The announcement of Google shutting down its Domains service created significant uncertainty in the community. We felt this impact directly, as we manage numerous domains for both our business and our clients.
This announcement prompted our team to embark on a major project: identifying the best new options for over 100 domains. This hands-on migration process provided us with valuable insights into which registrars are the most reliable alternatives.
In this guide, we will share our insights and compare the top alternatives to Google Domains that we have personally tested. We aim to assist you in selecting the right option based on pricing, features, and customer support, allowing you to transition with confidence.
Short on time? Here’s a quick summary of our top recommendations to help you swiftly find the best alternative to Google Domains:
| Rank | Provider | Best For | Pricing |
| 🥇 | Network Solutions | Simple domain registration | Varies |
| 🥈 | Hostinger | Cost-effective hosting with a complimentary domain | Starting at $2.69/month |
| 🥉 | GoDaddy | Extensive domain options | Starting at $0.99/year |
| 4 | Bluehost | WordPress hosting with a free domain | Starting at $1.99/month |
| 5 | SiteGround | Reliable and secure hosting with a complimentary domain | Starting at $2.99 per month |
| 6 | Namecheap | Complimentary domain security with DNSSEC | Starting at $6.49 per year |
| 7 | Hover | Domain registration that includes free WHOIS privacy | Pricing varies |
| 8 | DreamHost | Web hosting services that come with a free domain | Starting at $2.59 per month |
| 9 | HostGator | Budget-friendly hosting with a free domain included | Starting at $1.99 per month |
Why Consider Alternatives to Google Domains?
In 2015, Google introduced its domain registration service to assist users in finding, purchasing, and managing domains for their businesses.
However, in June 2023, Google Domains announced its closure, and Squarespace will take over its business operations and assets. Squarespace is a well-known website builder that also offers hosting services.
As Google Domains shuts down, all current customers and their domains will be transitioned to the Squarespace platform.
One potential downside of moving to Squarespace is the increase in domain renewal fees. Squarespace has committed to maintaining the current renewal prices for existing Google Domains customers for at least 12 months, but higher renewal rates can be anticipated afterward.
In addition, numerous domain registration services available in the market provide free domain names when bundled with hosting plans. Furthermore, these hosting plans are typically more affordable than those offered by Squarespace.
Our Process for Evaluating Google Domains Alternatives
Choosing the right domain name registrar is crucial when launching a website. With Google Domains shutting down, it’s essential to find a suitable alternative that is user-friendly and dependable.
Having tested various domain services, we understand the key attributes of a quality provider. When evaluating alternatives to Google Domains, we focus on the following key factors:
- Variety of Domain Name Options:We assess whether they provide a diverse selection of domain extensions, including popular options like .com, as well as country-specific and niche extensions. A strong alternative should offer ample choices to secure the domain you desire.
- Domain Management and Features:We seek out essential domain management tools, such as WHOIS privacy, DNS management, domain transfers, renewals, and security features like DNSSEC and SSL options. Easy access to these functionalities is crucial.
- Cost and Value:We evaluate the pricing for domain registration, renewals, and transfers. Additionally, we focus on web hosting providers that include a free domain name, allowing you to conveniently obtain both your domain and hosting services together. Our goal is to find the best overall value and the most attractive deals.
- Customer Support and Assistance:If you encounter issues with your domain, having reliable support is essential. We assess whether they provide 24/7 assistance, the ease of contacting them, and the expertise of their support team in resolving domain-related challenges.
Why You Can Trust CanadaCreate?
Our team brings over 16 years of experience in building and managing WordPress websites, during which we have registered and managed thousands of domains across all major registrars.
When Google Domains announced its closure, we personally assisted hundreds of clients in navigating the migration process, giving us valuable insights into what works effectively (and what doesn’t) with various registrars.
We maintain test domains with several registrars to evaluate their long-term performance and service quality.
