Best Self-Hosted URL Shortener in 2026

Tools for shortening, managing, and tracking URLs — from simple link shortening to branded links with analytics.

The top-rated pick is Kutt with 11,018 GitHub stars.

5 self-hosted url shortener — ranked by GitHub stars. Browse all

Kutt

Kutt is a modern, open-source URL shortener with custom domains, detailed click analytics, password-protected links, team management, and a clean API.

Alternative to:

Bitly

Shlink

The definitive self-hosted URL shortener with analytics, QR codes, custom domains, and a powerful API.

Alternative to:

Bitly

Chhoto URL

Chhoto URL is a blazingly fast, self-hosted URL shortener written in Rust. Minimal dependencies, a tiny footprint, and zero unnecessary features or bloat.

Alternative to:

Bitly

Simple URL Shortener

Simple URL Shortener is a lightweight PHP URL shortener with MySQL or SQLite support, per-user history, an admin panel, REST API, and self-hosted setup.

Alternative to:

Bitly

Flink

A zero-config, FOSS URL shortener with QR code generation and OpenTelemetry support, built in ASP.NET Core.

Alternative to:

Bitly

Why self-host?

Self-hosting puts you in control. You own your data, avoid vendor lock-in, and eliminate recurring subscription costs. For teams handling sensitive data or operating under strict compliance requirements, running your own infrastructure is often the only viable option.