Ever tried to paste a Zoom invite into an email or social post only to end up with an unwieldy, messy URL? It’s a small annoyance, but one that can make your invitation look unprofessional and cluttered.
Many people face this issue daily. Long links not only take up space but also reduce click-throughs and overall engagement.
The easiest fix? Shorten Zoom links into clean, branded, and user-friendly versions. In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to shorten a Zoom link using an online link shortener, why it matters for your communication, and the best practices to make them effective across email, social platforms, and events.
Let’s jump in and give your Zoom invites a polished, professional touch.
What is a Zoom link shortener?
A Zoom link shortener is a tool that condenses lengthy Zoom meeting URLs into shorter, more manageable links. These shortened links are easier to share and remember, making them particularly useful for invitations, social media posts, and promotional materials.
By using a trustworthy URL shortener, you can transform a long, complex URL into a neat and concise one, enhancing the overall user experience and improving the aesthetics of your communications.
Link shorteners not only simplify URLs but also offer additional benefits, such as tracking link clicks, customizing the link with branded domains, and ensuring secure sharing.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into branded short links that convert.
Try Replug for free
How to shorten Zoom links using Replug?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you shorten your Zoom links effectively:
Step 1:Copy your Zoom invite link
First, you need to have your Zoom meeting invite link ready. Copy the full URL of your Zoom meeting. This link usually looks something like this:
Once you’ve customized your URL, click on “Save Shortened Link,” and your short Zoom link is ready to be shared!
Track your links’ performance
Replug is an all-in-one link management platform that offers powerful URL tracking capabilities. Monitor your link’s click-through rates, geographic data, and other metrics to optimize your marketing strategies effectively.
By using Replug to shorten your Zoom links, you can create professional, easy-to-share URLs while gaining valuable insights into your link performance.
Shortening Zoom links offers several advantages, making it a practical choice for anyone who frequently shares meeting invites.
Here are some key reasons to shorten your Zoom links:
Enhanced aesthetics and professionalism: Long Zoom links can look cluttered and unprofessional, especially when shared in emails, social media posts, or printed materials. Shortened links are cleaner and more visually appealing, enhancing the overall look of your communications.
Easier to share and remember: Shortened links are easier to share and remember, making them more user-friendly. This is particularly useful when sharing links verbally, over the phone, or in presentations.
Improved click-through rates: Neater and more concise links can lead to higherclick-through rates. Users are more likely to click on a short, clear link compared to a long, complex URL that might appear suspicious or confusing.
Better tracking and analytics: Many link-shortening services offer tracking and analytics features, allowing you to monitor how many times your link has been clicked, where the clicks are coming from, and other valuable insights. This data can help you measure the effectiveness of your communication and marketing efforts.
Customization and branding: With our link shortener, you can customize your shortened URLs to include your brand name or a relevant keyword. This not only reinforces your brand identity but also makes the link more meaningful and memorable.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into branded short links that convert.
Try Replug for free
Additional tips
Use branded links: If you’re using a service that allows branded links (like Replug’s custom domain), take advantage of this feature to reinforce your brand identity.
Check security options: Replug offers additional security features, such as link expiration dates and password protection, which can be useful for sensitive meetings.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into branded short links that convert.
Try Replug for free
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to use a Zoom link shortener?
Yes, using a reputable Zoom link shortener like Replug is safe. It can even enhance security by allowing you to track and manage your links effectively.
Can I track the performance of my shortened Zoom links?
Yes, many link shorteners, including Replug, offer tracking features that allow you to monitor click-through rates, geographic data, and other performance metrics.
Do shortened Zoom links expire?
It depends on the link shortener service. Some services allow you to set expiration dates for links, while others keep them active indefinitely.
Can I shorten Zoom links for free?
Yes, many link-shortening services offer free plans with basic features. Replug provides a free 14-day trial that includes essential link-shortening capabilities.
Link disguising is all about hiding a link so that it looks like another link. Though the term itself might sound dubious, it is very useful in the digital world. People generally mask links to shorten them and brand them.
Disguising a link means concealing the bad parts or random characters of the URL to make it look clean, and here’s where URL shorteners come in handy for turning these messy and random links into something meaningful and useful.
In this article, you’ll learn how to disguise a link effectively and how to rename a link with the help of tools like Replug. If you’re thinking about changing a URL to improve branding, user trust, or click-through rates, you’re in the right place.
A disguised link (also called a cloaked URL or masked URL) hides the original URL and redirects traffic to the original destination URL without damaging the user experience.
Advanced URL shorteners make disguising a URL easy and allow you to quickly create a customized URL (or vanity URL/branded link) that appears to the users when you share with them.
Now the real question arises. Why do people use disguised links?
Why disguise a link?
Creates a great first impression: A URL is something that people see at first sight when you share a profile, video link, company website, or even when promoting your website builder software. So, if it looks suspicious, no one is going to click.
Increases your sales: Disguising a link can significantly improve e-commerce sales, brand engagement, and user experience since users are more likely to click a link that looks branded and clean.
Tracks link performance: URL tracking tools not only disguise links but also allow track performance by creating custom links.
They are easy to create: With the right tools, learning how to disguise a link takes just a few steps. So, why not go for a branded URL rather than one that looks like a jumble of random characters?
Boost ROI with branded URLs!
Enhance your marketing campaigns by creating shareable, trackable, and fully multi-purpose
customizable branded URLs.
Affiliate marketers often rely on link disguising for a cleaner presentation and to protect their affiliate IDs from theft or malware. Using Replug or similar tools, they can:
A URL shortener is your secret weapon to transform any clunky link into a sleek, hidden gem. But that’s just the beginning. You can also track performance, analyze click data, and enhance your links with CTAs, bio links, retargeting pixels, and more!
Let’s say that you are promoting a new line of Columbia whole coffee beans that you just launched.
Here’s how you can use Replug to disguise your link:
Step 1: Sign in or create an account
Sign in to your Replug account. You will get a 14-day free trial if you’re a new user.
Step 2: Enter the URL you want to disguise
Step 3: Disguise your URL
After you click on the blue next button, you’ll be led to a popup. From there, you can change the URL slug, thereby masking your URL so that it doesn’t look spammy.
From here you can also set additional parameters that you want for your campaign, such as customized favicon, deep linking, A/B testing, etc. You can also add a UTM parameter to track your links’ performance.
Now just type the slug (in our example “/columbia-whole-bean”) and click on the green tickmark icon to save your disguised URL.
Step 4: Enable link cloaking
Enable link cloaking in Replug to display only your custom, branded link in the browser’s address bar, thereby disguising the original URL. This keeps your link clean, professional, and more trustworthy.
Step 5: Save and share!
Once done, just click on the “Save Shortened Link” button and share it with your audience, whenever, wherever!
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into branded short links that convert.
Try Replug for free
Replug key features
Link management
Multiple link shortening tools are available in the market, but Replug is among the few best link shorteners that offers link disguising, tracking & optimization as well as a catchy calls to action.
Replug is an easy URL shortening and tracking platform that allows you to:
Create eye-catching branded URLs.
Generate social media bio links
Add URL tracking with custom URL UTM parameters, and tags
Add retargeting pixels with powerful analytics and branded links.
A complete link management solution
for marketing professionals & agencies.
Try Replug for free
Replug Chrome extension
Replug’s chrome extension makes it easier to create disguise links. You can download the Google Chrome extension and log into your Replug account by entering your login credentials.
Once completed, you’ll have full control of using Replug features in no time.
Link analytics
Replug stands higher among all link management tools when it comes to link analytics. You can make a profitable brand strategy by keeping an eye on link analytics.
Below are some great click analytics you can track using Replug:
Deep links let users go to the specific application rather than going through the hassle of visiting irrelevant web pages. These powerful links increase overall engagement and conversion rates.
Drive more clicks, conversions, and app installations by deep linking
to your favorite platforms.
Try deep links for free
Link rotation
With the help of Replug’s link rotation (or traffic routing) feature, you can reach your target audience by setting multiple filters such as geography, browser, and device. You can also select the IP address, dates, and time. Hence, link rotation allows you to redirect users and deliver a unique experience on the base of these filters.
QR codes
Replug allows you to create custom, dynamic QR codes. After you you’ve disguised your URL, you can quickly create a branded QR code by changing the customizing the colours, adding a frame, and incorporating your logo. This allows for seamless sharing across all platforms, and also makes your link look cleaner and quicker to access.
