For 99% of companies and brands, the starting point on which to build an online business is a website. A website is by far the best way to showcase products, services, capabilities, and proof that a company understands the needs of the consumer.
In order to have a website, you must have a domain name. The domain name is critical as it best represents your business and brand. Domain name registration from the best domain name registrars available will certainly set you up for success.
PROS
CONS
ALTERNATIVES
Best Overall
NameSilo
Quality provider with lots of options, low price points, and an easy-to-navigate experience.
PROS
- Good user interface and security features
- Customer service phone support is available
- Inexpensive domain solutions
- The domain control panel is easy to use
- Free WHOIS privacy for life
CONS
- Domain security can prove to be too extreme for users.
- No discounts when registering domain names.
ALTERNATIVES
Best For Price
Namecheap
The name says it. They offer less expensive options out of the gate than other providers listed here.
PROS
- Cheaper than other domain providers
- Simple instructions for website onboarding
- Full suite of services and products for all business needs
- Free WHOIS privacy for purchased domains
- Bulk domain search
CONS
- Better discounts could be offered for longer-term domain registration.
- Limited domain purchase assistance.
ALTERNATIVES
Best For Options
DreamHost
Top-notch services, customer support and lots of extras to choose from mean good value overall.
PROS
- Free SSL certificate
- Free subdomains
- Great customer support
- 100s of domain extensions are available
- Easy domain transfers
- 30-day grace period for domain expiry
- Free WHOIS privacy for domains
CONS
- Additional domain features cost extra money.
- Less expensive options are available.
- Limited support hours.
ALTERNATIVES
Easiest to Use
Hover
An extremely easy-to -use interface and a fast process make this a top choice to get in and get it done quickly.
PROS
- Quick and easy domain registration process
- No domain transfer fees for common extensions
- Simple easy to navigate interface
- 100’s of extensions are available
- Free WHOIS privacy protection
CONS
- Service tends to be a bit pricier compared to others.
- It doesn't offer web hosting as other companies do.
ALTERNATIVES
Best For Support
GoDaddy
One of the most recognizable names in the business and top-rated support and discounts.
PROS
- WHOIS privacy (domain privacy) at two levels
- 24/7 customer support
- One of the most comprehensive in terms of options
- Reputable company
- Hundreds of extensions offered
- Domain auction services
CONS
- Too little control.
- Can be overpriced for renewals.
- Too many upsells in the cart and checkout process.
ALTERNATIVES
You want your website to be memorable, accessible, and stand out from the crowd. The domain name is what gives your website individuality and defines your brand. The name is what people remember. It's a gateway to your website.
When conducting a domain registrar ranking exercise, it can take time to discover all the hidden values a domain registrar might have. There are some comparison categories that are easy to make like which offer free domain registration but there are also categories where all providers tout their value like being the safest domain registrar.
We've put them all through our tests so let's find out which domain registrars offer the best products and services.
What are the best domain registrars?
The best domain registrars offer the best deals, provide extra services, features like domain privacy, domain lock, and free WHOIS privacy, and most importantly, are reliable.
To make your domain registrar-finding process easier, we have collected data from ten leading domain registrars so that you can make the right choice when purchasing a domain.
NameSilo
With NameSilo, you can register a domain in a clean, fast, and easy way. NameSilo also has services for renewals and domain management. NameSilo offers multiple levels of security available to keep your domain assets safe including domain lock and domain privacy. They offer simple, flat, and transparent pricing for their services.
NameSilo, like most domain registrars on this list, also offers free WHOIS privacy. Along with free domain privacy, you can also purchase inexpensive web hosting services with NameSilo.
Pros of NameSilo
- NameSilo offers a good user interface and security features
- Customer service phone support is available
- Inexpensive domain solutions
- Two-factor authentication adds security
- The domain control panel is easy to use
- Free WHOIS privacy for life
- SSL certificates
Cons of NameSilo
- Domain security can prove to be too extreme for novice users
- No discounts when registering new domain names
NameSilo User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about NameSilo
“I've been with NameSilo for 8 years. Their support team is AMAZING! Friendly, patient and very helpful. Their domain prices are better than all other registrars when you factor in the free domain privacy.” –Rhonda (US)
“Yes, 10 years! I started to use Namesilo on 2012-04-22 and am still here. Trustworthy and reliable company. Thank you guys for your service!” –Oleg (GB)
“Truly a great hosting company. They offer quick and reliable support to customers. No wonder they are picking up market share so quickly!!” –Yoram (NL)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.7 out of 5, based on 1115 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating NameSilo
Capterra – No review and rating are currently available.
