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Shopify Domain Checker: Find Your Perfect Domain Name

Last updated: December 12 2024

Written and researched by experts at Avada Learn more about our methodology

Looking to find the perfect domain name for your Shopify store? In this guide, we’ll break down why a great domain name matters for your e-commerce success, share tips to choose the best one, and walk you through the steps to buy or switch your Shopify domain like a pro. Let’s get started! 

What is a Shopify domain?

A Shopify domain is essentially your online store’s address where customers visit. It’s vital to choose a name that’s both memorable and reflective of your business. Plus, in the digital world, ensuring your store is mobile-friendly is a must, and Shopify caters to this need effortlessly.

What is a Shopify domain?

A unique domain name enhances your brand and provides consistency as your business evolves. Opting for simple endings, like .com, makes it easier for customers to locate you and boosts your visibility on search engines.

Shopify simplifies the process by offering a comprehensive package: From domain registration and hosting to streamlined domain management. This integrated approach ensures that from your storefront to your sales, everything is consolidated, eliminating the complexities of juggling multiple platforms.

4 Steps to choose the perfect Shopify domain

Step 1: Think of potential domain names

Step 1: Think of potential domain names

Kick off the process by brainstorming possible terms for your domain. You should think about your product or brand and consider synonyms or related words that capture your business’s essence. Using your brand name as the domain name is another viable option. After generating potential names, it’s time to check if they’re available.

Step 2: Ensure your domain name isn’t taken by using domain checker

Shopify’s domain checker lets you see if your desired domain name is available. If it’s free, you can use it; if not, think of other names. It’s a good idea to check both the .com and .net versions. Even with new options like .shop or .us, .com domains often seem more trustworthy for online shops.

💡 You can use Shopify’s WHOIS tool to determine who owns a domain and when it expires. You’ll also need a web host if you choose a Shopify domain.

Step 3: Create your account and adjust your DNS settings

Shopify offers a variety of domain options for your convenience. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the choices:

  • Select a Domain: Pick one that suits your needs and set up your account.
  • Adjust DNS Settings: After selecting, modify your DNS settings. If you need assistance, Shopify’s support team is ready to help.
  • DNS Activation: The DNS records might take a few hours to activate. You can track the status in Shopify admin under the ‘Domains’ section.
  • Subdomain vs. Root Domain: If you prefer a subdomain (e.g., shop.mydomain.com) over a root domain (e.g., mydomain.com), adjust it in the ‘Domains’ section.
  • Linking to Specific Store: Want to connect a particular Shopify store to a custom domain? Add the domain under ‘Store settings’ in the ‘Domains’ section.
  • Note on Shopify Lite Plan: Remember that with Shopify Lite, you’re limited to a shop.shopify.com domain and cannot link a custom domain.

You can efficiently set up and manage your Shopify domain by following these steps.

💡  Read More: How to sign up for Shopify easily

After your DNS settings are active, you can connect your domain to Shopify and create your online store. This is the step to link your new domain to the Shopify store for later business operation.

Step 4: Link your domain to Shopify

Overall, to briefly set up a Shopify domain, here is the breakdown of the full guided steps:

  • Navigate to ‘Settings‘ in Shopify admin.
  • In the ‘Domains‘ section, input your desired domain in the ‘Domain name’ field.
  • If the domain is free, select ‘Add domain‘.
  • If already in use, opt for an alternative domain name.

Pros & Cons of Shopify domain name

Let’s dive deeper into the pros and cons of procuring a domain name directly from Shopify.

Pros

Shopify provides a platform for creating a personalized e-commerce store without coding knowledge. In addition to having access to top-rated Shopify apps, here are a few more advantages to purchasing a domain from Shopify:

  • The platform is user-friendly and has features designed to accelerate your business growth.
  • Shopify takes care of hosting, alleviating you from the hassle of setting up and managing your website server.
  • Being a hosted platform, the Shopify domain provides the flexibility to be accessed and managed from any location worldwide.
  • An added benefit is the SSL encryption (HTTPS) that comes preconfigured with your domain, saving you the trouble of setting it up separately.