Retargeting pixels
Every branded URL can include retargeting pixels to help you retarget website visitors who bounced before buying. This is especially useful for e-commerce brands looking to reduce cart abandonment, re-engage lost leads, and improve return on ad spend. One clean link can bring customers back right when it matters most.
A/B testing
A/B testing features allow you to redirect links to several destinations. With Replug, you can efficiently distribute the weightage and start testing up to 10 links simultaneously.
Final words
Using a URL shortener to disguise a link is not only for the people of the e-commerce world. In fact, URL shorteners are way much more than just a shortening tool.
You can create bio links, test landing pages via A/B testing, add CTA’s for special offers and discounts, route and redirect traffic etc. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Ready to disguise and hide your links like a pro? Try Replug today!
Frequently asked questions
What is a disguised link, and why is it useful?
A disguised link (or cloaked URL) hides the original URL, making it cleaner and more trustworthy. It improves click-through rates, builds trust, and is commonly used in affiliate marketing and e-commerce.
How can I track the performance of my disguised links?
Advanced link management tools provide metrics like click-through rates, locations, and conversions. You can also add UTM parameters to gain deeper insights.
How to disguise a link in text?
To disguise a link in text, hyperlink a word or phrase instead of displaying the full URL. For example, use anchor text like “read more” or “visit now”. This improves readability, builds trust, and boosts click-through rates. Use a URL shortener like Replug to create a clean, branded link before embedding it.
What is the best tool for disguising links?
One of the best tools for disguising links is Replug. It offers easy link customization, tracking, and branding features to enhance link performance.
Free URL shorteners are great and all, but let’s be real: paid URL shorteners take things to the next level.
When you’re paying for something, you expect to get more out of it, right? And with URL shorteners, that “more” includes some seriously cool features. But here’s the real question:
Which paid URL shortener actually gives you the most value for your money?
Any online link shortener can clean up a long, messy link. But the good ones let you brand and customize your links, turning that long and disorganized string of text into something sleek and professional.
They also give you tracking insights to see who’s clicking your links, and even help you figure out which marketing campaigns are actually working.
So, if you’re ready to upgrade your links, here are the top 5 paid URL shorteners that bring value, functionality, and style to the table.
5 Top-rated paid URL shorteners online
With countless options out there, finding the right tool can be tricky. To make it easier, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 URL shorteners you should consider.
Let’s start with the first one:
1. Replug
Replug.io is a powerful link management tool that allows you to create unlimited branded short links, giving you the flexibility to streamline your link-sharing process.
With in-depth analytics and top-notch link tracking capabilities, it offers valuable insights into your audience’s behavior and engagement.
What sets Replug apart is its URL shortener tool, which is by far the best free link shortener online, offering you a seamless way to create branded, short links that stand out.
With its intuitive dashboard and real-time tracking features, it not only simplifies your link-sharing but also provides powerful insights to boost your marketing strategy.
Unlike other tools that provide only one or two of these elements, Replug combines them all into a single, rich platform.
Key features
With Replug, you get access to an all-in-one platform with exceptional attributes. Here’s what’s in store:
Link management: Manage all your links through a simple and clean dashboard, alongside advanced features such as link preview, link expiry, password protection, and much more.
Link shortening: Shorten unlimited links, create vanity URLs, and customize link previews with branded links and favicons.
Link analytics: Access detailed analytics, including total and unique clicks segmented by location, referral, device, and browser.
Bio links: Create customizable bio link pages with social links, blocks, RSS feeds, and retargeting pixels.
Call-to-action generation: Create eye-catching CTA campaigns for your links to boost conversions and sales.
White-label solution: Customize the dashboard, logos, domain, reports, and more, which is ideal for agencies wanting to brand their services.
Retargeting pixels: Add retargeting pixels to your links to track users and re-engage them with targeted ads on multiple digital platforms.
Deep linking: Direct users to specific pages within your app or website for a personalized, seamless experience.
A/B testing: Test up to 10 URLs simultaneously, with percentage-based traffic distribution to optimize link performance.
Link rotation: Set up to 10 traffic rules for short links, directing users to different destinations based on conditions. A default link ensures users are always redirected.
QR code generation: Generate customizable QR codes with trackable performance, editable colors, and PNG or SVG download options.
Team management: Collaborate efficiently by inviting team members and assigning roles, ensuring streamlined workflows for link management and campaigns.
2. Rebrandly
Rebrandly is one of the most popular tools for creating branded links. It allows you to customize URLs with your own domain, making every link you share look polished and trustworthy.
With features like custom slugs, advanced analytics, and traffic routing, it’s pretty beneficial for businesses that want their links to double as a brand asset.
Key features
Custom domains & links: Get a domain of your choice and create and manage branded links hassle-free.
Advanced analytics: Track detailed link performance with this URL shortener tool.
Traffic routing: Direct clicks to specific pages based on conditions.
Bio links (Link Gallery) & QR codes: Build bio link pages and generate trackable QR codes seamlessly.
3. Bitly
Bitly is one of the most recognized names in the URL shortener space, known for its simplicity, reliability, and wide adoption. It offers branded links, link tracking, and basic analytics, making it a go-to choice for businesses that need a straightforward link management solution.
However, most of Bitly’s advanced analytics and customization options are locked behind paid plans. While it works well for large businesses managing high volumes of links, it’s becoming less appealing for small businesses and individual users who just want to shorten links and track basic performance without committing to higher costs.
Key features
Branded links: Customize URLs with your own domain for brand consistency.
Analytics & reporting: Track clicks, referral sources, and geographic data without any trouble.
Retargeting pixels: Add tracking pixels for remarketing campaigns easily.
Integrations: Connect with tools like Zapier and enterprise platforms.
Dub is a modern URL shortener built for marketers and teams that want deeper insights into their campaigns. Unlike basic shorteners, this tool doesn’t just tell you how many people clicked your links; it helps you connect the dots between clicks, leads, and conversions.
Moreover, with advanced analytics, you can actually see how your shortened links contribute to sales and customer acquisition.
Dub is also developer-friendly, offering an API-first approach for businesses that need to integrate link management into their existing systems.
Whether you’re running email campaigns, paid ads, or influencer marketing, this brilliant platform gives you the flexibility to create branded links, set up traffic rules, and analyze real ROI.
Key features
Detailed analytics: Track clicks, leads, and sales tied to your shortened URLs to further improve your marketing strategy.
API-first design: Build Dub into your own workflows and marketing stack, without any complex process.
5. Sniply
When you talk about URL shorteners available online, Sniply always makes the list. It is unique in that it allows you to add a custom call-to-action (CTA) overlay to your shared links. This can drive traffic back to your website or encourage specific actions while sharing valuable content.
Alongside its signature CTA feature, Sniply also provides essentials like QR codes, UTM parameters, detailed analytics, and custom domains.
While its analytics aren’t as advanced as some other tools, it does track conversions from click to purchase, giving you a clear picture of how your links contribute to revenue.
Key features
CTA overlays: Add CTAs to any link you share.
Link analytics: Track clicks, conversions, and much more.
Retargeting & A/B testing: Re-engage users and test different strategies.
Team management: Share links with your team members the way you like.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each tool’s pricing plans to help you make an informed decision:
Tool
Basic Plan
Pro Plan
Premium Plan
Replug
$19/month
$39/month
$99/month
Rebrandly
$14/month
$39/month
$119/month
Bitly
$10/month
$29/month
$199/month
Dub
$30/month
$90/month
$300/month
Sniply
$9/month
$29/month
$59/month
Best use cases for paid URL shorteners
Paid URL shorteners are versatile tools that cater to diverse industries and professionals. Here’s how different types of businesses and users can benefit from them:
E-commerce: Track customer behavior with detailed analytics. Use branded links for a polished, trustworthy shopping experience, and boost conversions with deep linking to specific product pages.
Content creators: Customize bio links for platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Promote specific content with branded URLs, and monitor audience engagement to refine your strategy.
Affiliate marketers: Use A/B testing to experiment with different campaigns, retarget users who clicked your links, and analyze traffic performance to maximize commission opportunities.
Agencies: Use white-label solutions to add your branding, collaborate with team members on client accounts, and utilize advanced analytics to demonstrate campaign success to clients.
Freelancers: Create professional-looking links to promote your portfolio or services. Use bio links to consolidate your online presence, and track link engagement to identify your most effective outreach strategies.
Event planners: Share event registration links, directing attendees to specific event pages, and track sign-up trends to plan better for future events.
Nonprofits and NGOs: Share donation links with branded URLs, track donor engagement, and run A/B tests on different campaigns to see what drives more contributions.
