Best Free Alternatives to Google URL Shortener: A Complete 2025 Guide
Google URL Shortener (goo.gl) was once a go-to tool for shortening links, but since its shutdown, users have sought reliable alternatives. Whether you need simple link shortening, advanced analytics, or custom branding, there are plenty of free options available in 2025. This guide explores the best free alternatives to Google URL Shortener, helping you find the right tool for your needs.
Why Use a URL Shortener?
A good URL shortener does more than just shrink links. Here’s why you might need one:
- Improved Link Sharing – Shorter links are easier to share on social media, emails, and SMS.
- Click Tracking & Analytics – Monitor engagement, traffic sources, and user behavior.
- Branding & Customization – Create branded short links with custom domains.
- Retargeting & UTM Tags – Improve marketing efficiency by tracking link performance.
Top Free Alternatives to Google URL Shortener
1. Linkly – The Best All-in-One Free URL Shortener
Linkly is a powerful URL shortener offering advanced tracking, branded links, and integrations.
Key Features:
✔ Custom domains & vanity URLs
✔ Click tracking with detailed analytics
✔ Integrates with Zapier and Google Tag Manager
✔ Supports retargeting pixels for remarketing
💡 Linkly’s free plan includes 1,000 clicks per month, making it ideal for small businesses and individual users.
2. Bitly – A Popular Free Option
Bitly is a well-known URL shortener that provides link tracking and custom aliases.
Key Features:
✔ Free plan includes basic analytics
✔ Custom short links (limited in the free version)
✔ API access for developers
🚨 Bitly limits branded links and click tracking in its free plan.
3. TinyURL – The Quick & Simple Option
TinyURL is one of the oldest URL shorteners and remains a solid choice for fast, no-signup link shortening.
Key Features:
✔ No account needed for basic use
✔ Custom aliases available
✔ Permanent links that never expire
⚠️ TinyURL lacks detailed analytics and retargeting options.
4. Rebrandly – Best for Custom Branded Links
Rebrandly specializes in branded link shortening and is great for businesses looking to improve brand recognition.
Key Features:
✔ Custom domains for branding
✔ Basic analytics included in the free plan
✔ API access for developers
🔍 The free plan limits the number of custom links you can create.
5. Cutt.ly – A Free Option with Advanced Analytics
Cutt.ly offers a great free plan with tracking and link management tools.
Key Features:
✔ Click tracking & analytics
✔ Custom short links
✔ QR code generation
💼 Cutt.ly’s free plan has limitations on the number of links you can manage.
Choosing the Right Google URL Shortener Alternative
Consider the following when selecting a URL shortener:
- Do you need branded links? → Try Linkly or Rebrandly.
- Need detailed analytics? → Linkly or Cutt.ly offer solid tracking.
- Looking for simplicity? → TinyURL is the easiest to use.
- Want API access? → Bitly, Linkly, and Rebrandly provide integrations.
Final Thoughts
While Google URL Shortener is no longer available, plenty of free alternatives offer better tracking, branding, and customization options. Linkly stands out as the best all-in-one solution for link shortening and analytics.
👉 Get started with Linkly today and take control of your link management!
