For Choosing the Best Domain Name — 25 Tips

25 (mostly) good tips for end users choosing a domain name.

It’s always interesting to see a non-domainer’s take on choosing the right domain name. I came across a good article today from a web designer featuring 25 tips for choosing the best domain name.

You’ve heard all of these tips ahead of, but rarely have I seen them in one place. Some of the key tips that I see people regret not following are:

3. Can You Say The Domain Without Explanation

4. Never Let Someone Else Purchase Your Domain

14. Don’y Use Clever Spelling

There are a couple tips that I disagree with. I obviously disagree with this one:

12. Stay Away From “Premium” Domains

If you can get the domain name you want for only $2,500, that’s just a drop in the bucket. If you plan to be in business for the long haul (and I assume that’s why you’re starting one), it’s not much when you amortize the cost.

I also disagree with the rationale behind:

24. Purchase Your Domain for 10 Years

The reason in the article is that search engines may view a web site more favorably if it’s registered for a long period since most spammy domains are registered a year at a time. Google has stated this has little (if any) effect on rankings. And while that may change, the most notable reason you ought to register a firm name for 10 years at a time is that you’re less likely to let it expire. We’re talking regarding paying $100 now versus $10 a year. Big deal.

Anyhow, it’s worth checking out the list.