If you’re launching a website or starting an online business, your first step is buying a domain name — and in 2025, prices vary widely depending on where you buy it.
The good news? You don’t need to spend much. Some registrars offer .com domains for under $6, with free privacy protection and easy management.
This guide compares the cheapest and most reliable domain registrars in 2025, so you can register your perfect domain without breaking the bank.
💰 1. Namecheap — The Best Overall Cheap Domain Registrar
Starting Price: .com domains from $5.98/year
Renewal: $13.98/year
Free WHOIS Privacy: ✅ Yes
Why It’s Great:
- Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
- Free DNS and SSL setup
- User-friendly dashboard
- Trusted by millions of users worldwide
💡 Best For: Bloggers, startups, and freelancers looking for an affordable, simple solution.
🌐 2. Porkbun — Cheapest Long-Term Pricing
Starting Price: .com domains from $9.13/year
Renewal: $9.13/year (same price — no increase!)
Free WHOIS Privacy: ✅ Yes
Why It’s Great:
- No renewal price hikes
- Free SSL and email forwarding
- Super clean interface
- Perfect for those managing multiple domains
💡 Best For: Long-term domain holders who want stable, predictable pricing.
🔒 3. Dynadot — Reliable and Professional Option
Starting Price: .com from $9.99/year
Renewal: $10.99/year
Free WHOIS Privacy: ✅ Yes
Why It’s Great:
- Excellent reputation and API for domain investors
- Bulk registration discounts
- Simple control panel and fast DNS setup
💡 Best For: Professionals managing portfolios or reselling domains.
📩 4. NameSilo — Great Bulk Discounts
Starting Price: .com from $10.95/year
Renewal: Same price
Free WHOIS Privacy: ✅ Yes
Why It’s Great:
- No upselling or surprise fees
- Lifetime free privacy protection
- Perfect for bulk domain buyers and developers
💡 Best For: Developers and marketers managing multiple websites.
🏢 5. Google Domains (Now Managed by Squarespace)
Starting Price: .com from $12/year
Renewal: $12/year
Free WHOIS Privacy: ✅ Yes
Why It’s Great:
- Backed by Google Cloud DNS — fast and secure
- Seamless integration with Gmail and Squarespace
- Transparent pricing and easy renewal
💡 Best For: Businesses that prioritize reliability and brand trust.
📈 6. GoDaddy — Popular but Pricey Renewals
Starting Price: .com domains often discounted to $0.99 for 1 year
Renewal: Around $20/year
Free WHOIS Privacy: ❌ Paid Add-on
Why It’s Great:
- The largest domain registrar in the world
- User-friendly for beginners
- Many add-ons like business email and web hosting
💡 Best For: First-time buyers who want quick setup but must watch for renewal costs.
⚙️ How to Choose the Right Domain Registrar
Before buying, compare these criteria:
✅ Transparent renewal prices (not just first-year discounts)
✅ Free WHOIS privacy and DNS management
✅ Good customer support
✅ Easy transfer policy
✅ Positive reputation and uptime
💡 Pro Tip: Always register your domain for at least 2–3 years to avoid accidental expiration and show Google long-term stability.
🧠 Quick Comparison Table
| Registrar | .COM Price | Renewal | WHOIS Privacy | Free SSL | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Namecheap | $5.98 | $13.98 | ✅ | ✅ | All users |
| Porkbun | $9.13 | $9.13 | ✅ | ✅ | Long-term users |
| Dynadot | $9.99 | $10.99 | ✅ | ✅ | Domain investors |
| NameSilo | $10.95 | $10.95 | ✅ | ✅ | Bulk buyers |
| Google Domains | $12 | $12 | ✅ | ✅ | Businesses |
| GoDaddy | $0.99 | $20+ | ❌ | ✅ | Beginners |
💬 Conclusion
In 2025, Namecheap continues to dominate the market for affordability, simplicity, and reliability.
However, if you want flat renewals and lifetime privacy, Porkbun offers unbeatable long-term value.
Remember: A good domain registrar doesn’t just sell you a name — it protects your brand, your SEO reputation, and your digital future.