The 21 Types of Backlinks You Should Know [They ALL Matter]

I’ve had countless conversations with site owners and SEO specialists who ask the same question: “Does the type of backlink even matter anymore?” On the surface, it’s understandable.

After all, not all backlinks are built equally, and Google cares more about quality than quantity. But when you look at the details, each backlink type has its own unique effect on a site’s profile.

Yes, I’m aware that sometimes you’ll come across articles listing 20, 21, or even 30 backlink types. Let me clear the confusion and share my perspective on 21 of them. I’m sticking to 21 because each contributes in its own way—good or bad—to your SEO mix. Let’s go through them.

Why the Type of Backlink Matters

We all know the basics: backlinks from high-authority, trustworthy domains boost your rankings more than links coming from random low-quality sites. There is one more thing: it isn’t just about authority.

Relevancy, placement, and intent all count. Whether you’re building editorial links, exchanging reciprocal links, or using testimonial links, it helps to know each type’s benefits and challenges.

I have seen clients try to collect every backlink type merely for variety. That approach is not wrong in principle because Google values a diverse link profile, but it does not mean that the differences in how each link type influences rankings should be overlooked.

I will explain each of these 21 backlink types while referring to a few well-known studies and personal experiences.

1. Editorial Backlinks

An editorial backlink is the top choice for most SEO professionals. This happens when a reputable website (often a news outlet, a research-focused site, or a leading blog) links to your content because it is considered a valuable resource.

The editorial team decides it is worth citing, with no strings attached.

• These links carry significant weight in search algorithms.
• Google sees editorial backlinks as genuine endorsements.
• They can boost your credibility if they come from well-known sites in your field.

I once had a blog post about SEO experiments referenced by a major digital marketing publication.

That single editorial backlink led to a steady flow of organic visits that lasted for weeks as new readers discovered the article.

2. Guest Post Backlinks

Guest posts let you present yourself as an expert on someone else’s platform. Typically, you get a link back to your site within the content or in an author bio.

A few pointers:

• Choose reputable sites that relate to your audience.
• Provide truly high-quality content.
• Avoid spammy guest post farms since they can have a negative impact.

I have written many guest posts, and each time the quality of the host site and the substance of my content decide whether it becomes an asset or just another link.

3. Acknowledgment Backlinks

These links commonly appear when you sponsor an event or donate to a cause, and the organization thanks you on their website. Some SEOs dismiss them as minor, but they can boost trust if the source is respected.

Example: I once contributed a small grant to a nonprofit that teaches underprivileged kids about tech.

They listed me as a contributor on their official website. Google noticed, and that backlink improved my online credibility. Even though the site’s domain authority was not high, it was relevant in the education and tech sphere and signaled authenticity.

4. Infographic Backlinks

Infographics help present data, processes, or stories in a visual manner. When other sites embed your infographic and credit you with a link:

• You get referral traffic from readers who want to learn more.
• You signal to Google that you are providing original, shareable content.

I remember co-creating an SEO timeline infographic that small marketing blogs quickly picked up. The steady stream of visitors was an added benefit. Over time, it helped me build a wider presence.

5. Badge Backlinks

Badges like “Top 10 Blog,” “Certified Partner,” or “5-Star Rating” can be useful if used carefully. A quality badge from a relevant authority can really indicate expertise.

But keep in mind:

• Using too many can make Google suspect linking schemes.
• They are best when the badge comes from a well-known organization in your industry.

I typically encourage awarding badges only when there is a real vetting process. Users trust them more, and the resulting backlink is more meaningful.

6. Testimonial Backlinks

Offering a testimonial for a product or service usually results in a link on that company’s website. It is a win-win situation. They gain social proof; you get a backlink.

But remember:

• Only endorse what you truly believe in. Trust is important.
• Choose reputable companies that match your field.

I once gave an honest testimonial for an SEO tool I used regularly. They posted my quote on their homepage with a dofollow link back to my site. I noticed not only a small SEO boost but also qualified referral traffic from that link.

7. Podcast Backlinks

When you appear on a podcast or sponsor one, there is often a link in the show notes. This can be surprisingly valuable. People who listen to niche podcasts usually are interested and engaged.

• Make sure the podcast is well-produced and relevant.
• Provide a strong hook during the conversation to encourage listeners to visit your site.

I have been featured on several SEO-focused podcasts, and I always see a rise in direct visits on the day the episode is released.

8. Niche Directory Backlinks

You may think directories are outdated. In fact, there are industry-specific directories that still provide real value. Consider specialized directories for medical, legal, or educational fields that carry weight among experts.

• Local business directories can also help if you work regionally.
• Avoid generic, mass directories created only for linking.

A friend of mine runs a law firm that benefits from local directories where clients can easily find him. The backlinks from those directories also strengthen his local SEO presence.

9. Resource Page Backlinks

Resource pages list useful tools or references on a specific topic. If you are included as a helpful resource, that link is often valuable.

• Resource pages are more relevant in some fields (health, finance, education) than in others.
• Check to see if the resource page is carefully curated. Good curation often means better SEO value.

I recall a finance blogger including my SEO budget calculator on their resource page. Traffic increased significantly for that tool from a single mention.

10. Q&A Backlinks

Posting a thoughtful answer on forums like Quora or Stack Exchange can result in a nofollow backlink. Although nofollow links do not pass authority directly, they can still drive targeted visitors and diversify your link profile.