G2 – 3.9 out of 5, based on 39 ratings and reviews.
NameSilo Pricing
Here is the cost of different .com domain services provided by NameSilo:
- Registration for a .com domain is $9.95 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $9.95/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $8.99.
Best NameSilo Deal
Free: A free domain name is not included with NameSilo hosting plans.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for their domain services.
Sale: They offer promotions on a large number of domain extensions including up to 93% off.
Promotions: No promotion codes are available at the time of writing.
NameSilo Support
Users can search the database of NameSilo to access popular resources to get answers related to domains, security, web hosting, WHOIS privacy policy, and much more. Users can also call their support team or contact them via live chat or email.
Namecheap
Namecheap is a reliable domain registrar as it has been around for more than 20 years, helping over three million customers register domains and more. Namecheap offers very affordable services, including hosting, domain registration, email, WordPress hosting, apps, etc.
Namecheap is a straightforward solution and a decent option when it comes to domain names and domain management. They offer free WHOIS privacy for all domain purchases and have free DNS and premium DNS services.
Namecheap also provides web hosting services at an affordable price. The domain management tools offered by Namecheap make it easy to buy multiple domain names, check for available domains, do bulk domain renewals, and look up expired domains.
Pros of Namecheap
- They are cheaper than other domain providers
- The services provide the customer with simple and easy instructions for website onboarding
- Provides the customer with the benefit of website management
- Full suite of services and products for all business needs
- Free WHOIS privacy for purchased domains
- Bulk domain search for easy domain assessment
Cons of Namecheap
- Better discounts could be offered for longer-term domain registration
- Limited domain purchase assistance compared to other domain registrars
Namecheap User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Namecheap
“So glad I found namecheap, mainly because their support team is brilliant, had a few problems transferring a domain over, but my emails to them were answered quickly and fully explained how to solve. The site is easy to navigate and the deals on domains are 2nd to none.” –Robert (TH)
“It is an excellent service that ensures the safety of customers. I had to verify my account but it was fast thanks for the support.” –Americo (BR)
“Wrapped. I am not the type of person who takes time to write a review without good reason. Craz. D and GD are spammy AF, Namecheap never puts extra s*** in your cart or bombards you with crap you can easily remove from cart, and they are MUCH more competitive on price and the Honey coupons ACTUALLY WORK…” –Laury (AU)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.4 out of 5, based on 12632 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Namecheap
Capterra – No review and rating are available currently.
G2 – 4.4 out of 5, based on 186 ratings and reviews.
Namecheap Pricing
Namecheap domain name pricing for a .com is as follows:
- Registration for a .com domain is $5.98 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $13.98/year.
- The transfer cost for a .com domain is $9.98.
Best Namecheap Deal
Free: A free domain name is not offered with their web hosting plans.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for domains.
Sale: There are no sales currently active.
Promotions: You can get up to 99% off by using the promo code 99SPECIAL.
Namecheap Support
Namecheap offers a knowledge base, help center, how-to videos, and more resources for users to get immediate help. If you are looking for specific assistance, you can contact their support via live chat or submit a ticket on their website.
DreamHost
DreamHost is also a domain registrar that has a long track record. It is a great place both for beginners and entrepreneurs as it provides features that suit both really well.
The stand-out point of DreamHost is that they have set up their pricing so well, particularly for the customers that are appealed more toward month-to-month domain plans is a massive game-changer. You also get free WHOIS privacy with any hosting plan of DreamHost.
DreamHost is highly rated in the best domain name registrars list for its reliability, and fast working speed. They also offer excellent web hosting plans and a free domain name for the first year with any of their web host plans.
