Free Url Shortener vs TinyURL

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.

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.