.io vs .tech
A detailed comparison of .io and .tech domain extensions — pricing, features, and best use cases.
Our Verdict
.io is the more affordable option, while .io is trending upward. Choose .io for tech startups, or .tech for technology companies.
Built for the technology industry — clear, professional, and memorable
| Feature | .io | .tech |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Price | $39.99/yr | $49.99/yr |
| Year Introduced | 1997 | 2015 |
| HTTPS Required | No | No |
| Est. Registrations | 2M+ | 500K+ |
| Growth Trend | Rising | Rising |
| Registry | Internet Computer Bureau | Radix Registry |
| Name Availability | Medium | High |
.io Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Strong tech brand association
- Better name availability than .com
- Short and memorable
- I/O computing connection
Disadvantages
- Premium pricing ($30-50/year)
- Country code controversy (BIOT)
- Not ideal for non-tech businesses
.tech Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Clear industry signal
- High domain availability
- Professional and credible
- Shorter than .technology
Disadvantages
- Higher price point than .com or .net
- Less universally recognized
- Renewal prices can be steep
.io Best For
- Tech startups
- SaaS products
- Developer tools
- API platforms
- Open-source projects
.tech Best For
- Technology companies
- SaaS startups
- AI and ML products
- Tech conferences and events
- Developer tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is .io good for startups?
Yes, .io is widely accepted and even preferred in the startup ecosystem. Tech investors, developers, and early adopters recognize .io as a legitimate, modern domain choice. Many successful companies use .io domains.
Is .io good for SEO?
Google treats .io as a generic TLD for search purposes, not as a country code. This means .io domains are not geo-targeted and can rank globally, making them excellent for international SaaS products.
Is .tech good for a technology startup?
.tech is an excellent choice for technology companies that want to clearly communicate their industry focus. It's professional, memorable, and has good availability for shorter names already taken on .com.
How much does a .tech domain cost?
.tech domains typically cost $40-60/year. While more expensive than .com, the industry signal and availability of short names can make it worthwhile for tech brands.
Ready to Find Your Domain?
Compare real-time prices for .io and .tech domains across multiple registrars.
Search Domains