.com vs .store
A detailed comparison of .com and .store domain extensions — pricing, features, and best use cases.
Our Verdict
Both .com and .store are solid choices. .com is best for established businesses, while .store excels for e-commerce stores.
| Feature | .com | .store |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Price | $9.99/yr | $49.99/yr |
| Year Introduced | 1985 | 2016 |
| HTTPS Required | No | No |
| Est. Registrations | 150M+ | 500K+ |
| Growth Trend | Stable | Stable |
| Registry | Verisign | Radix |
| Name Availability | Low | High |
.com Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Universal recognition and trust
- Best for direct-type traffic
- Affordable registration and renewal
- Protected by ICANN pricing regulations
Disadvantages
- Short, memorable names are mostly taken
- Premium aftermarket prices for desirable names
- Less distinctive than newer TLDs
.store Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Clear e-commerce association
- Excellent name availability
- Memorable for online shops
- Works globally across languages
Disadvantages
- Higher registration price ($30-50/year)
- Limited to retail/commerce use case
- Less brand recognition than .com
.com Best For
- Established businesses
- E-commerce stores
- Global brands
- Corporate websites
- Anyone prioritizing trust
.store Best For
- E-commerce stores
- Online retailers
- DTC brands
- Marketplace sellers
- Retail businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is .com still the best domain extension?
For most businesses, yes. .com offers unmatched brand recognition and trust. However, if your ideal .com is unavailable, modern alternatives like .io, .ai, or .co can be excellent choices depending on your industry.
How much does a .com domain cost?
New .com domains typically cost $8-12/year from major registrars. Premium or aftermarket .com domains can range from hundreds to millions of dollars depending on the name's value.
Is .store good for an online shop?
Yes, .store is one of the best TLDs for e-commerce businesses. It clearly communicates your site's purpose and often allows you to secure a shorter, more brandable domain name than you'd find in .com.
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