8 best domain registrars compared

Your domain name is your website’s first impression and choosing the right domain registrar ensures it stays secure, affordable, and easy to manage. With so many platforms offering similar services, the differences often come down to pricing structures, privacy features, transfer policies, and overall ease of use.

In this guide, we compare the 8 best domain registrars based on real-world pricing, support, added services, and bulk management tools. Whether you’re registering your first domain or managing a large portfolio, these registrars offer a mix of value, scalability, and transparency to suit every need.

Here’s a quick look at our top picks:

1. Hostinger – Best all-in-one platform for domain and web hosting.
2. Domain.com – Excellent for unique and country-code extensions.
3. Namecheap – Ideal for auctions and privacy-focused users.
4. Porkbun – Great for creative TLDs and modern UI.
5. GoDaddy – Cheapest first-year pricing for .com domains.
6. Hover – Most user-friendly checkout experience.
7. IONOS – Affordable domain bundling with premium hosting.
8. NameSilo – Best for bulk purchases and expired domain trading.

Each registrar has its own strengths, and the next sections will help you decide which one fits your goals best.

1. Hostinger

• Best for: managing premium domains and hosting from one platform
• Price for .com: $1.99 for registration of two or more years
• Renewal cost: around $13.99/year for a .com domains, depending on terms and promotions
• Free WHOIS Privacy: included on eligible domain registrations

Hostinger is an ICANN-accredited domain registrar that blends affordability with convenience, making it ideal for users looking to manage both domains and web hosting in one place. Known primarily for its hosting services, Hostinger also delivers a solid domain registration experience with competitive pricing, wide top-level domain (TLD) option availability, and reliable privacy protections.

What sets Hostinger apart is its AI-powered domain name search tool. Rather than simply listing what’s available, the platform uses contextual suggestions to recommend brandable, niche-specific domains. This helps users generate relevant ideas faster — especially useful if your preferred .com is already taken.

All domain purchases come with free WHOIS privacy protection, which is often a paid add-on at other registrars. This feature masks your personal data from public databases, helping prevent spam, phishing, and unsolicited outreach. It’s a valuable security inclusion for individuals and small businesses alike.

If you’re also setting up a website, bundling domain and hosting through Hostinger unlocks additional savings. Hosting plans start at very low entry rates and often include a free domain for the first year, along with email, SSL, and a site builder — making it easy to launch a full web presence with minimal effort.

Hostinger’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Hostinger is a certified domain registrar, ensuring secure and compliant domain registrations globally.
• AI-powered domain search – Generates creative, brandable domain name ideas based on your input, helping you find names that align with your project vision.
• Free WHOIS privacy protection – Masks your personal information from public databases to reduce spam, prevent identity theft, and enhance domain security.
• One-click domain-hosting integration – Lets you manage your domain, hosting, email, and site builder from a single dashboard for full-stack simplicity.
• Affordable domain transfers – Transfer .com domains for $9.99 with a free 1-year extension, making it easy to consolidate your web presence.
• Bulk domain search – Check availability for multiple domain names at once, ideal for businesses or brand managers registering portfolios.
• Multi-year registration support – Lock in ownership and reduce renewal hassle by registering domains for up to 10 years in advance.
• Intuitive DNS management – Easily configure A, MX, CNAME, and TXT records through a streamlined control panel.
• 24/7 customer support – Get live assistance any time, with extra help available via the Hostinger knowledge base and tutorials.

2. Network Solutions (former Domain.com)

• Best for: users who want a well-established platform for managing domains and hosting in one place
• Price for .com: regular registration starts around  $12.19
• Renewal cost: .com renewal listed at about  $29.19/year under standard pricing
• Free WHOIS Privacy: not guaranteed — domain privacy protection is often treated as an add‑on under Network Solutions’ structure

Domain.com is one of the most recognized domain registrars, known for its wide selection of over 300 domain extensions across standard, niche, and country-code TLDs. In 2025, it began transitioning under the management of Network Solutions, both brands are now operated by the same parent company, Newfold Digital.

Its domain search tool includes AI-powered suggestions, letting users filter by keywords, length, and extension. While useful for quick ideas, results may still include unavailable or irrelevant names depending on the query.

Like Network Solutions, Domain.com treats key features like WHOIS privacy as paid add-ons. For example, privacy protection is automatically added to the cart for around $8.99/year, which can increase total domain name costs if not removed manually.

Domain.com also offers bundled services such as web and WordPress hosting, email, and a basic site builder. However, it doesn’t provide cloud or VPS hosting options, and its pricing model — inherited from Network Solutions — emphasizes yearly billing with higher-than-average renewal fees.