Moreover, as one of the largest resources for WordPress, we frequently gather feedback from our community regarding their experiences with different domain registrars, providing us with a broader understanding of which services consistently yield the best outcomes.
For further information, please refer to our editorial process.
Before we begin, it’s important to understand that our list includes two primary types of services. Some are specialized domain registrars focused solely on domain registration, while others are web hosting providers that include domain registration as part of their service packages.
If your primary need is to purchase and manage a domain, a registrar is the ideal choice. However, if you’re launching a new website from the ground up, bundling your domain with hosting can simplify the process and save you money. We will clarify which options fall into each category! 😉
Now, let’s explore some of the top alternatives to Google Domains available today.
1. Network Solutions
Network Solutions stands out as the leading alternative to Google Domains, being one of the most trusted domain registrars with over 7 million domains registered. They offer a wide range of top-level domain name extensions (TLDs) as well as numerous country code top-level domains (ccTLDs).
Their services include features such as domain transfer, forwarding, private registration, expiration protection, WHOIS search, WHOIS privacy protection, trademark protection, and much more.
Network Solutions seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace, allowing you to utilize your Gmail for professional email communication and access essential tools like Google Drive for storage. Additionally, you can share files and connect with others through Google Meet.
In addition to this, Network Solutions provides web hosting, website building, web design services, email marketing, and more. Their offerings include various security features such as SSL certificates, daily malware scans, and automatic malware removal.
While these extra services are advantageous, Network Solutions is an ideal choice for domain registration without hosting, serving as a viable alternative to Google Domains.
For readers of CanadaCreate, Network Solutions is currently offering a 67% discount on domain products, allowing you to start for just $9.79 per year. Simply apply our Network Solutions coupon along with the promo code:NAMEBOYat checkout to take advantage of this deal.
What We Appreciate About Network Solutions
- Established reputation in the domain registration industry
- Wide range of top-level domains (TLDs) and country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) available at competitive rates
- Effortless integration with Google Workspace for professional email services
- Robust security features, including SSL certificates and malware detection
Drawbacks of Network Solutions
- Outdated user interface
- Some users may find the domain management system challenging to navigate
- Limited options for customer support
- Renewal fees are higher than the initial registration costs
Reasons to Choose Network Solutions:Opt for Network Solutions if you seek a dependable and established domain registrar that allows you to customize the services you need. It’s an excellent choice whether you want to simply register a domain or combine it with hosting, email, and security features.
2. Hostinger
Hostinger is a well-known WordPress hosting provider that also includes free domain registration. You can select from various top-level domain name extensions (TLDs) and receive complimentary WHOIS privacy protection.
Hostinger stands out as a great alternative to Google Domains because it offers a wide range of web hosting options. You can choose from shared hosting, cloud hosting, managed WordPress hosting, and VPS hosting.
Additionally, it provides competitive hosting prices compared to Squarespace, which will be the domain hosting service after Google Domains is discontinued.
In addition, Hostinger provides a complimentary CDN, one-click WordPress installation, automatic updates, enhanced security features, 24/7 live chat support, free email services, free SSL certificates, unlimited bandwidth, WordPress optimization, and more.
Explore our Hostinger coupon for exclusive discounts, and read our in-depth Hostinger review for comprehensive information.
What We Appreciate About Hostinger
- Free domain included with hosting packages
- Highly competitive pricing
- Complimentary WHOIS privacy protection included
- Intuitive domain management interface
What We Dislike About Hostinger
- Domain prices without hosting are not as competitive
- Limited variety of TLDs compared to specialized registrars
- Domain transfers can be complex
- Standalone domain prices are less competitive than bundled offers
Reasons to Choose Hostinger:Opt for Hostinger if you are launching a new website and seek the best value for your investment. By including a free domain with their already budget-friendly hosting, they provide an exceptional deal for beginners, small businesses, and anyone looking to save money.
3. GoDaddy
GoDaddy is a leading alternative to Google Domains, known for being one of the oldest and most trusted domain registrars.
