.io vs .shop
A detailed comparison of .io and .shop domain extensions — pricing, features, and best use cases.
Our Verdict
.shop is the more affordable option, while .io is trending upward. Choose .io for tech startups, or .shop for online shops.
| Feature | .io | .shop |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Price | $39.99/yr | $34.99/yr |
| Year Introduced | 1997 | 2016 |
| HTTPS Required | No | No |
| Est. Registrations | 2M+ | 700K+ |
| Growth Trend | Rising | Stable |
| Registry | Internet Computer Bureau | GMO 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
.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
.io Best For
- Tech startups
- SaaS products
- Developer tools
- API platforms
- Open-source projects
.shop Best For
- Online shops
- Small businesses
- International retailers
- Boutique stores
- Artisan sellers
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.
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.
Ready to Find Your Domain?
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