Music artists: Promote new releases, concert tickets, and merch with branded links. Converge links to your streaming platforms and social media using bio links, and track fan engagement to identify your top-performing campaigns.
Social media managers: Optimize link performance for multiple social platforms. Create branded short links that align with your brand identity, and analyze clicks to see which platforms socials drive the most engagement.
Mobile app developers: Use app deep linking to guide users directly to specific app features, track user acquisition campaigns, and personalize experiences with advanced analytics.
By tailoring the use of paid URL shorteners to your niche, you’ll unlock new levels of efficiency and engagement in your marketing strategies.
What to look for in a paid URL shortener: Key points & considerations
When choosing a paid URL shortener, it’s important to keep these things in mind:
Custom domains: A good shortener should let you use your own branded domain, helping build trust and recognition with every link you share.
Branding: The ability to add your logo, custom slugs, and design elements ensures that every link reflects your brand identity.
Detailed analytics: Access to real-time data on clicks, locations, devices, and user behavior is crucial for measuring campaign performance and ROI.
Link management: Look for a dashboard that makes it easy to organize, edit, archive, or tag your links for better control and efficiency.
Audience segmentation: Advanced shorteners allow you to segment your audience based on demographics or behavior, enabling more targeted and effective marketing.
Retargeting & tracking: Integrated retargeting pixels and tracking tools help you stay connected with users even after they click, boosting conversions and ad effectiveness.
Final verdict: Which is the most trusted URL shortener?
At this point, you are familiar with the benefits of using link management tools. Moreover, we have also mentioned the top-paid URL shorteners.
However, when it comes to which URL shortener is an all-rounder, Replug truly shines as the all-in-one, customizable, and scalable solution. It is undoubtedly the most trustworthy option for marketers, agencies, and businesses looking to level up their link-sharing game.
With features like branded URLs, detailed analytics, bio links, retargeting, and more, Replug has everything you need to create powerful, performance-driven links.
All signs point to one thing: if you want a shortener that goes beyond just links and actually helps you grow, retarget, and optimize every campaign, Replug is the smartest investment.
Frequently asked questions
What is a URL shortener tool?
A URL shortener tool is an online service that converts long, complex web addresses into shorter, more manageable links while preserving the original destination. Popular examples include Replug, Bitly, TinyURL, and Rebrandly, which are widely used for social media, marketing, and email campaigns. As of 2025, these tools often integrate with analytics platforms to track clicks and user engagement.
How do URL shorteners work?
URL shorteners work by mapping a lengthy original URL to a unique, abbreviated alias stored in a database. When the short link is clicked, the service performs an HTTP redirect to the full address. This process involves generating a hash or key for the short version, ensuring quick resolution without altering the target page. Modern shorteners also employ security checks to prevent malicious redirects and provide real-time performance data.
How do URL shorteners make money?
URL shorteners generate revenue primarily through tiered subscription plans for advanced features like custom branding, detailed analytics, and API access, as seen with services like Short.io and BL.INK. They also monetize through data insights from click demographics, resold to marketers, and, in some cases, through intermediary ads during redirects.
For user-focused platforms, ShrinkEarn and Linkvertise earn by displaying ads on shortened links, paying users up to $20 per 1,000 views (ShrinkEarn) or $70 per 1,000 (Linkvertise) while retaining ad revenue shares.
Why use a paid URL shortening service?
Paid URL shortening services offer advanced features like custom branded domains, detailed analytics on click demographics, and enhanced security against spam or phishing, which free versions often lack. They ensure higher reliability with uptime guarantees, API integrations for automation, and compliance with data privacy regulations like GDPR. In 2025, options like Replug Scale or Rebrandly Pro provide scalable solutions for businesses, justifying the cost through improved ROI on marketing efforts.
Rebrandly is a user-friendly tool for creating custom-branded short links, as well as shorter and more visually appealing versions of long URLs.
It’s commonly used in digital marketing to share links on social media and email campaigns.
Moreover, Rebrandly also offers detailed link tracking and analytics, helping users understand how their links are performing and where their audience is coming from.
Why consider Rebrandly alternatives?
Before we dive into the alternatives, let’s briefly touch on why agencies might be looking beyond Rebrandly. While Rebrandly offers solid link-management capabilities, it may fall short in some areas:
Feature limitations: Some agencies require more advanced features that Rebrandly doesn’t offer.
No hidden fees: Some Rebrandly alternatives might offer clearer, more transparent pricing with no surprise charges.
Integration needs: Certain agencies require seamless integration with specific tools that Rebrandly doesn’t support.
Faster support response: Some alternatives provide quicker and more efficient customer service, helping you resolve issues without delay.
Considering these factors, let’s explore the top alternatives that address these concerns and offer unique agency advantages.
Best Rebrandly alternatives: Pros, cons, and key features
1. Replug.io
Why Replug: Our top choice as the best Rebrandly alternative is Replug. This tool offers a comprehensive link management suite with link shortening, tracking, and retargeting features.
A complete link management solution
for marketing professionals & agencies.
Try Replug for free
Also, Replug stands out for features like white-label, A/B testing, deep linking, and analytics. Overall, it’s a powerful tool for marketing campaigns.
Why Bitly: Bitly is a household name in link shortening, known for its simplicity and analytics. Bitly as an alternative to Rebrandly can be a great choice because it offers high-end link tracking performance which helps in enhancing user engagement.
Pros:
Simplicity and user-friendly interface
Powerful link tracking and analytics
Easy-to-use browser extension
Customizable short links
Cons:
Limited features in the free version
Advanced analytics require a premium subscription
No link retargeting, CTAs, and A/B testing.
3. TinyURL
Why TinyURL: TinyURL is your friend if you need a no-fuss solution. It’s straightforward and user-friendly, ideal for quick link shortening.
Pros:
Straightforward and no-fuss link shortening
Quick and easy to use
No registration required
Cons:
Lacks advanced features
Limited link-tracking capabilities
Boost ROI with branded URLs!
Enhance your marketing campaigns by creating shareable, trackable, and fully multi-purpose
customizable branded URLs.
Why BL.INK: BL.INK is a versatile URL shortener with advanced features like QR code generation and analytics. Perfect for marketing and tracking campaigns.
Pros:
All-round URL shortener
QR code generation
Analytics for link tracking
Custom branded domains
Cons:
Pricing may not suit budget-conscious users
Lacks many features, such as link retargeting and bio links that Rebrandly offers
Why Linkly: It’s a powerful link management tool that helps you optimize your online presence and marketing strategies. It allows you to create, customize, and track links, providing in-depth insights into audience engagement.
Pros:
Link customization
UTM parameters
Scheduled links
Password protection
Cons:
Learning curve (for new users)
Premium features may be pricey for some
6. Cutt.ly
Why Cutt.ly: It’s an advanced link management tool specializing in link shortening and tracking. It simplifies creating custom-branded short links and offers comprehensive analytics to help you understand link performance.
Pros:
In-depth link tracking and analytics.
Custom-branded links for a professional appearance.
Suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Cons:
Limited customization options for free users.
Analytics not as robust as some competitors
7. Short.io
Why Short.io: Short.io offers custom-branded links and link tracking, making it an excellent choice for businesses and marketers.
Pros:
Custom-branded links
Link tracking and analytics
User-friendly interface
Cons:
Some users report occasional reliability issues
8. Sniply
Why Sniply: Sniply combines link shortening with lead generation. It allows you to add call-to-actions to shared links, making it a powerful tool for marketers.
Pros:
Combines link shortening with lead generation
Allows call-to-action on short links
Great for marketers and brand promotion with CTAs
Cons:
Lacks in several important features.
Some features are reserved for premium users
9. Shorby
Why Shorby: Shorby focuses on enhancing social media profiles through link shortening and online branding. If you’re active on social media, it’s worth a look.
Pros:
Enhances social media profiles through link branding
Ideal for social media enthusiasts
Simplifies link sharing on social platforms
Cons:
May not be suitable for users with broader link management needs
Some features are specific to social media management
It’s a valid question. Replug offers features that set it apart from Rebrandly:
Link retargeting: Replug allows you to create short links and add retargeting pixels to them, helping you reach users who have engaged with your links before.
In conclusion, the world of link management offers a wide array of alternatives to Rebrandly. Each of these Rebrandly alternatives has pros and cons, catering to diverse needs.
Whether you’re looking for simplicity, analytics, branding, or lead generation, consider the options mentioned here and choose the one that aligns with your specific goals and preferences.
Happy link management!
