SubmitSaaS Domain Rating Calculator is a free SEO tool that estimates how much your Ahrefs Domain Rating will increase by submitting your SaaS or startup to directories from a database of 700+ sites. Try the DR Calculator
What is the SubmitSaaS Domain Rating Calculator?
It takes your current Ahrefs Domain Rating (DR) and a selection of directories (filtered by type, link type, and DR value) then projects your new DR in real time. The tool runs fully in your browser on the SubmitSaaS website and is built by the team behind the submission service SubmitSaaS. Outputs include estimated DR growth and a selection summary showing counts of DoFollow and NoFollow backlinks.
Key Features
- 700+ curated directories — Browse and select from a manually vetted database spanning categories like AI Directory, Launchpad, General Directory, and Software Directory, each with its own DR, link type, and pricing (free/paid).
- Real-time DR projection — Adjust your current DR and selected directories; the tool instantly recalculates an estimated DR number and displays it alongside a selection summary.
- Filter and sort options — Filter by directory type (13 categories), link type (DoFollow / NoFollow), or both. Sort results by directory DR or name to prioritize high-authority sites.
- DoFollow vs NoFollow breakdown — The selection summary shows exactly how many DoFollow and NoFollow links you’ve chosen, helping you focus on links that directly impact DR.
- Educational content integrated — The page explains DR growth factors (diminishing returns, referring domain authority, number of referring domains) and provides a 5-step strategy to maximize results from directory submissions.
- Free to use with no account required — The calculator has no login barrier, no usage limit, and no hidden costs. Optional paid submission packages start at $60 and are sold separately.
Who is it for?
- SaaS founders building their first backlink profile and wanting to estimate the DR impact of submitting to 60–140+ directories.
- Startup marketers planning a directory submission campaign and needing to compare DoFollow vs NoFollow ROI before purchasing a done-for-you service.
- SEO specialists evaluating whether directory link building is worth the effort at their site’s current DR level — the tool accounts for diminishing returns at higher DR values.
What can you do with the Domain Rating Calculator?
- Compare submission strategies: Select all DoFollow directories sorted by DR to see the maximum possible DR gain, then switch to NoFollow to see the difference — all without leaving the page.
- Prioritize directories by impact: Filter by “DoFollow” and sort by DR descending to build a list of the most valuable directories (e.g., Brownbook DR 79, Callupcontact DR 76) for immediate submission.
- Estimate campaign ROI: Enter your current DR (e.g., 0), select 60 DoFollow directories, and note the projected DR of ~10; then select 140+ directories to see ~20+ DR growth. Use these numbers to evaluate the submission packages.
How does the calculator work?
You start by entering your current Ahrefs Domain Rating (a number from 0 to 100). Then you browse the directory database, using filters and sort options to find directories. Click the checkbox next to each directory you plan to submit to. As you select directories, the calculator updates the estimated DR and selection summary in real time. The projection algorithm is based on observed DR growth patterns from “hundreds of SaaS submissions,” weighting factors like directory DR, link type, and your site’s starting DR.