With over 84 million domains and more than 500 domain extensions available, GoDaddy is an excellent platform for searching and registering your ideal domain.
GoDaddy serves as a comprehensive solution, allowing you to purchase a domain, select a web hosting plan, and start building your WordPress website. It also provides some of the most affordable domain registration services, with prices starting as low as $0.99 per year.
If you can’t find the domain you want, GoDaddy features a WHOIS search tool and a domain broker service. You can enlist GoDaddy’s help to locate, negotiate, and acquire a domain through their broker service.
GoDaddy also has an auction section where you can bid on domains that are currently for sale. Place your bid before the auction concludes to secure the name you desire.
Additionally, GoDaddy offers user-friendly domain management features, including options for changing domain names, bulk domain renewals, and more. They also provide WordPress hosting, a website builder, email marketing services, and various other tools.
What We Appreciate About GoDaddy
- The widest range of domain extensions available
- Regular promotional offers
- Robust domain search and suggestion features
- Extensive domain auction and brokerage options
Drawbacks of GoDaddy
- Persistent upselling during the checkout process
- Increased renewal fees after the initial year
- High costs for WHOIS privacy protection
- Complicated control panel layout
Reasons to Choose GoDaddy:Opt for GoDaddy if you want access to a vast array of domain extensions or require advanced features like domain auctions and brokerage services. Their robust search tools are ideal for discovering unique domain names or securing premium domains for your brand.
4. Bluehost
Bluehost is the leading web hosting provider and the official hosting partner for WordPress. They provide fast, affordable hosting solutions along with domain registration services.
If you are in search of a Google Domains alternative that also includes web hosting and free SSL, Bluehost is an excellent choice.
With Bluehost, you receive a complimentary domain name and a free SSL certificate with every hosting plan, eliminating the need for additional costs for domain registration or SSL certification.
One of the advantages of selecting Bluehost is that WordPress is pre-installed, providing a user-friendly interface that allows you to manage everything from a single dashboard. Additionally, you can utilize Google Workspace to create your business email accounts.
Readers of CanadaCreate can take advantage of a 70% discount on Bluehost, allowing you to start with a domain name and web hosting for just $2.99 per month.
Highlights of Bluehost
- Free domain included with hosting plans
- Features optimized for WordPress
- One-click installation for WordPress
- Outstanding uptime and reliability
Drawbacks of Bluehost
- Higher renewal rates after the initial term
- Limited options for domain management
- Best domain prices require hosting purchase
- Additional cost for domain privacy
Reasons to Choose Bluehost:Opt for Bluehost if you’re launching a new WordPress site and desire a seamless, integrated setup experience. As an officially recommended WordPress host, it is fully optimized for WordPress, making it an ideal choice for beginners.
5. SiteGround
SiteGround is a highly regarded hosting provider celebrated for its exceptional performance and outstanding customer support, making it an excellent alternative to Google Domains, particularly for users seeking top-tier services.
Like Hostinger and Bluehost, SiteGround provides a comprehensive solution that integrates domain registration with premium hosting and email services. Although domain registration is billed separately, you can easily manage it alongside your website from a single dashboard.
You can oversee all aspects of your website through SiteGround’s intuitive custom control panel, Site Tools. It features managed WordPress capabilities such as one-click installations, automatic updates for core software and plugins, robust security measures, and SEO enhancements.
SiteGround excels in speed, which is a primary reason we transitioned CanadaCreate to their hosting services. Their platform leverages Google Cloud’s premium infrastructure and includes a complimentary CDN and advanced caching to ensure your website loads at lightning speed.
Additionally, CanadaCreate readers can enjoy an 83% discount on SiteGround, allowing you to secure hosting and a domain name for just $2.99 per month.
