Key takeaways
- There are reliable domain registrars aside from GoDaddy that offer better long-term value, fewer upsells, and simpler domain management.
- Choosing a GoDaddy alternative that also offers hosting, email, and security tools can save time and support your online growth.
- Transparency matters when choosing a registrar. Look for clear pricing, free WHOIS privacy, and a smooth domain transfer process.
GoDaddy is one of the biggest names in domain registration, but that doesn’t automatically make it the best fit for everyone. There are several reliable domain registrars offering better value, fewer upsells, and more straightforward domain management.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution, some GoDaddy alternatives offer hosting, email, and security tools. These features can save you time and effort as you grow your online presence.
In this guide, we’ll break down which alternative domain registrars are worth your attention, what to consider when picking, and why some users are moving away from GoDaddy.
How we developed this list
We developed this list by first identifying well-known GoDaddy domain alternatives based on market reputation, industry longevity, and overall value for small businesses and website owners. Rather than relying solely on marketing claims, we focused on understanding how these registrars perform in real-world use—especially for users actively comparing providers.
Our evaluation process prioritized:
- User feedback analysis: We reviewed customer experiences across platforms such as G2, Trustpilot, Reddit, and industry forums to understand satisfaction levels, recurring concerns, and long-term reliability.
- Cross-platform comparison: We analyzed feedback across multiple review sources to identify consistent themes around pricing transparency, ease of domain management, support quality, and renewal practices.
- User-reported feature assessment: We evaluated domain search usability, WHOIS privacy inclusion, transfer experiences, account management tools, and optional services based on how users describe their day-to-day usage.
- Limited hands-on review: Where possible, we reviewed publicly available interfaces, documentation, and trial experiences. However, our insights primarily reflect aggregated user experiences rather than isolated testing scenarios.
This approach helps ensure our comparison reflects how these registrars are actually used by businesses—not just how they’re marketed—so you can make a more informed decision when choosing a GoDaddy alternative.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Pricing and features are current as of publication but may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the provider directly or speak with a domain specialist.
Comparison of the GoDaddy domain alternatives for small businesses
These top GoDaddy domain alternatives offer small and medium businesses reliable domain search and registration tools, with clearer pricing, fewer upsells, and easier long-term management.
Platform | Pricing (Starts at) | Key features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
Network Solutions | $11.99 / year (.com) | Domain registration and transfers, broad TLD and ccTLD selection, optional WHOIS privacy and protection, integrated hosting and website builder, long-established ICANN-accredited registrar | Small businesses and organizations looking for a trusted, scalable domain partner with optional all-in-one services |
Namecheap | $14.98 / year (.com) | Free WHOIS privacy, wide TLD selection, intuitive domain dashboard, optional hosting and SSL, domain marketplace | Individuals and small businesses seeking affordable domains with simple management and strong value |
Porkbun | $11.08 / year (.com) | Transparent pricing, free WHOIS privacy and SSL, clean interface, minimal upsells, consistent renewals | Cost-conscious users and developers who want straightforward domain registration with predictable pricing |
Dynadot | $10.88 / year (.com) | Free WHOIS privacy, security features (2FA, domain locks), bulk domain tools, no-frills checkout | Technical users, domain investors, and businesses managing multiple domains |
Hover | $18.99 / year (.com) | Free WHOIS privacy, no upselling, clean interface, advanced DNS tools, premium support | Creatives and small businesses that want a simple, domain-only experience without bundled services |
Google Domains (Squarespace Domains) | $20.00 / year (.com) | Free WHOIS privacy and DNSSEC, clean search experience, built-in forwarding, no checkout upsells | Users who value simplicity, predictable pricing, and a minimal domain management experience |
Disclaimer: Pricing reflects typical .com domain registration costs and may vary by extension or change over time.
Find the perfect domain
Ready to register a domain name? Check domain availability and get started with Network Solutions today.
1. Network Solutions
Network Solutions is one of the first established ICANN-accredited domain registrars, with a long-standing presence in the industry. As a GoDaddy alternative, it appeals to individuals and businesses seeking a registrar that’s reliable and gives you room to grow online.
Its platform is structured to simplify domain management while offering the option to expand into hosting, website building, and online marketing if needed. It’s a perfect choice if you prefer managing your domain and website services under one provider.
