Best Domain Extensions for Startups (.com vs .io vs .ai)

Your domain name is the front door of your online identity. For startups, it’s often the first brand signal people see in search results, ads, or investor decks. But with .coms largely taken, many founders wonder: is it safe to go with .io, .ai, or even .app?

This longform guide dives deep into domain extension choices for new businesses. We’ll cover branding, SEO, trust, legal, cost, and real-world examples.

Why Domain Extensions Matter

Trust: People still instinctively type .com, but niche TLDs (.io, .ai) are gaining recognition.
SEO: Google treats all TLDs equally, but click-through rates differ by familiarity.
Branding: A creative domain can reinforce positioning.
Cost: Premium .coms can cost $5,000–$50,000+, while .io might be $50/year.

The Legacy of .com

Most recognized, universal trust.
Dominates in the US and globally.
Often expensive, scarce for short names.
Case study: Dropbox initially used getdropbox.com, later acquired dropbox.com for millions.

Rise of .io

Popular among tech and SaaS.
Short, sleek, associated with “input/output.”
Country-code for British Indian Ocean Territory, but repurposed by startups.
Downsides: less known outside tech, renewal costs higher.

Growth of .ai

Originally for Anguilla; rebranded by AI startups.
Signals modernity, innovation, and relevance in AI/ML.
Examples: Jasper.ai, Character.ai.
Downsides: not mainstream for non-tech consumers.

Other Strong Alternatives

.app → great for mobile apps, secure (HSTS enforced by Google).
.co → short, recognizable as “company.”
.tech → descriptive for tech ventures.
.xyz → trendy with Web3 projects.

SEO & CTR Evidence

Google states TLD doesn’t affect ranking.
However, CTR studies show users are more likely to click on .com.
Familiarity bias is real: non-technical users trust .com more.

Legal & Trademark Considerations

Different registries = different rules.
Always pair domain search with trademark screening.
Example: owning mybrand.io does not protect you if someone else owns MyBrand™ in the same class.

Cost Breakdown

.com: $10–15/year (regular), $$$$ if aftermarket.
.io: $30–60/year.
.ai: $70–100/year.
.app: $15–20/year.
Premium resales can be very high.

Case Studies

Notion.so → scaled globally with a .so domain before acquiring notion.com.
Figma.com → invested early in the .com, strong credibility.
Linear.app → leans into the app audience, clean and modern.
Deel.com → chose a short, catchy .com to stand out.

Decision Framework for Startups

Audience first: If you sell to consumers → push for .com. If developer/tech audience → .io/.ai may be fine.
Budget: If you can’t afford the .com yet, secure a clean alternative and upgrade later.
Expansion: Global ambitions? Stick to universally known TLDs.
Consistency: Check socials and trademarks.

Quick Checklist

Shortlist 5–10 names with .com, .io, .ai variants.
Check domains, socials, and trademarks.
Prioritize memorability over keyword stuffing.
Budget for upgrades if traction grows.

Conclusion

The best domain extension depends on your audience, budget, and positioning. While .com is still king, alternatives like .io and .ai are credible, especially in tech. Don’t let the lack of a .com block your launch — but keep the option open to upgrade later.

Try It Now

Generate creative, short, and brandable ideas instantly with the AI Brand Name Generator. Test them across .com, .io, and .ai, then secure the domain that best fits your startup’s story.