What We Appreciate About SiteGround
- Robust and user-friendly website management tools
- Top-notch speed and performance
- Includes advanced security features at no additional cost
- Exceptional 24/7 customer support from industry experts
Drawbacks of SiteGround
- Renewal prices increase significantly after the initial term
- Domain prices are high when purchased separately from hosting
- Storage space is limited compared to some other providers
- Does not utilize the traditional cPanel interface you might be familiar with
Reasons to Choose SiteGround:Opt for SiteGround if your main concerns are website performance, security, and access to professional support. Although a free domain is not included, you will receive a top-tier managed WordPress hosting service that is perfect for expanding businesses.
6. Namecheap
Namecheap is a compelling alternative to Google Domains. It is a well-known domain registrar that features a robust domain search tool. Additionally, Namecheap offers suggestions for alternative domains if your desired name or extension is unavailable.
Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) are included for free with every domain purchase, providing an additional layer of security by verifying the DNS address and protecting your domain from cyber threats.
Namecheap also offers a variety of hosting solutions. You can select from shared hosting, WordPress hosting, VPS, dedicated servers, and reseller hosting options.
In addition, you will receive 24/7 customer support, a complimentary 2-month trial for email addresses, privacy protection, domain transfer services, SSL certificates, and more.
What We Appreciate About Namecheap
- Complimentary WHOIS privacy protection
- Consistently competitive pricing
- User-friendly interface
- Free DNSSEC included with all domains
What We Dislike About Namecheap
- Limited options for phone support
- Some top-level domains (TLDs) are priced higher than competitors
- DNS propagation may be slower
- Basic tools for domain management
Reasons to Choose Namecheap:Opt for Namecheap if you’re looking for affordable and straightforward domain registration with lifelong free privacy protection. They are an excellent option for budget-conscious users who want to avoid hidden fees and upselling.
7. Hover
Hover is an easy-to-use domain name registrar and a fantastic alternative to Google Domains.
It simplifies the process of finding and purchasing your desired domain name. You can select from popular domain extensions as well as various niche TLDs, and you can also transfer and renew domains effortlessly.
One of the standout features of Hover is that it provides free WHOIS privacy and two-factor authentication with every purchase. This sets it apart from Google Domains and makes it a worthwhile alternative.
Hover also includes tools like custom email addresses and Realnames email, allowing you to create a personalized experience for your audience. The Realnames email feature enables you to use your name as an email address in the format firstname@lastname.
What We Appreciate About Hover
- Streamlined checkout process without upsells
- Complimentary WHOIS privacy protection
- User-friendly domain management
- Outstanding email forwarding options
What We Dislike About Hover
- Pricing is higher than many competitors
- No web hosting services offered
- Limited selection of top-level domains (TLDs)
- Fewer advanced features available
Reasons to Choose Hover:Opt for Hover if you prefer a hassle-free domain purchase experience without upsells. Their platform is designed for simplicity, making it ideal for users who appreciate a clean and straightforward interface for domain management.
8. DreamHost
DreamHost is another excellent alternative to Google Domains. Like several other options on this list, it allows you to register a domain and provides web hosting services for your website.
When you purchase an annual hosting plan, you receive a complimentary domain name, SSL certificate, and domain privacy for the first year.
Choose from over 400 domain extensions. Additionally, DreamHost offers a diverse range of hosting solutions.
You can opt for shared hosting, managed WordPress hosting known as DreamPress, dedicated server hosting, cloud hosting, VPS hosting, and more. For further details, check out our comprehensive DreamHost review.
DreamHost seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace. Furthermore, it provides email hosting, a website builder, custom web design, SEO marketing, social media marketing, and various website management services.
Discover our exclusive DreamHost coupon code here to save 72%.
What We Appreciate About DreamHost
- Complimentary domain with hosting plans
- Free privacy protection included
- Reliable uptime performance
- Outstanding integration with WordPress
What We Dislike About DreamHost
- Limited selection of domain extensions
- High costs for domain-only purchases
- Basic interface for domain management
- Restricted customer support hours
Reasons to Choose DreamHost:Opt for DreamHost if you need reliable WordPress hosting that comes with a free domain and privacy protection included in its annual plans. Their focus on privacy and impressive uptime makes them a top choice for business websites.
