Both .com and .co.uk are examples of domain extensions. They play an important role in defining a website’s identity and purpose. They also help users and search engines understand whether a site is globally focused, country-specific or industry related. Making the right choice, therefore, is essential for branding, SEO and audience targeting.
Although many assume that .com and .co.uk can be used interchangeably, they serve different purposes in terms of audience reach and geographic relevance. While internet users see .com as a global domain, .co.uk signals a strong UK presence.
If you’re wondering which domain is right for your website, this blog will break down the key differences. After reading, you’ll understand how each impacts on visibility, credibility and audience reach.
Put simply, a domain extension, also referred to as a top-level domain (TLD), is the part of a web address that appears after the main domain name. For instance, the domain extension of “wildcatdigital.co.uk” is .co.uk.
The purpose of a domain extension is to indicate (both to users and search engines) the category, purpose or geographic association of a website. Common generic TLDs include:
| Domain Extension | Use |
| .com | Commercial or general use. The most widely recognised worldwide. |
| .org | Mainly used by non-profits/charities and organisations. |
| .edu | Reserved for educational institutions and is most often used in the USA. Alternatives include .ac.uk (for UK-based universities). |
| .gov | Used by governmental agencies – again, mainly in the USA. |
As well as the above, there are also country code top-level domains (ccTLD), which indicate a website’s connection to a specific country or region. Here are a few you may already recognise:
| Domain Extension | Country |
| .co.uk | United Kingdom (an alternative is .uk) |
| .ca | Canada |
| .fr | France |
| .jp | Japan |
These domain extensions play a key role in defining a website’s identity, helping users and search engines to determine its relevance. Now, let’s take a closer look at the key differences between .com and .co.uk.
When choosing between .com and .co.uk, it’s important to consider how each impacts your website’s search visibility and brand perception. While both are widely used, they serve different purposes, depending on your target market and business goals. Here’s how they compare across a few key factors:
.com is not tied to any particular country, but remains the preferred choice for most American companies. Originally introduced in 1985 as one of the first TLDs, it was intended for commercial use – hence the name. However, with no restrictions on registration, it has since become the most widely used domain worldwide.
On the other hand, .co.uk serves as a clear indicator of a UK presence, making it popular with websites serving a British audience. Many UK customers perceive .co.uk as more credible and familiar, which can be an advantage for companies focused on the domestic market.
Some speculate that Google will reduce the SEO boost for ccTLDs in the coming years, but for now, they remain an important ranking factor. Compared with a generic TLD, like .com, .co.uk signals to both users and search engines that a website’s content is intended for the UK. As a result, websites with a .co.uk domain are more likely to rank higher in UK-based searches.
That said, .co.uk doesn’t target a specific language. So if your website consists of content in English, it’s unlikely to rank well for searches in Welsh. This applies even if it contains the appropriate ccTLD (.co.uk). For more on how language affects SEO, read our Hreflang Tags 101.
Your domain extension influences how visitors perceive your brand and how much trust they place in your website. Owing to its popularity, the .com domain is generally perceived as professional and credible. As such, it’s a popular choice for businesses with an international presence.
On the other hand, a .co.uk domain can help to build trust among website visitors, particularly those in the UK. However, a study from Moz suggests that while users can enhance credibility, they are not the only factor shaping user perceptions. Brand recognition, content quality and overall site credibility remain just as important.
A final point to consider when choosing a domain name is its availability. Due to their popularity, .com domains are often already registered, making them more challenging – and sometimes costly – to secure. In contrast, .co.uk domains tend to have more availability, making them a practical and budget-friendly option for UK businesses.
To see if your desired domain is available, you can always check in advance. And if you’re concerned about SEO, you may want to read our blog post on how to format a URL.
The answer to this one depends on your business objectives. As we’ve already talked about, a .com domain benefits from being recognised around the world. So if your business is international, or you have plans to expand abroad, then it might be the right option for you. Having just one domain also means you can focus on building authority for one site as opposed to two.
That said, there are benefits to having a ccTLD, too. If your focus is primarily on the UK, then you might want to consider a .co.uk domain. It signals to both users and search engines that you’re a domestic business, so it could boost perceptions of trust and your local search engine ranking.
Of course, there’s a third option. If you’re a UK business with international ambitions, then you might want to consider both domains. This is the TLD equivalent of having your cake and eating it.
There are some complexities to consider, particularly in how you guide users between the two sites with redirects. It’s important to present only one version of your website to users in a geographic area for brand consistency. You’ll also spend more money than sticking with just the one domain, but it’s a viable option – and one that many businesses go for.
