My tools
The tools I pay for, and the free ones from Google
I pay for both Semrush and Ahrefs and compare them, because their data sometimes really differ. I use Local Falcon for grid scans: one search, checked from many points across a service area, because when you search for your own business you'll often rank #1 simply because Google knows where you're searching from. I also pay for BrightLocal and Whitespark, two local SEO tools.
The free ones matter just as much. Semrush positions are modelled, so I confirm movement in Google Search Console before I quote a number. GA4 shows what visitors do, and PageSpeed Insights measures speed. I have no affiliate deal with any of these companies.