I have been helping small companies for over 10 years to set up an online presence.
During this time I registered more domains than I can count in any important registrar that you can imagine.
When Google Domains started in 2015, I was curious, but skeptical. After all, Google already dominated search, e -mail and cloud services -did you also have to take over the domain registration?
My experience with traditional domain brokers and registrars had been mixed at best.
Some bury them in confusing upsels during the cash register. Others have simple tasks such as DNS management like rocket science.
As someone who works with WordPress sites every day, I need a domain service that is reliable and user-friendly for beginners.
When I started hearing about Google Domains, I decided to enforce my usual test process.
I registered several domains, tested the administrative interface and even transmitted some existing domains to evaluate the smoothness of the process.
What I found surprised me in both a good and bad way.
The reality is that Google domains are in an interesting middle ground. It is not the cheapest option out there and it is not a all-in-one domain register.
For certain users, however, it is exactly what you need.
In this review, I will tell everything I discovered during my practical tests so that you can decide whether Google domains are suitable for your next project.
What you will learn in this evaluation:
- How Google Domains are compared with other large registrars
- The most important functions that characterize it (and what is missing)
- Real price exposures including hidden costs
- Step-by-step domestic registration program
- Top alternatives if Google domains are not the right fit
- Honest advantages and disadvantages are based on the actual use
If you don’t have time to go through the entire article, use the following table of contents to skip the section of this evaluation you want to read.
Like I test and check domain registrars
As already mentioned, when I check domain registrars, I will not just browse your websites or reading marketing materials. I actually register and use your services for real projects. This is the only way to understand what you will experience as a user.
This is exactly where I test every domain registrar:
- Register several domains: I buy at least 3-4 domains with different extensions such as .com, .org, .net and newer and .tech
- Test the search function: I check the accuracy of the results of the domestic availability and assess whether proposed alternatives make sense.
- Navigate through the management dashboard: I spend hours exploring DNS settings, creation of subdomans, forwarding options and security functions.
- Try customer support: I contact support with real questions via chat, e -mail and phone, if available.
- Test domestic transmissions: I move in and out domains to evaluate the smoothness of the process.
- Monitor renewal processes: I follow how to deal with renewals, price changes and notifications.
- Calculate the total costs: I look beyond the advertised prices to include renewal rates, data protection protection and hidden fees.
- Use on real websites: I combine domains with actual WordPress sites to test the real performance.
Google Domains Review
I have registered four domains for this review of Google Domains. After that I used every main function and even broadcast a domain of BlueHost to test their migration process.
Everything you read comes from practical tests, not from speculation.
Overview of Google Domains
Google Domains started in 2015 as an entry into the market for domain registration. The Tech -Riese wanted to make the domain purchase as easy as its other services.
So you built it with the same clean, factual approach that you can see in Gmail and Google Drive.
In contrast to many domain registrars that have been around for decades, Google Domains feels modern. During the cash register there is no overcrowded interface or confusing upsels.
In this sense, Google has developed it for people who simply want to buy a domain and start creating their website.
The best thing is that Google domains are smoothly integrated into other Google products that you may already use.
If you have Google Mail, Google Analytics or Google Workspace, the connection of your domain only needs a few clicks. This makes it attractive for small companies in the Google ecosystem.
However, Google Domains only takes over the domain registration. They do not offer web hosting, website builders or e -mail hosts such as BlueHost and Hostinger.
Instead, simply buy the domain from you and forward to a trustworthy hosting provider of your choice.
This approach simply keeps things, but it means that you have to use other services to actually create your website.
Let’s take a look at the highlights of Google Domains.
Google Domain key functions
- Domain search and registration: The search tool immediately shows their available domains. Everything you have to do is to enter your idea, and Google Domains shows availability for popular extensions such as .com, .org and .net. They also propose related names when their first choice is made.
- Transparent pricing: Domain prices start at $ 12 per year for most extensions. This includes whois protection protection, for which many other registrars also calculate. Renewal prices remain the same, so that they are not met with surprise increases in many domain registration companies.
- DNS management: You will receive full control over DNS settings via a clean interface. You can add data records, CNAME data records, MX data records and other technical settings. Google also offers free DNS hosting with quick resolution times.
- Security functions: The two-factor authentication protects your account from unauthorized access. In addition, a click DNSSec adds an additional security level against DNS attacks. The protection of the domain data protection keeps your personal data out of public whois records.
