Probably one of the questions we get asked the most is: “What type of domain should I register for my website, a .com or a .mt?”

We brainstormed several times with our clients and prospects on this matter in order to help them determine the best choice for their website and business and typically we provide a few simple guidelines which can help in understanding the advantages associated with each option.

However, before we get into that… it is worth mentioning that on many occasions both can work for the use case being discussed.

The .MT Advantage

• Provides a strong geographical signal to search engines that the website is targeted towards Malta, which can benefit local SEO. This can be particularly relevant when searches are carried out by Malta-based users.
• Suitable when the user is outside Malta, but looking for a local business, for instance a tourist planning on visiting a local hotel.
• .MT domains can reinforce a sense of local presence and familiarity among a Malta-based audience.
• Generally good availability, with the potential for short and locally distinctive domain names.

.MT Drawbacks: Not ideal for a brand that wants to be positioned as a global brand.

The .COM Advantage

• The Gold Standard.
• Can provide a more internationally neutral brand identity.

.COM Drawbacks: Does not provide the same immediate geographical signal as a .mt domain for businesses focused specifically on the Malta market. Availability can also be a challenge, particularly when searching for short, memorable and commercially attractive domain names.

From a website and email perspective, both .mt and .com domains can support the same standard DNS records and services. The main differences are therefore related to geographic signalling, branding, availability and registration policies rather than the functionality of the website or email service itself.

We hope that the above information has helped you gain a better understanding. If you’ve arrived at a choice and simply require domain name registration services and DNS hosting services, get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to take you from the domain registration process through to DNS hosting and zone file configuration, connecting your domain to your desired services, be it a website or email service. If you’re still uncertain, talk to us anyhow and as a minimum, we will put in our two-penny worth 🙂