Here’s a structured comparison between .COM and .IST domain names so you can decide which suits your project best:
.COM Domains
Pros:
- Global Recognition: The most widely known and trusted extension worldwide.
- Trust & Credibility: Users instinctively trust .COM websites, making them ideal for business, ecommerce, and professional brands.
- High Resale Value: Strong aftermarket demand; premium .COMs often sell for high prices.
- SEO Neutrality: Google treats all TLDs equally, but user trust boosts CTR (click-through rate) on .COM.
- Versatility: Works across industries—business, personal, blogs, startups, ecommerce, etc.
Cons:
- Availability Issues: Most short and brandable .COM names are already taken.
- Expensive Premiums: Quality .COM domains can be costly to acquire.
- Less Local Flavor: Not tailored to regional branding or cultural identity.
.IST Domains
(.IST is the geographic TLD for Istanbul, Turkey.)
Pros:
- Local Identity: Perfect for businesses, cultural projects, tourism, or services centered in Istanbul.
- Targeted Audience: Strongly signals connection to Istanbul and appeals to local customers.
- Better Availability: More chances to secure short, brandable names compared to .COM.
- Community Branding: Useful for startups, restaurants, travel agencies, and cultural institutions highlighting their Istanbul roots.
Cons:
- Limited Recognition: Not as globally trusted as .COM, especially outside Turkey.
- Lower Resale Market: Investors and international buyers place less value on .IST than .COM.
- Niche Appeal: Best suited only if your audience is Istanbul-based or culturally tied to the region.
- Scalability Limits: May not fit if you plan to expand globally in the future.
.COM vs .IST — Which Should You Choose?
- Choose .COM if you want global reach, trust, and resale value. It’s the safest and strongest option for startups, ecommerce, SaaS, and international brands.
- Choose .IST if your project is Istanbul-focused—such as a local restaurant, travel company, cultural initiative, or city-specific startup. It helps you stand out locally but is less effective for global growth.
A hybrid strategy can also work: secure .COM for global credibility and .IST for local branding.