Domain Name Length: Long vs Short Domains
Choosing the right domain name is a critical step in building your online presence. It’s not just about picking a name that reflects your brand or business. You also need to consider the domain extension, like .com or .co.uk, and the length of your URL. Did you know that the length of your domain name can impact user experience, SEO, and even your website’s performance?
In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of long and short domain names. We’ll help you understand which option is best for your needs and how to make the right choice.
What is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the address people type into their browser to visit your website. Instead of remembering complex IP addresses, users rely on domain names to find sites online. For example, Progressive Robot’s domain name is progressiverobot.co.uk.
Think of it like your home address. It’s how people locate you on the internet. A memorable and relevant domain name makes it easier for users to return to your site. If your domain name is too complicated or hard to remember, users might struggle to find you again.
What’s the Ideal Domain Name Length?
When it comes to domain name length, shorter is usually better. Studies show that the top 250 websites in the world have domain names with an average length of 7–15 characters. Around 70% of these domains have 8 characters or fewer.
Short domain names are easier to remember, type, and share. They also tend to look cleaner and more professional. However, there are cases where a longer domain name might work better. For example, if your brand name is already long or if you want to include specific keywords.
The key is to find a balance. A domain name should be short enough to be memorable but long enough to convey your brand or purpose.
The Benefits of Short Domain Names
Short domain names, typically between 5–8 characters, offer several advantages:
Easier to Remember
Research shows that most people can remember 5–9 items in their short-term memory. A short domain name fits this range, making it easier for users to recall. Avoid numbers, hyphens, or unusual spellings to keep it simple. For example, a domain like “apple.com” is much easier to remember than “best-apple-products-2024.com.”
Easier to Share
Short domains are easier to share, whether online or offline. They look cleaner on business cards, social media posts, and emails. They’re also easier to communicate verbally, helping you attract more visitors. For instance, telling someone to visit “progressive(dot)com” is simpler than “progressive-robot-tech-solutions(dot)com.”
Easier to Type on Mobile
Over 59% of web traffic comes from mobile devices. A short domain name is easier to type on smaller screens, improving the user experience. Long domain names can be frustrating to type, especially on mobile keyboards.
More Marketable
A short, catchy domain name can make your brand stand out. For example, Facebook’s domain name is short, memorable, and reflects the brand’s purpose. Adding a relevant domain extension, like .shop for an ecommerce site, can also boost marketability.
Differentiation
A unique domain name helps your brand stand out. While keyword-rich domains can be helpful, they can also sound generic. A creative, short domain name can give your brand a stronger identity. For example, “zappos.com” is more memorable than “shoestore.com.”
Limitations of Short Domain Names
While short domain names have many benefits, they also come with challenges. Short names are often already taken, especially if they use common words. You may need to get creative to find a unique and memorable name.
For example, if your business is called “Sunrise Bakery,” you might find that “sunrisebakery.com” is already taken. In this case, you might need to consider alternatives like “sunrisebakes.com” or “sunrisebakery.co.uk.”
The Benefits of Long Domain Names
Long domain names can also be effective in certain situations:
Staying On Brand
If your brand already has a long name, it’s best to use it in your domain. Changing it could confuse customers. For example, if your business is called “Green Valley Organic Farms,” using a domain like “greenvalleyorganicfarms.com” keeps your branding consistent.
Availability
With millions of domains already registered, finding a short, available name can be tough. A longer domain name might be your only option. For example, if “coffee.com” is taken, you might need to use “bestcoffeeshopinlondon.com.”
SEO Benefits
Domains that include target keywords can rank higher in search results. For example, a domain like “bestcoffeeshop(dot)com” might perform well for coffee-related searches. However, avoid stuffing too many keywords into your domain, as this can look spammy.
Does Domain Name Length Affect SEO?
Domain name length doesn’t directly impact SEO, but it can influence user experience. Short, clear URLs are easier to read and share, which can improve click-through rates and reduce bounce rates.
Search engines like Google prefer descriptive URLs. For example, a URL like “/clothing/dresses/party-dresses/” is easier to understand than “/clothing/SKU-4529783%/.” Clear URLs with keywords can also boost SEO, particularly when used as links on a homepage.
Tips on Choosing the Right Domain Name Length
Choosing the perfect domain name can be tough, especially if your desired name is already taken. Here are some tips to help you decide:
Check Availability First
Before settling on a name, check if it’s available. If your preferred name is taken, consider alternatives or different domain extensions.
Consider Your Audience
If your audience is local, a country-specific domain like .co.uk might work better. For a global audience, consider extensions like .com or .world.
Protect Your Brand
Safeguard your brand by buying different domain extensions and variations, including misspelt versions. This prevents competitors from registering similar domains and ensures users reach your site.
Should I Choose a Long or Short Domain Name?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Ideally, your domain name should be short, memorable, and relevant to your brand. If your brand name is long, consider using a shorter version or adding a keyword.
For example, if your business is called “London Digital Marketing Solutions,” you might use “londondigital(dot)com” or “ldmsolutions(dot)com.”
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right domain name length is an important decision. Short domain names are easier to remember, type, and share, while long domain names can be useful for branding and SEO.
If you’re ready to register your domain, Progressive Robot can help. Contact our sales team today to find the perfect domain name for your project.
Email or chat with us for more details.
Start your online journey with the right domain name today!
