What are the best sites to buy a domain name?
Here are my top picks for the best sites to buy a domain name.
1. Namecheap: Best Cheap Domain Registrar
Features
Namecheap is an ICANN-accredited domain registrar that helps you buy the domain name of your choice. It also allows domains to be transferred if your domain name is registered elsewhere. And Namecheap won't take more than 30 minutes to transfer your domain automatically.
In addition, Namecheap also provides website hosting services, WordPress hosting, security products, professional email hosting, etc. It covers all web hosting services like shared hosting, VPS, VPS, Managed Wordpress, dedicated, and more.
The “Beast Mode” option helps you find and register the exact domain name you're looking for. You can filter your search based on options like price range, suffix, keywords, etc. You can even refine your search by mentioning your niche, including travel, education, travel, and lifestyle, etc.
The domain registrar also has a built-in account panel that allows you to manage your domain effortlessly.
Plus, it provides free DNS with your domain for the duration of the domain transfer. After the transfer, FreeDNS will automatically switch to its new default server. Additionally, you can also transfer any expired domain name you want.
Namecheap also claims to provide zero downtime and free WhoisGuard privacy protection for life. You also get free DNSSEC security to protect your site against fraud and a professional email address for two months.
24/7 expert support, which also includes a concierge service during the domain transfer, is also a bonus.
Pricing
The prices of different domain names vary according to their popularity.
Here are the base prices for some popular suffixes:
- .com: $8.88 per year
- .net: $10.78 per year
- .org: $9.18 per year
- .io: $28.88 per year
Although Namecheap offers fairly cheap domain names, renewing your domain name is getting a bit more expensive.
2. Domain.com: Best domain registrar
Domain.com is a web hosting and domain platform where you can buy domains, web hosting, or transfer your existing domain names. You can choose from its top-level domains (TLDs) and over 25 top-level country codes (ccTLDs).
It provides all types of premium domains. Premium domains are domain names that are generally short and easy to understand. Some of the most common premium domain suffixes include.com, .net, etc. These premium domains are easy to remember and help you improve your brand image, search engine rankings, business investments, and more.
Features
It provides a control panel that allows full control of the DNS of your domain name. You can even transfer your existing domain to their platform without causing downtime for your website. The domain transfer process generally takes 5 to 7 days, although the entire process is automated and hassle-free.
All you need to do is enter the domain name you want to transfer, and everything is done automatically for you.
All domains have the free Let's Encrypt SSL protocol to protect your site from viruses and malware.
Domain.com also provides numerous security add-ons with all of its domains, including:
- You benefit from WHOIS confidentiality and protection against theft and fraud.
- Full site backups.
- Look for malware and watch for blacklists.
- Protection against domain-related spam and unauthorized access to your site.
- It protects your site from hackers, human errors, and malware scans.
Pricing
The average starting price (for the.com extension) is $9.99 per year.
3. Bluehost: Best for free domain registration with hosting
Features
Bluehost is one of the most popular website hosting service providers and domain registrar. It also offers a free domain name for one year with any of its hosting plans. Some of the most popular domain suffixes include.com, .online, .online, .site, .net, .org, etc.
To get started, you can search for your preferred domain name in the search box and see if it's available. Bluehost will take you to the review page and allow you to buy your domain if it's available. Otherwise, it will offer you several alternatives related to your search.
It also allows you to manage your domain address and site from an easy-to-use control panel and change the DNS for multiple domains. Plus, the automatic renewal feature keeps your domain secure and prevents it from expiring or getting lost. You can even go back to manual renewal at any time.
Additionally, the “domain lock” feature keeps your domain locked to prevent unauthorized transfers. You can unlock your domain name anytime for transfers; in the meantime, Bluehost will keep your preferred domain name safe.
Pricing
Here are some common domain suffixes and their base prices:
- .com: $12.99/year
- .org: $9.99/year
- .net: $14.99/year
- .tech: $4.99/year
- .co: $14.99/year
- .website: $1.99/year
You can also buy its hosting plan and get a free domain and SSL certificate for a whole year.
4. NameSilo: Best for bulk domain name registration and transfer
Features
NameSilo is a domain name registrar that provides domain registration, domain transfer, domain auction services, etc. It has a search tool that allows you to perform a single domain search and a group domain search.
You also get free domain privacy and a massive discount for bulk domain registration and transfer.
Additionally, all domains come with:
- DNS management tools
- Free domain privacy
- Registry lock
- Domain defender protection
- Portfolio Management
NameSilo also has a marketplace that contains all the domains listed by their customers or domains that have not been renewed. You can buy your favorite domains either through auctions or by paying the buyer directly.
