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.
A quick anonymous link cannot be edited or measured. Create a free account first if you need to change its destination or see clicks.
- 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
Make a short link for a web page, document or campaign. Choose a free account when you need to manage the link after sharing it.
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
Share a recognisable link on your own domain, with a name you choose and clicks you can measure.
URL shortener with analytics
Measure requests to your short links, separate detected bots from human clicks and compare campaign traffic with the right reporting context.
Safe and reliable URL shortener
HTTPS links, direct redirects and abuse review, with tools to inspect where a short link leads.
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.