Network Solutions’ key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Network Solutions is one of the earliest accredited domain registrars, ensuring compliant and secure domain registrations.
• Extensive TLD catalogue – Offers a wide range of domain extensions from .com/.net to niche and brandable TLDs, giving you more naming flexibility.
• Online account management – Provides a centralized dashboard for domains, DNS, transfers, renewals, and hosting tools from a single interface.
• Domain transfer lock & auto‑renew controls – Built‑in protection to prevent unauthorized transfers and manage renewals to avoid accidental expirations. 
• Bulk domain and portfolio management support – Enables users managing multiple domains with tools for organization, transfers and domain‑portfolio oversight.

3. Namecheap

• Best for: cost‑conscious individuals, freelancers and small businesses
• Price for .com: often around $8.98/year for the first year
• Renewal cost: $14.98/year + $0.20 ICANN fee
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Yes

Namecheap offers an advanced, user‑friendly domain name search tool that allows users to enter keywords and filter by price range, finding both individual domains and bulk groups. The bulk search interface supports importing a CSV file for large‑scale domain checks.

When you register a domain, Namecheap includes free lifetime WHOIS privacy protection on eligible domains. In addition to domain registration, Namecheap offers add-on services to help you get started with your website, including shared hosting, WordPress hosting, domain name system (DNS) hosting, and SSL certificates for HTTPS.  

Namecheap also supports Handshake domains, alternative TLDs registered on a blockchain‑based system, offering access to unique extensions beyond the standard .com/.net/.org options.

Namecheap’s domain transfer pricing is generally transparent, but the exact cost varies by TLD. For example, the transfer price listed for .com domains may start around  $11.48 and includes free lifetime domain privacy on eligible domains.

While Namecheap’s 24/7 live chat support is available, user reviews note a range of experiences with response times and renewal processes.

Namecheap’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Namecheap is an accredited domain registrar, ensuring compliant and reliable domain registrations worldwide. 
• Extensive TLD selection – Offers a wide range of domain extensions, including popular, niche, and country‑specific TLDs to match diverse branding needs. 
• Free WHOIS privacy protection – Eligible domains include free WhoisGuard privacy, protecting your personal data from public WHOIS exposure. 
• Domain bidding – Users can bid on registered or premium domain names via auctions in Namecheap’s marketplace.
• Bulk domain search – Search up to 5,000 keywords or domain names simultaneously using Namecheap’s bulk domain tool.
• Domain Vault – advanced domain protection – Protects valuable domains with registry locking, DNS change monitoring, and an enhanced support team.

4. Porkbun

• Best for: searching for niche domain extensions
• Price for .com: approximately  $11.08/year for registration
• Renewal cost: approximately the same $11.08/year for renewal
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Yes (included on eligible domains at no extra cost)

Porkbun is one of the best domain registrars to shop for unique domain name extensions. Choose from over 550 TLDs with ease using bulk and AI search. Users looking for more options can browse the marketplace and auctions by third-party sellers.

Domain name registrations come with free domain privacy, SSL certificates, and trials for web hosting, website builder, and email hosting.

Porkbun also offers web hosting (shared cPanel, Easy WordPress, link‑in‑bio tools) that can be bundled with your domain. While the pricing remains competitive for entry use, some specs (like storage and scalability) suggest these plans are more budget‑oriented rather than enterprise‑grade.

Domain transfers cost the same as registration for many TLDs — for instance, some .com transfers list around  $10.37 and include the standard renewal rate for that extension. However, Porkbun doesn’t provide refunds for both domain registrations and renewals.

Free domain forwarding is available for users who host their websites on another platform. It supports 301 Moved Permanently, 302 Found, and 307 Temporary redirects, minimizing the impact on your site’s search engine optimization (SEO) performance.

Porkbun’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Porkbun is a fully accredited registrar offering secure and compliant domain services globally.
• Free WHOIS privacy – Automatically included with eligible domain registrations to protect your personal information.
• Free SSL certificate – Basic SSL included with domains to support secure HTTPS setup.
• Built-in email & URL forwarding – Redirect domains and create forwarding emails at no extra cost.
• DNS management tools – Easy-to-use dashboard to manage DNS records like A, MX, CNAME, and TXT.
• Hosting and web services available – Shared hosting, WordPress hosting, and site builders can be bundled with domain purchases.

5. GoDaddy

• Best for: reducing expenses on domain registration in the first year
• Price for .com: starting from  $0.99–1.99 for the first year (promotional)
• Renewal cost: around  $22.19/year for the standard renewal rate
• Free WHOIS Privacy: included on many domains, though some TLDs may require purchasing a privacy add‑on

GoDaddy is the cheapest domain registrar on this list, offering .com domains for as low as $0.01 in the first year for a three-year registration. Moreover, domain bundles for up to four extensions can get you discounted first-year prices. Renewal prices are available on GoDaddy’s pricing page, though they are higher than first-year rates.

GoDaddy equips its domain name checker with features like filters, favorites, and history, allowing users to save and revisit domain listings they’re interested in.

