The main difference between a web directory and search engine should be obvious. Web directories rely more on human contributors to review and post links, while search engine processes are automated using computers. This means that search engines are usually much more efficient at what they do, cranking out millions of results in just under a few seconds. However, for niche and specialized topics, web directories may still yield better results.

A paid directory is a directory where companies pay a significant amount just to be included in the list. It is like a form of simple advertisement, where a business invests some amount to make sure it is included in the list in a popular and widely used paid directory. Thus, organizers and developers of the paid directory earn revenues. In return, paid directories ensure that online users and consumers can easily access the contact information of the company.