Bitly
Bitly is a well-known link management platform that shortens long URLs into shareable short links, with click tracking, QR code generation, and branded custom domains. It is widely used in social media, email, and SMS marketing.
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Best for marketers who manage campaign links and track click analytics; not suitable for users who only shorten a link occasionally.
Verified facts
What is Bitly
Bitly is a well-known link management platform that shortens long URLs into shareable short links, with click tracking, QR code generation, and branded custom domains. It is widely used in social media, email, and SMS marketing.
Key features of Bitly
- Shortening long campaign URLs
- Tracking clicks on social posts
- Generating QR codes for marketing materials
- Binding a branded domain for recognition
Good for
- Stable short links with fast global access
- Rich click analytics dimensions
- Open API with Zapier and other integrations
Watch out
- Limited free plan; branded domains are paid
- Access speed may vary by region
- Advanced analytics requires enterprise plans
How to use Bitly
- Register on bitly.com
- Click Create and paste a long URL
- Optionally customize the back-half
- Generate a QR code on the detail page
- View click statistics in the dashboard
Who Bitly is for
Difficulty: Beginner
- Shortening long campaign URLs
- Tracking clicks on social posts
- Generating QR codes for marketing materials
- Binding a branded domain for recognition
FAQ
Is Bitly free?
A free personal plan exists; branded domains and advanced analytics require paid plans.
Does it support custom domains?
Yes, paid plans allow binding your own branded domain.
Is there an API?
Yes, an open API integrates with Zapier, Slack, HubSpot, and more.
Sources and verification
Sources: bitly.com (opens in a new tab)
Verified: · Submit a correction →
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