YOURLS vs Rebrandly: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between YOURLS and Rebrandly 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
YOURLS
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Self-hosted, open-source URL shortener.
- • Provides full control over data and domain.
Rebrandly
Create branded short links with custom domains and analytics
Best for you if:
- • You need marketing features specifically
- • Custom branded short links
- • Track clicks and engagement
| At a Glance |  YOURLS |  Rebrandly |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Marketing |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
Choose YOURLS or Rebrandly?
Choose YOURLS if
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
- Complete control over your data and domain
- Free to use and open-source
- Highly customizable through plugins
- You want a fully free tool (Rebrandly requires payment)
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not marketing-shaped
Choose Rebrandly if
Create branded short links with custom domains and analytics
- Custom domains
- Good free tier
- Easy to use
- Your work is marketing-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | YOURLS | Rebrandly |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 14 reviews | ★4.5/5 491 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsProductivity | MarketingSEO Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
YOURLS
Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.
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
Rebrandly
Create branded short links with custom domains and analytics
Strengths
- +Custom domains
- +Good free tier
- +Easy to use
Weaknesses
- -Limited analytics free
- -Pricing complexity
Key features
Pricing: YOURLS vs Rebrandly
| Plan | YOURLS | Rebrandly |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free FOSS | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $8 Essentials |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $22 Professional |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $69 Growth |
| Tier 5 | N/A | Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on YOURLS pricing and Rebrandly pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
YOURLS is free. Rebrandly is freemium.
Go with: YOURLS
Want the highest-rated option?
YOURLS: 4.6/5 (14 reviews). Rebrandly: 4.5/5 (491 reviews).
Go with: YOURLS
Value user reviews?
YOURLS: 14 reviews (4.6/5). Rebrandly: 491 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: Rebrandly
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
YOURLS is free. Rebrandly is freemium. Go with YOURLS if free matters most.
What's your use case?
YOURLS is a developer tools tool. Rebrandly is in marketing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
YOURLS is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Rebrandly
- Larger review base (491 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
YOURLS
- Completely free
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Rebrandly is our pick. That said, YOURLS is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is YOURLS or Rebrandly better?
Rebrandly is rated in our evaluation. YOURLS is free and Rebrandly is freemium.
What are YOURLS and Rebrandly used for?
YOURLS: Self-hosted URL shortener with powerful features and full data control.. Rebrandly: Create branded short links with custom domains and analytics.
What does YOURLS cost vs Rebrandly?
YOURLS is completely free. Rebrandly is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.