Plus, you can transfer your existing domain names to NameSilo in just three steps. All you need to do is verify your domain name, enter your EEP authorization code in the transfer form, and add the domain to the basket. The domain will be transferred within 5 to 7 days.
Pricing
Here are the base prices for some of the domain extensions:
- .com: $8.99 per year
- .net: $11.79 per year
- .shop: $2.19 per year
- .design: $3.99 per year
- .org: $10.79 per year
- .biz: $6.49 per year
5. GoDaddy: Best Solution for Registering Domain Names in Bulk
Features
GoDaddy is one of the most popular sites to buy a domain name and one of the most popular web hosting companies, which manages over 80 million domains.
It offers a”domain name generator“to help you find the most appropriate domain name for your site. All you need to do is enter your business name or idea, and the software will create an appropriate domain for your website. The domain generator provides up to 100 subdomains to create a custom web address.
You can also migrate your existing domain name to GoDaddy with a single click for $7.99 (.com extension).
GoDaddy also allows you to choose from a variety of domain names in multiple foreign languages and extensions. In addition, it centralizes several domain names and allows you to manage them from a single dashboard. The ability to monitor the operation and uptime of your domain through its real monitoring feature is another bonus.
Another unique function, called “Domain Broker”, allows you to acquire a domain name that is already registered. You get support from a personal domain broker who contacts the current domain owner on your behalf and negotiates prices and terms.
It also allows you to search and buy domain names in bulk - up to 500 at a time. You can also create a list of keywords or domains and download it as a.CSV, .XLS, or.XLSX file.
GoDaddy offers commercial protection for all domain addresses. If you forget to renew the domain name, it protects you against accidental and malicious domain transfers. It also keeps your personal data safe from hackers and protects your website with automatic security and malware scans.
Pricing
The initial costs for some common domain name extensions are as follows:
- .club: $0.99 per year
- .com: $11.99 per year
- .co: $11.99 per year
- .me: $3.49 per year
- .net: $14.99 per year
- .world: $1.99 per year
6. Porkbun: Best for its customer support
Porkbun is best at offering great customer support and a wide variety of domains available.
Features
Porkbun gives you everything you need to set up your site, emails, and domain.
In fact, Porkbun offers a great support team that is available 365/24/7 via live chat, phone, and email.
The experience of registering a domain name on Porkbun is intuitive and simple, making it a great choice for beginners and domain experts alike.
With hundreds of domain extensions as well as legacy TLDs, nTLDs, and ccTLDs, Porkbun is a great choice for finding the perfect domain name for your business or project.
Gone are the days of being sold to you useless products and services. At Porkbun, you'll have everything you need in one package. This includes SSL certificates, WHOIS privacy, URL redirection, email forwarding, and much more.
All of this allows you to benefit from a great domain name and all the tools you need to set up your website as quickly and efficiently as possible.
With an authentic 5-star experience (based on authentic customer reviews), Porkbun is one of the best sites to buy a domain name to consider.
Pricing
With a wide variety of domain names available, you can be sure to find the domain name that suits your needs.
With some domains starting at less than $1 and most within a very affordable range, you don't have to break the bank to find a domain with an extension you're interested in.
For example:
- .xyz domains: Starting at $0.98.
- .info domains: Starting at €2.04
- .me domains: Starting at 5.33
- .design domains: Starting at $5.64.
7. Hover: Best for a simple domain registration experience
Features
Hover is a domain registrar that helps you register new domains, renew old domains, or transfer existing domain names to Hover. It offers over 300 top-level domains or domain extensions like.com, .net, .ca, .org, etc.
Enter your business name or related keywords, and Hover will show you hundreds of domain name options available.
The domain registrar also provides built-in tools for managing your domains, DNS, and email. When it comes to security, Hover offers free WHOIS security for all domain names and two-factor authentication.
The fact that it's only a domain registrar can be a good thing because you won't be bombarded with promotional offers. That said, you'll need to rely on other software for your web hosting.
Pricing
Here is a list of the base prices for some of the most popular domain extensions:
- .com: $12.99 per year
- .online: $4.99 per year
- .co: $25.99 per year
- .design: $19.99 per year
- .info: $17.99 per year
- .io: $49.99 per year
8. HostGator: Best Solution for Registering the Most Popular Top Level Domains
Features
HostGator is another popular web hosting service provider that offers domain name registration and transfer services.
However, unlike the other platforms on this list, HostGator sticks to 15 traditional and most popular top-level domains. So if you don't want to filter out other additional suggestions, HostGator might be a suitable option.
Common options include .com, .website. Org, .club, .net,. Co, .me, .space, .online, .site, etc.
Here is a complete list of all domain extensions offered by HostGator:
You also have an automatic renewal feature that allows you to prevent your domain from expiring due to human error.