Pros of DreamHost
- Free SSL certificate
- Free subdomains
- Great customer support
- 100s of domain extensions are available
- Easy domain transfers
- 30-day grace period for domain expiry
- Free WHOIS privacy for domains
- Simplified website development
Cons of DreamHost
- Additional domain features cost extra money
- Less expensive options are available
- Limited support hours
DreamHost User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about DreamHost
“We've used Dreamhost as our website and email hosting service for over 10 years. Their service and support has always been excellent. With their automated upgrade robot processes for WordPress version, themes, and plugins they have taken a significant burden off our shoulders…” –Tom (US)
“Dreamhost was very professional and made our business a wonderful website. Excellent customer support and very prompt service.” –MS (US)
“Abhay and team did an amazing job optimizing my website and was extremely patient and professional in all correspondence. Would work with them again in the future.” –Shane (CA)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.8 out of 5, based on 3112 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating DreamHost
Capterra – 4.0 out of 5, based on 1 rating and reviews.
G2 – 3.7 out of 5, based on 76 ratings and reviews.
DreamHost Pricing
DreamHost pricing for .com domains is as follows:
- Registration for a .com domain is $7.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $17.99/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $9.99.
Best DreamHost Deal
Free: Free domain name is included with all their yearly web hosting plans.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for domains.
Sale: Currently not available.
Promotions: Currently not available.
DreamHost Support
DreamHost offers an academy to their users to teach them about website building and how to get more traffic to the website. They also have a rich knowledge base, a forum, and a customer support team to guide you when you face any problem.
Hover
Hover has a lot to offer when it comes to registering a domain name and is an attractive option. Hover is a domain registrar service provider. They can register a company with a new domain name on your behalf, and then authorize you to use that domain for whatever you need.
Hover provides you with the best services backed by 14 years of experience. It was launched in late 2008 as a branch of Tucows, one of the oldest domain registrars on the market. The idea behind Hover was to make domain registration as easy as possible so that anyone could handle the process even if it was their first experience with domain names.
You can buy multiple domain extensions from Hover at an affordable price. Hover doesn't charge a transfer fee for common domain extensions. However, you have to contact their support to get the pricing for transferring exclusive domain extensions like .io from your current domain registrar. Domain renewal prices are reasonably priced but not the least expensive.
Pros of Hover
- They offer a quick and easy domain registration process
- No domain transfer fees for common domain extensions
- They offer dedicated customer support when you're encountering any trouble
- Simple easy to navigate interface
- 100’s of extensions are available
- Free WHOIS privacy protection
Cons of Hover
- Hover's service tends to be a bit pricier compared to others
- It doesn't offer web hosting as other companies do
Hover User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Hover
“Hover has been my domain registrant for several years however I do host my email elsewhere. I have absolutely no complaints, setting up is very fast and their control panel is extremely to navigate. I generally use their chat facility for support and of the handful of times I have used it, it has been excellent…” –Janet (GB)
“Bought a few domain names from them over the last 5 years. They never sniped any of my domain ideas like other registrars do, and the cost was reasonable and never had a problem with transfers.” –Raymond (US)
“Been using hover for almost a decade, both professionally and personally. Excellent service, really really good site/interface. And the fact that they're descendants of the famous tucows is icing on the top.” –Alex (GR)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 2.4 out of 5, based on 31 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Hover
Capterra – No review and rating are available currently.
G2 – 4.1 out of 5, based on 21 ratings and reviews.
Hover Pricing
Here are Hover's prices for a .com domain.
- Registration for a .com domain is $13.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $15.99/year.
- Transfer cost is free, you just need to pay for a year of registration.
Best Hover Deal
Free: A free domain name is not offered by Hover.
Guarantee: No refunds are available for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently not available.
Promotions: Save 10% by using the promo code WENDOVER10OFF.
Hover Support
Hover has a great knowledge base and you can browse their popular articles to get instant answers to your queries. For more personalized help, you can contact their support team via email or phone support.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy is one of the domain registrars that most users recognize when it comes to purchasing domain names for their websites. The proclaimed feature of GoDaddy that makes it stand out is that the platform is beginner-friendly and highly accessible. They offer domain registration and other services at affordable prices.
It uses artificial design intelligence to create your website efficiently and easier than ever with its free website builder. GoDaddy takes the data provided by the user, to formulate the customized and individual website in just a few minutes. It makes a domain purchase and management a walk in the park.
GoDaddy has a special section for premium domains. You can also buy multiple domains in bulk. You also get WHOIS privacy for free with GoDaddy. They are one of the best web hosting companies available.
