Buying a Domain Name with a TLD like .TV, .ME or Country Code Domains: Benefits and Drawbacks

When considering the use of a top-level domain (TLD) other than the traditional .com, such as .TV, .ME, or any country code domain (ccTLD), there are several factors to weigh. In my opinion, the drawbacks often outweigh the benefits. This article delves into the reasons behind this view, focusing on the intricacies of domain selection and its impact on branding, search engine optimization (SEO), and user experience.

Why .com Remains Prevalent

One of the most critical considerations is the widespread recognition and trust associated with the .com domain. People are conditioned to associate this extension with the internet, and for many, it can evoke a sense of reliability and authority. Even a domain like can, in the minds of most internet users, direct them to another site or make them unsure about the legitimacy of your business.

Implications on Branding

The choice of a domain name can also impact your branding strategy. When a user types your domain into a search engine or a web address, the first association will be with a TLD, which can make your business appear as a second-follower right from the start. Using a domain extension like .TV or .ME can signal to potential customers that your business is not as established or mainstream as it could be.

Domains and New Startups

For startups or new businesses, securing a great dot-com domain name is crucial. If you're not already established with significant brand equity, it's highly recommended to choose a more mainstream domain name over a more niche one. The availability of dot-com domains is huge, meaning that there's a high likelihood you can find a great domain name that hasn't been taken yet. On the other hand, trying to secure a .TV or .ME domain might be more challenging.

Impact on Search Engine Rankings

A study by SEMrush suggests that search engines might not place as much authority on domains. While this isn't necessarily the case for all TLDs, it does imply that having a domain with a more traditional extension might give you a slight advantage in terms of SEO.

Commercialized Country Code Domains

Certain ccTLDs have been commercially available for broader use. For example, the .TV domain from Tuvalu and the .ME domain from Montenegro are now popular for a wide range of businesses. Similarly, the .it domain for Italy can be used creatively for websites focused on information technology.

Action Domains and Domain Hacks

Some TLDs lend themselves to creating unique “action” domains or “domain hacks.” These are domain names where the part to the left and right of the dot form a word or phrase. For instance:

.ME can be used to create action domains like: .IT can similarly be used to create action domains for Italy, like

Choosing the Right Server or Hosting

If you're a long-established business with no pre-existing internet presence or are using a hosting service that provides a subdomain, it might be better to choose a domain name that's not a subdomain but still within the .com realm. For example, instead of , a dedicated domain name like would be more beneficial.

Conclusion

Securing a domain name is a significant investment for any business, and the choice of TLD can have a lasting impact on its online presence and perception. While some ccTLDs offer unique opportunities, the perceived trust and authority of a .com domain make it a safer and often more practical choice for startups and established businesses alike. The key takeaway is to carefully evaluate the branding, SEO, and user experience implications before making a decision.

Empowering your business with the right domain name is crucial, and as a seasoned SEO expert, I recommend prioritizing dot-com extensions for new or emerging businesses.