Best Free Alternatives to Bitly, Rebrandly, and Google URL Shortener

Google URL Shortener (goo.gl) was once a go-to tool for shortening links, but since its shutdown, users have sought reliable alternatives. Whether you need simple link shortening, advanced analytics, or custom branding, there are plenty of free options available in 2025. This guide explores the best free alternatives to Google URL Shortener, helping you find the right tool for your needs.

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Why Use a URL Shortener?

A good URL shortener does more than just shrink links. Here’s why you might need one:

• Improved Link Sharing – Shorter links are easier to share on social media, emails, and SMS.
• Click Tracking & Analytics – Monitor engagement, traffic sources, and user behavior.
• Branding & Customization – Create branded short links with custom domains.
• Retargeting & UTM Tags – Improve marketing efficiency by tracking link performance.

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Top Free Alternatives to Google URL Shortener

1. xengo

The Smartest Free URL Shortener for Engagement & Automation

xengo is a modern URL shortener built for marketing teams, event organizers, universities, and anyone who needs real-time link tracking with powerful features — all for free.

Key Features:

• ✔ Branded links with your own domain
• ✔ Trackable smart URLs & QR codes
• ✔ Real-time click notifications with webhook support
• ✔ Integrates with Google Tag Manager, CRMs, Slack, Teams, Telegram, and more
• ✔ Editable destinations — even after sharing
• ✔ UTM tracking, analytics, and device targeting support

🔁 xengo makes automation easy — every click or scan can trigger a webhook, making it ideal for real-time tracking, retargeting, or pushing events into your GTM pipeline.

🎓 Especially popular with universities, affiliates, Go To Market Engineers, and campaign teams, xengo offers a seamless way to track engagement without complexity.

👉 Try xengo free

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2. Bitly

A Popular Free Option

Bitly is a well-known URL shortener that provides link tracking and custom aliases.

Key Features:

• ✔ Free plan includes basic analytics
• ✔ Custom short links (limited in the free version)
• ✔ API access for developers

🚨 Bitly limits branded links and click tracking in its free plan.

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3. TinyURL

The Quick & Simple Option

TinyURL is one of the oldest URL shorteners and remains a solid choice for fast, no-signup link shortening.

Key Features:

• ✔ No account needed for basic use
• ✔ Custom aliases available
• ✔ Permanent links that never expire

⚠️ TinyURL lacks detailed analytics and retargeting options.

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4. Rebrandly

Best for Custom Branded Links

Rebrandly specializes in branded link shortening and is great for businesses looking to improve brand recognition.

Key Features:

• ✔ Custom domains for branding
• ✔ Basic analytics included in the free plan
• ✔ API access for developers

🔍 The free plan limits the number of custom links you can create.

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5. Cutt.ly

A Free Option with Advanced Analytics

Cutt.ly offers a great free plan with tracking and link management tools.

Key Features:

• ✔ Click tracking & analytics
• ✔ Custom short links
• ✔ QR code generation

💼 Cutt.ly’s free plan has limitations on the number of links you can manage.

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6. Linkly

A Feature-Rich Option for Integrations

Linkly is a powerful URL shortener offering advanced tracking, branded links, and integrations.

Key Features:

• ✔ Custom domains & vanity URLs
• ✔ Click tracking with detailed analytics
• ✔ Integrates with Zapier and Google Tag Manager
• ✔ Supports retargeting pixels for remarketing

💡 Linkly’s free plan includes 1,000 clicks per month, making it suitable for lightweight campaigns and personal use.

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Choosing the Right Google URL Shortener Alternative

Consider the following when selecting a URL shortener:

• Need real-time notifications and webhooks? → xengo is built for it.
• Want branded links? → xengo, Rebrandly, and Linkly are strong options.
• Need detailed analytics? → Cutt.ly, Linkly, or xengo offer robust tracking tools.
• Prefer simplicity and one-off links? → Try TinyURL.
• Need API access? → Bitly, Rebrandly, and xengo (Q3) provide developer tools.

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Final Thoughts

While Google URL Shortener is no longer available, the free tools available in 2025 are more powerful than ever.

xengo stands out for its real-time click alerts, webhook integration, branded links, and seamless tracking — all for free.

🚀 Try xengo today — it’s free to start