GoDaddy is your best bet to find unique domain extensions. GoDaddy also offers domain auctions that allow one to scoop up domain names at inexpensive prices.
Pros of GoDaddy
- WHOIS privacy (domain privacy) protection at two levels
- 24/7 customer support
- One of the most comprehensive in terms of options
- Reputable company
- Hundreds of extensions offered
- Protection policies
- Domain auction services
Cons of GoDaddy
- Too little control
- Can be overpriced for renewals
- Too many upsells in the cart and checkout process
- Domain privacy not provided for free
GoDaddy User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about GoDaddy
“I've almost never had a middling experience with GoDaddy's customer service agents. They are all courteous, thoroughly informed, and very good communicators. In a time when most are degrading their customer service options, GoDaddy continues to give the service people really want.” –Elliot (US)
“I been with GoDaddy since 2005 and my experience is that you are the best of the best in USA.” –Juan (US)
“I do recommend GoDaddy it is a great company. Reliable, good customer service but a bit expensive in my opinion.” –Jeff (CA)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.7 out of 5, based on 46281 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating GoDaddy
Capterra – 4.1 out of 5, based on 1019 ratings and reviews.
G2 – 3.9 out of 5, based on 754 ratings and reviews.
GoDaddy Pricing
GoDaddy offers domain registration services for a .com extension for the following pricing:
- Registration for a .com domain is $5.98 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $15.98/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $9.98.
Best GoDaddy Deal
Free: A free domain is included with yearly web hosting plans.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently not available.
Promotions: Get 35% off by using the promo code GD6326A.
GoDaddy Support
GoDaddy has an updated blog for their users and they also have an active community for the users to get help quickly. GoDaddy has different support numbers for people from all across the globe. You can also contact their support team using live chat and email.
Domain.com
Domain.com is a reputable domain name registrar. The company has 300 domain extensions to choose from. Having this many options allows you to have a domain extension that fits your requirements.
They provide reliable domain registration services, as well as additional domain services like domain privacy and they can also be the web host for your site if needed. It is easy to transfer domains and perform bulk domain searches within the Domain.com interface.
The web hosting service offered by Domain.com is fairly affordable. They offer a free domain name for a year with their paid web host plans. Domain transfers are also available at an affordable price. You also get an SSL certificate for free with the purchase of any hosting plan.
DNS management and transferring domains are easy with Domain.com. They offer a website builder and email management with their website hosting services.
Pros of Domain.com
- Domain.com has 24-hour customer service
- Easy DNS management
- A reputable and well-known company
- Bulk registration
- Easy domain name transfers
- Easy to navigate platform
- Total DNS management
- Non-aggressive upselling
Cons of Domain.com
- SSL has to be purchased as extra
- Security measures are better at other domain registrars
Domain.com User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Domain.com
“This was the best thing that happened to me today. I tried to register my name by my self but for some reason it wouldn't take it. So I did a chat. After trying again I realized I had entered a number wrong from my credit card. I received so much help and even though I know I'm not the brightest bulb on the tree I was never treated poorly. Love this company.” –Dale (US)
“The agent was very courteous and helpful. A great help to me in getting my account paid. Wish all companies had such great employees. Congratulations to Domain.com.” –Sheila (CA)
“Great, inexpensive hosting company with friendly, responsive tech support. I've used them for years.
Would give 5 stars, but currently the Email Admin page and Visitor Stats page are down. The former outage is annoying as users have no way to enter or reset a forgotten email password.” –Maho (US)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.3 out of 5, based on 410 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Domain.com
Capterra – 1.0 out of 5, based on 1 rating and review.
G2 – 3.1 out of 5, based on 15 ratings and reviews.
Domain.com Pricing
Domain.com offers the following .com pricing for its domain registration service:
- Registration for a .com domain is $9.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $15.99/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $9.99.
Best Domain.com Deal
Free: You get a free domain with any yearly hosting plan purchase.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently none available.
Promotion: Currently not available.
Domain.com Support
Domain.com offers a wide range of resources for its users. You can access their blogs, knowledgebase, and video tutorials to enhance your knowledge. To get support from agents, you can use their live chat option to get help.
