Long Tail vs Short Tail Keywords, Which One is the Better?

When writing articles or carrying out SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategies, using keywords is one of the factors for improving a website in search engines. Keyword competition is also increasingly fierce, therefore keyword research is needed. As SEO Analyzers, we are usually required to understand how users search for a product in search engines. User searches generally use the words Long-tail and Short-tail, which are kinds of keywords. The two have main differences, namely in the number of words used, level of competition, and search volume.

The following is an explanation of these two keywords,

1. What are short-tail keywords?

Short Tail Keywords are short keywords consisting of one to two words. It tends to be non-specific and does not show the user’s goals. The following is an example: “Digital Marketing”, “Marketing”, “Digital”

If you look at the example above, this keyword has a high search volume. Apart from that, this type has a high KD (Keyword difficulty), so competition is increasingly fierce and it is difficult to be on the first page of search engines.

2. What are Long Tail Keywords?

Different from the previous types of keywords, Long-Tail Keywords are more specific keywords. Usually consists of three or more words. Examples are:

Long tail keywords, on the other hand, are keywords that are more specific and usually consist of three or more words. For example:

Adidas running shoes
Adidas running shoes for women
The cheapest prices for Women’s Adidas running shoes

This type of keyword usually indicates the intent of the user’s search, namely purchasing. Even though long-tail keywords are more specific and targeted, they have low search volume. However, this type of keyword is usually used for purchasing purposes and has a smaller level of competition.

Difference Between Long Tail and Short Tail Keywords

Which keywords are better to use?

Both keywords can be used depending on the goals and type of business being conducted. Here’s the explanation:

1. If your business just has a website or has low domain authority, then long-tail keywords are the right choice. This is because your website needs low competition so that it has the opportunity to be on the first page of search engines. Users also have a clear goal when visiting your website even though this type of keyword has a low search volume.

2. If your business website already has high domain authority, then short-tail keywords are appropriate. Even though the possibility of conversion or action by users will be lower, using this type of keyword can increase website traffic. A good website reputation is also influenced by the type of content that is good and aligned with the products/services offered.

3. Using both types of keywords depends on the user’s intentions. Long tail keywords are generally used by users who are at the final stage of the purchasing journey because they already know what they need. Meanwhile, short-tail keywords are often used by users who are still in the early stages of searching for information.

Long and short-tail keywords have a place in an effective SEO strategy. Using a long tail is more appropriate when the user already knows what action will be taken with a product, while a short tail is relevant to increase brand awareness when the user is new to the product. Don’t forget to continue to find out the best use of keywords for your website by staying updated on our agency blog articles.