How many directories should a new SaaS submit to?
A first round of roughly 20 to 40 relevant directories is a sensible target, and that is guidance rather than a measured optimum. LinkPing's library, checked 2026-10-20, lists 50 directories that accept free submissions with no account, which is enough to fill a first round.
Updated Markdown version
| Pool | Directories |
|---|---|
| All public directories | 410 |
| Known free and live | 164 |
| Free, no account (ready to submit) | 50 |
| Account required | 130 |
A practical plan
- Round 1 (about 20 to 40): relevant launch platforms, SaaS review sites and 10 to 20 niche or AI directories.
- Round 2 (monthly): add a few new ones, fix listings that were rejected, and update outdated descriptions.
- Stop adding when new directories are low relevance or low quality. More listings with the same text do not compound.
LinkPing does not yet have data that links the number of submissions to ranking or traffic results, so treat the range as an experience-based starting point, not a proven number.
Related directories
Related questions
- Which directories should I submit my SaaS to in 2026?
- Manual vs automated directory submission: cost and time?
- Can directory submissions hurt my site (toxic / spam links)?
Source: LinkPing directory library snapshot 2026-10-20. Figures update when the snapshot is refreshed.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a risk in submitting to too many directories?
The risk is mostly wasted effort and low-quality links, not a penalty, as long as the directories are real and you do not use keyword-stuffed anchors. See the risk answer.
How long should the first round take?
Doing it by hand takes several minutes per site; automation reduces that. See the manual vs automated comparison.