Like many hosting providers, GoDaddy bundles its web hosting plans with free domain registration. Starting at $6.99/month, select plans also include one year of SSL certificates, Microsoft 365 mailboxes, DDoS protection, and daily backups.

GoDaddy simplifies domain actions and parking for users seeking profitable side hustles. Use the domain appraisal tool to gauge your domains’ current values.

Users with a large portfolio of domain names can join the Discount Domain Club for deals on registrations, renewals, and transfers. They also get access to better prices when using other domain-related features like CashParking and Auctions.

GoDaddy’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Officially recognized registrar managing tens of millions of domains globally.
• Over 500 domain extensions – Wide selection of TLDs, including standard, geo, and industry-specific options.
• AI-powered domain search – Suggests available domain names based on keywords and user preferences.
• Free WHOIS privacy – Included with eligible domain extensions to protect your contact information.
• Domain investment tools ‒ GoDaddy offers broker services, a domain appraisal tool, and the Discount Domain Club membership to help you build your portfolio and make money with domains.
• CashParking program – Monetize unused domains through ad-generated revenue.
• Domain auctions ‒ buy or sell domain names for your online business needs or hustles.

6. Hover

• Best for: getting straightforward domain registration services
• Price for .com: starting around $14.99/year for the first year
• Renewal cost: renewals around $16.99/year
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Yes

Hover is the best domain registrar service for users looking for a straightforward domain registration process. With a simple user interface and transparent pricing structure, it’s perfect for those focused on domain shopping.

Hover’s single domain registration is pricier than that of other domain registrars on this list, with .com domains costing $18.99/year. However, they include free WHOIS privacy protection. Owning more than ten domains also gives you bulk discounts on renewal.

Hover is one of the few domain registrars that waives domain transfer fees. Instead, it will charge you for an extra year of registration, added to your existing term.

Email hosting plans with email forwarding and built-in anti-spam and anti-virus are available as add-on services starting at $20/year. You can also buy the email forwarding feature separately for $5/year.

Hover does not offer web hosting, but provides simple DNS/forwarding tools and supports connecting domains to external website builders. Support is available via live chat, ticket and phone.

Hover’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Hover is a fully accredited domain registrar, operating under Tucows, one of the oldest registrars in the industry.
• Clean interface and no upsells – Focuses purely on domain services without pushing hosting or unrelated add-ons.
• Free WHOIS privacy – Included by default for eligible domain extensions, protecting personal registration data.
• Bulk domain management – Discounted pricing available for users with 10+ domains, along with easy portfolio tools.
• Simple third-party integration – Easy DNS tools to connect domains to external services and site builders.

7. IONOS

• Best for: consolidating hosting and premium domains
• Price for .com: $1
• Renewal Cost: $20/year
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Yes

IONOS is a web hosting provider that also offers domain registration services. Many of its hosting plans include a free domain for the first year, a Wildcard SSL certificate, and other essential tools at a low introductory price. While pricing starts around $1/month for some hosting tiers, features like automated backups or email hosting may be offered as paid add-ons depending on the plan.

During checkout, you’ll select your domain and may encounter upsells for additional services. It’s a good idea to check domain availability in advance using IONOS’s domain checker, which also provides AI-generated suggestions to help with name selection.

Promotional pricing for .com domains often starts at around $1 for the first year, but renewals typically rise to $20 or more annually. Some domain packages may include added features like SSL or domain privacy, but email hosting and other services are generally billed separately.

Domain transfers to IONOS are free of charge, though you’ll need to pay for one additional year of registration, which is then added to your existing term.

IONOS’ key features:

• ICANN accreditation – IONOS is a recognized domain registrar under the guidelines of global domain authorities.
• Bundled hosting + domain plans – Many hosting packages include a free domain for the first year and a Wildcard SSL certificate.
• Free domain transfer – Migrate your domain to IONOS without paying a transfer fee; a 1-year renewal is required.
• Custom email hosting – Add email plans starting at 2 GB storage with built-in spam and virus protection.
• DNS management tools – Update A, MX, TXT, and CNAME records via a user dashboard.
• Basic privacy protection – WHOIS masking included with many eligible domains.
• Bulk domain search ‒ check up to 100 domains simultaneously.

8. NameSilo

• Best for: buying and selling bulk domains
• Price for .com: starting around $17/year
• Renewal cost: $17.25/year (varies by extension and region)
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Yes

NameSilo is one of the top domain registrars for bulk domain shopping. Large registration orders and Discount Program participants can get discounts on renewal. The bulk configuration mode simplifies domain purchases, allowing users to set the term duration and activate auto-renewal during checkout.

The marketplace manager lets you buy and sell premium and expired domains with a 7.5% commission fee with no minimums and listing fees. It also provides statistics, free parking, and landing solutions to maintain multiple domains. You can backorder expiring domains via NameSilo’s back‑order service.

