Kutt vs UrlBae

Kutt is a free, open-source, self-hostable URL shortener supporting custom domains, link expiration, password protection, and per-link statistics. The public instance and REST API live at kutt.to (authenticated with an X-API-Key header), and the AGPL-licensed codebase can be self-hosted for full control. Note that the old kutt.it domain is no longer operated by the project — its maintainers warn it may now be a phishing site — so integrations should target kutt.to.

UrlBae is a link-management platform offering short links, branded domains, link-in-bio pages, QR codes, and click tracking with geo and device analytics. Its REST API uses a Bearer API key and returns JSON, covering link creation, CTA overlays, branded domains, and account management. A free tier provides a monthly link and click allowance, with paid plans raising limits and unlocking branded domains and team features.