• Provide detailed and useful answers.
• Do not spam; include your link only if it genuinely adds context.

I have occasionally answered questions on Quora to clarify SEO myths. Even though those links are nofollow, the direct traffic from interested readers has helped widen my audience.

11. Forum Backlinks

Forums, particularly specialized communities, can be beneficial if you are an active and respected member who shares helpful content. However:

• Do not spam forums merely to get links. That can result in penalties.
• Choose niche forums with active, genuine users rather than those full of link-building spam.

I once joined a private mastermind forum for digital marketers. Everyone had to back up their link with real solutions. Links from that forum still bring relevant referrals years later.

12. Social Profile Backlinks

These are the links included in the bio sections of sites like LinkedIn, Twitter, or other social media platforms.

• They are usually nofollow but important for maintaining a brand presence.
• They are good for recognition, though they do not contribute significantly to SEO rankings.

I consider these a small but necessary step. People do check your profile links, so it is best to ensure they are accurate and represent your brand well.

13. Press Release Backlinks

When you send out a press release through a distribution service, it can appear on multiple news aggregator sites. Be cautious though:

• Using press releases for manufactured news can result in a spammy link profile.
• Focus on announcements that are truly meaningful and use high-quality newswires.

I use press releases only when there is important news, such as a new product launch, significant funding, or a major study. Otherwise, the additional value drops quickly.

14. Reciprocal Backlinks

Reciprocal linking happens when you link to someone and they link back to you. This can occur naturally between partner websites or collaborators. However:

• Excessive reciprocal linking may be seen as manipulative.
• Keep it genuine. If your content truly benefits each other’s audiences, it works fine.

I always consider whether a mutual exchange of links truly helps readers or is just an exchange for the sake of linking. In the latter case, I prefer to say no.

15. PBN (Private Blog Network) Backlinks

PBNs are networks of blogs owned by one individual or group, created mainly to pass link value.

• Google actively looks for patterns that suggest a PBN.
• One penalty can severely hurt your entire site’s rankings.

I have seen PBNs come and go. The short-term gains cannot compare to the long-term benefits of genuine editorial links. I avoid them completely.

16. Sponsor/Scholarship Backlinks

Sponsoring a scholarship can get you links from educational institutions (for example, .edu domains). Sponsoring conferences or local events can also generate credible citations.

• Universities and colleges often have high domain authority.
• The sponsorship must be genuine; you do not want to be seen as part of a linking scheme.

I once advised a startup that sponsored a small scholarship for women in tech. Local universities linked to their site, which boosted credibility and authority.

17. Blog Comment Backlinks

Leaving comments on blog posts with a link back to your site can be acceptable—if it is relevant. However, they are mostly nofollow.

• Engaging in thoughtful discussion might build brand recognition.
• Their SEO impact is minimal.

I view these more as a way to connect with a community. If you add useful insights in the comments, some readers might visit your profile, but do not expect significant SEO benefits.

18. Image Backlinks

Similar to infographics, an image backlink happens when someone uses your original photo or graphic on their site and credits you with a link.

• This is a straightforward way to earn links if you produce original visuals.
• Adding a watermark to your images can encourage proper credit.

A colleague of mine created stock photos specifically for tech brands. Every time an agency used his images, they had to include a link back. In a few years, he built a network of quality inbound links.

19. Broken Link Building

This method involves finding broken links on another site and suggesting your page as a replacement. It takes time, but it can be very effective.

• You provide real help by fixing a dead link.
• You gain a backlink if your resource is a good match.

I keep a small list of broken link building I discover during my research. When the opportunity arises, I offer a suitable replacement. It works well when you show that you really care about helping others fix a problem.

20. “HARO” Backlinks

HARO (Help a Reporter Out) connects journalists with experts. If you provide a relevant comment or insight, you might earn a backlink in an article.

• Journalists from notable publications often review the final piece, so these backlinks are typically of good quality.
• Your replies need to be brief and on topic.

One HARO mention once resulted in a link from a major publication for me. That link has remained one of my strongest signals of credibility over time.

21. Influencer & Co-Author Backlinks

Collaborating with influencers or co-authors can result in a link on their blog or website. Maybe you worked together on a project or co-wrote a research paper.

• Your credibility increases when working with well-known figures.
• The link is generally included in content that is relevant to your field.

Whenever I collaborate with a respected SEO expert, the content gets additional exposure, and the backlink is placed naturally within the material.

Dofollow vs. Nofollow: Quick Refresher

• Dofollow links pass link value that can directly impact your search rankings.
• Nofollow links do not pass authority in most cases, though they can still drive traffic, increase brand exposure, and contribute to a varied link profile.

Search engines like Google have become more discerning; they sometimes treat even nofollow links as hints. Always treat dofollow links like precious resources, since they directly affect your site’s SEO strength.

Table of Key Characteristics

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Empirical Evidence and Expert Insights

Large-scale studies show that pages ranking at the top usually have links from a wide variety of domains. The authority of the domains linking to you often correlates with higher search rankings.

Google’s algorithms are good at spotting manipulative link patterns and may ignore or penalize them.

Experts from HubSpot, Ahrefs, and Backlinko support these findings: quality and a varied set of links matter more than just the number of links.

When all your links come from the same kind of source, it sends a warning signal. Conversely, chasing after low-value links is also unwise.