FAQs on Rebrandly alternatives
Why Look for Rebrandly Alternatives?
Rebrandly has been a popular choice for link shortening and management, but it’s essential to have options that suit your unique needs. Whether you want more features, a different pricing structure, or a fresh interface, these Rebrandly alternatives are something for everyone.
Which Rebrandly alternative is best for marketing campaigns?
Replug is an excellent choice for marketing campaigns, offering various features for link management and user engagement.
Are these alternatives suitable for businesses and marketers?
Yes, many of these alternatives, such as Replug and BL.INK, offers advanced features and analytics, making them excellent choices for businesses and marketers.
Which link-shortening tool is similar to Rebrandly?
Replug is a link management tool similar to Rebrandly, offering custom-branded short links and robust analytics.
Social networks like Instagram are mobile-friendly. However, because Instagram is mobile-first, tracking down your Instagram URL can sometimes be tricky because it works differently than a traditional website.
This guide will show you how to quickly grab URLs on both mobile and computer devices, including your Instagram links, in just a few simple steps.
Let’s get searching!
How to get an Instagram link on a computer device:
Step 1: Go to Instagram and type in your login credentials.
Step 2: Click on your username at the top-right of the screen.
Alternatively, you can click the profile icon in the left menu.
Step 3: Your Instagram link will appear in the search bar. Copy the link, and you’ll have a ready-to-use Instagram link.
How to get an Instagram link on a mobile device:
Step 1: Open the Instagram app on your iPhone or Android and log in.
Step 2: Tap on your profile in the bottom right-hand corner of the menu.
Step 3: You will find your Instagram username at the top of your profile page.
Note: Instagram URLs consist of two components: Instagram’s website address and your Instagram username. The URL format is generally instagram.com/username. So, the Instagram username for the case is aarsal.k. To get this link, just type Instagram.com/aarsal.k. You can do the same for your iPhone or Android device.
Your Instagram link is now ready to go!
How to change Instagram URL using Replug?
You can easily change your Instagram URL in seconds with Replug.io by following the next mentioned simple and easy steps.
Then simply paste that link into this top-notch short URL shortener to get a tidy, share-friendly version ready for your social bio.
Step 1: Follow the above steps to get your Instagram link on mobile or desktop.
Step 2: Go to any browser on your desktop and type app.replug.io. You will be redirected to the login page, where you can sign in or create an account if you don’t already have one.
Step 3: You will see the Replug dashboard once you are signed in.
Step 4:Paste or type your Instagram URL in the box under “Quick Shorten your link” to customize it:
Step 5: Now you have your updated URL, which will look like the one below in the picture.
You can customize the URL slug to let people know exactly what you’re sharing. Click the edit button at the end of the URL bar and type the URL slug you want.
For example:
Now save your shortened link and get sharing! It’s that easy.
Note: Find your newly created Instagram link by going to Main Dashboard > Manage > Replug links.
Changing your Facebook URL can be a great way to make your profile more memorable and easier to find. It can also add a personal touch to your profile and make it easier for people to find you if they are searching for you on search engines.
Additionally, it can help to prevent confusion if you have multiple accounts with similar usernames. Finally, it can also help to ensure that your profile remains secure since anyone with your username can access it.
Here’s how to change your Facebook URL on mobile and desktop using a Facebook URL shortener.
How to change Facebook URL on your mobile?
You can easily change your Facebook URL through the Facebook Messenger app on your phone.
Follow these steps:
Step no 01: Open the Facebook messenger app fromyour phone.
Step no 02: Tap on the three-lined menu icon in the top left corner.
Step no 03: Now tap on the setting icon near the top right corner.
Step no 04: Look for the “Username” section and tap on it.
Step no 05: Now tap the “Edit Username” section.
Step no 06: Type your new user name.
Note: Only available usernames can be selected. Try typing an alternate user name if your intended one is not available.
Step no 07: Tap save, and you’ll have your new user name, which will also be your new URL.
That’s it! Your Facebook URL has been successfully updated.
Replug makes it easy to shorten and customize your Facebook page URL while providing powerful features like link tracking and performance analytics.
With Replug’s URL shortener, you can also apply custom branding to your links, offering a personalized touch that helps reinforce your brand identity. Here’s how to use Replug to update your Facebook page URL:
Step no 01: Log in to your existing Replug account. If you don’t have an account yet, create one—it’s quick and easy!
Step no 02: On the homepage, locate the “Quickly shorten your link” bar. Paste your Facebook URL into the field provided.
Step no 03: Click the edit button at the end of the URL bar. Enter the desired URL slug to personalize the link.
Step no 04: Click the “Save Shortened Link” button at the bottom. Once saved, your new, customized Facebook URL is ready to be shared with your audience!
By following these simple steps, you can enhance your Facebook page’s visibility and track how it performs using Replug’s robust tools.
FAQs
Why can’t I change my Facebook URL after following all the steps?
It may be because you have already changed your Facebook URL. Facebook only allows you to change your URL once, so if you changed it before, you would not be able to change it again.
What is a Facebook URL?
A Facebook URL is the unique web address used to access a specific Facebook profile, page, or post. It usually starts with www.facebook.com/ followed by the username, page name, or post ID.
How do I share my Facebook page URL?
Go to your Facebook page, copy the URL from the browser’s address bar, and share it directly on social media, in messages, or through email.
Why is my Facebook URL not working?
Your Facebook URL might not work if: The page or profile is deleted or deactivated. The username or page name has been changed. There’s a typo in the URL.
It’s no surprise that marketers, influencers, and bloggers use all sorts of tools, software, and plugins that improve their content reach, engagement, and conversion.
One such essential tool is a URL shortener that trims down long URLs into shorter, more manageable links. Undoubtedly, short URLs have become a crucial part of the modern-day digital marketing ecosystem.
The purpose of a URL shortener is to shorten the link, thus making it much easier for users to share, publish, and analyze the URL. However, if you’re curious about how URL shorteners work, then this blog is going to reveal the process for you.
The technology behind URL shorteners
Before moving onto the step-by-step process, it’s essential to understand both the URL structure and the underlying system that makes this link shortening possible.
Technical architecture of a link shortener
Link shortening is the process of converting a long, complex URL into a shorter, more concise version without altering its destination.
A link shortener relies on a streamlined architecture comprising four main components that work together to create, store, and redirect URLs.
At a glance:
User interface (UI): The front end where users paste long URLs and receive short links.
Backend server: Validates input, generates short codes, stores mappings, and manages redirects.
Database: Stores long-to-short URL mappings and ensures fast retrieval. Often built with scalable systems like MySQL or MongoDB.
Integration: Ensures smooth communication between UI, backend, and database for quick link creation and reliable redirection.
How does a URL shortener work: Replug’s process defined
Behind the scenes, URL shortening follows a simple workflow:
1. Entering the URL: You start by submitting a long link into a URL shortener, either through its website or application.
2. Creating a Short Code: The tool then generates a unique, shortened code or identifier, usually a mix of letters and numbers, like replug.link/15a6b0ad.
Note: The first part of the short URL (e.g., replug.link) serves as the default short domain. Brands can also configure a custom short domain for branding purposes.
3. Saving the Mapping: This short code is saved in the service’s database, where it’s linked to the full, original URL you entered.
4. Handling Click Requests: When someone clicks on the shortened link, the server recognizes the short code and processes the request.
5. Redirecting to the Original Page: The system looks up the original URL associated with the short code and issues an HTTP redirect, guiding the user’s browser to the intended destination.
Replug – the best URL shortener in 2025
Replug is more than a URL shortener; it’s a complete link management tool. It helps brands create branded short links, track performance, and retarget audiences for higher engagement.
Here are some reasons to consider this top-notch platform.
Branded link customization
Replug provides rich customization options. You can use your custom domain to create branded short links that match your brand’s identity. This adds a professional touch to your links and enhances brand recognition.
Centralized link management
Categorize, tag, and search links to ensure nothing gets lost in the clutter. Add expiry dates, link previews, and password-protect your links.
Advanced link analytics
Replug doesn’t just shorten links; it gives you actionable insights. Its analytics let you track the number of clicks, user locations, devices, and referral sources. With this data, marketers can measure performance, identify top-performing campaigns, and fine-tune strategies for better ROI.
Campaign tracking with UTM parameters
For advanced campaign tracking, Replug allows you to add UTM parameters directly to your links. Whether it’s email, social media, or paid ads, these tags help you analyze traffic correctly and understand which channels deliver the best results.