Bluehost
Bluehost is one of the largest domain registrars with over millions of websites being registered or hosted. Three key features of Bluehost are that it is easy to navigate, reasonably priced, and built for small businesses, which are all positives for a domain registrar.
Bluehost has a simplified UI/UX. Whether you are a novice or a pro, you can navigate the site. You can park multiple domains with any of their plans. Domain costs are comparatively less than most domain registrars.
Bluehost is more known as a web hosting provider than a domain registrar. With any of their web hosting plans you get a free domain name for a year. Bluehost is recommended as one of the best web hosting providers for WordPress sites.
Domain purchase and domain transfers are also easy with Bluehost. They automatically renew your lease before your domain expires. If you have the right domain settings, you never need to worry about an expired domain.
Pros of Bluehost
- Auto-renewal for domain names
- Free domain name if bundled with hosting
- Free SSL if bundled with hosting
- A longstanding and reputable company
- Transparent pricing
- Bluehost has cheaper rates when it comes to the starter package deals
Cons of Bluehost
- Bluehost does not have the best-rated customer service and there are knowledge gaps within support
- The service has limitless constant upsell pitches that can get frustrating for the customer
Bluehost User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Bluehost
“I have 3 websites from Bluehost, and I've had absolutely no issues throughout the whole seamless process!… I would and do, definitely recommend this company! 10 Stars!” –Gregory (US)
“Excellent customer service and very expedient service today while purchasing a new domain and updating my website. Special thanks to Suheb for his promptness and professionalism. Everything flowed effortlessly…” –Marcia (BY)
“I called in because my website has not been loading or generating any sales. When I tried to load it tonight, it buffered for over 6 minutes and never loaded. I spoke with John. It took a little over one hour. He was patient and thorough and explained each step as he troubleshot my website. In the end, he was able to solve the problem. John is an asset to your company.” –Rex (US)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.1 out of 5, based on 3655 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Bluehost
Capterra – 4.1 out of 5, based on 38 ratings and reviews.
G2 – 3.6 out of 5, based on 223 ratings and reviews.
Bluehost Pricing
Bluehost offers the following pricing for domain registration:
- Registration for a .com domain is $12.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $18.99/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $12.99.
Best Bluehost Deal
Free: Bluehost offers a free domain with an annual web hosting plan.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently none available.
Promotions: None at this time.
Bluehost Support
Bluehost has a rich knowledge base where users can search existing articles and resources to get answers to their problems. They also have multiple phone support hotlines for their users to get effectively serve their users. You can also contact their support team using live chat or email.
Dotster
Dotster is a well-known domain registrar that provides customers with domain names and domain services. Buying a domain name from Dotster is a very simple, and straightforward process.
Dotster has a limited product line but what they have promises excellent performance, and 24/7 support for the customer which make them stand out. They offer email services for an additional fee once you register a domain.
Dotster is also a web host provider. You can also opt for private registration for your domain by purchasing their domain privacy and protection option. Like most other domain registrar options in this list, Dotster is affordable.
Pros of Dotster
- Dotster is budget-friendly
- The service provides round-the-clock support to its customers
- Email services offered with domain registration
- Easy to navigate interface
- Free SSL protection on any registered domain
Cons of Dotster
- Dotster does not offer free WHOIS privacy
- The user needs to pay for all additional services
- Higher transfer prices than other options
Dotster User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Dotster
Note: All Trustpilot reviews are for Doster as a hosting provider and not a domain registrar. There is only a single positive review at this time.
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 1.9 out of 5, based on 12 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Dotster
Capterra – No review and rating are available currently.
G2 – 5.0 out of 5, based on 1 rating and review.
Dotster Pricing
Dotster has quite simple pricing deals for the customer depending upon the time of owning the domain.
- Registration for a .com domain is $9.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $19.99/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $16.99.
Best Dotster Deal
Free: Currently not available.
Guarantee: No refund would be issued for domains.
Sale: Currently not available.
Promotions: Dotster already has straightforward pricing deals which are easier for the customer to choose from. Some of the domain names are as low as 4$ for the first year.
Dotster Support
Dotster has a knowledge base and video tutorials to provide support to its users. You can reach their agents with the live chat options or email them. You can also call their support team to get help.
