An Honest Comparison

We think GenieOptimize is great for most businesses, but we're not the right fit for everyone. Here's an honest look at your options.

Four Approaches to AI Search Visibility

There's no single right answer. The best choice depends on your resources, timeline, and needs.

GenieOptimize

$29–$199/mo

Automated schema optimization with citation tracking and competitive monitoring.

Strengths

  • 5-minute setup, one line of code
  • Automatic updates as AI evolves
  • Citation tracking built in
  • No technical expertise needed

Limitations

  • No guarantee of AI citations
  • Schema-focused (not full SEO)
  • Newer product, less track record

Hire an SEO/AI Expert

$3,000–$10,000+/mo

Dedicated professional managing your entire AI search strategy.

Strengths

  • Comprehensive, custom strategy
  • Content creation included
  • Handles SEO + AI optimization
  • Human judgment and expertise

Limitations

  • Expensive for small businesses
  • Results take weeks to months
  • Quality varies significantly

DIY (Manual)

Free (your time)

Learn structured data and implement AI-friendly schemas yourself.

Strengths

  • No ongoing cost
  • Full control over implementation
  • Deep learning opportunity

Limitations

  • Requires technical knowledge
  • Time-intensive (40+ hours)
  • Easy to get wrong
  • No tracking or monitoring

Feature Comparison

A factual look at what each approach offers.

GenieOptimize SEO Expert DIY
Setup & Implementation
Setup time 5 minutes 2–4 weeks 40+ hours
Technical skill required None None (they do it) Intermediate+
Automatic page detection Yes Depends No
Optimization
Schema generation Automatic Manual Manual
Auto-updates as AI changes Yes Extra cost No
Content optimization No Yes If skilled
Custom strategy No Yes If skilled
Tracking & Analytics
Citation tracking Built in Varies No
AI crawler monitoring Real-time Usually not No
Competitive tracking Yes (PRO+) Varies No
Cost
Monthly cost $29–$199 $3,000–$10,000+ Free
Free trial 14 days Rarely N/A

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose GenieOptimize if you...

  • Want to start in minutes, not weeks
  • Need citation tracking to prove ROI
  • Don't have in-house technical expertise
  • Want a predictable monthly cost under $200
  • Run a SaaS, agency, or small business
  • Want competitive presence monitoring

Consider an alternative if you...

  • Need full content strategy (hire an expert)
  • Have an enterprise budget ($10K+/mo)
  • Want custom AI interaction strategies
  • Are a developer comfortable with Schema.org (DIY)
  • Need traditional SEO alongside AI optimization
  • Have very niche requirements
A note on honesty: We built this page because we believe informed customers make the best customers. GenieOptimize automates schema optimization and tracks your AI visibility — but we can't guarantee that AI assistants will cite your content. AI models decide what to recommend based on many factors beyond structured data. We optimize what we can control and measure the rest.

Try It Risk-Free

14-day free trial. No credit card required. See your citation data within days.

Start Free Trial