Choosing the right domain name for your website is an important decision for any business, but does including keywords in the domain still benefit SEO?
While some may argue that it helps with search rankings, Google’s John Mueller recently clarified that there are no SEO benefits to using keyword-based domain names.
Although keyword domains were once favored by search engines, Google’s algorithm has evolved.
In this article, we’ll explore the SEO implications of keywords in domain names, the marketing perspectives, and how to select a domain name that aligns with your business goals.
Key Takeaways:
- Keywords in domain names no longer provide SEO benefits, as confirmed by Google in 2022.
- Focus on long-term growth by choosing a domain that reflects your brand, not just keywords.
- From a marketing perspective, keywords in domains may still help attract visitors, but they should be weighed against future scalability.
SEO Benefits of Keywords in Domain Names: Do They Still Exist?
Many SEOs once believed that including keywords in a domain name could boost search engine rankings. The idea was that when users link to your site with just the URL, the keyword in the domain acts as anchor text, thus influencing Google’s ranking algorithm.
However, according to Google’s John Mueller, keywords in a domain name no longer provide any ranking benefits. Google has grown smarter in distinguishing between a bare URL and actual anchor text, so this outdated technique is now irrelevant.
What About Exact Match Domains (EMD)?
In the past, exact match domains (EMDs) were favored by Google’s algorithm. These are domain names that exactly match a popular search query, such as “bestshoes.com” for “best shoes.” While EMDs once provided a ranking boost, Google has since adjusted its algorithm to reduce the impact of this factor.
Tip: Rather than relying on keyword-based domains, focus on optimizing your on-page SEO and creating high-quality content that meets user intent. Learn more about our SEO services to boost your rankings.
How Does Google Rank Keyword-Based Domains Today?
A Reddit user inquired about how Google would rank different keyword-based domains, such as “web-design.com” versus “web.design.” Mueller responded by stating that there is no difference in how Google ranks these domains.
Mueller’s advice highlights that choosing a keyword-based domain name offers no direct SEO advantages. Instead, businesses should focus on selecting a domain that can grow with their brand.
Example: Whether you choose “web-design.com” or “sabertoothed-hedgehog.com,” Google will not favor one over the other simply due to the presence of keywords in the domain. What matters is the overall quality and relevance of the content on your website.
Choose a Domain Name for Long-Term Growth
According to Mueller, it’s important to think long-term when selecting your domain name. While it might be tempting to choose a domain based on your current services, such as “web-design.com,” this could limit your business if your offerings change in the future.
Long-Term Considerations:
- Scalability: Your domain should be broad enough to accommodate future growth or shifts in your business model.
- Branding: Opt for a brandable domain name that users can easily remember and associate with your business.
- Simplicity: Avoid overly specific keyword domains that could limit your ability to expand.
Tip: Choose a domain name that reflects your brand’s identity rather than focusing solely on keywords. For example, if you’re involved in web design Singapore, a brandable domain that stands the test of time will serve you better in the long run.
Marketing Considerations for Keyword-Based Domains in Singapore
While keywords in domain names may not help with SEO, there are still marketing reasons why businesses in Singapore might consider them.
Marketing Advantages:
- Relevance: A domain with relevant keywords can signal to visitors that your website offers the products or services they are searching for, especially if they haven’t heard of your brand before.
- Brand Awareness: For new businesses, having a descriptive domain name can increase the likelihood that potential customers will click on your site from search results.
However, this approach comes with risks. Keyword-based domains can narrow your business focus, making it difficult to scale or expand your offerings in the future.
Tip: Striking a balance between a domain that resonates with your current audience and one that allows room for growth is essential.
Final Thoughts: Are Keywords in Domain Names Still Relevant?
While keyword-based domains may no longer provide a direct SEO benefit, they can still serve a purpose from a marketing perspective. That said, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
- For SEO: Prioritize creating high-quality content and building backlinks over relying on keywords in your domain name.
- For Marketing: A keyword domain can signal relevance to potential customers, but be mindful of future business growth.
At MediaPlus Digital, our team of SEO experts can guide you through the process of selecting the best domain name for your business. Whether you’re looking to enhance your web design Singapore presence or expand into new markets, we provide tailored strategies to help you succeed.
Tip: Interested in learning more about domain name strategies and SEO? Contact MediaPlus Digital today for a consultation on how to elevate your online presence.