9. HostGator
HostGator is the final alternative to Google Domains on our list. This well-known hosting provider for WordPress offers a complimentary domain name.
What sets HostGator apart from Google Domains is its competitive pricing plans. With their annual subscriptions, you receive budget-friendly hosting that includes a free one-year domain registration, an SSL certificate, easy WordPress installation, and much more.
HostGator also features a domain transfer option, allowing you to move a domain from another provider, such as Google Domains, to HostGator.
In addition, the hosting service offers various features such as a website builder, shared and dedicated hosting, Google Workspace integration, web design services, SEO assistance, and pay-per-click (PPC) consulting.
What We Appreciate About HostGator
- Free domain included with hosting packages
- Affordable introductory rates
- Simple domain transfer process
- 24/7 customer support
What We Dislike About HostGator
- High renewal fees
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Limited features for managing domains
- Additional costs for privacy protection
Reasons to Choose HostGator:Opt for HostGator if you’re a beginner seeking a dependable, all-in-one solution for hosting and domain registration. Their straightforward setup and round-the-clock customer support make it an ideal choice for launching your first website.
Which Alternative to Google Domains is the Best?
After evaluating various services, our top recommendations are Network Solutions, Hostinger, and GoDaddy.
Network Solutions simplifies the process of finding a domain name with a wide range of domain extensions. It also provides some of the finest domain management and security features available.
Conversely, if you’re looking for a domain name bundled with web hosting, we strongly recommend Hostinger. Each hosting plan includes a complimentary domain name and an SSL certificate for the first year.
If your primary goal is to register a domain name, GoDaddy serves as an excellent alternative to Google Domains, offering robust domain search capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Google Domains Alternatives
Here are some common questions regarding the selection of a Google Domains alternative.
1. Is Google a good option for purchasing domains?
Google Domains was launched in 2015 to assist users in purchasing domain names for their websites, offering competitive pricing compared to other domain registration services.
In 2023, Squarespace acquired Google Domains. Once the transition is finalized, domain purchases will be available through Squarespace, and Google Domains will cease to exist.
2. What advantages does Google Domains have over GoDaddy?
One of the main reasons users preferred Google Domains was its lower prices compared to GoDaddy.
With Google Domains moving to Squarespace, GoDaddy now presents a more appealing option, providing additional features, web hosting, a website builder, and more.
3. What is the most affordable domain name?
The price typically varies based on the domain name and extension you choose. Network Solutions offers domain names starting at $11.99.
Conversely, Hostinger provides a free domain with its WordPress starter and higher-tier plans, while GoDaddy allows domain registration for as low as $0.99.
4. Is it possible to sell my Google domain?
Yes, you can sell your Google domain. There are numerous domain registrars and marketplaces available where you can list and sell your domain.
For instance, GoDaddy allows you to choose domains from your collection and list them for sale. Additionally, you can utilize platforms like Flippa and Efty to sell your domain or website.
Further Reading & Related Guides
We hope this article has assisted you in finding the ideal alternative to Google Domains for your requirements. You may also find these additional guides beneficial as you manage your website:
- How to Select the Perfect Domain Name: Our comprehensive guide provides tips and tools to help you choose a memorable and effective domain for your brand.
- Domain Name vs. Web Hosting: Understand the essential differences between a domain and hosting, and discover why you need both to create a website.
- How to Obtain a Free Domain Name: Explore legitimate methods to register a domain name at no cost, often by bundling it with a web hosting service.
- How to Transfer a Domain Without Losing SEO: Planning to move an existing site? Follow our detailed guide for a seamless transition that won’t negatively impact your rankings.
- How to Create a Professional Business Email: After securing your domain, learn how to set up a custom email address to enhance your credibility.
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