what is the best AI search agency?
Side by side
The same idea worded differently counts as shared. Matching uses EmbeddingGemma 2 similarity.
Fan-out diagram
Seed → topic clusters → sub-queries, per model.
Badge and edge weight = share of passes that produced the query. Hover a query for its intent and routing format.
Query classes
Google's semantic query class for every sub-query: what kind of answer each search is after, simulated vs real.
Classes come from the query-classifier (a local Laya model). 76 of 96 calls are low-confidence (under 50%) — hover a query in the table to see its confidence.
What the models actually searched
Each model answered the query with its own web search. These are the searches it ran, matched to the closest simulated query.
12 cited sources
- yesoptimist.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- canesta.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- cracklepr.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- firstpagesage.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- firstpagesage.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- exposureninja.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- yesoptimist.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- kore1.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- christianandtimbers.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- reddit.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- tecla.io · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
- talentfoot.com · vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com
50 cited sources
- ipullrank.com · ipullrank.com
- www.marketingforllms.com · www.marketingforllms.com
- ipullrank.com · ipullrank.com
- www.aivisibilityapp.com · www.aivisibilityapp.com
- www.loudface.co · www.loudface.co
- ipullrank.com · ipullrank.com
- adamgtm.com · adamgtm.com
- theaitoolverdict.com · theaitoolverdict.com
- drewgarrett.org · drewgarrett.org
- leadingsearchlist.com · leadingsearchlist.com
- www.therankmasters.com · www.therankmasters.com
- ipullrank.com · ipullrank.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com · s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com
- thinkdmg.com · thinkdmg.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- arxiv.org · arxiv.org
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- www.reddit.com · www.reddit.com
- en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org
- learn.meltwater.com · learn.meltwater.com
- www.unrealdigitalgroup.com · www.unrealdigitalgroup.com
- www.issuewire.com · www.issuewire.com
- 5693998.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net · 5693998.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net
- arxiv.org · arxiv.org
- en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org
- arxiv.org · arxiv.org
- www.axios.com · www.axios.com
- www.techradar.com · www.techradar.com
- www.techradar.com · www.techradar.com
- www.techradar.com · www.techradar.com
- www.techradar.com · www.techradar.com
- www.itpro.com · www.itpro.com
- en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org
- arxiv.org · arxiv.org
- en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org
- ru.wikipedia.org · ru.wikipedia.org
- en.wikipedia.org · en.wikipedia.org
- beomniscient.com · beomniscient.com
- www.siegemedia.com · www.siegemedia.com
- www.siegemedia.com · www.siegemedia.com
- www.siegemedia.com · www.siegemedia.com
Semantic map
Every query placed by meaning (EmbeddingGemma 2, 256-d). Shaded regions are topics, nearby points are near-paraphrases, and a circle's size is how often the query came back.
Queries
| Query / type | Search | Intent | Query class | Routing format | Cluster | Freq ↓ | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
top generative engine optimization agencies REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Discover market-leading agencies using formal industry terminology for AI search optimization. | Comparison | review_roundup | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 3x of 5 | |
best ai search optimization agency for b2b saas PERSONALIZED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Locate an AI search agency with specialized expertise in the B2B SaaS vertical. | Comparison | buyers_guide | b2b saas ai search optimization | 3x of 5 | |
top ai search optimization agencies REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Discover the most reputable agencies specializing in search optimization for AI platforms. | Comparison | review_roundup | b2b saas ai search optimization | 2x of 5 | |
what services do ai search marketing agencies provide IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Understand what specific deliverables and scopes are included when hiring an AI search agency. | Comparison | faq_page | agency selection and services | 2x of 5 | |
traditional seo agency vs ai search agency differences COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Compare service offerings between conventional SEO firms and emerging AI search agencies. | Comparison | comparison_table | ai search versus traditional seo | 2x of 5 | |
traditional seo agency vs ai search agency COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Evaluate the strategic and operational differences between legacy SEO firms and AI search specialists. | Comparison | comparison_table | ai search versus traditional seo | 2x of 5 | |
best ai search agency for b2b saas companies PERSONALIZED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Identify specialized AI search agencies tailored specifically to B2B software companies. | Comparison | review_roundup | b2b saas ai search optimization | 2x of 5 | |
best generative engine optimization agency REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Discover leading agencies dedicated specifically to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). | Comparison | review_roundup | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
