Let’s be honest – most content never gets linked to. But when you understand which types of content that perform best for backlinks, everything changes. These are the pieces that don’t just get read – they get referenced, shared, and saved.
The numbers don’t lie: comprehensive guides earn 3x more backlinks than typical blog posts. That’s why we created this Postpack guide – to show you exactly what works right now.
Stop creating content that disappears. Let’s build something that earns its place on the web.
1. Original Research and Case Studies
Original research is a magnet for backlinks. When you publish exclusive data, experiments, or surveys, other creators cite your content as a trusted source.
Why It Works:
- People link to data-backed insights to add credibility to their own articles.
- Google loves unique information that can’t be found elsewhere.
Pro Tip: Include visual charts or infographics summarizing your findings. These make your data more shareable and boost your domain authority through natural mentions.
2. Comprehensive Guides (Ultimate or Definitive Guides)
In-depth guides are among the most shared and linked-to content formats online. They cover every angle of a topic — making them a go-to reference for writers, marketers, and readers alike.
Example: An “Ultimate Guide to Local SEO” attracts backlinks from marketers, agencies, and bloggers citing your insights.
Power Move:
Add internal links to related topics and use external links from trusted sources to strengthen EEAT signals.
For a complete breakdown of every backlink type and how they influence rankings, explore our full guide on the 50 Types of Backlinks.
3. Expert Roundups and Interviews
Bringing multiple industry voices together in one article builds authority fast. When you feature experts, they’re likely to share and link to your post — multiplying your backlinks naturally.
How to Make It Work:
- Choose 10–15 experts in your niche.
- Ask one question that triggers thought and opinion.
- Compile their answers into a valuable roundup post.
This type of collaborative content earns you instant credibility and social shares, making it one of the types of content that perform best for backlinks in 2026 and beyond.
4. Infographics and Visual Data
Visual content grabs attention faster than plain text. Infographics simplify complex ideas and make information more digestible — perfect for readers and other site owners who love embedding visuals.
Stat Spotlight:
Visual content gets 94% more views than text-only content, increasing the chances of being cited or linked. According to the HubSpot visual content performance report
Optimization Tip:
Always include your website name or logo at the bottom of the infographic. When others use it, you automatically gain a backlink credit.
5. Original Tools and Calculators
Interactive content such as free tools, templates, or calculators often attracts backlinks because users find them genuinely useful.
Examples:
- SEO score checkers
- ROI calculators
- Headline analyzers
When users discover your tool saves them time, they’ll recommend it — and websites will link to it as a valuable resource. This is one of the smartest types of content that perform best for backlinks because it provides continuous link potential over time.
6. Data-Driven Comparison Posts
People love clarity when choosing between two products, tools, or strategies. A well-researched comparison post simplifies decisions and becomes a go-to reference link.
Example Topics:
- WordPress vs Webflow
- ChatGPT vs Jasper AI
- On-page SEO vs Off-page SEO
SEO Advantage:
Such content attracts backlinks from review sites, affiliate marketers, and educational blogs that want to cite fair, data-backed comparisons.
7. Controversial or Opinion-Based Thought Leadership
Safe content gets ignored. The articles that get shared are the ones that make people stop and think. Here’s how to do it:
- Challenge common wisdom – Don’t just repeat what others say
- Back it with real experience – Use your own data and case studies
- Solve real frustrations – Address the problems your audience actually faces
- Welcome the debate – Let people agree or disagree – both generate links
- Become the reference – Position yourself as the go-to expert
For example, instead of “5 SEO Tips,” try “Why Your SEO Strategy is Actually Hurting Your Rankings.” That’s how you get noticed and build real authority.
Caution: Always support your opinions with facts and examples to maintain credibility.
Key Takeaway: Create Link-Worthy Content That Educates and Inspires
The types of content that perform best for backlinks share one secret — they deliver value beyond expectations. Whether it’s data, tools, visuals, or insights, backlinks come from trust and authority, not tricks.
If you consistently publish authentic, high-value content, backlinks will follow naturally — building your domain authority and brand presence step by step.
Pro Tip: Combine these formats in your content strategy. For example, turn a case study into an infographic or create a data-driven guide from your original research — multiplying backlink opportunities effortlessly.
People Also Ask
1. What type of content actually gets natural backlinks?
Original research and data studies consistently outperform everything else. When you publish unique data that others can’t get anywhere else, websites will link to you as a credible source. Think surveys, industry reports, or case studies with real numbers.
2. Are “ultimate guides” still effective for earning links?
Absolutely. A truly comprehensive guide that solves a complete problem becomes a go-to resource in your industry. Other sites will reference it rather than creating their own version, especially if you cover topics better than anyone else.
3. Do visual content like infographics still work?
They do, but only if they’re truly valuable. A generic infographic won’t get links, but one that simplifies complex data or reveals surprising patterns will get picked up by bloggers and journalists looking to enhance their stories.
4. What about interactive content – is it worth the effort?
Interactive tools like calculators, quizzes, or assessments generate impressive links because they provide unique value people can’t find elsewhere. They’re shareable and often get featured in resource lists.
5. Can interviews with industry experts help?
Expert interviews work wonderfully because they attract links from multiple sources- the expert’s network, their company, and sites covering your industry. It’s like borrowing authority from established names.
6. Are controversial takes effective for earning links?
Well-researched controversial pieces can work, but they’re high-risk. You need solid data to back your claims. When done right, they spark discussions and get referenced in debates across the industry.
7. What’s the most overlooked content type for backlinks?
Resource pages. Curating the best tools, articles, or data in your niche positions you as an authority. Other sites will link to your page rather than maintaining their own lists.
8. Does updating old content really help with new backlinks?
Surprisingly, yes. When you take an existing piece and add new data, insights, or examples, it signals to websites that your content is current and maintained. Many will update their old links to point to your refreshed version.
Final Words
Forget asking for links. The real and true power comes from creating content so damn good that people can’t help but share it. When you truly understand the types of content that perform best for backlinks, you stop chasing and start attracting. You build the kind of authority that Google rewards and competitors envy.
This is where we come in. At Postspack, we help you build content that doesn’t just sit there – it works 24/7 to pull in links and establish your dominance. Let’s make content that earns its keep.
