I like the idea, but I agree that the implementation isn't perfect. I would say the solution isn't to drop the [load more results] thing in favor of pagination, but to improve it.

I can't explain exactly why it is annoying as currently implemented, but it is. Somehow, the more results thing needs to be more "fluid". Maybe make the interface more like regular pagination, but just add the results to the bottom of the same page?

The ajax loading is good, but instead of having to click, let it auto load as they scroll down to get the "infinite search results" effect. Also the large amount of whitespace at the bottom is annoying.

I agree, pagination would be much better because then I wouldn't have to scroll to see all of the new results.

I like the ajax loading. Internet marketing types will like the ability to see the first X pages all on one page without having to set some parameter (as in google)

Yes, the ajax loading is much less intrusive than loading a new page. It makes it far easier to search through the existing results. It needs one or two UI changes:

1) When you click 'more results' add a divider before the first new result to make it clear which new results just appeared. In most cases the first new link will already be highlighted since the mouse will be hovering overy it but any antsy mouser will not have this benefit.

Also, I notice that I have the tendency (and need) to move the mouse off the first new link so I can read it. This is very inefficient so it would best to append the new results one line below the 'more links' link.

2) Consider adding an auto-scroll to put the first new result at the top or middle of the page to reduce scrolling. This may be disruptive, however.