Key unique features
- Comprehensive domain and online presence management that brings domain registration, transfers, WHOIS privacy and protection together in one centralized platform
- Extensive global domain selection with access to a wide range of gTLDs and ccTLDs, including popular options like .com, .net, .org, and country-specific extensions
- Built-in domain privacy and protection options are included with many bundled plans to help safeguard personal information and prevent unauthorized changes
- Beginner-friendly, drag-and-drop AI website builder designed to help users create and publish professional websites without technical expertise
- Optional online marketing tools such as SEO services, paid advertising support, and business directory listings to help improve visibility and growth
Who it’s best for
Network Solutions is best for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations looking for a reliable registrar that supports long-term growth. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners and small businesses who want more than just domain registration and appreciate having optional services available as their needs expand.
What users are saying
Users frequently cite Network Solutions’ reliability, breadth of services, and established reputation. Many value its ease of use and beginner-friendly tools and the ability to manage multiple aspects of their online presence in one place. One customer said, “Network Solutions always streamlines anything you need to make your domain experience the best in the business.”
The customer support also received good reviews from a previous GoDaddy customer who commented, “I moved my domain from GoDaddy at the end of last year to Network Solutions because of horrendous customer service from GoDaddy. Today I discovered when I couldn’t increase my email storage that GoDaddy had not released my domain to Network Solutions. I contacted Network Solutions today and they gave me detailed instructions as to what GoDaddy needed to do on their end. Contacted GoDaddy and again got nothing but a runaround. I went back to Network Solutions and they resolved the issue. So relieved that I moved my domain to Network Solutions who has professional tech support at all levels. 5 Star rating for Network Solutions, nothing more than a 0 rating for GoDaddy. Make your choice wisely!”
However, some users also expressed their concerns about domain registrar’s pricey plans compared to its competitors. They also noted constant upsells and unexpected charges. One Trustpilot review said “They are very expensive for what they offer and charge extra for services that should be part of normal service. If you want to leave them, it is close impossible. Stay away from this ‘company’.”
Fortunately, since its rebrand, longtime customers have noted massive improvement. Another user from Trustpilot said “Network Solutions is a great company to deal with. We’ve moved all of our company’s domain names to them. The customer service staff is friendly, knowledgeable and easy to communicate with.”
Pricing and plans
Network Solutions offers domain registration across a wide range of popular and industry-recognized domain extensions. Pricing varies by TLD, with options suited for businesses, nonprofits, and personal brands. Domain registration does not include a free trial, but promotional first-year pricing is often available depending on the extension.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $11.99 / year | $28.99 / year | Not publicly listed |
.net | $14.99 / year | $32.99 / year | Not publicly listed |
.org | $9.99 / year | $34.99 / year | Not publicly listed |
.io | $79.99 / year | $13.99 / year | Not publicly listed |
.co | $29.99 / year | $56.99 / year | Not publicly listed |
Free or trial availability: Network Solutions doesn’t offer a free plan or trial for domain registration. Optional add-ons—such as WHOIS privacy, domain protection—may be available depending on the selected plan and promotion. Select domain-only packages include limited trial access to related services:
- One free month of Starter Hosting included with domain-only packages, allowing users to begin building immediately
- Beginner-friendly drag-and-drop website builder, along with FTP access and support for several open-source applications
- Domain forwarding options, enabling domains to be pointed to an existing website if hosting is managed elsewhere
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and reflects starting rates for the listed TLDs. Prices may change without notice and can vary based on promotions or additional services. Please check with Network Solutions directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
2. Namecheap
Namecheap is recognized for offering a wide selection of TLDs and competitive pricing, particularly for .com domains. It also supports both domain registrar and web hosting provider. Namecheap’s strength lies in its straightforward domain services, including free WHOIS privacy and a user-friendly dashboard that appeals to users seeking value and simplicity.
