Domain Extensions Explained: .com vs .io vs .ai and More

With hundreds of domain extensions available, choosing the right one matters more than you think.

The Big Three

.com

Still the gold standard. If you can get the .com, get it. It carries the most trust and is what people type by default.

.net

Originally for network infrastructure, now a solid alternative when .com is taken. Well-recognized and trustworthy.

.org

Traditionally for nonprofits and organizations. Using it for a commercial brand can confuse visitors.

The Tech Favorites

.io

Beloved by startups and tech companies. Short, clean, and signals "we're a tech company." One downside: it's technically the country code for British Indian Ocean Territory.

.ai

Hot right now thanks to the AI boom. Great for AI/ML companies, but also works for any tech brand. It's actually Anguilla's country code.

.app

Google-owned TLD that requires HTTPS. Clean and modern, great for software products.

The Wildcard

.co

Colombia's country code, widely adopted as a .com alternative. Short and professional. Companies like Twitter (t.co) have validated it.

Which Should You Choose?

Always try .com first — it's the default
Tech startup? — .io or .ai are great signals
Building an app? — .app is purpose-built
Budget option? — .co and .net are affordable and respected

Check Them All

With BrandScout, you can check all 7 major TLDs simultaneously. No more opening tabs for each registrar.