- Domain management tools: You can create up to 100 subdomains per domain, and it is uncomplicated to share access with team members or customers. Apart from that, you can easily redirect the domain forwarding to another website.
As you can see from this quick overview of Google Domains, your focus remains on the core mooring services without bloating that you will find elsewhere. Next, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of this domain registration.
Google Domains Pro & Cons & Cons
Like every product or service, there are its advantages and disadvantages of Google Domains. In this way you can decide whether Google domains are the right choice for you or not. Next, let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of Google Domains.
Advantages of Google Domain
1. Simple interface
When you visit the Google Domains website, you will first find that it is a really simple platform. It is explained in simple words and is so easy to understand.
If you are a beginner, you will find it super easy to look for the domain name you want with the search tool.
You can see whether your domain name is available together with popular extension options. You will also see related domain names where you might be interested.
Now you can select the domain name together with the desired extensions.
If you just keep things, Google can simply connect to other Google services such as Mail Mail. However, if you want to connect your website to Google Analytics, you must continue to follow a technical process. We recommend using the Monster Intights Plugin to connect your website in just a few clicks.
2. Domain Insights
This is what is noticeable on Google compared to other domain registrars. If you select a domain name, a new section with insights appears as to why the domain name is good and why this is not the case.
It will be the expansion you have selected, such as .net, .org or .com domain.
For example, if your domain choice is too long, Google will tell you that a long name is more difficult to remember. This is super helpful if you buy a domain to understand the value and potential.
3. Easy Checkout
Google makes your cash register easy and easy. All you have to do is select your new domain name and then click on the cart symbol to continue with the checkout.
On the Checkout page you will not see too many addons and upsels that are pushed for you. Google only suggests receiving a business email with Google WorkSpace.
Next you will also see the protection of the domain data protection that has been added to your domain registration. This prevents your personal data from being added to the WHOIS database, which represents a public recording of all domain owners.
You can then make the payment and the domain name belongs to you. You can access your Google domain via your existing Google account.
4. Mighty domain management
With Google you can share access to your domain. This makes it easier for agencies to grant customers access. Or you can share the domain access with colleagues, freelancers and team members.
In addition, you can create up to 100 subdomains with your domain name. In this way you can run several under websites such as blog.example.com and news.example.com.
If you are an extended user and want to migrate your domain name or upload your DNS information to another server, you can use Google to download your DNS data records (domain name system) into standard formats such as Bind and Yaml.
5. Domain safety
In order to protect your domain account from non-authorized access, you can add 2-factor authentication. This means that you have to enter a real-time password that is sent to your cell phone or email in order to register in your account.
Next you will also get access to a click DNSSEC. This protects their domains from threats such as Cache poisoning attacks and DNS -Spoofing.
6. Scalability
Google domains contains Cloud -Dns support. In this way you can scale the cargo of your domain, which can grow your website and data traffic. Google offers overlapping DNS resolution free of charge.
7. Google domains support
You can contact Google Customer Support employees via chat or e -mail to fix problems with their domains.
There is also a help center with numerous tutorials, leaders and other documentation. You can use this as a self -help solution to solve any problem with which you may be confronted.
These are all professionals from Google Domains. Now let’s take a look at what you prevent you from registering your domain on Google.
Disadvantages of Google Domains
1. No web hosting
Google only offers domain registration. To get your website online, you need to buy a web hosting plan from a hosting company such as BlueHost, Siteeground or Hostinger.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly hosting service, you can compare different companies below to narrow down your options.
After you have bought your domain and hosting plan, you must focus your Google domain on your web hosting servers.
You can use your Google domain name with any website platform such as Wix, Shopify and Squarespace. However, we recommend using WordPress. It is free to use and gives you complete control over your website.
You can easily install WordPress via most hosting services such as BlueHost, Namecheap, Godaddy etc.
You have to find and update your DNS servers. It is not too difficult to do that, but it can be a bit nerve -wracking for new users.
You can find more information about this NameBoy guideline: So they indicate a domain name to another web host server.
2. High domain prices
Google’s standard sentence for the domain registration is $ 12. This includes whois data protection protection.
The actual price of your domain name can vary depending on the market value, branding potential, SEO history, etc.
You would like to see this guide: How much does it really cost to create a website? (Expert Answer).
Our recommendation is to bring a web hosting plan together and a domain name together. With BlueHost you can register for a web hosting plan for $ 1.99 per month.
You will receive a free domain name (1-year registration), SSL and CDN (Content Delivery Network).
