Shlink vs YOURLS: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Shlink and YOURLS comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Shlink wins this matchup. ElevenLabs is our overall API Tools pick. ElevenLabs is our free API Tools pick. Pick YOURLS if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Shlink
Self-hosted, open-source URL shortener with extensive features and API access.
Best for you if:
- • You want self-hosted for full data control and privacy
- • You want comprehensive feature set for advanced URL management
YOURLS
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
Best for you if:
- • You want complete control over your data and domain
- • You want free to use and open-source
| At a Glance | YOURLS | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
Rating | - | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Shlink or YOURLS?
Choose Shlink if
Self-hosted, open-source URL shortener with extensive features and API access.
- You want self-hosted for full data control and privacy
- You want comprehensive feature set for advanced URL management
Choose YOURLS if
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
- You want complete control over your data and domain
- You want free to use and open-source
| Feature | Shlink | YOURLS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.6/5 14 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsAPI Tools | Developer ToolsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Shlink
Self-hosted, open-source URL shortener with extensive features and API access.
Shlink's pricing is exceptionally generous, offering a full-featured, self-hosted solution completely free of charge.
Watch out
Potential for increased infrastructure costs with high usage
Strengths
- +Self-hosted for full data control and privacy
- +Comprehensive feature set for advanced URL management
- +API-first design for easy integration
- +GDPR compliant by default
- +Supports multiple database engines and Docker deployment
Weaknesses
- -Requires technical knowledge for self-hosting and setup
- -No mention of a hosted service option
Key features
YOURLS
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
YOURLS is exceptionally generous as it is entirely free and open-source.
Strengths
- +Complete control over your data and domain
- +Free to use and open-source
- +Highly customizable through plugins
- +Detailed analytics for link performance
- +Developer-friendly with an API
Weaknesses
- -Requires self-hosting and technical setup
- -Maintenance and updates are user's responsibility
Key features
Pricing: Shlink vs YOURLS
| Plan | Shlink | YOURLS |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Open Source | Free FOSS |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Shlink pricing and YOURLS pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Shlink
Want the highest-rated option?
YOURLS is rated 4.6/5. Shlink has no ratings yet.
Go with: YOURLS
Value user reviews?
Shlink: no ratings yet. YOURLS: 14 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: YOURLS
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are developer tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
YOURLS is rated 4.6/5; Shlink has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Shlink
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
YOURLS
- Choose if you want self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control
The Bottom Line
Shlink wins this matchup. ElevenLabs is our overall API Tools pick. ElevenLabs is our free API Tools pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shlink or YOURLS better?
Shlink is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Shlink and YOURLS used for?
Shlink: Self-hosted, open-source URL shortener with extensive features and API access.. YOURLS: Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control..
What does Shlink cost vs YOURLS?
Shlink is completely free. YOURLS is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.