URL Shorteners · head-to-head
1pt vs Cutt.ly
1pt is a free, keyless public URL shortener maintained by members of the University of Waterloo Computer Science Club. A single POST to /addURL returns a compact 1pt.co short link, with an optional custom back-half, and no account or API key is ever required. The trade-off is that it is a hobby-run service with no uptime guarantee, and its backend host has migrated over time (currently a csclub.uwaterloo.ca deployment).
Cutt.ly shortens links to cutt.ly URLs and layers on click tracking, custom back-halves, branded domains, and campaign management. Its REST API is called with an API key issued from a Cutt.ly account and returns JSON; the same key drives link creation, editing, and per-link statistics. A free plan covers basic shortening and stats, with paid tiers adding branded domains, team seats, and higher limits.
| 1pt | Cutt.ly | |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | None | API Key |
| Pricing | free | freemium |
| Formats | JSON | JSON |
| CORS | yes | no |
| HTTPS | Yes | Yes |
1pt needs no API key, while Cutt.ly requires API Key — pick 1pt to start without signup.