Ask HN: Did your startup's ___domain name affect your reputation?

timjahn · on April 3, 2013

Go with a .com - no exceptions.

It's not a matter of "convincing" people to try you out - it's a simple matter of memory. When you tell people your company name, they're going to do one of two things: a) visit "YOURCOMPANYNAME.com" b) Google your company name

Make it easier for people to hit your site 100% of the time by getting a .com.

Also, having to explain your ___domain over the phone/in person is never a good thing. "Yeah, we're Shlubby.io. Yeah, Shlub, like shrub but an L instead of an R. And dot i o. Not, not dot com, dot i o."

jole · on April 3, 2013

Totally agree. This is the advice you should take. I talk from my experience.

LarryMade2 · on April 3, 2013

I'd go with the .com. and if you don't like the .com name, try to figure out another one there's plenty of ways to mix/match words and spelling to find something suitable..

Mainly because web browsers and search engines look for .com first.

Only exception is if you are a non-profit, then definitely get a ".org". My former employer could only get .net for their desired name, didn't do well in the community convincing folks they were a non-profit with a .net email address.

orangethirty · on April 3, 2013

Go with .com if you can. The ___domain name is very, very important.

veesahni · on April 4, 2013

When targeting a general corporate audience, .com is the safe bet for no reason other than it's what they naturally expect..

I'm open to .io/.co for products with a tech savvy audience, though

vishal0123 · on April 3, 2013

No, there is no need for .com. Just go for an option which sound better for the purpose (I don't understand why you like/don't like a ___domain). You could take any ___domain except free ones.

neya · on April 3, 2013

Thank you everyone for your valuable feedback! :)

j_mack · on April 3, 2013

take a look at succesful startups - with exits - almost all were .com's

why try to reinvent the hot water?