Key unique features
- Free WHOIS privacy protection by default, helping keep personal contact information out of public databases at no additional cost
- Extensive domain extension selection, giving users the flexibility to choose from popular and niche TLD options
- User-friendly domain and DNS management dashboard designed for straightforward setup and ongoing control
- Included SSL certificates and migration support on select plans, making it easier to secure and move websites
- Integrated domain marketplace access, allowing users to buy, sell, or manage premium domains in one place
- Optional web hosting plans, providing flexibility for users who want domain registration alone or a bundled solution
Who it’s best for
Namecheap is ideal for individuals, freelancers, and small businesses seeking affordable domain registration with minimal friction. It’s especially popular among users who want strong value without committing to bundled services. The pricing is shown upfront on the website, so it’s also great for people who want transparent information from the get-go.
What users are saying
Users often praise Namecheap for its affordable pricing and easy-to-use dashboard. Many highlight consistent renewal rates and responsive support.
A user on Trustpilotsaid “Great prices are only the start of a great experience. I started transferring domains from GoDaddy after a very bad experience with that company. I did so based on price and good reviews I read on the Internet. Some of the domain transfers involved connecting them to websites. The chat agents responded immediately and were extremely helpful and patient. Highly recommended!”
Another review from TrustRadius said “We use Namecheap as our domain registrar, we have used several in the past but Namecheap is a very simple and easy tool to use when handling domains. Domains are cheap to buy and they don’t charge massive fees for other domain services. They also have great customer service and solve all problems without any fuss.”
However, one review from Sitejabber expressed their dissatisfaction, “I didn’t know that if I bought a domain from Namecheap and hosting elsewhere it would be soooo complicated.” There were also a few other users who wrote that their domain disappeared or had their accounts suspended, especially after the transfer.
Pricing and plans
Namecheap offers competitive pricing across a wide range of popular domain extensions, with discounted first-year rates on select TLDs. Renewal and transfer pricing is clearly listed, making it easier to compare long-term costs before registering or moving a domain.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $11.28 (25% off first year; regular $14.98) | $18.48 | $11.48 (23% off; regular $14.98) |
.net | $12.98 (13% off first year; regular $14.98) | $18.58 | $12.98 (13% off; regular $14.98) |
.org | $7.48 (42% off first year; regular $12.98) | $15.98 | $10.98 (15% off; regular $12.98) |
.io | $34.98 (40% off first year; regular $65.98) | $75.98 | $65.98 |
.co | $12.48 (63% off first year; regular $33.98) | $39.98 | $33.98 |
Free or trial availability: Namecheap does not offer a free domain registration plan, but it includes several value-added features and limited trials at no extra cost:
- Free 2-month email trial with domain registration, allowing users to test professional email tied to their domain before committing
- Free lifetime WHOIS privacy protection, helping reduce spam and protect registrant contact details from public exposure
- Free DNSSEC security, adding an extra layer of protection against DNS spoofing and traffic redirection attacks
- VIP Rewards Club savings, offering discounted pricing on registrations, renewals, and transfers for users managing 50 or more active domains
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and reflects promotional rates where applicable. Prices may change without notice and can vary by promotion or domain extension. Please check Namecheap directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
3. Porkbun
If you’re searching for a GoDaddy domain alternative that blends affordability with ease of use, Porkbun is worth considering. Porkbun keeps things simple. You get what you came for: affordable domain registration, with helpful tools and features included — no strings attached.
Key unique features
- Clear, transparent pricing structure, with registration and renewal rates often priced close to wholesale, making long-term domain ownership easier to budget for
- Free WHOIS privacy and SSL certificates are included with every domain, helping protect personal information while supporting basic website security
- Streamlined, clutter-free interface designed for quick setup and straightforward domain and DNS management
- Consistent, predictable renewal pricing, reducing the risk of unexpected price increases after the first year
- U.S.-based customer support, recognized for timely responses and practical assistance when issues arise
Who it’s best for
Porkbun is a strong fit for cost-conscious users, developers, and small businesses that want straightforward domain management with predictable pricing.
What users are saying
Users frequently highlight Porkbun’s transparent pricing and lack of upsells unlike GoDaddy. Many appreciate the simple interface and consistent renewal costs, while some mention that support options and advanced features are more limited compared to larger registrars.
A Trustpilot user left a review comparing Porkbun to Namecheap, saying “I’ve only used Namecheap and hover for domains before as a point of comparison. Compared to those two, this website felt far more personal and also cares to explain about different domains meaning different things based on product/purpose. Like XYZ being the new “.com” and stuff like that.”
