Shlink
Shlink: A capable self-hosted short-link stack for developers who want control over infrastructure. Ranked #18 of 154 in URL Shorteners by our editors (7.4/10); pricing: Open source; best for developers wanting self-hosted infrastructure.
At a glance
- Editor score7.4 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forDevelopers wanting self-hosted infrastructure
- Paid fromFree
- Custom domainsYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Dynamic redirects using device, language, IP, or geolocation
- REST API, CLI, imports, and Docker deployment support
- Multiple domains with anonymized analytics and geolocation data
Where it doesn't
- Requires your team to host and operate the software
- No conventional vendor-defined paid plans or hosted option
- PHP-based deployment may not suit teams seeking a managed service
Our verdict on Shlink
Shlink is a PHP-based, open-source URL shortener for individuals and teams that want to run shortened links under their own domains. It combines generated or custom slugs with an official web client, REST API, command-line management, anonymized visit tracking, and geolocation. Developers can manage links and analytics programmatically, while teams can support multiple short domains and import links from CSV or other shorteners.
There are no conventional paid tiers in Shlink’s model: the software is open source and self-hosted. That shifts the main cost and effort toward infrastructure, deployment, maintenance, and operational ownership rather than a vendor subscription. Docker-based deployment supports a containerized setup, and database compatibility includes MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, and SQLite. Matomo, Mercure, and RabbitMQ add ecosystem options for analytics, messaging, and event-driven workflows.
Its strongest distinction is redirect control. Links can route visitors dynamically according to device, language, IP, or geolocation, while custom and multi-segment slugs support more specific URL structures. The API and CLI make Shlink a practical fit for development teams building link-management workflows or integrating shortening into internal systems. Choose it when control over domains, deployment, and integration matters more than a managed service. An alternative is more suitable for teams that want vendor-hosted operations, conventional subscription plans, or less responsibility for infrastructure.
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Shlink pricing
Shlink fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Custom domains | Yes |
| Analytics retention | Not verified |
| API access | Yes |
| Team seats | Not verified |
| Bulk link creation | Yes |
| Geo targeting | Yes |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Web |
| Compliance & security | GDPR |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 8 integrations: Official PHP SDK, Official JavaScript SDK, Short Menu for Mac, Short Menu for iOS, GNOME Shell extension, Microsoft PowerToys Run … See all → |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | shlink.io |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Shlink integrations
Shlink lists 8 integrations on its own site.
- Official PHP SDK
- Official JavaScript SDK
- Short Menu for Mac
- Short Menu for iOS
- GNOME Shell extension
- Microsoft PowerToys Run
- Shlink iOS shortcut
- Dropshare/Shortshare
Alternatives to Shlink
- BitlyAn all-round link shortener with routing, analytics, bulk tools, and API access.9.3
- T.LYA broad link-management toolkit with web, mobile, browser, and API access.9.1
- Tiny.ccA capable URL shortener for teams needing branded links, analytics, routing, and API access.9.0
Also Ranked In
Shlink is ranked in 3 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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