There are dozens, if not hundreds, of decent keyword tools out there.  Give ‘em one or more terms, and they’ll spit back a number of related phrases for which you should optimize.  Only now Google’s giving search volume data along with traditional Keyword Tool responses.

Real numbers, in addition to rough illustrations, will show up so long as you disable your ad-blocking software.  (Adblock Plus people and/or Googlers might want to look into that.)  The abbreviation "Approx" also appears, which is a little bit disheartening.

 Google Keyword Tool Provides Search Volume Statistics

On the Inside AdWords blog, however, Trevor Claiborne states, "These approximate numbers are intended to provide better insight into keywords’ monthly and average search volumes than previously provided by the tool."

If this proves to be the case – we’d recommend doing a little testing – most keyword tools that don’t come from Mountain View will be of comparatively little use.  Webmasters and SEOs who stick with the old favorites may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage.

Claiborne adds, "Remember, the Keyword Tool also provides several other keyword-related metrics that can help you select highly relevant keywords to improve the overall performance of your campaigns.  You can easily view data on advertiser competition, search volume trends, estimated average CPCs, and estimated ad positions for keywords."