7 Best URL Shorteners in 2026 (Free & Paid Compared)
Not all link shorteners are the same. Some are built for analytics, some for branded links, and a few actually pay you for every click. Here is an honest comparison to help you pick the right one.
A URL shortener turns a long, messy web address into a short, shareable link. Beyond just shortening, the best tools add click tracking, custom links, safety filters, and — in a few cases — a way to earn money from your links. Below we compare seven of the most useful options in 2026.
Quick comparison
| Tool | Free plan | Analytics | Earn per click |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortlo | Yes | Basic | Yes |
| Bitly | Limited | Advanced | No |
| TinyURL | Yes | Basic | No |
| Rebrandly | Limited | Advanced | No |
| Cutt.ly | Yes | Good | No |
| is.gd | Yes | Minimal | No |
| T.ly | Yes | Good | No |
1. Shortlo — best free shortener that pays
Shortlo is a free URL shortener built around a simple idea: you should be able to earn from the links you already share. Shorten any link in one click, share it anywhere, and earn coins on every real click that convert to real cash. It also blocks malware and unsafe links automatically. No sign-up is needed to shorten, and creating a free account unlocks earnings.
2. Bitly — best for advanced analytics
Bitly is the best-known name in link management, with strong click analytics, branded domains, and QR codes. The free plan is limited and paid tiers get expensive, but for teams that need detailed reporting it is a solid choice.
3. TinyURL — best for quick, no-account shortening
TinyURL has been around for years and remains one of the fastest ways to shorten a link without an account. It is reliable and simple, though its analytics and customization are basic.
4. Rebrandly — best for branded links
Rebrandly focuses on custom-branded short domains, making it popular with marketers who want links on their own brand name. It is powerful but priced for businesses.
5. Cutt.ly — good all-round free option
Cutt.ly offers a generous free tier with decent analytics and link management, sitting between the simple and the advanced tools.
6. is.gd — best minimalist shortener
is.gd is a lightweight, privacy-friendly shortener with a clean API. Great when you just need a short link and nothing else.
7. T.ly — modern lightweight alternative
T.ly is a newer shortener with a clean interface, a browser extension, and a usable free plan with good click stats.
Want to earn from your links?
Shortlo is free, blocks unsafe links, and pays you on every real click. Shorten your first link in seconds.
Shorten a link free →How to choose the right URL shortener
If you only need a tidy link, a simple tool like TinyURL or is.gd is enough. If you run marketing campaigns, Bitly or Rebrandly give deeper analytics and branding. And if you share links regularly and want them to make money, a paying shortener like Shortlo is worth trying.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free URL shortener?
It depends on your goal. TinyURL and is.gd are great for plain shortening, Bitly for analytics, and Shortlo if you want to earn money on every click.
Can you make money with a URL shortener?
Yes. Some shorteners share revenue with you. With Shortlo you earn coins on every real click, which convert to real cash you can withdraw.
Are free URL shorteners safe?
Reputable ones scan and block malicious links. Shortlo filters malware, phishing, and policy-violating links automatically.