QR code generator for easy sharing
Replug automatically generates QR codes for your short links, bridging the gap between the offline and online worlds. Businesses can add QR codes to posters, brochures, packaging, or event materials, making it effortless for customers to scan and access digital content instantly.
Smart dynamic link rotation
Replug supports intelligent link rotation, enabling a single link to direct users to different landing pages based on conditions such as location, device, or time. This is especially useful for A/B testing, regional campaigns, or time-sensitive offers, helping marketers maximize conversions.
Retargeting with every click
Replug takes short links to the next level with retargeting. Easily integrate retargeting pixel codes directly in your links to track clicks & conversions from the Replug dashboard.
Privacy and security
Replug prioritizes data safety. With strong privacy controls and secure link handling, you can confidently manage campaigns without worrying about unauthorized access or data leaks.
On top of these features, Replug offers flexible pricing plans that cater to individuals, small businesses, and large enterprises, making it a scalable choice for anyone serious about link management.
Additional: Using a website link checker can help verify the safety of shortened URLs before clicking.
Common use cases of URL shortening
URL shorteners have moved far beyond just making links look tidy. Today, they play a vital role in marketing, web development, and content distribution.
Here are some of the most common use cases where shortened links add real value:
Implementing URL shortening in web development
This is considered one of the most common yet practical technical aspects of URL shorteners. Implementing URL shortening in your well-built web application can enhance user experience, improve click-through rates, and provide valuable analytics.
Using shortened links in advertising campaigns
In paid advertising, every character counts, and messy links can discourage clicks. Shortened URLs keep ad copy clear and attractive while maximizing space in search ads, display banners, and sponsored posts.
More importantly, advertisers can attach tracking parameters to short links, enabling them to monitor impressions, clicks, and conversions associated with specific campaigns. This allows for better performance measurement and smarter budget allocation, making shortened URLs a must-have for digital advertising.
Shortened URLs for SMS and email campaigns
SMS messages have strict character limits, and long links can look disorganized or even break in transmission.
Similarly, in email campaigns, shorter links look more professional and trustworthy. Marketers use URL shorteners to make links more compact while tracking engagement metrics like open rates and click-through rates.
Blog post short links for sharing
For bloggers, short links make content easier to distribute across multiple platforms. Instead of relying on long, cluttered URLs, they can generate short links for each new post, either manually or through automation when publishing.
Readers can then share these links seamlessly on social media or messaging platforms. Shortened blog links also enable bloggers to track engagement, providing them with valuable insights into which posts resonate most with their audience.
Link cloaking for affiliate links
Affiliate marketers often use link cloaking to make long and complex affiliate URLs look cleaner and more trustworthy. Cloaking replaces the messy affiliate link with a short, branded URL that encourages more clicks while reducing the risk of link hijacking.
It also helps maintain consistency in marketing campaigns and provides accurate tracking for conversions and commissions.
Short URL integration in social media scheduling tools
Social media scheduling tools often integrate URL shorteners to simplify the posting process. When marketers schedule posts, the tool automatically shortens long links, keeping the captions clean and concise.
Beyond aesthetics, this integration offers built-in tracking, allowing users to measure clicks and engagement across various platforms. This automation saves time and ensures that every link shared is both manageable and trackable, without requiring any extra manual effort.
Summing Up
URL shorteners have become essential tools for digital marketers, providing cleaner links, enhanced tracking, and a better user experience. By understanding how they work and the technology behind them, marketers can make more intelligent choices for their campaigns.
Whether you’re sharing links on social media, in emails, or through ads, using a reliable link shortening platform ensures professionalism, performance, and measurable results.
Start optimizing your links today with a trusted solution like Replug!
Frequently asked questions
How do you shorten a URL?
Follow these steps:
1. Choose a URL shortener – Start by selecting a reliable tool like Replug. 2. Paste your long URL – Copy the link you want to shorten and paste it into the input field on the tool’s website. 3. Click the ‘Shorten’ button – The tool will process your link. 4. Copy your short URL – Once generated, copy the new, shorter link and use it wherever you need.
Which URL shortener is popular?
Some of the most popular URL shorteners right now are:
Replug — widely used, good analytics, custom/vanity links. TinyURL — one of the oldest tools; simple and reliable. Rebrandly — great for branded URLs and business/team use.
Do URL shorteners affect SEO?
URL shorteners do not negatively affect SEO as long as they use 301 redirects, which pass most of the link equity to the destination URL. Search engines treat these shortened links like regular links when properly implemented.
Does Google prefer short URLs?
Yes, Google generally prefers short, clean URLs because they are easier to read, understand, and share. While URL length is not a major ranking factor, shorter URLs often perform better in terms of user experience and click-through rates, which can indirectly benefit SEO.
Ever wished for shorter, catchier, and on-brand links? Look no further. Branded Short Domains do just that. They take your long website links and turn them into compact, branded short links that pack a punch.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the secrets behind branded domains – what they are, why they matter, and how you can effortlessly get started. Let’s dive in and revolutionize your online presence, one link at a time.
What is a branded short domain?
A branded short domain is a customized and concise web address created from your domain name, designed to strengthen your brand’s identity in online communications.
In short, a branded domain is a way to transform long URLs into branded, memorable, and impactful short links that resonate with your audience.
Branded short link vs. branded short domain: What’s the difference?
Both branded short links and branded short domains provide more customized and memorable URLs compared to long, generic ones, the main distinction lies in whether you’re customizing the link portion only (branded short link) or also customizing the domain part (branded domain) to align with your brand’s identity.
Branded short domains offer a higher level of branding and control, but they require additional setup and configuration compared to branded short links.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into branded short links that convert.
Try Replug for free
How to set up a branded short domain?
With Replug, you can now transform your URLs into branded short domains, seamlessly integrating your brand identity into every interaction. Say goodbye to generic links and hello to a more memorable and trustworthy online presence with this top-notch, all-in-one link optimization platform.
Let’s dive in and take your brand to the next level of link engagement with this reliable link shortener.
Set up the branded short domain using Replug:
Step no 01: Access the Replug Home, navigate to “Settings,” and select “Custom Domains” from the dropdown menu.
Step no 02: Click on “Add Domain” to add your custom domain for creating branded links.
Step no 03: Enter your Domain URL, set up Custom 404 redirection, and define the Branded Domain. Click “Connect” to proceed.
Domain URL: Your branded or custom domain.
404 Redirect URL: Where users land on 404 pages.
Branded Domain: Redirects users to the specified URL when they visit the root address of your brand’s domain.
Step no 04: To finalize the setup, you need to configure DNS records in your domain registrar’s settings. You have two options:
CNAME (Canonical Name) Record: Point it to “rplg.co” and set HOST as “@” or “www.”
A (Address) Record: Use the IP address “35.238.70.19” to point your root URL to the URL shortener.
For subdomains, such as “links.yourdomain.com” or “track.yourdomain.com,” use CNAME and A records accordingly.
Step no 05: After connecting your domain, Replug shows its status. You can also edit or delete custom domains as needed.
For detailed DNS setup instructions, Replug provides links to various domain registrars’ documentation, including Amazon Web Services, Namecheap, Cloudflare, cPanel, and HostGator.
Feel free to reach out to Replug’s support team if you have any questions or need assistance.
A complete link management solution
for marketing professionals & agencies.
Try Replug for free
Why do you need to use a branded short domain?
Using a branded short domain offers several valuable benefits for individuals and businesses alike:
Enhanced brand identity: Branded domains allow you to incorporate your brand name or a related keyword directly into your shortened links. This reinforces your brand identity with every link you share, making your content more recognizable and memorable to your audience.
Consistent branding: Branded domains maintain a consistent brand presence across all online interactions. Whether it’s in social media posts, emails, or marketing campaigns, your audience sees your brand name prominently displayed in the links you share.
Improved click-through rates: Branded short domains are more visually appealing and professional-looking. This can lead to higher click-through rates as users are more likely to click on links that appear trustworthy and associated with a familiar brand.
Analytics and insights: Many branded short-domain services provide detailed analytics about link performance. You can gain insights into click rates, geographic locations of clicks, devices used, and more. This data helps you optimize your link-sharing strategies.
Flexibility and control: With a branded domain, you have the flexibility to customize your links based on different campaigns, promotions, or content types. You can also easily update or change the destination URLs without affecting the branding.
SEO benefits: Branded short domains may contribute to boosting overall domain authority. As these links are associated with your main domain, they can potentially provide a small SEO advantage.
Professionalism: Branded domains create a more professional image for your brand. Instead of using generic shortening services, you present your audience with tailored, branded links that reflect your commitment to quality.