A G2 user also said, “The Ease of integration is prolly [probably] the best thing. It is super easy to connect the domain to the local code repository.” However, the same user added “The awkward UI/UX can be improved and thus affecting ease of use and implementation.” Another user from Trustpilot added to this with “I think your site is really glitchy. I had a lot of problems. Also I didn’t like that I had to go to my bank to approve the purchase. And I had a lot of problems with the DNS. I couldn’t delete the one section and after many emails you told me to delete the whole line and do it again. You should fix that. I was just trying to set up an easy Carrd site and it took a long time to finally get the DNS working.”
Pricing and plans
Porkbun is known for offering domains at or near wholesale cost, with clear pricing for registration and renewals. Discounted first-year rates are available on select extensions, while renewals remain transparent and predictable.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $11.08/ year | $11.08 | $11.08 |
.net | $12.52 / year | $12.52 | $12.52 |
.org | $6.88 / year (1st-year sale; regular $10.74) | $10.74 | $10.74 |
.io | $28.12 / year (1st-year sale; regular $51.80) | $51.80 | $51.80 |
.co | $9.58 / year (1st-year sale; regular $25.03) | $25.97 | $25.03 |
Free or trial availability: Porkbun does not offer a free plan or trial for domain registration. However, several essential features are included at no additional cost:
- Free WHOIS privacy, keeping registrant contact information hidden without extra fees
- Free SSL certificates via Let’s Encrypt, with automatic renewal for supported domains
- Free URL forwarding, supporting permanent, temporary, and masked redirects
- Free email forwarding, with up to 20 forwarding addresses per domain
- Free DNS management powered by Cloudflare, providing reliable and resilient DNS performance
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and reflects promotional first-year rates where applicable. Prices may change without notice and can vary by registry fees or promotions. Please check Porkbun directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
4. Dynadot
Dynadot offers a clean, no-frills experience for domain search and registration. It emphasizes transparency, from pricing to privacy, and prioritizes functionality over upselling—ideal for users who prioritize domain control.
Key unique features
- Transparent pricing with clearly listed registration and renewal rates, allowing users to understand long-term costs before committing
- Clean, distraction-free checkout experience with no forced upsells, making domain purchases straightforward
- Free WHOIS privacy included by default, helping protect registrant contact information from public exposure
- User-friendly management dashboard for handling domains, DNS records, and basic security settings in one place
- Built-in security features, including two-factor authentication and domain transfer locks to help prevent unauthorized changes
- Broad selection of domain extensions, covering popular TLDs as well as newer and niche option
Who it’s best for
Dynadot works well for technical users, domain investors, and businesses that want full control without upsells. It provides a free website builder with ready-made templates as well as SSL certificates, so you can make a quick website if you need it. However its backorder tools, aftermarket search, user listings, and brokerage services is what makes Dynadot shine as a domain registrar.
What users are saying
One review noted that Dynadot’s pricing is half of GoDaddy’s, which makes it a good alternative. Another Trustpilot reviewer stated “I transferred my .tw domain from GoDaddy to Dynadot and was pleasantly surprised by how fast and seamless the process was. The interface was clear and easy to follow, and I appreciated the prompt updates during the transfer. On top of that, the renewal price was much more affordable compared to other registrars. Overall, I’m highly satisfied with Dynadot’s service and will definitely consider using it again for future domain needs.” But some other reviews are conflicted with how user interface’s ease of use. Someone from Trustpilot said “Their User Interface is NOT very intuitive at all and in some cases, simply doesn’t work. When you try to go to customer service about it, they refuse to even acknowledge that there’s a problem. Dynadot is definitely the lesser of the evils compared to GoDaddy, which is why I switched over, but at least GoDaddy’s interfact [interface] is much more intuitive”
Still, many value the control it offers for managing multiple domains. One G2 reviewer said “Dynadot provides an intuitive online interface to search, register, configure, renew, and manage your domain names all in one place. This makes managing multiple domains easy.” They further explained how it helped them manage more than 25+ domains from a single dashboard.
One user also recommended it over GoDaddy, “I had a smooth and positive experience — much better than Alibaba Cloud and Afternic in terms of usability and service.” Although they also added a caveat. “[…] the login security is slightly weaker than GoDaddy. It would be great to add an extra layer of protection, such as support for an Authenticator app in addition to the standard username and password.”
