URL Shorteners · head-to-head
Cutt.ly vs Free Url Shortener
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.
Ulvis' Free URL Shortener shortens links through a plain GET or POST API with no signup or key required. It supports custom short names, click limits, passwords, and expiry dates, returning results as JSON or XML. It sends no CORS header, so the API must be called from a server rather than directly from browser JavaScript.
| Cutt.ly | Free Url Shortener | |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | API Key | None |
| Pricing | freemium | free |
| Formats | JSON | JSON, XML |
| CORS | no | no |
| HTTPS | Yes | Yes |
Free Url Shortener needs no API key, while Cutt.ly requires API Key — pick Free Url Shortener to start without signup.