FAQs on branded short domain
Why should I use a branded short domain?
Using a branded short domain reinforces your brand identity, increases link trustworthiness, and maintains consistent branding in your online communications. It also improves click-through rates and provides analytics insights.
Do I need technical skills to set up a branded domain?
While some technical knowledge might be helpful, many branded short-domain services offer user-friendly setup processes. They typically provide instructions for configuring DNS records to link your domain with the shortening service.
Can I still use a short domain if I don’t have a website?
Yes, you can still use a branded short domain even if you don’t have a website. You can set up a subdomain for this purpose, such as “links.yourdomain.com,” and link it to the shortening service.
Can I track the performance of branded short links?
Yes, most branded short-domain services offer analytics and tracking features. You can monitor click rates, locations of clicks, devices used, and more to assess the effectiveness of your links.
Are there any SEO benefits to using a branded domain?
While the direct impact is limited, using branded short domains can potentially contribute to boosting your domain authority. The links are associated with your main domain, which could have a small positive effect on SEO.
Many people are understandably cautious about clicking on links, whether due to annoying website pop-ups or emails from unfamiliar sources.
At the same time, this hesitation poses a challenge for marketers, as getting users to click on URLs is vital for engagement and conversions.
This is where a free link shortener with tracking capabilities comes into play. It helps you create short URLs quickly and hassle-free.
These attractive and concise links have become popular among influencers, brands, marketers, and bloggers. These professionals utilize them to enhance marketing efforts, engagement, and click-through rates across various platforms.
Let’s explore the concept of shortened URLs and the possibilities of using short, branded URLs to boost marketing campaigns.
What are short URLs?
A short URL is a compressed version of a longer web address, created using a URL shortening service like Replug.
These links redirect users to the original URL but take up far less space, making them ideal for social media posts, SMS messages, email campaigns, and print materials.
The primary purpose of using such URLs is to enhance readability, make links more shareable, and provide a cleaner, more professional appearance across digital platforms.
The ultimate goal is to enhance user experience and maximize click-through rates (CTR) by making links easier to recognize, trust, and remember.
In fact, Backlinko reports that the top Google result earns a 27.6% CTR, showing just how impactful optimized URLs can be, especially when they’re concise and keyword-rich.
Importance of Short URLs
🔗 Improved click-through rates (CTR): Shorter, cleaner links tend to attract more clicks, especially when customized with relevant keywords.
📱 Better user experience: Long URLs can be messy and irritating. Short links are easier to read, type, and share, particularly on mobile devices.
📢 Cross-platform compatibility: Short URLs work seamlessly across all channels, from emails and tweets to offline QR codes and posters.
🎯 Efficient space usage: Especially useful in character-limited platforms like Twitter, where every character matters.
📊 Trackable engagement: The best URL shorteners come with built-in analytics to track performance, including clicks, device types, locations, and referrers.
Branded short links are more than just shortened URLs. They’re powerful marketing tools that enhance brand visibility, trust, and campaign performance.
🧠 Increased Brand Awareness: Branded links (e.g., yourbrand.link/offer) keep your business name front and center, reinforcing brand identity.
🤝 Higher Trust & Credibility: Users are more likely to click a link that includes your brand name rather than a random string of characters.
📈 Enhanced Conversion Rates: Recognizable, trustworthy links can drive more conversions by reducing hesitation and building confidence.
🔍 SEO Benefits & Keyword Relevance: Branded short links with targeted keywords can improve link context and searchability.
🛠️ Campaign Differentiation: Marketers can create unique branded links for different campaigns or platforms, making it easier to measure effectiveness and ROI.
How to use short URLs for marketing purposes
In today’s fast-paced digital world, every character counts, especially in marketing. Short URLs not only help streamline your messaging across channels but also offer powerful branding, tracking, and optimization opportunities.
When used strategically, they can significantly uplift your campaigns’ performance, improve engagement, and boost brand recognition.
Select a branded domain
Branded short links do more than just save space; they make a lasting impression.
Raise trust
Generic short URLs (like bit.ly or tinyurl.com) can appear suspicious to users. A branded short domain (e.g., nyti.ms for The New York Times or amzn.to for Amazon) instantly signals credibility.
Consumers are more likely to click on links that clearly indicate their source, which reduces bounce rates and enhances user confidence.
Boost brand recognition
A consistent, customized short link reinforces your brand with every share. When your brand name is visible in the link (e.g., yourbrand.link/offer), it becomes a subtle yet powerful marketing asset.
Over time, this repeated visibility strengthens brand recall and sets your content apart from generic competition.
Create meaningful custom links using a URL shortener
A short URL should still tell a story.
Contextualize
Avoid ambiguous strings like bit.ly/3kYs8dQ. Instead, create links that provide immediate context, like yourbrand.link/fall-sale.
This not only improves click-through rates but also helps users understand what they’re about to view.
Utilize keywords
Including relevant keywords in your custom URL improves both SEO and user engagement.
For instance, a campaign for a new product launch might use yourbrand.link/new-smartwatch, instantly conveying value while helping search engines index the link contextually.
Take advantage of the tracking & analytics capabilities of a URL shortener
One of the greatest strengths of short URLs lies in the data insights they provide.
Monitor clicks
Track how many times your links are clicked, and when. This helps determine peak engagement hours, ideal publishing times, and overall campaign performance.
Segment data by channel
Most paid URL shorteners (like Bitly, Rebrandly, or Sniply) allow segmentation by traffic source. Whether the link was clicked via Instagram, email, or a QR code on a flyer, you can pinpoint which platforms drive the most traffic.
Track performance
Beyond raw clicks, evaluate metrics such as bounce rate, time on site, and conversions associated with each short link.
For instance, yourbrand.link/discount might drive 10,000 clicks but only 1% conversions, prompting a change in strategy or landing page design.
Monitor multi-channel campaigns
Use unique short URLs for each channel in a multi-channel campaign (e.g., yourbrand.link/email, yourbrand.link/facebook, etc.). This gives you precise insights into what’s working and what needs refinement across your marketing mix.
Refine campaigns
Data from short links isn’t just for reporting, it’s actionable. Low click-through rates on a particular platform may suggest poor copy or ineffective targeting. Conversely, high-performing links can serve as templates for future campaigns.
Gain insights into audience engagement
Are mobile users engaging more than desktop users? Are certain geographic regions clicking more frequently?
Link analytics can provide rich behavioral insights, enabling you to tailor your messaging and audience targeting more precisely.
Deploy the short links across all marketing channels
Short links excel in their flexibility and universal applicability.
Social media
Character-limited platforms like Twitter and Instagram bios benefit greatly from short links. For example, a post might include yourbrand.link/freeguide to maximize space and visibility without clutter.
Emails
Short URLs keep your emails clean and clickable. They’re especially useful in tracking which links recipients engage with the most, allowing for precise list segmentation and follow-up.
SMS campaigns
Text message or SMS marketing succeeds due to its conciseness. A short, branded link not only fits character limits but also makes the message feel more professional, increasing trust and CTR.
Content marketing
In blog posts or downloadable PDFs, short URLs are easier to remember and type. They’re especially useful in content upgrades or linking to gated assets (e.g., yourbrand.link/checklist).
Print & offline media
Short URLs often back QR codes. But even without a QR code, having a memorable short URL on a poster, business card, or flyer (e.g., yourbrand.link/event) makes it easier for users to engage offline.
Test & iterate
Effective marketing is a cycle of experimentation and refinement.
A/B testing
A/B testing is a method for comparing two or more cases to see which one performs better. Use multiple variations of your short URLs to test different messages, formats, or landing pages.
For example, test yourbrand.link/save20 vs. yourbrand.link/20off to see which resonates better with your audience.
Stay consistent
Consistency builds familiarity. Stick to a recognizable format and naming convention for your URLs to make them more memorable and reinforce your brand across all campaigns.
Short URLs are more than a space-saving tool; they’re a strategic marketing asset. When branded, customized, and tracked effectively, they enhance trust, boost engagement, and provide actionable insights that help refine your campaigns.
Whether you’re launching a new product, running a seasonal promotion, or simply sharing blog content, integrating short URLs across your marketing channels ensures your message is not only seen, but remembered and acted upon.
How to use short URLs for marketing campaigns: Some good examples at hand
Let’s explore five successful examples of brands using short URLs to drive marketing results effectively.
Coca-Cola’s “cokeurl.com”
Strategy: Coca-Cola created a custom branded short domain, cokeurl.com, to reinforce its brand identity in digital campaigns.