Register new .com domains at around $17/year. Domain registration includes free domain protection and email forwarding.

Users must create an account to check out, but this also allows them to link their domain to a third-party service and change domain nameservers to save time. 

Domain transfers for .com extensions cost $10.95, which includes a one-year extension of the expiry date. NameSilo also allows bulk domain transfers for up to 500 domains via TXT or CSV file importing.

NameSilo’s web hosting options come with a free website builder, emails, and SSL certificates at $2.99/month. However, they don’t include free domain registrations.

NameSilo’s key features:

• ICANN accreditation – Fully accredited domain registrar known for competitive pricing and investor-friendly features.
• Bulk domain management – Register, renew, and configure up to 500 domains at once using TXT or CSV imports.
• Domain marketplace access – List and sell domains with zero listing fees and a flat 7.5% commission.
• Backorder support – Use NameSilo’s internal system or Catch.club to place backorders on expiring domains.
• Free email forwarding – Route emails to another address without setting up a full mailbox.
• DNS management tools – Modify records easily using an intuitive dashboard.

How to choose the best domain registrar?

With so many options available, choosing the right domain registrar can be challenging. Consider the following factors to narrow them down.

Registration period

The registration period is the length of time you can own your domain name before having to renew it. Most domain registrars offer options ranging from one to ten years.

A longer registration period is beneficial for those with a clear long-term plan for their website. It provides security and reduces the need for frequent renewals. On the other hand, a shorter period is more suitable for experimental projects due to its flexibility and lower upfront costs.

Always check whether the registrar offers discounts for longer registration periods and if there are any restrictions on your chosen domain extension. The ideal domain registrar should align with your website’s goals and budget.

Domain transfers

Pick a domain registrar with flexible transfer policies to maintain control over your domain. For instance, check whether your registrar enforces lock-in periods that restrict domain transfers too soon after registration or renewal.

The transfer process itself should be easy, with a straightforward user interface and accessible customer support. If you plan to register multiple domains, opt for a registrar that allows bulk transfers. Consider the transfer duration as well, as it varies between registrars.

Value for money

It can be tempting to go with the cheapest domain registrar. However, getting the necessary features and support can actually save you money and time in the long run.

For example, many domain registrars have low introductory rates for the first year but higher renewal fees. The lack of transparency for paid add-on services – such as WHOIS protection and domain forwarding – is also common, even among top domain registrars.

Besides the cost, evaluate the range of services offered. A reputable domain registrar may charge more for excellent customer support, robust security options, easy-to-use management tools, and extra services like web hosting and a website builder.

Extensions

A domain registrar offering multiple extensions can give you more alternative domains when popular ones like .com and .net are unavailable.

It’s also an opportunity to get creative with your domain name. Consider unique domain extensions to make your site stand out among competitors.

Additionally, having a broad selection lets you compare and choose an extension that fits your budget and brand identity. Note that different extensions have varying prices and renewal fees.

Ease of use

An easy-to-use domain registrar can save you time and effort. Look for a registrar with a clean layout, user-friendly search tools for finding domain names, and a hassle-free registration process.

The domain management should also be simple. The ideal domain registrar should make updating DNS records, configuring email addresses, renewing the domain, and setting up privacy features easy.

Customer support

Having access to knowledgeable and responsive customer support from your domain registrar can help quickly resolve domain-related issues. It’s especially important if you’re not confident in your troubleshooting skills or are new to domain management and website building.

Effective customer support can guide you through configuring DNS settings, updating records, and minimizing troubleshooting connectivity problems. All these tasks can help minimize your website’s downtime.

Check out our tutorial to learn more about monitoring website uptime and downtime and the role DNS plays in it.

Renewal process

A good registrar will send out reminders to prevent your domain from expiring. Enable the auto-renewal option and keep your payment information up-to-date to avoid ownership lapses.

Additionally, check the registrar’s policies for expired domains, including grace periods and redemption fees. Ensure your chosen platform offers flexibility and protection for your domain in the long term.

Next steps: Registering your domain with confidence

Choosing a domain registrar isn’t just about getting a good price — it’s about securing the foundation of your online identity. Once you’ve compared features like pricing, renewals, extensions, and ease of management, the next step is to register your domain and start building your online presence.

Make sure you finalize your domain name, check availability across relevant extensions, and decide whether you’ll bundle it with web hosting or manage it separately. Enable privacy protection if offered, and set up auto-renew to avoid losing ownership.

If this is your first domain, spend a few minutes getting familiar with your registrar’s dashboard. Learn where to manage DNS, email forwarding, and other essentials. A clean setup early on can save you hours down the road.

To ensure your site launches without issues, follow a structured pre-launch workflow. Our website launch checklist covers every key step — from verifying your domain and configuring DNS settings to securing your site and optimizing performance.

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