What Is a Top-level Domain Extension?
A top-level domain (or TLD), is what it sounds like—the highest-level domain in the hierarchical domain name system (DNS). The most common top-level domains include .gov (government only), .edu (education only), .com, .org, and .net. Of these, .com and .org are the most popular for businesses.
Difference Between .Com vs .Org
The .com and .org domains are both top-level domains that anyone can register. However, they do have different use cases. For example, .com is far more popular as it suits any business type, from legal and medical practices to software as a service (SaaS) and online stores. The .org extension, on the other hand, is designed for organizations, such as nonprofits, groups, and clubs. 
When to Use a .Com Domain Extension
The .com stands for “commercial,” and it is the most common extension due to its versatility. It’s recommended for professional use as it appears credible and trustworthy, and it’s more memorable than other domain extensions. Since it’s the most popular extension, it is the most recognizable and appears the most professional.
When to Use a .Org Domain Extension
The .org stands for “organization,” and though it’s not as popular as the .com, it is a commonly used and recognizable domain. Many believe the .org is reserved for nonprofit organizations, but anyone can register for a .org domain. Given how synonymous the .org extension is with nonprofits, to avoid confusion, it’s better to reserve the use of the .org for nonprofits and organizations, such as a local sports team or cause group.
.Com vs .Org: Which One Is Better for SEO?
For the most part, domain extensions do not overly impact search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. The only instances of domain extensions impacting search rankings are with location-based domains, such as .us for U.S.-based businesses and sites when users are searching within that country. What matters more is the domain name itself (e.g., the joesnycpizza or joesnycpizza.com) as using keywords and location identifiers in the domain can improve SEO.
There are a few different ways to register a new domain name, including directly from a domain name registrar, such as GoDaddy; with a web host, such as Bluehost; or with an all-in-one site builder plan, such as Squarespace. A domain name registrar is the most direct way of getting a domain; however, many web hosting and site builder plans come with a free domain name, so it’s worth checking to see if you’re eligible for one through a provider you’re already using.
If you’re planning to use your domain with a WordPress site, check to see if your desired domain is available and get it for free with a web hosting plan using the search bar below.
Domain names typically cost around $10 to $15 per year. The price may vary depending on factors such as the domain extension (e.g., .com or .io), and there are also times when domains are owned, but listed for sale at a price well above the average. When looking for an affordable domain name, look out for the renewal cost, as some providers offer a low introductory rate, which then jumps up after the first year.
Can anyone register for a .org?
Yes, there are no official limitations on who can register a .org domain. It is worth noting that the .org domain extension is synonymous with nonprofits, and while you don’t need to be a nonprofit to have a .org, consider whether or not your business website may seem deceptive if it uses a .org. For example, it wouldn’t be confusing for a local tennis club to use a .org (even if for-profit), whereas a local, second-hand, for-profit thrift store may be questionable.
Bottom Line
It’s important to take the time to choose the right domain name and domain name extension, as it represents your business online. For most, the .com extension will be a better fit as it suits nearly any business or industry, though in some instances, the .org may be more suitable, such as for nonprofits, groups, clubs, and organizations.