Use case: In global promotions like the “Share a Coke” campaign, they used short URLs to direct users to personalized bottle pages or social contests.
Why it works: These links were easy to remember and instantly associated with the brand, thereby improving engagement across platforms such as Twitter and SMS.
New York Times’ “nyti.ms”
Strategy: The New York Times uses nyti.ms, a branded short domain, for sharing articles across social media.
Use case: Each shortened link redirects to a full NYT article, especially effective on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where character count matters.
Why it works: Branded URLs, such as nyti.ms/abc123, build trust, signaling to users that the link leads to a reputable source — a key factor in increasing click-through rates.
Amazon’s “amzn.to”
Strategy: Amazon uses the custom short domain amzn.to, powered by Bitly, for affiliate and product links.
Use case: Affiliates and marketers share these links on blogs, YouTube descriptions, and social media to drive sales and earn commissions.
Why it works: These URLs are concise, trackable, and clean, enabling both Amazon and its partners to monitor traffic, conversions, and optimize campaigns in real-time.
Spotify’s campaign-specific short links
Strategy: Spotify uses short URLs for sharing playlists, artist pages, and marketing campaigns, often through branded or campaign-specific domains.
Use case: During the launch of new features or artist collaborations (e.g., “wrapped” campaigns), Spotify uses custom short links to drive mobile traffic.
Why it works: These links enhance shareability and enable Spotify to collect user data, including location and device information, for retargeting and analytics purposes.
Pepsi’s QR & short link integration in campaigns
Strategy: Pepsi integrates short URLs alongside QR codes in product packaging and TV commercials.
Use case: During promotions like the “Pepsi Stuff” rewards program, they used memorable short links to direct users to sign-up pages and promo details.
Why it works: Combining visual codes with short, branded URLs ensures a seamless user experience, especially for mobile users who may not be able to scan a QR code (at times) but can easily type a simple URL.
The best URL shortener for online marketing in 2025
Replug.io is an all-in-one link management tool designed for brands, marketers, SEO specialists, and bloggers to create, manage, and analyze short URLs.
It’s a comprehensive URL shortening tool that provides several link management services to upgrade your social media marketing to the next level.
Thousands of happy customers worldwide trust Replug for the link shortening task. One major reason for its success is that it offers much more than the average URL shortener freely available online.
Users find URL shortening, tracking, bio links, and much more under the same umbrella. It’s, without a doubt, the best URL shortener for social media marketers.
Key features
Precise URL shortening
Custom domain configuration for branded short URLs
URL analytics to track and monitor URL performance
QR code management for links
Customizable call-to-actions
Pricing
Free: $0/month
Essentials: $9/month
Scale: $23/month
Agency: $79/month
Wrapping up
To sum up, short URLs have become vital tools for modern marketers, helping improve brand visibility, track campaign performance, and enhance user engagement.
By integrating branded short links into your digital marketing strategy, you can establish trust, drive higher click-through rates, and measure success with precision.
No matter for social media, email campaigns, or influencer collaborations, short URLs simplify link management and boost overall marketing efficiency.
As 2025 continues to reshape online marketing, choosing the right URL shortener is crucial for staying ahead.
Replug offers everything you need, from branded links to advanced analytics, making it the ultimate solution for professionals.
Try this amazing URL shortening tool today and advance your link management game!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use a short URL link?
To use a short URL link:
– Select a reliable service like Replug, and paste your long URL into their input field. – The tool then generates a shortened version, which is often customizable for branding purposes. – Copy the short link and paste it into emails, social posts, or websites. – When clicked, it redirects to the original URL seamlessly.
How to use short URLs for marketing on Facebook?
On Facebook, short URLs enhance marketing by making posts cleaner and more engaging, as they avoid long, cluttered links that hinder clicks.
Use tools like Replug to shorten links, add UTM parameters for tracking, and integrate them into ads, posts, or stories.
This enables monitoring of click-through rates, audience engagement, and campaign performance through built-in analytics.
How to use short URLs for marketing on Google?
For Google marketing, particularly in Google Ads or Search Console, use short URLs from services like Replug or Google’s own Firebase Dynamic Links (for apps) to create concise, trackable links.
Append UTM tags for analytics in Google Analytics, and embed them in ad copy or search results snippets. This improves click rates and provides data on user behavior across campaigns.
How to make money from shortened URLs?
Earn from shortened URLs via pay-per-click (PPC) services like AdFly, Linkvertise, or ShrinkMe, where you shorten links and share them. Each click views a short ad, earning you a commission (typically $1-10 per 1,000 views).
Sign up, generate links, and promote them on social media or websites, but comply with platform policies to avoid bans. Payouts vary by traffic quality and geography, with thresholds around $5-10 for withdrawal.
Can URL shorteners track clicks?
Yes, most URL shorteners offer built-in click tracking, providing metrics such as total clicks, geographic locations, referral sources, and device types.
Premium plans enhance this with advanced analytics, integration with Google Analytics, and real-time data. This helps marketers optimize campaigns without needing extra tools.
What is the relationship between short URLs and social media shares?
Short URLs boost social media shares by making links more aesthetically pleasing and shareable, fitting character limits on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), and improving click-through rates.
They correlate with higher engagement, as clean posts appear more professional and trustworthy. Analytics from shorteners also reveal share patterns, helping refine content strategies.
Should I shorten links even for email or social posts?
Yes, shortening links for emails and social posts is recommended to enhance readability, track engagement, and fit character limits, especially on mobile devices.
It prevents long URLs from breaking layouts or appearing spammy, while providing analytics on opens and clicks. However, use branded URL shorteners like Replug to build trust and avoid generic ones that might raise security concerns.
What are some of the most common challenges marketers face when using shortlinks?
Marketers often struggle with link trustworthiness, as shortened URLs can conceal malicious content, resulting in lower click rates or platform flags. Analytics accuracy can vary, with issues like bot traffic inflating metrics or service downtime causing redirect failures.
Additionally, dependency on third-party shorteners risks data privacy breaches or sudden policy changes that could affect campaigns.
Most marketers prioritize email, social, and ads when designing their digital marketing campaigns. They highly underestimate SMS marketing probably due to the advent of apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, Viber, Kik, BOTIM, and others.
However, the reality is that SMS marketing hasn’t become irrelevant at all. In fact, a study shows that 65% of global mobile subscribers communicate via text messages.
A core reason why SMS marketing, especially for text invitations, can turn things around for any brand or individual is the effective use of SMS link previews.
Find out what an SMS link preview is before your competitors take the edge over you.
Understanding SMS link previews
An SMS link preview is a preview snippet that pops up in the text message and showcases the featured image and topic of the article or web page right in the SMS, making it more appealing and clickable.
Simply put, it’s the enhanced version of a link sent in a text message that displays the link’s title, image, and (sometimes) the image.
It’s called SMS link preview because it provides a preview to the receiver before this person opens the link. Not only does it provide a sneak peek into the content, but it also adds curiosity to the receiver’s mind.
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SMS links are widely used in SMS marketing campaigns, but most marketers still take them for granted.
So, here are some benefits of using SMS link previews as a reminder to make the most of your SMS marketing campaigns:
1. Helps drive website traffic through text messages
One reason brands and marketers send out links in text messages is to drive website traffic to their sales pages, blog posts, or other URLs. SMS link previews can entice SMS receivers to click through and visit the website.
SMS marketing has become an integral part of digital marketing. Therefore, SMS links are crucial for the success of any SMS marketing campaign. SMS link previews make links more noticeable and clickable, enabling SMS marketing campaigns to achieve better results.
3. Gives a sneak peek into the content
A little peek into the content makes it easier for the receiver to check it out. Optimizing the website pages and blog posts to showcase SMS link previews makes a huge difference.
Let’s be honest: a hyperlink with text in an SMS looks quite shady, even if a family member or friend sends it. One of the benefits of having SMS link previews is that the SMS links appear cleaner and less-spammy. Above all, the receivers can open them with some confidence.
Indeed, sometimes short URLs don’t look trustworthy, especially if an unknown person sends them. Most marketers use short links in SMS and email marketing to track clickability, open rate, and reach. However, when an SMS link preview pops up, it adds credibility to the message.
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Can you curate the SMS link preview image and text?
When sharing links via SMS, having an eye-catching preview image and compelling text can significantly enhance engagement.
To make it happen, one needs to utilize a link preview tool such as Replug. This all-in-one link management platform makes it easy to customize these previews, ensuring your messages stand out.
