URL Shorteners · head-to-head
Cutt.ly vs TinyURL
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.
TinyURL is a long-running shortener that now pairs its classic keyless web form with a modern REST API. The API authenticates with a Bearer API token from a TinyURL account and supports creating short links with custom aliases and expiration, updating destinations, and listing links, returning JSON. A free plan covers basic API shortening, while paid Pro and Bulk plans add branded domains, higher limits, and analytics.
| Cutt.ly | TinyURL | |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | API Key | API Key |
| Pricing | freemium | freemium |
| Formats | JSON | JSON |
| CORS | no | yes |
| HTTPS | Yes | Yes |
TinyURL supports CORS, while Cutt.ly doesn't — pick TinyURL for direct browser calls.