The best URL shortener: what to look for
Most shorteners make a short link. The best ones keep that link useful for years. Here is what to check before you choose.
Every link shortener turns a long URL into a short one. The differences show up later: whether you can fix a link after sharing it, whether you know who clicked, whether the links survive if the service changes, and what it costs once you have hundreds of links.
Use this checklist to compare any service — including ours.
Shorten your link
Free, instant, no ads. A QR code comes with it.
- 1,000 links free
- 6 custom domains free
- No credit card
How to do it in three steps
- 1
List what you need
Free or paid, custom domain, analytics depth, team, API.
- 2
Test the free plan
Create a link, edit it, check the analytics.
- 3
Check the exit
Can you export your links and keep your domain?
The checklist
Editable destinations; custom back-halves; your own domain with HTTPS; clear analytics that separate bots from people; QR codes; bulk tools and an API; no ads or interstitials; export and migration; transparent pricing.
How we measure up
Free plan with 1,000 links, 6 custom domains, analytics, QR codes and the API. Paid plans from $4 a month add bulk import, mobile targeting, A/B tests, exports and more. Links keep redirecting past click allowances.
Honest comparisons
We keep side-by-side comparisons with Bitly, TinyURL, Rebrandly, Short.io, Cutt.ly and others, with their prices and limits — see the comparison pages.
Related guides
Free URL shortener
Paste a long link, get a short one — free, fast and without ads. Sign up free to edit it later and see every click.
A Bitly alternative for shortening links
Everything you use Bitly for — short links, QR codes, analytics and an API — with more on the free plan.
Branded URL shortener
Put your brand in every link — go.yourbrand.com/launch — and turn every click into insight.
URL shortener with analytics
See who clicks your links — where they are, what device they use and where they came from — free.
Safe and reliable URL shortener
HTTPS on every link, no ads in between, and abuse kept off the platform — so people can trust your short links.
Start Free — no credit card
The free plan includes 1,000 links, 6 custom domains and 50,000 tracked clicks a month, free forever. Choose a free subdomain from six shared domains. Paid plans start at $4 a month when you outgrow it, and you keep everything you have built.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free URL shortener?
Look for editable links, analytics, your own domain and no ads on the free plan. Ours includes all four.
What is the most reliable link shortener?
One that lets you use your own domain, so links never depend on a shared domain you do not control.
Which shortener is best for businesses?
One with branded domains, team roles, exports and an API. Compare plans on the pricing page.
Is Bitly the best URL shortener?
Bitly is popular; compare features and prices on our Bitly alternative page to decide.
How much does a URL shortener cost?
There is a free plan; paid plans start at a few dollars a month. See pricing.