.co vs .shop
A detailed comparison of .co and .shop domain extensions — pricing, features, and best use cases.
Our Verdict
Both .co and .shop are solid choices. .co is best for startups and scaleups, while .shop excels for online shops.
| Feature | .co | .shop |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Price | $29.99/yr | $34.99/yr |
| Year Introduced | 2010 | 2016 |
| HTTPS Required | No | No |
| Est. Registrations | 2M+ | 700K+ |
| Growth Trend | Stable | Stable |
| Registry | .CO Internet S.A.S. | GMO Registry |
| Name Availability | High | High |
.co Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Short and memorable (only 2 characters)
- Strong global recognition
- Supported by all major registrars
- No registration restrictions
Disadvantages
- Users may accidentally type .com
- Higher renewal prices than .com
- Less established trust than .com
.shop Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Universally understood
- International appeal
- More affordable than .store
- Good availability
Disadvantages
- Less established than .com
- Competes with .store for same audience
- Some registrars charge premium renewal
.co Best For
- Startups and scaleups
- Modern tech companies
- E-commerce brands
- URL shortening
- Global commercial businesses
.shop Best For
- Online shops
- Small businesses
- International retailers
- Boutique stores
- Artisan sellers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is .co a good domain for a startup?
.co is a popular choice for startups, especially when the .com equivalent is taken. It's short, globally recognized, and carries a professional image. Many funded startups use .co as their primary domain.
What is the difference between .co and .com?
.com is the original commercial TLD and remains the most trusted. .co is a newer alternative that looks similar and works well for startups and modern brands. The main risk with .co is users accidentally typing .com.
What is the difference between .shop and .store?
.shop and .store are both e-commerce TLDs. .shop tends to be cheaper and has stronger international recognition, while .store implies a larger retail operation. Both are valid choices for online sellers.
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