The Best Domain Extensions to Register After the April 2025 Price Hike

Starting April 1, 2025, the domain world is seeing a noticeable shift in pricing across many popular TLDs. For individuals and businesses looking to register new domains, or investors aiming to expand their portfolio, this means one thing: it’s time to rethink your domain strategy. Let’s break down which domain extensions still offer excellent value for money, and why they’re worth securing now, before prices rise even further.

.com Is Still King—But It’s Not the Only Game in Town

The classic .com remains a global standard—and it's not going anywhere. Despite a moderate price increase, its credibility, universal recognition, and SEO benefits make it a safe investment. However, with availability shrinking and prices inching upward, alternatives are becoming more attractive.

Hidden Gems: High-Value Domains That Are Still Affordable

Several domain extensions remain surprisingly budget-friendly, even after the April increase. For example, .xyz, .online, and .tech continue to offer low-cost registrations while carrying a modern, startup-friendly image. These TLDs are especially appealing for developers, entrepreneurs, and creatives looking to break away from the generic.

The .site and .space domains also fall into this category—widely available, reasonably priced, and flexible enough to fit everything from portfolios to product launches.

Region-Based Domains: Still a Strategic Choice

If your business has a regional focus, country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) like .io, .ai, and .me are worth considering. While some of them have seen steeper hikes, others have remained relatively stable and continue to gain popularity due to their tech-oriented perception. For example, .io is now widely associated with SaaS startups and developers, while .ai aligns perfectly with artificial intelligence projects.

Just be aware of renewal costs, which can vary significantly among ccTLDs and sometimes surprise first-time registrants.

Professional Identity Domains: Great for Personal Branding

Extensions like .me, .dev, and .pro provide an excellent way to build a strong personal brand. These TLDs signal professionalism, expertise, and individuality. While some have seen slight price upticks, they still provide good value when used for portfolios, CVs, or developer blogs.

Given the growing competition for attention online, a well-chosen identity-focused domain can help you stand out without breaking the bank.

Premium Domains Are Getting Pricier—Act Fast

Many premium domains within popular and trendy TLDs are subject to tiered pricing and may soon become even more expensive. This applies to short names, dictionary words, or anything considered highly brandable.

If you've been eyeing a premium domain that fits your brand, now is the time to act. The longer you wait, the higher the chances it will either be taken or priced out of reach.

Choose Smart, Move Fast

The April 2025 price adjustments mark a turning point in domain strategy. Whether you’re launching a new product, starting a side project, or investing in digital assets, picking the right TLD is more important than ever. Focus on domains that offer both affordability and strategic value—especially those with growing recognition like .xyz, .tech, or region-specific ccTLDs.

Ready to Secure Your Next Domain?

With prices climbing, the best time to register your domain is now. Don’t wait for your perfect name to become someone else’s asset—or more expensive than it needs to be. Explore top-value domain options today at NicNames.