With their domain control panel, you can also manage all aspects of your domain name from a dashboard.
Plus, you can protect your personal information with Domain Privacy. Domain confidentiality helps avoid identity theft, unwanted spam, etc. It uses WHOIS to protect your domain from these potential threats.
A “domain lock” feature allows you to prevent the transfer or misappropriation of your domain name.
You can also transfer your existing domain name to Hostgator, but your domain must be valid and registered for at least 60 days with any other domain registrar.
Pricing
Here are launch pricing plans for some of the top-level domain extensions:
- .com: 12.95 dollars per year
- .website: $0.95 per year
- .space: $0.95 per year
- .site: $0.95 per year
- .info: $12.95/year
- .org: $12.95/year
- .co: $12.95/year
You will see a minimal increase in rates when renewing the domain. Transferring the .com domain extension starts at $7.95 per year.
9. DreamHost: Best for Domain Security
DreamHost is a domain registration service that offers a domain search tool that provides search results for your domain prices, availability, etc. The search tool also recommends and suggests the most appropriate domain names for your business.
Features
DreamHost offers over 400 top-level domains (TLDs) including .club, .online, .io, .net, .xyz, .shop, .tech, .tech, .com, .blog, etc.
It is one of the few sites to buy a domain name that provides WHOIS domain confidentiality for FREE to secure your data. WHOIS domain privacy is free with all sites to buy a domain name and will be renewed automatically.
You can also get an unlimited number of subdomains for your website for free with VPS, dedicated and shared hosting.
Plus, you can manage all of your domains from a single account by transferring them to DreamHost. It provides a single panel for domain management to change DNS records, set up domain redirection, and more.
Additionally, DreamHost protects your domain against phishing and spam and automatically deletes emails sent from proxy addresses.
Pricing
Here is the price list for some of the most popular domain extensions:
- .com: $6.99 per year
- .net: $10.99 per year
- .org: $13.95 per year
- .info: $13.95 per year
- .club: $0.99 per year
You get free private registration, security measures, and subdomains with all domain extensions.
10. Gandi: Best solution for buying multiple domains at once
Features
Gandi is a domain name registrar that allows you to register, transfer, and renew your domain names. It provides a tool for searching and suggesting domains easy to use that allows you to choose from over 700 domain extensions.
You also get a free SSL certificate, two free mailboxes with 3GB of storage, and unlimited email redirects and aliases with your domain name.
While most of its renewal prices are the same as for registration, it's still a bit pricey. However, you get special offers for registering or transferring multiple domains at the same time.
Rates
Here are the launch prices for some of the domain suffixes:
- .us: $15.50 per year
- .com: $15.50 per year
- .fr: $15.00 per year
- .io: $38.00 per year
- .net: $18.50 per year
- .co.uk: $9.88 per year
- .online: $5.99 per year
- .me: $6.50 per year
11. Shopify: Great for existing Shopify users
Features
Shopify offers a domain name registration tool and automates the entire domain configuration and registration process. It offers over 50 domain extensions, including top-level domains, generic domain names, and ccTLDs (country code Top Level Domains). You can use ccTLDs to specifically target audiences in a country or region and improve your search engine rankings in that specific region.
It has a domain name generation tool that provides suggestions for the keyword or business name that you enter. You can also opt for the most popular domain names. All domain name suggestions are accompanied by each year's award.
Plus, it allows you to manage subdomains and email transfers, remove domains from your store, and transfer your existing domains to Shopify. Additionally, all of their domains have WHOIS privacy protection that ensures that your personal information is safe.
Additionally, you can use Shopify's website builder to create your website or start a blog and then simultaneously register a new domain. The website builder comes with drag-and-drop functionality and 70 professional themes.
Rates
Different for each domain name and domain extension.
12. BuyDomain: Ideal for ordering unavailable domain names in advance
Features
Buydomain.com offers domain name registration services including single domain registration, group registration, domain transfer, and domain transfer.
All domains have a domain redirection and hiding feature that directs users to your website for all the domains you own. You also have a “domain lock” feature to prevent accidental or intentional transfers of your domain ownership. This feature also prevents anyone from redirecting your name servers.
BuyDomain also allows you to manage your DNS records, FTP, subdomains, emails, etc. from a single control panel. You can even monitor the status of your domains and get instant alerts.
It also offers a feature for automatically renewing your domains and hosting plans before the expiration date.
Rates
The search tool offers prices based on your search.
13. 1&1 IONOS: Ideal for individuals and small businesses
1&1 IONOS is a domain registrar based in Europe that offers numerous free add-ons with its domain registration and transfer services.
Features
All areas include features such as:
- Wildcard SSL certificate: the security of your site and a better ranking in Google.
- A business email address with 2 GB of mailbox storage.