Here’s how you can create an effective SMS link preview using Replug.
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Step no 01
Go to Replug Home and locate the “Quickly shorten your link” bar. Paste the URL you want to share and press Enter.
Step no 02
You’ll be redirected to a page where you can customize your SMS link preview. Here, you can password-protect your links, add expiry dates to them, add traffic routing rules to them, and much more.
Step no 03
Once you input the link, Replug will automatically fetch the meta details, such as title, description, and thumbnail image. But if you want to customize the details even more, you can:
Title: You can customize the title of your SMS link preview by simply typing in your preferred text in the “Title” field.
Description: Adjust the description by writing a more engaging or relevant summary of your link in the “Description” field.
Image: Upload a custom image to change the thumbnail. Make sure it’s eye-catching and relevant to your content.
Replug automatically generates a shortened URL, making it SMS-friendly. Short links are easier to share and fit better in text messages.
Step no 05
Use the preview feature to see how your link will appear when shared via SMS. Ensure the image and text are displaying correctly.
It’s a good idea to send yourself a test SMS to see how the link appears on different devices.
Step no 06
Once you are satisfied with the preview, click “Save.” Then, share the link through your preferred SMS platform. The enhanced preview will engage your audience and drive more clicks.
Best practices when creating SMS link previews
Before you hop on your favorite link converter for generating short URLs or optimizing your website URLs for SMS link previews, read the following best practices for using SMS link previews:
1. Keep it concise
SMS messages have character limits, so keep your link previews brief and to the point. Use clear, compelling language to entice users to click without overwhelming them with information.
2. Test across devices
Link previews can look different on various devices and messaging apps. Test how your previews appear on other platforms to ensure they maintain visual appeal and functionality, and adjust your metadata if necessary for optimal display.
3. Use high-quality, beautiful images in the content
Using colorful, high-resolution images in SMS link previews is essential for quickly capturing readers’ attention and creating a visually appealing experience. Choose images that convey the essence of your message, enticing recipients to click on the link.
An attractive, eye-catching image can significantly enhance engagement, making the preview more inviting and transforming the URL snippet in the SMS into an irresistible opportunity for the recipient.
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4. Keep the optimal image sizes in mind when creating images
It’s essential to create images that are readable by the devices. The optimal image sizes should be considered when creating images for blog posts or landing pages.
Not only does it allow images to display correctly across various devices and platforms, but it also impacts the SMS marketing campaign. Properly sized images help maintain the visual integrity of the link preview.
Difference Between Link Previews and OG Tags
When sharing links across social media, messaging apps, or websites, you may notice that certain details like images, titles, and descriptions automatically appear. These elements come together in what we call link previews.
However, what many may not realize is that the content displayed in these previews is controlled behind the scenes by something called OG tags (Open Graph tags).
Understanding the difference between link previews and OG tags can help website owners and marketers optimize how their content is shared online. Let’s break down these two concepts.
Feature
Link Previews
OG Tags (Open Graph Tags)
Definition
A visual snippet displayed when a URL is shared on social platforms or messaging apps.
HTML meta tags that control what content appears in the link preview.
Purpose
To give users a quick overview of the content and entice them to click the link.
To control and customize how content appears when shared on social media.
Visibility
Visible to users on social media and messaging platforms.
Hidden in the website’s HTML code; only visible to social platforms.
Customiz-ation
Generated automatically based on webpage content. Limited customization without OG tags.
Provides full control over title, image, description, and URL in the preview.
Control
Platforms decide what content appears in the preview based on available metadata.
Website owners can define exactly what content appears in the preview.
Common elements
Title, description, image (if available), URL.
Title, description, image, URL — all customizable via OG tags.
Role in SEO
Indirect impact, as well-crafted previews can increase click-through rates (CTR).
Can indirectly boost SEO by making links more appealing and clickable.
Impleme-ntation
Automatic; platforms extract information from the webpage.
Requires adding specific OG meta tags to the HTML of the webpage.
Use case
When sharing URLs on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.
Best for ensuring consistent branding and accurate display of content across platforms.
Leveraging open graph (OG) tags
OG tags are essential tools for controlling how the content is displayed when sent in a text message or shared on social media platforms.
The idea is to strategically implement these tags to ensure that the links turn out to be visually appealing and attractive to the recipient. Moreover, these effects can significantly improve click-through rates and engagement.
Let’s decode open graph tags and learn more about them:
The basic OG tags:
og:title
It specifies the title of the content.
og:url
It showcases the canonical URL of the page
og:image
It defines the image that will appear with the shared link
og:type
It clarifies the type of object being shared, such as website, article, etc.
og:description
It provides a brief description of the page
How to leverage OG tags?
Digital marketers and conversion optimization experts strive to discover new ways to increase engagement, drive website traffic, improve click-through rates, and make more money.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a new trick to get new eyeballs around your content on social media or make your SMS preview links look more attractive.
Here are three ways to leverage OG tags:
1. Enhancing social media optimization
Social media content is vital to modern-day digital marketing. To maximize the impact of your OG tags on social media content performance, tailor them specifically for the social media platforms where your audience is most active.
Facebook, Twitter (X) and LinkedIn are the major social media platforms that rely on OG tags for link previews. Influencers and experts pay attention to OG tags to ensure that their article links generate previews when shared across social media.
By optimizing the OG tags for these platforms, social media users make sure that the content is presented in the best manner possible, which increases the chance of attracting more shares, comments, and likes.
Have you ever heard of Google Discover? It’s a content discovery platform from Google that displays top news across multiple categories and is available to Android users. It’s accessed through the Chrome browser on the Android phones. Google Discovers picks up the content from the websites that are schema-optimized and publishes high-quality content.
Similarly, OG tags not only improve the visual appeal of your shared links but also contribute to better SEO performance. Search engines keep an eye out on the websites that are wildly popular on social media, and often end up rewarding them through SEO rankings.
It’s safe to assume that attractive and well-optimized previews are more likely to be clicked and shared, leading to increased traffic and visibility for your website.
3. Fine-tuning the SMS link previews
Last but not least, it’s the effect on the SMS link previews. One of the best ways to leverage OG tags is to carve out a strategy for fine-tuning your SMS link preview.
Open Graph Protocol massively impacts the SMS link previews of the websites and blog URLs if implemented correctly. SMS is still a powerful communication medium despite the popularity of various chat apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, Viber, Kik, and others.
Optimizing your SMS link previews can trigger new opportunities no matter what industry you belong to. So, don’t shy away from putting together a solid strategy for optimizing your websites or blogs for SMS link previews.
So, these are three ways to leverage OG tags. The purpose of this strategy is to ensure that website titles, headlines, descriptions, and URLs pop up when shared across multiple devices and platforms.
Final thoughts
SMS link previews may not be the talk of the digital marketing world, but they’re still relevant to online marketing.
Since it directly impacts click-through rate, conversion, and engagement of text messages, the concept is gaining popularity day by day.
We tried to keep it simple yet meaningful for social media influencers, brands, bloggers, entrepreneurs, and publishers who haven’t had a chance to find out about the SMS link previews before.
The next time you send or receive a URL in the SMS, you’ll notice whether or not it generated the link preview – if you do, then all the effort that went into writing, editing, and publishing this piece of content is worth it.
FAQs about SMS link previews
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about SMS link previews:
What is an SMS short link?
An SMS short link refers to the shortened URL that is used in text messages to avoid cluttering and spammy looks. Moreover, users can track clickability on the short, branded URLs. Check out this URL shortener for more information.
Can SMS have links?
SMS messages can include links within their body. However, it is important to ensure that URLs contain “http://” or “https://” along with a valid domain extension, such as .com or .net, to function properly. Additionally, in some cases, placing the links at the beginning or end of the text message can enhance clickability.
What is a text link?
A text link is a hyperlinked text that is used to drive website visitors from one section/page to another. The text links are also used as the replacement for the image call-to-actions. However, in the SEO world, a text link can either be a backlink (pointing to another website) or an internal link (pointing to another page of the same website).
What are link previews in text messages?
The link previews are the link snippets that appear on social media platforms and messaging apps when a blog post link or a website URL is shared with the public or a friend in private. It mostly contains the image, title, description, and URL of the page.
How to create a link preview in your SMS message?
To create a link in your SMS message, one be sharing the website that has already been optimized for link previews. On the other hand, the receiver of the text message must be using any of the recently released phones. To make it work on older Android phones, the user must have a Google Message app installed that can create link previews. Moreover, iOS users must have iOS 10 or later versions to be able to enjoy the link previews.
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