best ai search optimization marketing agency REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Locate full-service digital marketing agencies specializing in optimizing brands for AI answer engines. | Comparison | buyers_guide | b2b saas ai search optimization | 1x of 5 | |
best generative engine optimization agencies REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Identify agencies that specifically specialize in Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). | Comparison | review_roundup | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
best ai search optimization firms ranking REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Locate an authoritative ranked list of top AI search agencies. | Comparison | review_roundup | b2b saas ai search optimization | 1x of 5 | |
best agencies for ai search optimization REFORMULATION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Discover leading digital marketing agencies that optimize for AI-driven search engines. | Comparison | buyers_guide | b2b saas ai search optimization | 1x of 5 | |
how to choose an ai search marketing agency RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Understand key criteria and frameworks for vetting and selecting an AI search partner. | Comparison | buyers_guide | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
single grain ai search agency services ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Review the specific AI search optimization offerings and track record of Single Grain. | Comparison | web_article | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
how to choose an agency for ai search optimization RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Learn the criteria and evaluation framework for hiring an AI search firm. | Comparison | buyers_guide | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
how to choose an ai search agency RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Learn the criteria and vetting questions needed to select an agency for AI search. | Comparison | buyers_guide | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
how much does an ai seo agency cost RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Determine the typical pricing models and retainer fees for AI search optimization services. | Comparison | pricing_page | pricing and retainer costs | 1x of 5 | |
average cost of ai search marketing agency retainer RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Understand the budget requirements and pricing models for hiring an AI search agency. | Reason | pricing_page | pricing and retainer costs | 1x of 5 | |
np digital generative engine optimization review ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Evaluate client reviews and results for NP Digital's generative search optimization services. | Reason | case_study | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
how much do ai search agencies cost RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Find average monthly retainer costs and pricing tiers for AI search marketing agencies. | Short fact | pricing_page | pricing and retainer costs | 1x of 5 | |
ai search optimization agency cost and pricing models RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Determine typical retainer costs and fee structures for hiring an AI search firm. | Reason | pricing_page | pricing and retainer costs | 1x of 5 | |
how to choose an agency for perplexity and chatgpt search RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Learn the criteria and vetting questions needed to select an agency for LLM search visibility. | Comparison | checklist | platform specific visibility agencies | 1x of 5 | |
what does an ai search agency actually do IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Learn the specific services, deliverables, and scope provided by an AI search agency. | Reason | faq_page | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
top ai seo agencies compared COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and features of the leading AI search agencies side by side. | Comparison | comparison_table | agency comparisons and reviews | 1x of 5 | |
what does an ai search agency do IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Understand the scope of deliverables and strategies offered by AI search agencies. | Reason | faq_page | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
generative engine optimization agency case studies results IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Inspect verifiable proof and ROI metrics achieved by AI search agencies for past clients. | Reason | case_study | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
geo agency vs traditional seo agency differences COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Determine whether hiring a specialized AI search agency offers distinct advantages over an existing SEO firm. | Comparison | faq_page | ai search versus traditional seo | 1x of 5 | |
generative engine optimization case studies results IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Inspect verifiable proof and ROI metrics achieved by AI search agencies. | Consequence | case_study | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
ai search optimization agency roi case studies IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Find evidence and proof of traffic or revenue gains generated by AI search agencies. | Reason | case_study | case studies and roi results | 1x of 5 | |
how much does an ai search optimization agency cost IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Find average retainer pricing and project rates for hiring an AI search agency. | Comparison | pricing_page | pricing and retainer costs | 1x of 5 | |
top enterprise ai enterprise search implementation partners ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Identify systems integrators that build custom internal AI search solutions on corporate data. | Other / navigational | buyers_guide | b2b saas ai search optimization | 1x of 5 | |
