Best URL Shortening Tools For 2019
As reported a few days back, Google will soon be shutting down its URL shortening service Goo.gl. By April 13, 2018, users would no longer be able to create new shortened URLs using the Goo.gl console, while the console itself can no longer be used in March 2019. This comes to a surprise to a good number of people, as this is one of Google’s most popular services.
The reason behind the discontinuation of this popular service is the result of Google shifting its focus to a new service called Firebase Dynamic links, which is a new technology that aims to create Dynamic Links, which is seen as the future of how link building would be in the next few years. Despite the discontinuation of Goo.gl, there are still a good number of URL shortening tools that you can use. With that in mind, here are some of the best URL shortening tools that you can use this 2019.
Rebrandly
When it comes to creating branded links, Rebrandly offers a comprehensive package that allows you to customize your links, along with being able to manage different domains and monitor link statistics. Rebrandly url shortener works similar to other shorteners, but it provides more in the form of creating custom URLs for one of your domains. You also have the option to purchase domains straight from the tool itself, which is a big plus when it comes to creating your own branded links. Additionally, they also have a Google Chrome extension, which allows you to instantly create shortened URLs you can use for your website without having to access the main tool dashboard.
Bit.ly
When it comes to URL shortening tools, one of the most recognizable names would have to be Bit.ly. There is a high chance that a good number of shortened URLs that you have clicked were done using this tool. The free tool allows you to shorten URLs by simply pasting the link. From there, you can instantly copy and paste this link to your website as much as you would like. Becoming a registered member allows more options, such as customizable links, and the ability to track statistics for specific links. Registering for Bitly Enterprise opens up even more features, like creating campaigns and more secure links. Bit.ly has been one of the best shortening tools for a long time, which truly shows its quality and reliability.
TinyURL
Another URL shortening tool that has been around for quite some time is TinyURL. TinyURL allows you to not only shorten your URLs, but also customize it for free. What makes this tool even more handy to use is the option of being able to add it to your browser toolbar for Mozilla users and as a Google Chrome Extension. For those who need to shorten your links in a hurry, TinyURL is the best tool for you.
Ow.ly
Once a tool that was free to use like TinyURL and Bit.ly, Ow.ly is now a URL shortening tool that is a part of Hootsuite, which is one of the best social media sharing and monitoring tools available. The best part of being bundled with Hootsuite is that you would be able to integrate the links to your social media posts, which comes in handy when sharing content.
Is.gd
Perhaps the simplest tool on this list is.gd is a URL shortening tool that gives you a shortened link in quick fashion, without the need of CAPTCHA codes or extra verification. Other than the standard URL shortener, you can also create your own custom URL, which helps create a more identifiable URL when pasting it into your posts.
Branch.io
With Mobile SEO becoming even more important as the year goes by, it is best to optimize and shorten your mobile links for better accessibility. Branch.io is a handy shortening tool that also allows you to create deep links, integration with other applications, and link tracking. All of these features come with the initial shortening tool, which makes it a quality package that helps make your mobile SEO that much more efficient.
Buff.ly
Like Hootsuite’s own Ow.ly. Buff.ly is a URL shortening tool that is a part of Buffer, which is another social media management tool that helps share and track your posts on different platforms. The URL shortener works best on these kinds of posts, as it prevents the link from breaking, and makes it easy to integrate into a post. If you are a Buffer user, then buff.ly is a feature that you should utilize.
Key Takeaway
While Goo.gl is already discontinuing its services, there is still a good variety of quality URL shortening tools available. With these tools, you are ensured that you would be able to create shortened and customized URLs that you can make use of on your social media posts and emails.
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