Cons

On the other hand, considering some potential downsides before purchasing a domain name from Shopify is worth considering:

  • Your options are restricted to Shopify’s features, limiting your flexibility.
  • The cost associated with Shopify’s paid plans may be steep compared to more budget-friendly, open-source alternatives such as WooCommerce.

Costs of Shopify domain name

Costs of Shopify domain name

Shopify’s domain pricing is quite transparent, having no concealed charges, and it stands as one of the most reasonably priced options for securing a .store or .shop domain. Read everything about Shopify’s Domain Pricing here

When comparing Shopify domain costs with other competitors, Shopify still holds the pricing advantages since:

  • Jimdo Domains: Priced at 20 euros annually with limited TLD options. The domain might be free for the first year, depending on your chosen plan.
  • Square Online: Limited to a few countries, though it’s gradually expanding. A point to note for global customers.
  • WordPress Pricing: Attractive start-up costs, but the renewal rates are much higher.
  • Zyro Pricing: Offers affordable rates in the first year, with renewal costs that are more moderate than WordPress.
Shopify’s Domain Pricing

To better understand the current domain that different platforms provide, the following table contains the cheapest free plan available on each site builder that provides a free domain for the initial year.

Shopify’s Domain Pricing

💡 Also Read: Everything to Know about Shopify Plans, Fees and Hidden Cost

How to buy a Shopify domain 

Follow these simple steps to purchase a domain directly from Shopify:

  • Open the Shopify app and head to the ‘Domains’ section.
Open the Shopify app and head to the ‘Domains’ section.
  • Click on ‘Buy a New Domain’ to get started
Click on ‘Buy a New Domain’ to get started
  • Use the search bar to type your desired domain name and hit ‘Search.’
Use the search bar to type your desired domain name and hit ‘Search.’
  • If the domain is available, click Buy.’ If it’s already taken, you’ll need to pick another one.
If the domain is available, click Buy.’
  • Enter your contact details and payment information in the checkout form.
Enter your contact details and payment information
  • Click ‘Buy domain’ to complete the purchase.
Click ‘Buy domain’ to complete the purchase

Congratulations! Your Shopify domain is ready to go. Just remember to choose a Shopify plan and keep up with monthly payments to keep your store live.

How to change the Shopify domain

Switching your Shopify domain is super easy! Here’s a quick guide to get it done:

  • Go to Shopify Admin: Log in and head to Online Store > Domains.
Go to Shopify Admin
  • Select ‘Change to a New Domain’ from the domain list, click this option.
Select ‘Change to a New Domain’
  • Type in your shiny new domain name and click ‘Add Domain’ to save it.
Type in your shiny new domain name and click ‘Add Domain’

7 Tips to choose the best Shopify domain name

1. Keep It Short and Memorable

In choosing your domain name, ensure it’s simple, concise, and memorable. Here are some guidelines to consider:

  • Keep your domain name no longer than 15 characters
  • Steer clear of slang (for instance, avoid using “U” in place of “you”)
  • Shun words that are complicated to spell and understand

2. Avoid hyphens and numbers

Hyphens and numbers can cause typing errors and make your domain less mobile-friendly. For instance, "cool-domain.com" or "4youstore.com" might confuse visitors. Instead, opt for clean and seamless names without symbols.

3. Aim for a .com Extension

Aim for a .com Extension

The .com extension is the gold standard, trusted by 78% of businesses. If unavailable, you can consider alternatives like .co or .net, but ensure they’re cost-effective and don’t infringe on trademarks.

4. Explore Other TLDs

If .com isn’t an option, think about quality alternatives:

  • .shop or .store for eCommerce businesses.
  • .org for nonprofits.
  • Country-specific domains like .in (India) or .uk (UK) to target regional markets.
    These options keep your domain relevant and market-focused.

5. Incorporate SEO Keywords

Add a keyword that represents your niche to boost SEO. For example:

  • Sunday + apparel = sundayapparel.com
  • Diane’s + candles = dianescandles.com
    Balance is key—use one or two keywords to avoid a spammy vibe.

It’s best to limit your keywords to one or two to avoid appearing spammy, which could deter potential visitors.