best geo agencies for perplexity chatgpt optimization ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Identify agencies that explicitly optimize brand mentions in LLMs like ChatGPT and Perplexity. | Comparison | web_article | platform specific visibility agencies | 1x of 5 | |
how to choose a generative engine optimization agency IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Obtain a structured vetting process to evaluate and interview potential AI search agencies. | Comparison | checklist | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
top ai search agencies compared features pricing COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Compare specific leading agencies across key attributes like pricing, services, and client ratings. | Comparison | comparison_table | agency comparisons and reviews | 1x of 5 | |
top ai search agencies comparison matrix COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Directly compare features, focus areas, and ratings of leading AI search agencies. | Comparison | comparison_table | agency comparisons and reviews | 1x of 5 | |
top answer engine optimization agencies compared COMPARATIVE | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Compare feature sets, specializations, and reputations among top answer engine optimization (AEO) firms. | Comparison | comparison_table | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
single grain ai search optimization agency review ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Read a detailed evaluation of Single Grain's specific AI search and GEO capabilities. | Reason | review_roundup | case studies and roi results | 1x of 5 | |
what deliverables does an ai search agency provide RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Understand the concrete deliverables and ongoing activities included in an AI search agency contract. | Consequence | product_spec_sheet | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
top generative engine optimization companies omniscient single grain ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Evaluate recognized digital agencies known for pioneering AI search and GEO capabilities. | Other / navigational | review_roundup | generative and answer engine optimizati… | 1x of 5 | |
best agencies for google ai overviews optimization ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Identify agencies with proven expertise in securing brand citations within Google AI Overviews. | Comparison | review_roundup | platform specific visibility agencies | 1x of 5 | |
np digital generative ai search services ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Investigate the specific AI search consulting packages provided by NP Digital. | Other / navigational | web_article | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
single grain ai search agency review ENTITY EXPANSION | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Evaluate a prominent named agency's specific reputation and track record in AI-powered search marketing. | Other / navigational | web_article | case studies and roi results | 1x of 5 | |
checklist for hiring an ai search optimization vendor IMPLICIT | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Obtain an actionable checklist to verify agency claims during sales calls. | Instruction | checklist | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
best ai search optimization agency reddit recommendations RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Read authentic peer experiences and unvarnished feedback on AI search agencies. | Comparison | forum/qna | b2b saas ai search optimization | 1x of 5 | |
checklist for vetting an ai search marketing partner RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Obtain an actionable checklist of questions and prerequisites before signing with an agency. | Instruction | checklist | agency selection and services | 1x of 5 | |
ai search optimization agency benchmark results and roi RELATED | Google ↗ AI Mode ↗ | Examine empirical performance metrics and expected return on investment from AI search agency engagements. | Comparison | dataset | case studies and roi results | 1x of 5 |
Tokens & cost
What this run used on your API keys, per model and step.
| Model | What | Requests | Input tokens | Output tokens | Web searches | Est. cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| gemini-3.8-flash | Real-search passes | 1 | 248 | 1,768808 thinking | 3 | $0.049 |
| gemini-3.8-flash | Simulated passes | 5 | 2,035 | 11,5684,846 thinking | — | $0.045 |
| gpt-6.1-sol | Real-search passes | 1 | 17,287 | 526165 thinking | 5 | $0.090 |
| gpt-6.1-sol | Simulated passes | 5 | 2,945 | 7,4411,125 thinking | — | $0.080 |
| gemini-3.5-flash-lite | Naming clusters | 1 | 769 | 236 | — | $0.0008 |
| Total | 13 | 23,284 | 21,539 | 8 | $0.265 | |
Billed to your own API keys. Estimated from the providers' list prices (checked 2026-10-11); output includes thinking tokens. Free tiers, caching and retries can make your bill differ. Google gives 5,000 grounded searches a month free across Gemini 3+ models. OpenAI bills the web search content it reads as input tokens.
Passes
Does another pass still surface new queries? A flattening curve means the fan-out has stabilised.
| Model | Pass | Target | Generated | Seconds | Tokens (in / out) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| gemini-3.8-flash · real search | 1 | — | 3 | 18.8 | 248 / 1,768 · 3 searches | |
| gemini-3.8-flash | 1 | 11 | 11 | 26.0 | 407 / 3,203 | |
| gemini-3.8-flash | 2 | 11 | 11 | 21.9 | 407 / 1,829 | |
| gemini-3.8-flash | 3 | 11 | 11 | 15.0 | 407 / 2,089 | |
| gemini-3.8-flash | 4 | 11 | 11 | 24.9 | 407 / 2,198 | |
| gemini-3.8-flash | 5 | 11 | 11 | 19.7 | 407 / 2,249 | |
| gpt-6.1-sol · real search | 1 | — | 5 | 20.0 | 17,287 / 526 · 5 searches | |
| gpt-6.1-sol | 1 | 12 | 12 | 38.2 | 589 / 1,535 | |
| gpt-6.1-sol | 2 | 12 | 12 | 29.7 | 589 / 1,358 | |
| gpt-6.1-sol | 3 | 12 | 12 | 37.0 | 589 / 1,519 | |
| gpt-6.1-sol | 4 | 12 | 12 | 34.7 | 589 / 1,531 | |
| gpt-6.1-sol | 5 | 12 | 12 | 37.9 | 589 / 1,498 |