For those who make a living doing web stuff (designers, developers, etc.) success can happen quickly. One day you've got a decent side hustle, and the next you're setting up a business. That means creating and protecting a brand — and shopping for the best TLDs for web designers and developers.
Fortunately, there are hundreds of TLDs out there and the number keeps growing as new ones get released. Today, it's not as challenging to create a short and memorable web address.
Even established businesses should periodically check on available TLDs and register the most relevant ones to protect their brand. After all, there's no sense in putting hard work into a brand if you're just going to leave it vulnerable to imposters.
The best TLDs for web designers & developers
Newer TLDs offer a distinct advantage because there's usually a better chance of finding the exact domain name you have in mind. You can also stop copycats in their tracks by registering domains similar to your own that use a different TLD, and then forwarding them to your primary web address.
With all that in mind, let's look at the best TLDs for web designers and developers.
.engineer
A .engineer domain extension helps you establish a brand that stands apart from other web pros like designers or marketers. It shows that you’re an expert with code — you’re the right person to get in touch with for seriously technical projects like software development or infrastructure management.
.software
A .software domain name is perfect for showcasing your apps, SaaS products or development portfolio. It instantly communicates what you build and positions you as a serious player in the tech space. Whether launching a startup or promoting your services, this domain sends a clear signal about your innovation and expertise.
.systems
The .systems domain name is the right call for showcasing your architecture skills, backend expertise or IT solutions. It signals you're the call to make for robust, scalable infrastructure that powers businesses. Dot systems can establish a rock-solid brand for consultants, DevOps specialists or anyone who engineers the frameworks that make everything run smoothly.
.dev
A .dev domain is perfect for flexing your tech prowess — ideal for developer portfolios, coding blogs, software projects and API documentation. Dot dev can be a powerful signal of credibility for tech startups, app developers and programming communities. Whether you're building SaaS platforms, sharing tutorials or launching your next innovative project, .dev signals you mean business in the digital world.
.ai
The .ai domain name is perfect for artificial intelligence startups, machine learning platforms, chatbot services and other kinds of tech innovations. It's a magnet for AI researchers, data science blogs, automation tools and smart apps. Let dot ai hello claim your spot at the forefront of tomorrow's technology, whether you're launching the next breakthrough algorithm or showcasing AI solutions.
.io
Use an .io domain to form a connection with anyone who understands the nod to the abbreviation for input/output — a foundational principle in computing. It would be a great pick if you’re a provider of hardware (the input), but it still remains relevant for any type of tech company. No matter how you use it, the .io domain name is strikingly unique, helping you stand out in a crowd of ordinary web addresses.
.site
If you’re building websites for clients, the .site domain name is a clear signal of what you do. It sends the message to potential clients without making them dig through various service offerings. Dot site also shows your credibility and confidence, with its shortened take on the word website — hinting that you’re a savvy professional.
.me
The .me domain is a purpose-built branding tool for the solopreneur web professional — ideal for showcasing your portfolio, client projects and design services. It could also be useful (and on brand) for creating demo sites, testing environments and staging areas. Whether you're building templates, offering web solutions or displaying your creative work, .site literally puts "website expert" right in your URL.
.pro
When the .pro TLD launched, you had to prove you held some type of professional certification before completing your registration. Today, those requirements have loosened and anyone can register .pro — but it still makes a powerful statement about your capability.
.design
This TLD might be limited to folks in the design sphere, but it still has the potential to anchor a powerful brand. With a .design domain, you're calling out the process by which you create something, evoking a kind of Apple-esque vibe. Not a bad way to stand out from the competition.
.codes
Web developers will appreciate how the .codes TLD provides a short and sweet description of their services. If a potential client has a project that involves JavaScript or PHP, the .codes TLD lets them know you're the right choice.
.agency
If storyboards and comps are your thing, the .agency domain does a great job advertising the type of experience you provide. For many potential clients, this is a must-have. The agency model is very client-centric, compared with the quicker development cycle favored by many solopreneurs.
.build
The .build TLD was originally intended for the construction industry, but it's relevance for Makers is undeniable. This is especially true now, as technology like WordPress Hosting from GoDaddy makes it easier than ever to build gorgeous websites with robust functionality.
.digital
The .digital domain is one of the best TLDs for web designers and developers because it identifies you as a Maker without being too specific. That lets folks like marketers and SEO experts benefit from this TLD, which positions them as an expert in the digital space.
.online
The .online TLD is likely intended to help brick-and-mortar businesses distinguish their online presence, but it could also be a great fit for Makers, as well. From a client's perspective, the .online TLD describes their goal, making it a kind of call to action directed at someone trying to get online.
.solutions
Register the .solutions TLD to establish yourself as the no-nonsense professional who gets stuff done. It's a word that anyone will recognize and most people will understand the context: clients come to you with problems (like an ugly website) and you deliver solutions.
.website
This TLD could also be used to differentiate online and brick-and-mortar presences, but it's also one of the best TLDs for web designers and developers. There's nothing like having your product or service in a business name — which makes the .website domain extension a great pick for Makers.
What's the big deal with TLDs for web designers & developers?
A lot, actually. The longer a TLD is on the market, the more it gets registered, reducing the availability of shorter, more memorable domains. There’s also a bigger opportunity to snag a name that lines up with your brand and identity. Overall, you’ve got a better chance of standing out in the eyes of potential clients and job recruiters.
As you’re shopping around, keep in mind that some TLDs work a bit differently. For example, the .dev and .app domains are HSTS preloaded in browsers, so they load HTTPS automatically with no HTTP fallback. This means they require SSL certificates from day one — a highly secure option.
This list of the best TLDs for web designers and developers includes not only the most relevant ones, but also some of the newest. That should give you a nice head start picking out something that potential clients will respond to (and remember). So, what are you waiting for? Buy your next domain from GoDaddy today!