In summary, deciding between .com or .co.uk is a tricky decision, but it’s the first of many on your way to cementing your online presence. While the right choice usually depends on the markets you’d like to serve, you can always test the impact of your new TLD in advance. PPC campaigns or surveys are a great way to do this before committing fully.
As your business evolves, it’s important to regularly review your domain strategy, ensuring it aligns with your audience and growth plans. Whether your situation, choosing the right domain can have a lasting impact on your online presence. If you need expert guidance on SEO and domain selection, get in touch with our team today for a free consultation.
SEO Account Manager
Founder
Our founder, Will Hitchmough, worked at a number of high profile Sheffield Digital Agencies before founding Wildcat Digital in 2018. He brings an extensive knowledge of all things related to SEO, PPC and Paid Social, as well as an expert knowledge of digital strategy.
Digital Marketing can be a minefield for many businesses, with many agencies ready to take your money without knowing how to deliver results. I founded Wildcat Digital to deliver digital success to businesses with smaller budgets in a transparent way.
Head of Growth
Rich joined us in May 2024 to head up our growth team. With years of experience helping other agencies to grow, Rich joins us at an exciting time as Wildcat is working on a five-year plan to become one of the biggest agencies in the UK.
Outside of work, Rich is a father to three children, which keeps him very busy! He’s also recently started running again to keep fit and loves a bit of DIY.
Head of Digital
Sarah joined Wildcat in January 2025, bringing over seven years of SEO expertise to the team. With a background in Fashion Communication and Promotion, she has worked both in-house and at agencies, covering a range of digital marketing specialisms before focusing on SEO.
Passionate about all things search, Sarah thrives on helping brands grow their online presence.
Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dog, running, and shopping for vintage clothing.
Office Manager
Amelia joined Wildcat Digital in January 2025, bringing extensive experience in HR, Health & Safety, Facilities Management and IT Support. Previously an Operations Manager at The University of Sheffield, she has a strong background in creating efficient and well-organized work environments.
Specialising in HR, Health & Safety, and Facilities Management, Amelia ensures the Wildcat Digital team has the resources and support needed to thrive. Whether managing office operations, maintaining compliance, or fostering a positive workplace culture, she keeps everything running smoothly.
Outside of work, Amelia loves trying new things, traveling, camping, and walking. She also enjoys socialising and exploring new places with friends and family. Her adventurous spirit and proactive approach make her a valued member of the team.
Client Success Coordinator
Siena joined us in 2023 with a background in sales and digital marketing. She leads on client relationships across the company, ensuring that our customers are happy throughout their journey with us, from their initial consultation through to onboarding and beyond.
Outside of work, Siena enjoys travelling and getting stuck into the local culture. She likes to make the most of her experiences and particularly enjoys watching sunrises and sunsets from beautiful locations around the world.
SEO Account Director
Paul has a strong background in SEO, having previously founded and ran a successful eCommerce business, as well as running a personal blog that achieves an average of 17K users per month. Paul’s knowledge of SEO is extensive, with a strong emphasis on client handling and technical SEO.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys spending time with his family and staying active with weight lifting and combat sports.
Team Lead & Technical SEO Account Manager
With a degree in Computer Science and SEO experience dating back to 2017, Dariusz has a wide range of SEO skills and knowledge. His specialist knowledge of Technical SEO has firmly landed him the title of Wildcat’s Technical Wizard, and he has recently taken on the responsibility of Team Leader for the Panthers Team.
In his spare time, Dariusz loves hiking, experimenting and trying new coffees and loves learning new things. He is currently learning more about CRO and AI and how this could benefit our clients.
Team Lead & Senior SEO Account Manager
With a background in sales, Molly is a natural Account Manager, brilliantly handling any issues that come her way. Having joined us as a Digital Marketing Executive, and working part-time through her final year of University, Molly is a shining example of how hard work pays off. She is now an SEO Account Manager with a particular interest in Content and Client Management.
In her spare time, Molly loves to get out in nature, hiking and exploring the Peak District. She also loves cooking and likes to unwind with a bit of yoga.
PPC Team Leader
Libby joined Wildcat in 2021 as our first PPC hire. With a degree in Digital Media Production, a Master’s in Digital Media Management and previous experience in Social Media Management, Libby hit the ground running and has since climbed the ranks to Senior PPC Account Manager and has a particular interest in the eCommerce sector.
Outside of work, Libby likes gaming, and cooking and likes to keep active by lifting weights.
