Best Link in Bio Tools in 2026: Free vs Paid Compared

The Link in Bio Market Is Overpriced

Linktree is the name everyone knows. It's also $5–$9/month for features that have been commoditized. Competitors like Later's Link in Bio, Beacons, and Shorby charge similar amounts.

You don't need to pay for a link in bio page. Here's why — and what to use instead.

What a Link in Bio Page Actually Needs

The core requirement is simple: a page with your links, your name, and maybe a profile photo. Everything else — analytics, custom domains, button styles, animations — is nice to have but not essential when you're starting out.

Essential features:

Premium features worth paying for eventually:

Free Options That Actually Work

**SocialMate** includes a Link in Bio builder on the free plan — no separate tool, no extra subscription. You get a hosted page at socialmate.studio/bio/yourname with unlimited links, customizable appearance, and basic click analytics. The Pro plan ($5/month) adds a custom domain. If you're already using SocialMate to schedule posts, your link in bio is just included.

**Beacons** has a free tier with basic features and Beacons branding. Paid plans start at $10/month for custom domains.

**Carrd** ($9/year for Pro) is technically a one-page website builder, not a link in bio tool — but it works perfectly for the purpose and is one of the best values available.

When to Pay for a Custom Domain

If you're building a brand, a custom domain (yourname.com) is worth it eventually. It looks more professional, it's something you own, and it doesn't disappear if the link in bio platform shuts down.

SocialMate's Pro plan ($5/month) includes a custom domain for your bio page. That's the same price as Linktree's basic paid plan — except you're also getting a full social media scheduler, AI tools, analytics, and everything else SocialMate includes.

The Honest Bottom Line

If you're already paying for a social media tool, check if it includes a link in bio feature before paying separately. SocialMate, Later, and a few others bundle it in. Pay once, get everything.