Number of listings
- Engagement: CTR if available
- Intent: Gift, personal use, occasion, etc.
- Difficulty: Low/Medium/High
- Priority: High/Medium/Low
Priority Calculation: High Priority = (High relevance to your product) + (Decent search volume) + (Low-medium competition) + (Matches your shop’s authority)
Focus on your top 5-10 high-priority keywords first.
Step 9: Map Keywords to Listing Elements
Once you’ve selected your primary keyword, optimize strategically:
Title Optimization (140 characters max):
- Primary keyword at the beginning
- Include 2-3 related long-tail variations
- Add key attributes (size, color, material)
- Make it readable, not just keyword-stuffed
Example: “Lavender Soap Natural Organic Handmade | Vegan Soap Bar for Sensitive Skin | Aromatherapy Soap Gift | Essential Oil Soap Set”
Tag Strategy (13 tags, 20 characters each):
- Primary keyword (exact match) 2-4. Long-tail variations 5-7. Related phrases 8-10. Material/style descriptors 11-13. Occasion/use cases
Example tags:
- lavender soap
- natural soap
- organic soap bar
- handmade soap
- vegan soap
- sensitive skin soap
- aromatherapy soap
- essential oil soap
- soap gift set
- natural skincare
- spa gift
- bath and body
- wellness gift
Description Optimization:
- First 2-3 sentences include primary keyword naturally
- Use long-tail variations throughout
- Include related keywords and synonyms
- First 160 characters crucial (appear in search preview)
- Write for humans first, SEO second
Step 10: Optimize Images for Keywords
While Etsy can’t “read” your images, visual SEO matters:
Filename Before Upload:
- Instead of “IMG_1234.jpg”
- Use “lavender-natural-soap-handmade.jpg”
- Include 2-3 keywords, separated by hyphens
Image Alt Text:
- Describe what’s in the image
- Include relevant keywords naturally
- “Handmade lavender soap bar with dried lavender flowers”
Visual Search Optimization:
- Clean, white backgrounds rank better
- Show product clearly
- Include lifestyle shots showing use/scale
- Consistent aesthetic attracts similar shoppers
Step 11: Monitor Performance and Adjust
After publishing, track your listing’s performance:
Week 1-2: Initial Ranking
- Use eRank’s Rank Checker to see where you rank
- Check which keywords are bringing views
- Monitor if you’re getting any traction
Month 1: Early Performance
- Which listings are getting views?
- What’s your conversion rate?
- Are certain keywords underperforming?
Month 2-3: Optimization Phase
- Update underperforming listings
- Test different keyword combinations
- Adjust based on seasonal changes
Tools for Tracking:
- eRank Rank Checker (where you rank for keywords)
- Etsy Stats (which search terms bring traffic)
- Sale Samurai (keyword performance over time)
Step 12: Continuous Improvement
Etsy SEO isn’t one-and-done:
Monthly Tasks:
- Review which keywords brought sales
- Research new trending keywords
- Update seasonal listings
Quarterly Tasks:
- Comprehensive keyword audit
- Competitor analysis
- Refresh older listings with new keywords
Yearly Tasks:
- Complete shop SEO overhaul
- Re-evaluate entire keyword strategy
- Align with annual trends and changes
Advanced Etsy Keyword Research Strategies
1. Competitor Keyword Stealing
Find successful competitors and analyze their keywords:
- Use Alura or EtsyHunt shop analyzer
- Look at their best-selling listings
- Note which keywords they rank for
- Identify gaps in their strategy you can exploit
2. Cross-Platform Research
Check what’s selling on similar platforms:
- Amazon Handmade (use EtsyHunt’s integration)
- Pinterest (use Pinterest Trends)
- Google Shopping (use eRank Trend Buzz)
- Instagram hashtags
Keywords performing well elsewhere may work on Etsy too.
3. Customer Language Mining
Use the exact words customers use:
- Read competitor reviews (what do buyers say?)
- Check Etsy forums and Reddit
- Note language in social media comments
- Use those phrases in your keywords
4. The “Also Searches For” Strategy
When someone searches on Etsy, scroll to bottom:
- “Shoppers also looked for…” section
- These are related keywords Etsy knows convert
- Add relevant ones to your tags
5. Seasonal Keyword Front-Loading
Update keywords seasonally:
- 3 months before Christmas: Add “christmas gift”
- Spring: Add “spring decor”
- Wedding season: Add “wedding favors”
- Back to school: Add “teacher gift”
Change tags seasonally while keeping title evergreen.
6. Multi-Language Keywords (for international sellers)
If you ship internationally:
- Use Keywords Everywhere to research other languages
- Common searches: UK English, Canadian French, Australian English
- Add in tags if applicable
7. Attribute Stacking
Combine multiple attributes:
- [Material] + [Style] + [Product] + [Use]
- “Cotton Boho Wall Hanging Nursery Decor”
- “Wood Minimalist Desk Organizer Office Gift”
This creates ultra-specific long-tail keywords.
