Product Hunt launch was a total dud. Where do I go from here?

Hey everyone,

Honestly feeling a bit defeated today and could use some advice from people who have been through the zero-to-one grind.

I recently launched my product on Product Hunt. I prepped for weeks, tried to do everything by the book, and... it barely moved the needle. Got a handful of visits, maybe a couple of sign-ups, but absolutely nothing like the traction or feedback loop I was hoping for. It feels like if you aren't already backed by a massive network or launching a viral AI wrapper, you just get buried.

Right now, budget is incredibly tight, so paid ads are out of the question. I’m trying to figure out how to get those crucial early eyeballs and initial users without burning cash.

I know a lot of people recommend submitting to free directories and alternative launch platforms to build early momentum (and domain authority), but the sheer number of them is overwhelming, and I don't want to waste hours shouting into a void if half of them are ghost towns.

For those of you who have launched a SaaS or side project recently: Which free directories or alternative platforms actually drove real traffic or high-signal users for you?

I’ve heard of places like BetaList, Uneed, 1000Tools, and MicroLaunch, but I’d love to know what is actually worth the time investment right now in 2026.

Any advice, lists, or even just some reassurance would be a massive lifesaver. Thanks in advance.