Network Solutions
Network Solutions is one of the original domain registrars with over 25 years in business. It is a technology-based company that has the stated goal of helping young entrepreneurs to start and grow their online businesses.
They offer a diverse array of services including domain names, hosting, online marketing, e-commerce, website design, and many more. It was one of the first platforms to be a domain registrar.
Pros of Network Solutions
- The services are quite flexible when it comes to making changes, which allows the user to have additional resources as the website grows
- WordPress, e-commerce, and good shared plans are available
- Offer a full suite of domain services
- Offer trademark protection services
Cons of Network Solutions
- Not the fastest support network when it comes to customer requests
- They do not have security and search engine optimization certificates
- They are much more expensive than other solutions, especially on renewal price
- SSL certificates cost extra
- Many additional services come with a steep price tag
Network Solutions User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Network Solutions
“I just signed up with this company, and to date, my contact with customer service has been great. Prompt response and excellent knowledge of the services characterize the persons I encountered. I realize that customer service is paid on a commission basis, so expect them to try selling you a service.” –Paul (US)
“Great friendly personality. Understood my issue right away. Periodically checked in with me and provided a status as he implemented the resolution. I've been a customer for well over 20 years. I don't call often. I really appreciate that knowledgable technical help is there when I need it!!” –Creole Dymond (US)
“I had some issues and the sales and support people were very patient and knowledgeable with me. The issue was corrected and i am very pleased with the service! Thank you!…” -D Nelson (CA)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 4.2 out of 5, based on 811 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Network Solutions
Capterra – No review and rating are available currently.
G2 – 2.3 out of 5, based on 51 ratings and reviews.
Network Solutions Pricing
The following pricing is offered as it pertains to a .com domain:
- Registration for a .com domain is $9.99 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $37/year.
- Transfer cost for a .com domain is $9.95.
Best Network Solutions Deal
Free: They offer a free domain for their yearly web host plans.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently none available.
Promotions: Use the coupon code SAVE25AF to get 25% off on purchases worth $50 or more.
Network Solutions Support
NetSol offers an active blog and a rich knowledge base for its users to find out solutions to common problems on their own. They offer support via live chat and email.
Google Domains
Google Domains was launched in 2014 and offers domain registration, domain transfers, email services, and DNS forwarding. They are very transparent about their pricing and have a powerful server network, which makes them one of the best in the domain registration business.
The domain costs and renewal prices are very competitive. You can find the most popular extensions but if you are looking for a unique domain extension, chances are you won't find it within Google.
Pros of Google Domains
- Easy to use interface and an excellent domain search tool
- Seamless integration with other Google services
- Reliable servers
- Very affordable
Cons of Google Domains
- Their services are not available in many countries
- They don't offer web hosting and other services
- Many extensions are not available
Google Domains User Reviews
Here’s what people on Trustpilot are saying about Google Domains
“Well priced, and an easy control panel -nice to keep my domains all in one place since they support all the TLDs I use” –Matt (US)
“Not the cheapest domain host, but beats most of the others hands down when it comes to ease of use… Google's selection of domain suffixes isn't as broad as it might be (e.g. no “uk” suffix), but I've been far happier with Google Domains than I have with any other domain provider to date.” –Brian Pike (GB)
“So much better than 123 reg. Simple and easy to use UX. Great customer support and service.” -Damian K (GB)
Overall Trustpilot Rating – 2.2 out of 5, based on 18 ratings and reviews.
Here’s how software review sites are rating Google Domains
Capterra – No ratings and reviews are currently available.
G2 – 4.6 out of 5, based on 141 ratings and reviews.
Google Domains Pricing
Google offers domain services for a .com with the following pricing:
- Registration for a .com domain is $12 for the first year.
- Renewal cost for a .com domain is $12/year.
- Transfer cost is free, with the purchase of a year of registration.
Best Google Domains Deal
Free: There are no free domains available.
Guarantee: No refunds are issued for purchased domains.
Sale: Currently none available.
Promotion: Currently not available.
Google Domains Support
Google Domains has an interactive help center and FAQ section where you learn about the common questions you have about the domain registrar. You can get help from a human agent 24/7 using live chat. You can also email your query to their support team.
What is a domain registrar and why are they important?
A domain name is an identifier for your website, such as webtoolsadvisor.com. Domain registrars, on the other hand, are businesses that register your domain name on your behalf, ensuring that no one else can use it.
