Which directories require a backlink badge, and is that worth it?
Updated Markdown version
| Group | Directories | With DR | Median DR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Badge required | 37 | 37 | 62 |
| No badge | 121 | 121 | 46 |
When a badge is worth it
- The directory has real traffic or a recognisable audience in your niche.
- The badge link goes in your footer or a page that is not a key landing page, and uses the brand name as anchor text.
- You are comfortable removing it later; some directories drop your listing link or demote it if the badge disappears.
When to skip
Skip badge directories you cannot vet, and avoid large numbers of keyword-anchored badges. Google lists keyword-rich links in widgets as a link-spam pattern, so keep badge anchors to your brand name. LinkPing's badge kit generates brand-anchored markup with an optional nofollow.
Related directories
Related questions
- Which AI tool directories accept free submissions without a badge?
- Is backlink exchange against Google's guidelines?
- Can directory submissions hurt my site (toxic / spam links)?
Domain Rating by Ahrefs. DR values are from LinkPing's directory snapshot dated 2026-10-20.
Source: LinkPing directory library snapshot 2026-10-20. Figures update when the snapshot is refreshed.
Frequently asked questions
Does a badge help my SEO?
The badge links out from your site, so it does not add a backlink for you; the listing page you receive in return is what carries the value. A badge mainly buys access and, for some sites, a dofollow listing.
Can I use nofollow on a directory badge?
Yes, but some directories check the badge and may then not give you the dofollow listing in return. Read their rules first.