Click here to apply for this exclusive BlueHost offer
3 .. limited domain extensions
Google supports 300 extensions (TLDS), and you will receive most popular extensions, including .com, .org and .net. However, 1,000 domain extensions are available.
How to register a domain with Google Domains
Search for your domain name on the Google Domain website.
Google shows you a list of the available domain names that meet your search. You will also see domain extensions and prices for this domain name.
One thing you should consider is that renewal prices almost always remain the same. So if you renew your existing domain, you do not have to make big fees.
If you want to buy several domains, you can still want the one you want to have your car.
If you are not ready to buy the domain name, but want to save the domain name idea for later, you can use the heart symbol to add the domain name to your favorite list.
Do you need help with a good domain name? Try out our free landing generator to create the ideas for Brainstorming -Domain names.
As soon as you have added your domain name to your shopping cart, you can check out.
On the Checkout page, Google Domains offers some options here:
First, the domain name data protection protection is automatically activated for you. We recommend that this continue. It doesn’t cost you anything.
If this function is deactivated, the domain you have chosen is not supported that the domain protection is not supported.
Next, Google also switches on “Automatic Renew”. This means that your domain name will be renewed when it is almost a process and you will be charged automatically.
This is a recommended option if you want to make sure that you never lose your domain name because you have forgotten to renew it.
You can then decide on Google whether you want to subscribe to a Google WorkSpace account.
Now click on the Checkout The button see an information form.
You have to enter your name, your e -mail and phone number. These contact information is added to the Whois database so that everyone can find out who has a specific domain name.
This is mandatory by Icann, the ruling agency of the Internet.
However, if the protection of the domain data protection is activated, you don’t have to worry about it. Google replaces your personal data with its company details.
After you have entered your details, click on the Save and drive away Button.
You can then check your purchase and complete the payment for your domain name registration.
That’s it! You have successfully bought your domain from Google.
Now that we have a fair understanding of Google domains, let’s compare it with the top domain players on the market.
Google domains alternatives
Google domains get a thumbs up from us for its user -friendliness and competitive prices. However, we are honestly that there are many better offers.
Here are the top competitors of Google Domains:
1. BlueHost (best value)
BlueHost is the most trustworthy web hosting company and is even officially recommended by WordPress.org. This tells you something about your reliability and WordPress integration.
It is consistently considered my top recommendation for beginners who want everything in one place.
The WordPress integration is seamless. BlueHost installs WordPress automatically when you register. You can create your actual website within minutes after the purchase. No DNS configuration or technical facility required.
I have used BlueHost for dozens of customer projects over the years. Your operating time is solid, customer support is helpful and the control panel makes sense for beginners.
If you ever come out with the hosting used together, you offer simple upgrades for VPS and dedicated servers.
With BlueHost you can start for only 1.99 US dollars per month and you will receive everything you need to easily set up your website.
What is included:
- Web and WordPress hosting
- Domain name
- SSL certificate
- CDN (Content Delivery Network)
- User -defined E -Mail address
- WordPress installation
- App Installer
- SEO and marketing tools
It is the best option for beginners and experienced developers. Regardless of whether you have bloggers, business owners or an online shop, you will find a plan in your budget with all the functions you need.
Pricing: Start with our BlueHost voucher code at 1.99 US dollars.
2. Hostinger (balanced hosting)
Hostinger offers the best ratio of performance that I found, especially for WordPress sites.
They offer one of the best jointly used hosting plans from just 2.99 per month, which makes it perfect for hobby sites or small business budgets.
However, don’t be fooled by the low price. Hostinger’s servers are fast and their WordPress optimization is excellent.
As a result, websites that I have built on Hostinger load faster than comparable websites on more expensive hosts.
You will also receive a free domain, unlimited bandwidth and daily backups. This is an incredible value for anyone who plans to build several websites.
In addition, the custom control panel (HPANEL) takes some getting used to if you are familiar with CPANEL. But it is actually more intuitive for beginners when they learn the layout.
What is included:
- Host 100 websites
- Free domain registration
- Contained unlimited bandwidth
- Daily backup service
- WordPress acceleration instruments
- Cloudflare protection included
Hostinger is ideal for WordPress websites, blogs and websites for small companies.
If you need more advanced functions such as staging environments or developer tools, you should take your higher plans into account.
Pricing: Starts at $ 2.99 per month.
3. Siteeground (best performance)
Siteeground is characterized by the exceptional performance and the highest customer support.