Finding the right domain registrar to partner with is important to ensure your domain name remains yours for as long as you intend to use it. A domain name is essentially leased, and if it expires and you don't have expiration protection, your domain name might become someone else's.
A Brief Overview of Domain Names
To gain a better understanding of how registering a domain works, it's helpful to look at its history. Previously, if you wanted to create a URL for your website, you had to go to a single source.
In 1986, the original domain name database was made available to the public. It was operated via ARPANET, a product of the United States Advanced Research Projects Agency.
The only issue was that the original system was not scalable, which is why a man named Paul Mockapetris, in collaboration with Jon Postel and Zaw-Sing Su, invented what is now known as the Domain Name System (DNS).
Rather than searching for websites using IP addresses (numbers), you can search for them using an actual name such as webtoolsadvisor with an extension (.com).
Paul Mockapetris and his colleagues launched the first seven extensions, which included well-known domains such as .com, .edu, and .net.
Once DNS was launched, it grew at a breakneck pace. They moved so quickly that they need a third party to send the names to registrants. This is when Network Solutions, Inc. (NSI) entered the picture. NSI was in charge of distributing domain names to the general population.
At the time, domain name registration was mainly unregulated. By 1995, domain names had ceased to be free and individuals were charged up to $100 for a two-year registration. Certain individuals felt the pricing was excessive, and the need for control rose.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) was founded in 1998. ICANN made domain name registration available to firms other than NSI. ICANN is still in charge of the DNS and works to keep the Internet secure. To sell domain names, any credible registrar must be accredited by ICANN.
Does it matter who your domain registrar is?
The term “domain registrar” refers to a corporation that is responsible for the registration and administration of domain names. It is accredited by ICANN, a non-profit organization that regulates online domain name registration.
Choosing a reputable domain registrar is critical since it can have a long-term impact on a project or organization. Select the incorrect one and you risk incurring hidden fees or possibly being defrauded. For instance, there have been instances in which a domain registrar has induced people to purchase domain names identical to those they already own under false pretenses.
It can be difficult to choose from the hundreds of domain registrars available, as they all provide identical services. As a result, the following factors should be considered when selecting a registrar:
Pricing: Prior to purchasing a website domain, study the registrar's terms of service and inquire about any hidden domain fees. Additionally, avoid registrants that charge modest initial registration fees but much higher renewal prices.
Domain expiration: It is critical to renew a domain name prior to its expiration date to prevent it from being registered by someone else. As a result, choose a registrar that offers auto-renewal and reminder services.
Supplementary services: Consider domain registrars that offer additional value-added services such as domain privacy and domain parking. These services and others are best if they are free but some will charge for domain privacy.
Domain transfers: It is feasible to transfer domain names to a different domain registrar, although some may make the procedure more complicated or demand additional fees. Prior to making a purchase, make sure to review the registrar's domain transfer policy to not make any unauthorized domain transfers.
As previously stated, individuals may also purchase a custom domain through a hosting business that provides domain services, such as GoDaddy, etc.
Because both a web hosting package and a domain name are required to create a website, it may be more convenient to purchase and administer them in one location.
Best Domain Registrars Wrap-up
Having the perfect domain name for your website is an essential step in building a website. The entire process of registering a domain name can appear complicated so it's best to partner with a reputable domain registrar.
The domain registrar helps you to buy the domain name on your behalf, and then gives you control of the domain so that you can utilize it however you like. The best domain name registrars offer domain privacy for free as well as other complementary services.
Choosing the best domain registrar is important to ensure proper guidance and privacy protection for your personal information. Top domain registrars are partners in your internet quest and not all domain registrars are equal. Choose the one that best meets your need and you'll be on your way to online success.
Disclosure: We are a reader supported website. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more here.
Last Updated March 8, 2023
Affiliate Disclosure: This website is supported by our readers. We provide honest opinions and are not endorsed by any of the organizations we write about. If you purchase using a link on our site, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. You can read our full affiliate disclosure here. Thanks for your support.
Latest Posts
Affiliate Marketing 101: Your Questions Answered
7 Habits of Highly Successful B2B Content Marketers
10 Tips for Becoming a Super Affiliate in 2023