Pricing and plans
Dynadot provides straightforward pricing with clearly listed registration, renewal, and transfer costs. For most extensions, transfer fees typically match the renewal price, making long-term cost comparisons easier.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $10.88 / year | $10.88 | Not publicly listed |
.net | $12.52 / year | $12.52 | Not publicly listed |
.org | $6.99 / year | $10.53 | Not publicly listed |
.io | $74.90 / year | $74.90 | Not publicly listed |
.co | $9.30 / year | $27.04 | Not publicly listed |
Free or trial availability: Dynadot does not offer a free plan or trial for domain registration, but several essential features are included at no additional cost:
- Free WHOIS privacy protection included with eligible domains
- Basic website builder access, suitable for simple landing pages or placeholder sites
- One free email address per domain, supporting basic branded communication
- Full DNS management tools, allowing users to control records and domain settings
- Grace period deletion, which lets users cancel newly registered domains and receive account credit minus a deletion fee
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and may change without notice. Costs vary by domain extension, registry requirements, and promotions. Please check Dynadot directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
5. Hover
Hover positions itself as a premium domain registrar focused purely on domains and email, without the distractions of web hosting or aggressive upsells. They aim for a clean, user-friendly experience, making it a favorite among creative professionals, web developers, and small businesses who value simplicity and reliable service.
Key unique features
- Free WHOIS privacy is included with every domain, protecting personal information without additional fees
- Clean, no-upsell interface designed for easy domain search and day-to-day management
- Built-in DNS tools, including support for DNSSEC and glue records, for more advanced configuration needs
- Added security protections, such as two-factor authentication and domain transfer locks to help prevent unauthorized access
- Access to a broad range of domain extensions, with over 300 TLDs available and discounts for bulk domain purchases
Who it’s best for
Hover is ideal for creatives, developers, and small businesses that already have hosting and email but want a streamlined domain experience. But if you want to manage your website and hosting in a single dashboard, this isn’t the best alternative to GoDaddy.
What users are saying
Hover Domains is known for its clean, straightforward dashboard that simplifies domain search and management. Users often highlight the platform’s intuitive interface and responsive customer support. By focusing on core domain features and avoiding unnecessary upsells, Hover delivers a streamlined experience designed for ease of use and clarity.
As one G2 user said in their review: “Hover is such a great service! They have been my go-to domain registrar for years. Their user interface is so intuitive, and the fact that they throw in domain privacy for free is exceptional. Plus, their prices are usually the lowest in the market. Honestly, it’s hard to think of something that I don’t like. It’s just so easy to use!” However, they added, “I suppose their onboarding process could be better for users new to interacting with registrars, but it’s pretty standard for the industry.”
Someone else added their positive opinions on the pricing as well saying, “It’s good to know that I can renew domains when needed at a fair price rather than having to shop around again. Renewal prices are actually the same as registration prices for some domain extensions and only 10% or more expensive for others.” They also added “It’s not as cheap as some for the initial registration however you don’t get hit with heavy renewal fees so it’s good for long-term domains rather than 1 year projects.”
This previous GoDaddy user explained why they transferred their domain. “Hover domain registration and management is simple and that’s why I use the service. I was using GoDaddy and was frustrated by how complicated it was to do simple tasks like update DNS, forwarding and changing nameservers. All the normal registering and DNS management on Hover are very simple and straight to the point without the constant upselling other services try. It can be nominally more expensive than other services to register new domain names. This only bothers me when I register for spontaneous domain that I’m not sure what I plan on doing with it and just want it on the cheap.”
That said, most have negative reviews on its email hosting. One user said, “I have no view on Hover as a Domain Registrar, but avoid it’s email service like the plague.” They elaborated the issue by saying “No exchange server so many Outlook functions don’t work. You won’t, for example, be able to sync your Outlook calendar or contacts across your devices using their service. Their native email service if you don’t bother with Outlook is very clunky and difficulty to use. They are only open from 8am to 8pm eastern standard time which is useless when their servere [server] goes down and you are not in an EST area.”
