Choosing the best TLD: which domain extension suits you?

Which domain extension best suits your website? Choosing the right TLD (Top-Level Domain) affects how visitors find and experience your website. In this guide, we help you choose the best TLD for your situation.

What is a TLD?

A TLD is the last part of a domain name, after the dot. In "example.nl", ".nl" is the TLD. There are three main categories:

• ccTLDs (country code): country-specific like .nl, .be, .de
• gTLDs (generic): general like .com, .net, .org
• New gTLDs: since 2012 like .shop, .tech, .io

Overview of popular TLDs

When to choose which TLD?

Choose .nl when:

• You primarily target Dutch customers
• You have a local business
• You want customers to immediately recognize you as Dutch
• SEO for the Dutch market is a priority

A .nl domain gives you an edge in Google.nl results. Read more about .nl domains.

Choose .com when:

• You operate or want to expand internationally
• You're a startup with global ambitions
• The .nl variant isn't available
• You have an English-language website

The .com domain is the most recognized worldwide. Read more about .com domains.

Choose .eu when:

• You're active in multiple EU countries
• You want to project a European identity
• The .nl and .com variants are taken
• You meet the EU establishment requirement

Read more about .eu domains.

Pros and cons per TLD

.nl domain

Pros:

• Strong trust among Dutch consumers
• SEO advantage for Dutch search results
• Relatively inexpensive
• Managed by reliable SIDN

Cons:

• Limited to Dutch market
• Many short names already taken

.com domain

Pros:

• Globally recognized
• No geographic restrictions
• Professional appearance

Cons:

• Higher price than .nl
• Extremely many names already taken
• No SEO advantage for specific countries

.be domain

Pros:

• Essential for Belgian market
• Trusted by Belgian consumers
• Managed by DNS Belgium

Cons:

• Limited to Belgian market
• Slightly more expensive than .nl

Tips for making the right choice

1. Register multiple extensions

If budget allows, register both .nl and .com. This protects your brand and prevents competitors or cybersquatters from claiming your name.

2. Think about your target audience

Ask yourself: where are my customers? A local bakery doesn't need .com, but a webshop with international shipping does.

3. Check availability

Before choosing a name, verify it's available for the TLDs you want. Use our price comparison to compare.

4. Consider branding

Some TLDs suit certain industries better:

• .tech or .io for tech startups
• .shop or .store for webshops
• .consulting for consultancy firms

5. Watch the costs

Not just the registration price matters, but also the renewal price. Some new TLDs are cheap in the first year but expensive to renew.

Frequently asked questions

Does my TLD choice affect SEO? Yes, but limited. For local search results, a ccTLD (.nl) provides a small advantage. For international SEO, it matters less.

Can I switch TLDs later? Technically yes, but it's complex. You lose accumulated SEO value and need to set up redirects. So choose the right TLD immediately.

What if my desired name is taken? Try variations, a different TLD, or consider contacting the current owner. Also check if the domain is for sale.