- Up to 10,000 subdomains to personalize your website
You can also transfer your existing domain name or email to 1&1 IONOS in 3 steps. Simply request an authorization code from your current domain provider, enter it into IONOS, and confirm the transfer via the link sent to your email.
- It offers a “domain lock” feature that prevents your domain from being transferred by anyone who is not authorized.
- 24/7 customer support.
- One-click activation.
Pricing
Here is a list of first-year registration awards for some of these domains:
- .com: $0 per year (when registering for 2 years or more)
- .org: $1 per year
- .online: $0.80 per year
- .app: $12 per year
- .co: $8 per year
What is a domain name registrar?
Domain name registrars, or registrars, are the unsung heroes of the digital world. They help you buy and manage domain names, acting as a bridge between you and the technical infrastructure of the internet.
ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is the overseer and accredits these registrars to make sure they are trustworthy. Some of the big players in the industry are:
- GoDaddy
- Namecheap
- Bluehost
- HostGator
- Domain.com
In a crowded online world, choosing the right domain name is getting more important. A good name can strengthen your brand and make your business more visible, it’s your first digital impression.
Registrars often offer more than just domain names. Their add-ons may include:
- Web hosting
- Privacy protection
- Technical support
- Website building tools
These extras make it easier to create and manage a website whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
When choosing a registrar, you should consider not only the price but also the quality of service, ease of use of their platform and range of services. A good registrar can be a valuable partner in your online journey.
What to look for when buying a domain name
1. Features
A good domain registrar should offer you options to fit your needs. Must haves are:
- Top Level Domain Extensions (TLDs)
- Country code domain (ccTLD) registration options
- WHOIS protection
- DNS Management
Some registrars like Namecheap offer free WHOIS privacy for new registered domains which is a big plus in protecting your personal info.
2. Domain transfer
Domain transfer is an important factor to consider. Although ICANN requires a 60 day waiting period after registration, some registrars make it easier than others.
GoDaddy and Hostinger have user friendly tools to make transfer smooth. This can be useful if you decide to switch providers in the future.
3. Prices and renewals
Prices can vary greatly between registrars. You should consider not only the initial price but also the renewal fees. For example:
- GoDaddy often offers discount for the first year
- Namecheap offers prices starting at $8.88/year for a .com domain
- IONOS by 1&1 has options to lock in prices for several years
Pick a registrar that fits your long term budget.
4. User friendly interface
An easy to use interface can make managing your domains a breeze. HostGator is known for its ease of use, Google Domains is known for its simplicity and integration with other Google services.
A clean interface can save you time and reduce headaches especially if you manage multiple domains.
5. Support
Good support is important in case of an issue. Options vary by registrar:
- Domain.com and GoDaddy have 24/7 support through multiple channels
- Namecheap is known for its live chat support
- Hover only has business hours support
Assess your support needs and choose a registrar that fits.
6. Add-ons
Many registrars offer additional services that can be useful:
- Web hosting
- Domain expiration protection
- SSL certificates
- Website building tools
For example Hostinger offers a free domain with each hosting plan which can be useful if you plan to create a website.
7. Security and data protection
Your domain name is important. Look for registrars that have:
- 2FA
- Domain lock to prevent transfers
- Regular security updates
Namecheap and Google Domains are known for their security features. For example Google Domains uses the same security infrastructure as other Google services so you have high level of protection against cyber attacks.
8. Payment options
Flexible payment options can be a tie breaker. The best registrars have:
- Credit card payments
- PayPal
- Bank transfers
- Cryptocurrencies (for some)
Namecheap accepts Bitcoin payments which can be useful for some users.
9. Domain search tool
A good domain search tool can help you find the perfect name for your site or to start a blog. Look for:
- Alternative name suggestions
- Real-time availability check
- Premium domain options
GoDaddy is known for its powerful domain search engine and creative suggestions.
10. Refund policy
Last but not least check the registrar’s refund policy. Some offer trial period or money back guarantee which can be good to have if you’re not sure about your choice.
Domain.com has a 30 day money back guarantee for new domain registrations so you have time to change your mind if needed.
By considering all these factors you’ll be better equipped to choose a domain registrar that fits your needs whether you’re starting a personal blog or an online business.
Conclusion
Choosing a domain name is a big part of building your website. This choice affects your brand identity and your search engine visibility.
While all domain name buying platforms offer similar services, choose the one that fits you best.
Hostinger can be a good option if you’re buying hosting as well since they offer a free domain for the first year. For WHOIS protection for free, sites like Hover, NameSilo, Gandi and Google Domains are to be considered.
Namecheap is known for its domain search tool, free DNSSEC and free business email for 2 months.
Whichever you choose, make sure to check each one out. Each has its pros and cons.
