The extension is the part after the dot, and it can change a name’s value more than any other single factor. Here is how we scout the major ones.
- .com is still the default for most businesses and has the deepest pool of buyers.
- Country-code extensions like .ai and .io depend on another country’s registry rules.
- Always check renewal prices before buying in a newer extension. Registry premiums can be expensive every year.
.com: the home field
Most people assume a business lives at .com, and most businesses want to. That’s why .com has the largest aftermarket and the most end-user buyers. When a company outgrows a different extension, the .com is usually what it buys. Pricing for .com renewals is also relatively predictable.
Scouting note: in .com, quality varies enormously. A mediocre .com can still be worth less than a great name in another extension.
.net and .org
.net is the traditional backup to .com and works for tech and network businesses. .org carries a nonprofit and community association, which suits foundations, open-source projects, and advocacy groups. Both have smaller buyer pools than .com, so price accordingly.
.ai: the AI boom extension
.ai is the country code for Anguilla, and it became one of the most popular extensions for artificial intelligence companies. Short, relevant .ai names attract strong interest from startups.
Scouting notes: renewal costs are higher than .com, and minimum registration terms and rules are set by the registry, so check them before buying. Demand is tied to one industry, so a name needs a clear AI buyer.
.io: the tech favorite with an open question
.io has long been popular with developer tools and startups. It is the country code for the British Indian Ocean Territory. The United Kingdom’s agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius raised questions about the extension’s long-term management. Nobody can say how that will play out, so treat long-term .io holdings with some caution.
.co
.co is Colombia’s country code, marketed globally as short for company. It works for startups, but it has a known weakness: people often type .com by mistake, sending traffic to whoever owns the .com. That’s exactly why .co businesses are frequent .com upgrade buyers.
.app and .dev
These Google-operated extensions are on the HSTS preload list, which means browsers require a secure HTTPS connection. That’s good for security and easy to set up with modern hosting. .app fits mobile and web products. .dev fits developer tools.
Domain hacks: .me, .tv, .gg, .ly
Some country codes form words or phrases, like about.me style names, .tv for video, or .gg for gaming. These can be memorable, but each depends on its country’s registry policies and pricing. Some registries restrict content or can change rules, so read the terms.
New gTLDs: .xyz, .shop, .online and hundreds more
Since the new generic extension program launched, hundreds of extensions have appeared. Some names in them sell, but resale demand is thin for most, and many registries charge premium renewal prices for desirable names. ICANN is also preparing another round of new extensions, which will add even more supply.
Scouting note: in new gTLDs, buy for a specific end user or a project you’ll build, not for general resale.
A quick scouting checklist by extension
- What is the renewal price, and can it change?
- Who controls the registry, and what are its rules?
- How many buyers use this extension in the name’s niche?
- Is the .com of the same name taken by a working business? If so, who’s your buyer?
The NAR Score weighs extension strength automatically. Try the same name in different extensions on the tools page to see the difference, and read our valuation framework for the rest of the picture.