Pricing and plans
Hover focuses on simple, domain-only pricing with no forced add-ons. Registration, renewal, and transfer costs are typically the same, with occasional first-year promotions on select extensions.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $18.99 / year | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.net | $19.99 / year | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.org | $9.99 / year (first-year sale) | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.io | $74.99 / year | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.co | $37.99 / year | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
Free or trial availability: Hover does not offer a free plan or trial for domain registration, but it includes several convenience features designed to simplify domain setup and management:
- Hover Connect, allowing users to connect their domain to popular site builders or publishing tools in just a few clicks
- Bulk pricing discounts, available for users managing multiple domains, with discounts applied to renewal pricing
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and reflects promotional rates where applicable. Prices may change without notice and can vary by domain extension or promotion. Please check Hover directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
6. Google Domains (Squarespace)
Google Domains, now managed under Squarespace Domains, offers a straightforward option for domain search and registration. Known for its clean interface and lack of upselling, it appeals to users who want a simple and reliable way to manage their domains without unnecessary upsells.
Key unique features
- WHOIS privacy protection and DNSSEC are included by default, helping safeguard domain data and improve security
- Simple, intuitive domain search experience, with alternative name suggestions to help users find available options
- Built-in email and domain forwarding, available at no additional cost for added flexibility
- Clean, easy-to-use management dashboard, supported by the reliability and infrastructure associated with Google and Squarespace
Who it’s best for
This option suits users who want a minimal registrar with a website builder full of template options—especially those already using Google Workspace or Squarespace. It’s not suitable if you need web hosting. If you want domain services with better hosting integrations like managed WordPress hosting or VPS hosting, Google domains may not be for you.
What users are saying
There were plenty of good reviews for Google domains. Many regarded it as an easy way to get a domain name with the backing of the Google ecosystem. One reviewer from Trustradius said “Each employee has a Google inbox, and we use Google Drive to share documents. The main purpose is to provide one source of information.” Since it’s solely focused on domain registration though, another review stated that “[…] it can be a good option if your client has a server but needs a domain for a new website. Also, as it’s only one service, it’s much easier to use than other solutions and has better integration with Google services as well.”
However, since its transfer to Squarespace, a lot of negative reviews were posted. Here’s a long review from Trustpilot, “I rarely leave negative reviews, but Squarespace has been the most frustrating company I’ve ever dealt with. Google Domains forced me into their system after the acquisition, and it has been nothing but a headache. Here’s what happened: I bought a domain through Google Domains, planning to build my website later. When I finally logged in, I saw a 10-day suspension warning and needed to verify my email. No big deal—just click a link, right? Wrong. The verification email NEVER arrived. So, I tried live support, only to find out there’s no phone option. Instead, they claim to have “24/7 live support”—which is completely false. It’s just a bot with no AI or actual intelligence that can’t answer basic domain verification questions. No real humans. No real help. After five days of troubleshooting (on top of running my business), I emailed them directly. It took another five days AND a follow-up just to get a response—and when I finally did, it was a useless copy-paste answer linking to an unhelpful webpage. At this point, my business launch has been delayed entirely because of them. If I had known, I would have never used Squarespace and instead gone with Namecheap, which is 10x easier and 20x faster. I’m seriously considering moving all my domains away from Squarespace after this. If you’re thinking about registering a domain here—don’t.”
Another user from Trustradius mentioned how Google Domains was good before they transferred to Squarespace. “Google Domains were effective for the time that we used them. It was a super easy way to get a domain. It was nice to have as part of the Google Ecosystem, but lacked several feature capabilities which I assume is why they sold to Squarespace.”
Pricing and plans
Google Domains, now managed by Squarespace Domains, offers straightforward domain registration with WHOIS privacy included by default. While discounted registration pricing is publicly listed for select TLDs, renewal and transfer pricing are not always clearly disclosed upfront.
TLD | Registration (1st year) | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
.com | $14 / year (discounted from $20) | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.net | $14 / year (discounted from $20) | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.org | $9 / year (discounted from $20) | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.io | $60 / year (discounted from $70) | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
.co | $40 / year | Not publicly listed | Not publicly listed |
Free or trial availability: Google Domains does not offer a free plan or trial for domain registration. However, WHOIS privacy protection, DNSSEC, free SSL certificate, and basic domain management tools are included at no additional cost.