6. Use Domain Name Generators for Ideas

Use Domain Name Generators for Ideas

Stuck on what to name your store? Domain name generators can help! Shopify’s domain name generator is perfect for brainstorming: just input a keyword, and it’ll suggest unique and creative options. These tools make it easy to explore variations you might not think of on your own.

7. Check Availability Before Finalizing

Before committing, ensure your chosen domain isn’t already taken. Use tools like:

  • Shopify Domain Search: Quickly check availability directly on Shopify.
  • WHOIS Lookup: Find out who owns a domain and when it expires.
  • Trademark Database: Use USPTO.gov to ensure your domain doesn’t infringe on registered trademarks.
  • Social Media Platforms: Search your domain name on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to ensure it’s unique and available for your handles.
  • Google Search: A quick search can reveal existing brands or entities with a similar name.

3 quality domain name checker tool for references

GoDaddy Domain Name Search

Benefits:

  • Extensive Database: GoDaddy has an enormous database of domain names.
  • Recommendations: Offers alternative names and extensions if your desired domain is taken.
  • Additional Services: Provides hosting, website builder, and SSL certificates.

Pricing:

Basic domain names start from as low as $0.99/year, but prices can go up based on the domain’s popularity and extension.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface.
  • Integrated services from domain registration to web hosting.
  • Offers domain auctions for buying and selling domain names.

Cons:

  • Renewal rates can be higher than initial pricing.
  • Upselling of other services during checkout can be aggressive.

Namecheap Domain Name Checker

Namecheap Domain Name Checker

Benefits:

  • Free WHOIS Privacy: Offers free domain privacy to protect user’s personal information.
  • Domain Insights: Suggests domain names based on popular keywords.
  • Variety: Large selection of traditional and new TLDs.

Pricing:

Prices start from $0.88/year for some domain extensions, with regular .com domains around $8.88/year.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Transparent pricing with no significant increase upon renewal.
  • User-friendly dashboard.
  • Excellent customer service.

Cons:

  • Fewer integrated additional services compared to GoDaddy.

Google Domains

Benefits:

  • Simple Interface: Minimalistic and user-friendly design.
  • Integrated with Google Services: Seamless integration with services like G Suite.
  • Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or aggressive upselling.

Pricing:

  • Prices for .com domains start at $12/year.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • No additional cost for domain privacy.
  • Transparent renewal pricing.
  • Reliable due to Google’s robust infrastructure.

Cons:

  • Fewer promotional offers or discounts.
  • Limited domain-related additional services.

Final Thought

Your Shopify domain name is more than just a web address—it’s your brand’s first impression and a key player in your eCommerce success. Whether you’re brainstorming with tools, exploring unique TLDs, or optimizing for SEO, every step you take shapes how customers find and connect with your store.

Take your time to get it right, and don’t forget to double-check availability to avoid any legal or branding hiccups. 

Shopify Domain Checker: FAQs 

1. Can I use my existing domain name with Shopify?

Yes! If you already own a domain name, you can connect it to your Shopify store. Simply navigate to Settings > Domains in Shopify Admin and follow the steps to link your domain. You’ll need to adjust your DNS settings with your domain provider.

2. How much does a Shopify domain cost?

Shopify domains typically start at $15 per year. This includes features like automatic renewal and free WHOIS privacy protection. Costs may vary based on the domain extension (e.g., .com vs. .shop).

3. Can I change my Shopify domain after setting it up?

Absolutely! You can update your store's primary domain at any time. Go to Settings > Domains, select a new domain, and set it as the primary one. Just ensure the new domain is properly connected.

4. What happens if I let my Shopify domain expire?

If you don’t renew your domain, it will become inactive, and your store might be inaccessible. Shopify typically sends reminders before expiration. If it lapses, someone else could purchase it, so renew promptly to avoid losing your domain.

Sam
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Sam Nguyen is the CEO and founder of Avada Commerce, an e-commerce solution provider headquartered in Singapore. He is an expert on the Shopify e-commerce platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems. Sam loves talking about e-commerce and he aims to help over a million online businesses grow and thrive.