After Squarespace acquired Google Domains on September 7, 2023, it stopped offering new domain registrations, leading many users to seek alternatives. But on May 13. 2024, Squarespace announced that it’s going private in a $6.9 billion deal with Permira, leading users to wonder how the changes will affect their subscriptions. It’s important for them to understand the potential impacts of these changes and to explore other reliable service providers as they consider their choices in domain registration.
Why look for Google Domains alternatives?
Aside from the points previously mentioned, here are some possible reasons why you should look for another Google Domains alternative:
- Feature limitations. Google Domains is straightforward but might lack the advanced features available with other domain registrars. This includes more extensive web hosting services or specialized domain management tools.
- Cost efficiency. You might find more competitive pricing or value-packed offers that include additional services like web hosting and email with other providers.
- Enhanced support. Some users require robust, 24/7 customer support, which other providers might handle more effectively.
- Better integrations. Alternative registrars may offer superior compatibility with a broader range of web technologies or more comprehensive hosting solutions, which are essential for advanced users or larger enterprises. Examples of these are WordPress integrations and eCommerce capabilities.
When seeking the best Google Domains alternative, consider these factors to find a domain registrar that closely matches your web hosting and domain registration needs.
Best Google Domains alternatives
Bluehost
Bluehost is a web hosting provider highly recommended by WordPress.org, making it a trusted choice for anyone looking to build a website. Whether you’re just starting out, freelancing, running an agency, or you’re an experienced user, Bluehost has something for you. With a variety of hosting plans including shared, VPS, dedicated, cloud, and WooCommerce options, you can rest assured that your website is in expert hands with Bluehost.
Key features:
- Domain name registration
- Domain transfer
- Domain privacy
- Web hosting services (shared, VPS, dedicated, cloud, WordPress, and WooCommerce hosting)
- AI website builder
- Automatic WordPress updates and staging environment
- Free domain name for the first year
- 24/7 customer support
- Enhanced security features including free SSL and backups
- Professional Email
- Google Workspace
- Digital marketing services
- Professional website design services
- 99.98% uptime guarantee; 100% for cloud hosting
Best for: Aside from domains, Bluehost is excellent for WordPress enthusiasts and beginners looking for an easy, scalable solution.
Web.com
Web.com offers a wide array of services, making it a one-stop shop for anyone looking to start or expand their online presence. You can choose from shared hosting, an AI-powered Website Builder, and professional design services. Plus, Web.com goes beyond the basics because it provides extra perks like website design, domain registration, security solutions, and various marketing tools to help your business thrive online.
Key features:
- Web.com offers a range of hosting services from shared hosting (perfect for beginners) to more advanced options tailored for growing businesses.
- With the AI-powered Website Builder, you can quickly put together a robust website.
- Professional Services: Take advantage of affordable, expert design and marketing services that help you get online and expand your reach.
- 24/7 customer support ensures you have reliable help available anytime you need it.
- Additional services include website security, professional email, and online marketing tools, making Web.com a comprehensive resource for companies aiming to grow online.
- The platform provides extensive domain services, including easy registration and management.
- Some packages come with a free domain name and SSL certificate to enhance your site’s security and branding.
- Web.com stands out with its extensive offerings beyond basic hosting. The AI-driven Website Builder simplifies website creation to enable you to set up a professional-looking site quickly and effortlessly. Plus, built-in SEO and marketing tools are designed to boost your site’s visibility, driving more traffic and potential customers your way.
Best for: Small businesses seeking an all-in-one solution from web design to hosting on top of domains.
Domain.com
Provides a broad spectrum of web services including domain registration and a variety of hosting options. Domain.com is also known for its reliability and customer service.
Key features:
- Vast array of domain extensions
- Domain transfer
- Domain privacy
- Website builder
- Professional website design
- Google Workspace
- Affordable web and WordPress hosting plans
- Robust security measures
- 24/7 customer support
Best for: Those needing a straightforward, reliable domain and hosting service.
HostGator
HostGator is a well-rounded web hosting provider known for its affordable plans and reliable service, offering everything from shared to dedicated server hosting.
Key Features:
- Domain registration
- Domain transfer
- Domain privacy
- Shared, WordPress, eCommerce, dedicated, VPS, and reseller hosting
- User-friendly cPanel
- 99.9% uptime guarantee
- Website builder
- Professional website design
- Marketing services
- 24/7 customer support
- Robust security measures
Best for: Individuals and small businesses looking for budget-friendly, scalable hosting options.
