.io vs .net
Side-by-side pricing and fit, so you can pick the right extension.
.io and .net are both generic top‑level domains, but .io is most commonly associated with technology‑focused startups, SaaS products and developer communities, while .net has a longer history of use for networking, infrastructure and broader tech services. The typical price for a .io registration starts around $28.12 per year, whereas .net can be obtained for about $12.52, making the latter considerably cheaper. Choosing .io can signal a modern, startup‑oriented brand but comes at a higher cost, while .net offers a more established, cost‑effective option that may be perceived as more conventional for networking‑related sites. The main trade‑off is between the niche branding appeal of .io and the lower price plus broader recognition of .net.