FAQ: Etsy Keyword Research Questions Answered
What’s the best free Etsy keyword research tool?
eRank is hands-down the best free Etsy keyword research tool. It offers comprehensive keyword research, listing audits, trend tracking, and competitor analysis without requiring payment. The free plan has some limitations (daily lookup limits), but provides more than enough functionality for most sellers to start optimizing their listings effectively. The Etsy search bar autocomplete is also valuable as a completely free, unlimited option.
How many tags should I use on Etsy?
Always use all 13 tags that Etsy allows. Each tag is an opportunity to rank for a different search phrase. Leaving tags empty wastes valuable ranking opportunities. Use your primary keyword as the first tag, then add long-tail variations, related phrases, material descriptors, style keywords, and occasion/use case terms. Never use irrelevant tags just to fill the slots—every tag should genuinely describe your product.
Should I use the same keywords in title and tags?
Yes, but strategically. Your primary keyword should appear in both your title AND as a tag. However, don’t duplicate all your title keywords exactly in your tags. Use your title for the most important phrases, then use tags to cover related variations and additional keywords that didn’t fit in the title. This maximizes your reach across different search queries.
How often should I update my Etsy keywords?
Update keywords in these situations: (1) If a listing isn’t getting views after 2-4 weeks, (2) When changing seasons (add seasonal keywords), (3) When you notice trending keywords in your niche, (4) If a listing gets views but no sales (wrong keywords attracting wrong audience), (5) When competitors start outranking you. Established, performing listings should be reviewed quarterly but don’t need constant changes.
What’s the difference between eRank and Marmalead?
eRank uses 12 months of historical search data and offers a comprehensive free plan with many features. Marmalead uses real-time forecasted data (predicting next 30 days) and focuses specifically on keyword optimization with AI guidance. eRank is better for budget-conscious sellers and those who want broader SEO tools. Marmalead is better for sellers who prefer forecasted data and want simplified, AI-guided optimization. eRank has more features overall; Marmalead has a cleaner, more focused approach.
Do Etsy keyword tools show exact search volume?
No, Etsy doesn’t publicly share exact search volume data. All third-party tools (eRank, Marmalead, etc.) provide estimates based on their proprietary algorithms, historical patterns, and available data. Accuracy is typically 70-80%. Use search volume as relative comparisons (Keyword A has more searches than Keyword B) rather than absolute truth. The tools are still extremely valuable for identifying opportunities and trends.
Can I rank for competitive keywords as a new shop?
Probably not initially. New shops with few sales have lower authority in Etsy’s algorithm. Focus on low-competition long-tail keywords (under 10,000 competing listings, ideally under 5,000). As you gain sales and reviews, you build authority and can gradually target more competitive keywords. This is called “building topical authority” – establish yourself in a narrow niche first, then expand.
Should I use multi-word phrases as single tags?
Yes! Etsy treats each tag as a complete phrase. “Boho wall hanging” as one tag is NOT the same as two tags “boho” and “wall hanging”. Use your 13 tags for complete phrases that shoppers actually search for. Single-word tags like “gift” or “handmade” are generally too broad and competitive to be valuable.
How important are long-tail keywords for Etsy?
Extremely important, especially for newer shops. Long-tail keywords (4+ words, very specific) have: (1) Less competition (easier to rank), (2) Higher buyer intent (specific searches = ready to buy), (3) Better conversion rates (exact match to what they want), (4) Faster results (can rank within days vs months). Target 60-70% long-tail keywords, 30-40% medium-tail (2-3 words).
Can I copy competitors’ keywords?
Ethically, yes – keywords aren’t copyrighted. However, blindly copying is risky because: (1) Your product may not match those keywords, (2) You’re competing directly where they’re already established, (3) You miss unique opportunities they’re not using. Better strategy: Analyze what they rank for, then find related long-tail variations they’re NOT targeting. Add your unique angle or improvement.
Do Etsy keyword tools guarantee sales?
No tool guarantees sales. Keywords help shoppers find your listings, but sales require: (1) Good keywords (so people find you), (2) Great photos (so they click), (3) Competitive pricing (so they consider), (4) Compelling descriptions (so they understand value), (5) Quality products (so they buy and review positively). Keywords are one crucial piece of the puzzle, not the entire solution.
Should I use keyword stuffing in my title?
Absolutely not. Keyword stuffing (cramming keywords unnaturally) hurts your shop: (1) Lower click-through rate (looks spammy), (2) Lower conversion (confusing to shoppers), (3) Potential Etsy penalties (against TOS), (4) Poor customer experience. Write titles for humans first with keywords naturally integrated. “Beautiful Handmade Lavender Soap | Organic Natural Soap Bar Gift Set” is better than “Soap Handmade Natural Organic Lavender Gift Vegan Bath Aromatherapy Essential Oil”.