Namecheap
Renowned for its affordable domain registration, Namecheap also offers a spectrum of web hosting services.
Key features:
- Domain names and hosting
- Privacy protection included
- Security features including domain lock
- 24/7 customer support
Best for: Budget-conscious users seeking affordable domains and reliable hosting services.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy is a domain registrar that offers a vast array of web solutions from domain registration to hosting services.
Key features:
- Extensive domain management tools
- Integrated website builder and web hosting
- Professional email linked to your domain
- 24/7 customer support
Best for: Users seeking web services from a single provider.
Network Solutions
Another web host that provides domain registration and web hosting solutions for businesses and individuals.
Key features:
- Domain and transfer services
- Custom email solutions
- Web hosting and online marketing tools
Best for: Businesses that need solutions such as domains to marketing.
DreamHost
DreamHost offers domains, web hosting, and cloud services.
Key features:
- SSD storage
- Privacy protection with free WHOIS privacy
- WordPress hosting solutions
Best for: Users that require different hosting plans.
Hover
Hover’s approach to domain management is straightforward, focusing on simplicity and avoiding the promotion of unnecessary add-ons.
Key Features:
- Clean user interface for easy domain management
- Free WHOIS privacy protection
- Reliable email services
Best for: Users looking for straightforward domain registration.
Gandi.net
Gandi.net emphasizes transparent pricing and ethical business practices.
Key features:
- A vast selection of domain extensions
- No hidden fees and transparent pricing
- Has a focus on data protection and customer privacy
Best for: Those who value transparency and privacy in their web services.
A2 Hosting
A2 Hosting focuses on providing hosting solutions that prioritize speed and stability to ensure optimal website performance.
Key features:
- Turbo servers for faster page loads
- Environment-friendly hosting solutions
- Free account migration
Best for: Users looking for high-speed hosting with an eco-friendly approach.
SiteGround
SiteGround provides web hosting services that focus on consistent performance and customer support.
Key features:
- Managed WordPress hosting
- Daily backups and free SSL
- Top-notch customer support
Best for: WordPress users looking for managed hosting services.
Wix
Wix is a leading web development platform offering powerful tools to build and manage high-quality websites easily.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop website builder
- Extensive template library
- App market for adding extra functionalities
Best for: Individuals and businesses looking to create custom websites easily.
IONOS by 1&1
IONOS offers various flexible hosting services and customer support.
Key features:
- Variety of hosting options including shared, VPS, and dedicated servers
- Personal consultant for every customer
- Email services
Best for: Those needing personalized service and hosting capabilities.
InMotion Hosting
A reliable hosting provider offers a variety of web hosting services designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Key features:
- Free domain and SSL certificate
- Unlimited bandwidth and email accounts
- Security suite and marketing tools included
Best for: Businesses seeking different hosting solutions with support and security features.
How to choose the right Google Domains alternative
When choosing the right alternative to Google Domains, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the domain registrar aligns with your needs:
- Range of domain extensions. Look for registrars that offer a wide variety of domain extensions to ensure flexibility in selecting a domain.
- Pricing and value. Compare costs for domain registration, renewals, and any related services. Beware of registrars with low initial costs but high renewal rates.
- User experience. Choose a registrar with a user-friendly interface to simplify your management tasks like transfers, renewals, and updates.
- Support services. You select a registrar that offers robust, 24/7 customer support through multiple channels like phone, email, or live chat.
- Additional services. Check if you need additional offerings like web hosting, email hosting, or SSL certificates, and if they are bundled at reasonable rates.
- Reputation and reliability. Research the registrar’s reputation through user reviews and consider their track record in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Privacy and security. Ensure that the registrar provides privacy protection services to keep your personal information private on the public WHOIS database.
Choose a reliable alternative to Google Domains today
The changing domain registration landscape, particularly after the shift from Google Domains to Squarespace, necessitates a careful exploration of alternatives. This guide delves into the top alternatives to Google Domains by showcasing each service’s unique features that cater to diverse needs such as web hosting, domain registration, enhanced security, and superior support. By understanding what each option entails, you can select a provider that aligns perfectly with your requirements for managing your online presence effectively.
