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Free URL Shortener with Custom Alias
Turn a long, messy URL into a short link with your own custom alias. It is free, needs no signup, and sets no expiry date. Short links show rich previews and can open supported apps on mobile.
How to Shorten a Link Online
Paste your long URL
Paste any valid http or https link from YouTube, Amazon, Instagram, Google Drive, or your own website.
Pick a custom alias (optional)
Type your own ending like my-offer, or leave it empty and we create a short random one.
Copy and share
Complete the quick security check, press Shorten link, and share your short link anywhere.
Why Use the BixTools Link Shortener?
App opening on mobile
Links opened inside chat and social apps often load in a basic in-app browser. For supported apps such as YouTube, Instagram, X, Telegram, and WhatsApp, BixTools can open the native app instead. On Android it tries to open the app automatically, and on iPhone it shows a button to open the app. Support depends on the app and on the type of link.
Free custom alias, no signup
Many link shorteners ask for an account or a paid plan before you can choose your own ending. On BixTools you can pick an alias of 3 to 30 letters, numbers, hyphens, or underscores for free, without an account.
Rich chat and social previews
When you create a short link, BixTools reads the title and preview image of the destination page once. If the page provides them, apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, LinkedIn, and X can show a preview card when you share your short link.
Ways to Use Custom Short Links
Creators and social media bios
Share YouTube videos, Spotify tracks, or your Instagram profile in a bio or a post with a short, clean link. On supported apps, mobile visitors can be offered to open the native app directly.
Shopping and affiliate links
Turn long, parameter-heavy product URLs from stores such as Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify, or Etsy into short links like bixtools.com/s/best-deal for WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS, and newsletters. Check the rules of your affiliate program before using a short link in promotions.
Print, events, and QR codes
Long URLs create dense, hard-to-scan QR codes. Shorten your event form, menu, or business card link first, then click Make a QR code to get a cleaner code that scans faster.
Rules, Fair Use, and Safety
What is not allowed
Links from other URL shorteners, IP addresses, localhost, installer files such as .exe, .msi, and .apk, look-alike domains that start with xn--, and any link used for phishing, malware, scams, or illegal content.
Fair-use limits
Each visitor can create up to 10 short links per hour and 30 short links per day. These limits keep redirects fast and reduce bot abuse.
Reporting
Anyone can report a harmful short link on the Report a Link page or by emailing abuse@bixtools.com. A link is disabled automatically when 3 different visitors report it, and reported links are also reviewed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BixTools URL shortener completely free?
Yes. It is free to use, with no signup, no account, and no paid plan. Fair use limits apply so that redirects stay fast for everyone.
How does app opening work on mobile?
When someone opens a regular link inside a chat or social app, it can load in a basic in-app browser. For supported apps such as YouTube, Instagram, X, Telegram, and WhatsApp, BixTools can open the native app instead. On Android it tries to open the app automatically, and on iPhone it shows a button to open the app. Support depends on the app and on the type of link, and the visitor can always continue in the browser.
Do I need to sign up to shorten a link?
No. Paste your long link, complete the quick security check, and get your short link right away.
What is a custom alias?
A custom alias is the ending of your short link that you choose yourself, for example bixtools.com/s/my-offer. It can use 3 to 30 letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores, and it is saved in lowercase. If the alias is already taken, pick another one.
Do short links expire?
BixTools does not set an expiry date when you create a link. A link is disabled if it breaks the rules or is reported as harmful. Keep your original URL saved, because there is no account, so a short link cannot be edited or deleted later.
Will my short link show a preview title and image?
Yes, when the destination page provides a title and image. When you create a link, BixTools reads them once, so that apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, LinkedIn, and X can show a preview card for your short link.
Which links can I shorten?
Normal web links that start with http:// or https://, such as YouTube videos, Amazon and Flipkart products, Google Docs, and social profiles. These are not allowed: links from other URL shorteners, IP addresses, localhost, installer files such as exe, msi, and apk, look-alike domains that start with xn--, and anything used for phishing, malware, or illegal content.
Why do I see a security check?
The check is Cloudflare Turnstile. It stops automated bots from creating spam links, and most real visitors pass it without solving a puzzle.
Is there a limit on how many links I can make?
Yes. Each visitor can create 10 links per hour and 30 links per day. When the whole service is very busy, it may ask you to try again later.
How do I report a harmful short link?
Use the Report a Link page, or write to abuse@bixtools.com. A link is disabled automatically when 3 different visitors report it.
Can I make a QR code for my short link?
Yes. Click Make a QR code on the result card, or paste your short link into the free QR Code Generator. A short link keeps the QR code pattern simple and easier for phone cameras to scan.