I used it for high-traffic transactions client websites where speed and reliability are most important. Your servers consistently deliver fast loading times in which visitors are satisfied and search engines are satisfied.
What impressed me the most about the sitround is the proactive approach to WordPress optimization.
They built their own caching system called Supercacher, which makes WordPress sites fly. In addition, you automatically update WordPress core, topics and plugins to keep your website safe.
The starting plan begins at $ 3.99 per month and includes hosting plus a free domain for the first year.
You will receive 10 GB storage space, which is ideal for small to medium -sized websites. The plan comfortably leads up to 10,000 monthly visits.
In addition, the customer support of Siteeground is really excellent.
I contacted them with complex technical problems and received expert answers within minutes.
Your support team includes WordPress experts who can help with Plugin conflicts, topic questions and performance optimization.
What is included:
- Supercacher speed optimization
- Free domain registration
- Daily automatic backups
- WordPress Auto-Updates
- Access to the staging environment
- Expert WordPress support
With the feature feature function you can test changes before live. This saved me before the updates or redesign before breaking client website.
You can experiment freely and then pass on changes to your live site with one click.
Pricing: Starts at 3.99 USD per month with the ISITWP siteground voucher code.
Great, now you have a better understanding of the 3 best alternatives from Google Domains. You may also want to check our list of the 11 best domain registrars and to choose a complete discussion.
This is for my Google Domains Review. If something is unclear, read the frequently asked questions below.
FAQs: Google Domains Review
Is Google domains good for beginners?
Yes, Google Domains is ideal for beginners who want a clean, simple domain registration experience. The user interface is intuitive and does not overwhelm you with confusing options or aggressive uppsells.
However, remember that you still need separate web hosting to create a website.
I often recommend Google domains customers who feel comfortable with technology, but new in domains. The learning curve is minimal and Google’s auxiliary documentation provides clear explanations.
Just be ready to research the hosting options separately.
Can I transfer my domain to Google domains?
Absolutely. I have transferred several domains to Google domains and the process is uncomplicated. You must unlock your domain in your current registrar and receive an authorization code.
You can then initiate the transmission via the Google Domains interface.
The transmission usually takes 5-7 days. During this time, your website and e -mail continues to work normally.
Keep in mind that Google Domains calculates the standard registration fee for the transfer, which extends the domain’s expiry date by one year.
Does Google Domains E -Mail hosting offer?
Jein. Google domains offers a basic e -mail forwarding free of charge, but not for the full e -mail hosting. You can forward e -mails from your domain to an existing Gmail Mail or another E -Mail account.
For example, (E -mail protected) Can forward to your personal Mail email address.
If you need a professional e -mail host with memory and extended functions, Google Google WorkSpace suggests.
This starts at 6 USD per user and month and includes Mail Mail with your custom domain, your calendar and other business tools. It’s good, but it contributes to your monthly costs.
What happens when Google Domains switches off?
This is a valid concern in view of Google’s history to cancel the products.
If Google Domains are ever closed, they would give a numerous prerequisite and help them transfer their domains to elsewhere. Domain registrations are regulated so that they would not lose their domains.
The transmission process would be similar to normal domain transmission. You would choose a new registrar, initiate the transfer and your domains would move smoothly.
Your websites and e -mails continue to work throughout the process.
However, Google Domains generates income and operates Google’s business, so it is less likely to be closed than some of Google’s experimental products.
Last judgment: Is Google Domains worthwhile?
After months of testing Google domains across several projects, I can say that this is a solid choice for certain types of users.
If you appreciate simplicity, clean interfaces and simple prices, Google Domains provides exactly this experience.
The service seems best for users who already live in the Google ecosystem. If you use Gmail, Google Analytics or Google WorkSpace, connect your domain will feel seamless and of course.
The integration only works without a technical headache.
However, Google domains may not be suitable for everyone.
Beginners who want to go online quickly will find a better value for hosting providers such as BlueHost or Siteeground that contain free domains. You save money and avoid the complexity of the administration of separate services.
For experienced users who need reliable domain management without inflating, Google domains meet the Sweet Spot. The DNS tools are powerful, the security functions are robust and the user interface does not stay in your way.
Conclusion?
Google domains is like the reliable tool in your toolbox – it does a job really well without trying to be everything for everyone. If this meets your needs, you will love the experience.
This is all we have for you. We hope that you have found this Google Domains checking helpfully. Next we have more tutorials and leaders who help them:
These guidelines help you start with your website and to maintain the right tools for growing and monetizing.