How do I find low-competition keywords?
Use this method: (1) Research seed keywords in eRank or EtsyHunt, (2) Sort by search volume descending, (3) Look for keywords with 300-1,000 searches/month, (4) Check competition (under 10,000 listings ideal), (5) Analyze top results (are they from small shops?), (6) Focus on 4+ word long-tail phrases, (7) Use Keyword Explorer to find related variations. These hidden gems bring qualified buyers with less competition.
My Recommendations: Which Tool Should You Choose?
Choosing the right Etsy keyword research tool depends on your experience level, budget, and goals. Here’s my guidance:
If you’re brand new to Etsy (0-50 sales):
Start with eRank’s free plan and Etsy’s search bar autocomplete. This combination costs nothing and gives you enough data to optimize your first listings properly. Learn the basics of keyword research, understand search volume vs competition, and start tracking your rankings. Once you start making consistent sales, upgrade to eRank Basic ($9.99/month) for more lookups and features.
If you have a modest budget ($10-20/month):
eRank Basic ($9.99/month) or Sale Samurai Basic ($9.99/month) provide excellent value. Choose eRank if you want comprehensive features including calculators and trend tracking. Choose Sale Samurai if you prefer the Chrome extension convenience. Supplement with free Pinterest Trends for seasonal planning.
If you’re growing (50-500 sales):
Consider EtsyHunt Advanced ($14.99/month) or Marmalead Entrepreneur ($19/month). EtsyHunt is better if you’re also doing product research and want the massive database. Marmalead is better if you prefer real-time forecasting and AI-guided optimization. Both provide solid ROI at this stage.
If you’re established (500+ sales):
Invest in Alura ($19.99-39.99/month) for an all-in-one platform that includes marketing tools, email automation, and Pinterest integration. At this scale, you need more than just keywords—you need comprehensive growth tools. The integrated approach saves time and provides better overall results.
If you’re on a very tight budget:
Use this free combination:
- eRank free plan (keyword research and listing audits)
- Etsy search bar autocomplete (keyword validation)
- Pinterest Trends (seasonal planning)
- Keywords Everywhere free version (cross-platform insights)
This zero-cost stack provides enough functionality to compete effectively while you build revenue.
If you sell on multiple platforms (Etsy + Amazon + eBay):
Keywords Everywhere ($10 for 100,000 credits) or Sale Samurai ($9.99-29.99/month) work across platforms. This saves time and money versus subscribing to platform-specific tools for each marketplace.
My personal recommendation for most Etsy sellers:
Start with eRank free, then upgrade to eRank Basic ($9.99/month) once you’re making sales. After 100+ sales, add EtsyHunt Advanced ($14.99/month) for product research. This combination of $25/month gives you comprehensive keyword research, product research, competitor analysis, and trend tracking—everything you need to grow systematically.
Summary & Tool Links
Here’s a quick reference to all the Etsy keyword research tools covered in this guide:
- eRank – Most popular free Etsy SEO tool with comprehensive features including keyword research, listing audits, trend tracking, and calculators
- Marmalead – Real-time keyword forecasting with Marma AI for automated listing optimization and beginner-friendly guidance
- EtsyHunt – Largest Etsy product database with similar keyword feature, shop analysis, and AI-powered listing creation (Use code GYC for 10% off)
- Sale Samurai – Powerful keyword research with convenient Chrome extension for browsing Etsy, plus bulk upload tools
- Alura – Comprehensive all-in-one platform combining keyword research with marketing tools, email automation, and Pinterest integration
- Everbee – Chrome extension focused on sales estimates and revenue predictions for product validation
- Keyword Tool for Etsy – Simple autocomplete-based keyword generator with multi-language support for international sellers
- Keywords Everywhere – Multi-platform browser extension working on Etsy, Amazon, eBay, Google, and YouTube with pay-as-you-go pricing
- Pinterest Trends – Free insights into what Pinterest users (Etsy’s major traffic source) are searching for seasonally
- Etsy Search Bar – Completely free, built-in autocomplete showing real-time popular searches directly from Etsy
Most sellers succeed by combining 2-3 tools:
- One primary tool (eRank or EtsyHunt) for comprehensive research
- Etsy search bar for quick validation
- Pinterest Trends for seasonal planning
Start with free tools to learn the fundamentals, then invest in paid tools as your shop generates revenue. The ROI on proper keyword research is substantial—optimized listings can drive sales for years without ongoing ad spend.
Ready to boost your Etsy sales? Pick one tool from this guide, research keywords for your next 5 listings, and track the difference. Consistent keyword optimization is the foundation of long-term Etsy success.
Here’s to your Etsy shop’s growth in 2026!