Senior SEO Account Manager
With a degree in Film and TV production, and a varied career history, Jamie made the move to marketing with a Masters degree in Digital Media Management. He has since worked in SEO at Agencies across Sheffield, before joining Wildcat and working his way up to SEO Account Manager. Jamie has a particular interest in backlinks and Digital PR and has recently gained a client a valuable backlink from Forbes!
In his spare time, Jamie is an avid foodie and loves trying new restaurants and cuisines. He also loves to travel and spent a year travelling to Australia after university.
SEO Account Manager
Jasmine joined Wildcat in 2022 with a strong background in SEO and Account Management. At the time, she was finishing up a Level 4 Apprenticeship in Digital Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and has since worked her way up to SEO Account Manager. Jasmine excels at content writing and promotion, and particularly enjoys finding creative ways to join the dots on multi-channel campaigns.
In her spare time, Jasmine volunteers at a charity, helping combat loneliness & social isolation experienced by older neighbours. Outside of Wildcat, she owns a catering company, Savery Grazing, creating delicious grazing tables & platters for a range of events. She also loves skiing and exploring the Peak District.
SEO Account Manager
Thea has a wealth of experience in SEO, having previously worked for other Digital Marketing Agencies in Sheffield. She has a particular interest and skills in Technical SEO, but is more than willing to get stuck in and give anything a go.
Outside of work, Thea spends most of her time with her children, but also loves reading, photography and gardening.
PPC Account Manager
Masilda joined the Wildcat team in October 2024 with over seven years of experience in digital marketing. She specialises in Google Ads, but is also certified in Google Analytics, YouTube Ads, Google Ads for Ecommerce and Apple Search Ads. She has extensive expertise in performance marketing, display advertising, online lead generation and market planning.
In her free time, Masilda likes staying active, cooking, trying new restaurants and exploring new places.
Senior PPC Executive
Prior to joining Wildcat, Braden founded and ran his own Social Media Management agency where he gained valuable skills in growing brands’ online presence, which has since proven invaluable in his role at Wildcat.
Outside of work, Braden is a big football fan, regularly travelling to Pride Park to support Derby County. He also enjoys watching and playing snooker, hiking in the Peak District, and attending air and car shows.
Senior SEO Executive
After spending ten years managing businesses, restaurants, cafes and event spaces across Sheffield, Jon decided to change careers and joined Wildcat as an SEO Executive in 2022. He especially enjoys the client management side of the job, helping them to understand digital marketing and ways in which they can build their business’s presence online.
Outside of work, Jon likes to keep fit with running, badminton and football, and also loves music.
Senior SEO Executive
Rachel joined us as a graduate, having recently graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in English Literature. Since joining, Rachel has proven herself to be a Content Queen, and particularly enjoys getting stuck into projects that allow her to explore her creative side.
Outside of work, Rachel enjoys a wide range of hobbies, including rugby, singing, reading, and spending time with her family and three labradors.
Senior SEO Executive
Andy joined Wildcat in 2023 after starting his digital marketing career in-house for a local Sheffield company. Since joining, he has developed a strong interest in Technical SEO and has strong skills in Account Management.
Outside of work, Andy loves music and plays in a couple of bands. He also enjoys rock climbing, cycling, photography and good food.
Senior SEO Executive
Kezia joined us in July 2024 after completing a CIM Certificate in Digital Marketing and gaining experience in Content SEO at another Sheffield agency.
In her spare time, Kezia loves to get outdoors, bouldering, hiking and travelling.
Senior PPC Executive
Alex joined Wildcat Digital in December 2024 as a Senior PPC Executive, bringing a strong background in Paid Media, Paid Social, and Programmatic advertising. With a degree in Business & Marketing and Google Ads certifications, she has the expertise to craft high-performing campaigns that drive results.
Before joining Wildcat Digital, Alex worked at two leading agencies in Leeds, honing her skills across various digital advertising platforms. Her analytical mindset and strategic approach help businesses maximize their online presence and advertising budgets.
Outside of work, Alex enjoys spending time with her dog, Lola, and going on walks with her dog walking group. She’s also a keen footballer and loves playing five-a-side whenever she gets the chance. Her enthusiasm and team spirit make him a great addition to the Wildcat Digital team.
SEO Executive
Amy joined Wildcat in 2024 with a background in journalism, having worked as a News Editor and Editor-in-Chief at The Sheffield Tab. She is naturally interested in Content SEO and research, so will no doubt prove to be a content power-house.
In her spare time, Amy loves watching crime shows, listening to music and hanging out with her dog, Eddie!
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