Disclaimer: Pricing is current at the time of writing and reflects publicly listed registration rates. Renewal and transfer pricing may vary and is not always disclosed upfront. Please check Squarespace Domains directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.
Why look for a GoDaddy domain search alternative?
The common reasons why users are searching for GoDaddy domain alternatives include the following:
- GoDaddy’s price hikes on renewal: While initial registration fees might appear attractive, some users may find significant jumps in renewal costs, sometimes doubling or even tripling the original price.
- WHOIS privacy is a paid add-on: Protecting personal information from public databases should be standard, but GoDaddy charges extra for this essential privacy feature, unlike many competitors who offer it for free.
- Upselling during checkout: GoDaddy aggressively promotes various additional services, often automatically adding them to your cart. This can lead to unexpected changes if not carefully reviewed.
- Cluttered dashboard: With a vast array of products and services, GoDaddy’s control panel can feel overwhelming to others.
- Hidden domain transfer fees: While ICANN allows a free transfer period, some users report GoDaddy’s domain transfer process feels unclear or more costly than expected.
- Lacks simplicity in domain management: For users who prefer simple domain registration and management, GoDaddy’s feature-heavy platform can feel overwhelming.
What to look for in a GoDaddy alternative for domain search?
If you’re ready to explore an alternative to GoDaddy domain search, consider prioritizing these key features:
- Transparent pricing (including renewal): A trustworthy registrar will clearly display both the initial registration fee and subsequent renewal costs upfront, allowing for effective long-term budgeting.
- Free WHOIS privacy: Protecting your personal information from spammers and data harvesters should be a standard inclusion and offered at no additional cost.
- Easy domain search tool: A good domain search tool should check availability quickly and suggest relevant alternatives without confusion.
- One-click DNS management: Look for one-click DNS tools that make it easy to connect to a host, set up email, or manage DNS records.
- Clear transfer process: Choose registrars that provide straightforward instructions and support for both inbound and outbound domain transfers, without hidden fees or no complex steps.
- Optional hosting/DNS bundles: It’s often recommended to keep domain registration and hosting separate. But some users still appreciate the convenience of managing both under one provider; as long as it’s optional and not a forced bundle.
- Support and trustworthiness: Opt for strong support options and reliable service. Read reviews and check how easy it is to get help.
What is the best GoDaddy hosting alternative?
While the tools listed above are primarily focused on domain search and registration, hosting is a separate decision. At its core, the best hosting alternative for GoDaddy hinges on what you’re building and how hands-on you want to be.
For example:
- If you’re seeking an all-in-one solution that offers domain services, web hosting, and website builder under one roof, Network Solution is a strong contender.
- If you’re building a WordPress website, Bluehost is made to work well with it and is easy to set up.
- If you’re trying to save money, Hostinger gives you low-cost plans that still work well and are simple to use.
Choosing the best GoDaddy hosting alternative depends on what you need most—whether it’s simplicity, affordability, or specific platform support.
Many providers now offer AI-powered features, faster performance, and unique perks. Compare based on what fits your goals best, whether that’s ease of use, WordPress optimization, or reliable support.
Frequently asked questions
GoDaddy is a functional, popular registrar, especially for all-in-one solutions. However, many users report higher renewal prices and aggressive upsells compared to alternatives that offer better long-term value and included features like free WHOIS privacy.
Yes, you can. Email service depends on your domain’s MX records, which you’ll update at your new registrar to continue pointing to your existing email host. This ensures your email remains uninterrupted during the domain transfer.
Yes, many leading GoDaddy alternatives, such as Network Solutions, include free WHOIS domain privacy protection.
For niche domains like .io or .ai, Network Solutions is a solid choice. It supports a wide range of extensions and lets you manage everything in one place with ease.
A domain transfer fee is a one-time charge by the new registrar that includes a one-year extension of your domain’s current registration period. You won’t lose any existing time; the new year is simply added on top.
Choose the right domain partner
We’ve explored some of the most reliable alternatives to GoDaddy for domain search and registration. The next step is, evaluate what features matter most to your business—whether that’s domain management, email, or hosting.
With Network Solutions, you can simplify your setup by keeping everything in one place. Start your domain search and explore web hosting, professional email, and domain management tools built to grow with you.
