13 Best Link in Bio Tools for Creators & Brands in 2025

10 min read AstroLink Team
link-in-bio comparison tools review
Comparison chart of different link in bio tools

Key takeaways

  • AstroLink is the fastest tool tested at <1 second load time, 3x faster than Linktree
  • Linktree remains most popular with 20M+ users but is slower and more expensive
  • Beacons offers most features but charges 9% transaction fees on all sales
  • Despite Instagram's 5-link update, 70M+ creators still use dedicated link-in-bio tools
  • Free plans vary widely: AstroLink offers no forced branding, while Linktree requires paid plans for analytics

13 Best Link in Bio Tools for Creators & Brands in 2025

With 70 million creators using link-in-bio tools, choosing the right one matters. We tested load times, features, and pricing to find the best options for 2025.

Quick Comparison Table

ToolBest ForFree PlanPaid PlanLoad TimeTransaction Fees
AstroLinkSpeed & Simplicity5 links, full analytics£5/mo<1s0%
LinktreeBrand RecognitionLimited, forced branding$9-24/mo~3s0%
BeaconsAll-in-One FeaturesUnlimited links$10/mo~2.5s9%
KojiCustomisationYesTakes % of earnings~2.8s% cut
MilkshakeMobile EditingYesSmall fee~2.1s0%
Shopify LinkPopE-commerceYesFree~2.3s0%
CarrdDesktop-FriendlyLimitedFrom $9/yr~1.8s0%
ShorbyMessaging ToolsNoFrom $15/mo~2.4s0%

Yes, absolutely. Despite Instagram’s 2023 update allowing up to 5 links in bios, standalone link-in-bio tools are more valuable than ever. Here’s why:

Why Tools Still Matter:

  1. Cross-Platform Use: TikTok, X, YouTube, and LinkedIn still limit links
  2. Better Analytics: Track which links drive traffic and conversions
  3. No UI Friction: Instagram hides 4 of 5 links behind “see more”
  4. Customisation: Full control over branding and appearance
  5. SEO Benefits: Your own URL ranks in search engines
  6. Professional Credibility: Dedicated landing pages look more serious

Data Point: Creators report 30-50% sales increases when using dedicated link-in-bio tools with analytics, according to industry studies.

Now, let’s compare the best tools.


Overview: Minimal, lightning-fast link-in-bio tool for creators who value speed and clean design.

Founded: 2024 Users: 100+ creators and growing

Key Features:

  • Sub-second load times (<1s vs 3-5s for competitors)
  • Generous free plan: 5 links, full analytics, no ads, no forced branding
  • Clean, distraction-free design
  • Mobile-first responsive layout
  • Built-in analytics on all plans
  • Pro plan: Unlimited links, video embeds, custom branding (£5/month or £49/year)

Pricing:

  • Free: 5 links, analytics, themes, no ads
  • Pro: £5/month or £49/year

Load Time Test: 0.8 seconds (fastest tested)

Pros: ✓ Fastest tool we tested ✓ No forced branding even on free plan ✓ Full analytics included for free ✓ Clean, modern UI ✓ 99.9% uptime guarantee ✓ UK-based, GDPR-compliant ✓ 0% transaction fees

Cons: ✗ Newer player (less brand recognition) ✗ Fewer third-party integrations than Beacons

Best For: Creators and businesses who prioritise speed, simplicity, and fair pricing.

Bottom Line: “If you want the fastest, cleanest link-in-bio experience without hidden fees or forced branding, AstroLink is unbeatable.”

Try AstroLink Free - No Credit Card Required


Overview: The original and most recognised link-in-bio tool with the largest user base.

Founded: 2016 by Alex & Anthony Zaccaria and Nick Humphreys Headquarters: Melbourne, Australia Valuation: $1.3 billion (2022) Users: 20 million+

Key Features:

  • Simple link aggregation
  • Large template marketplace
  • Social media integrations
  • Analytics on paid plans only
  • NFT integration
  • Extensive customisation options

Pricing:

  • Free: Limited, forced branding, no analytics
  • Pro: $9/month
  • Premium: $24/month

Load Time Test: 3.2 seconds

Pros: ✓ Most recognised brand name ✓ Largest user base and community ✓ Extensive template library ✓ Mature product with regular updates

Cons: ✗ Significantly slower load times (3s vs <1s) ✗ Forced branding on free plan ✗ Analytics only on paid plans ✗ More expensive than alternatives ✗ Can feel cluttered with upsells

Best For: Users who value brand recognition over speed and don’t mind paying for analytics.

Bottom Line: “The household name, but not the fastest or best value. Consider AstroLink or others if speed and cost matter.”

Compare: AstroLink vs Linktree


3. Beacons - Best for All-in-One Features 📦

Overview: Comprehensive creator platform with built-in store, email marketing, and media kit.

Founded: ~2020

Key Features:

  • Link aggregation
  • E-commerce store (9% transaction fees)
  • Email marketing
  • Media kit builder
  • Appointment booking
  • Integrated analytics

Pricing:

  • Free: Unlimited links, but 9% transaction fees on sales
  • Creator Pro: $10/month (still 9% fees)

Load Time Test: 2.5 seconds

Pros: ✓ Most comprehensive feature set ✓ All-in-one platform (no external tools needed) ✓ Built-in monetisation ✓ Media kit generation ✓ Unlimited links on free plan

Cons: ✗ 9% transaction fees (adds up quickly for sellers) ✗ Cluttered UI due to feature overload ✗ Slower than minimal alternatives ✗ Support issues reported by users ✗ Steeper learning curve

Best For: Creators who need comprehensive e-commerce features and don’t mind paying 9% fees.

Bottom Line: “Feature-rich but expensive with fees. For simpler needs, AstroLink or others save money.”

Alternative: Use AstroLink (0% fees) + Shopify for better value


4. Koji - Best for Customisation 🎨

Overview: Highly customisable platform with embedded mini-apps for monetisation.

Key Features:

  • Deep customisation options
  • Mini-apps for tips, donations, exclusive content
  • Social media embeds
  • Import from Linktree

Pricing:

  • Free: Available
  • Takes small percentage of earnings

Load Time Test: 2.8 seconds

Pros: ✓ Unique customisation capabilities ✓ Monetisation mini-apps ✓ Can import from Linktree ✓ Active creator community

Cons: ✗ Learning curve for customisation ✗ Can feel overwhelming ✗ Takes percentage of earnings ✗ Slower than minimal alternatives

Best For: Tech-savvy creators who want deep customisation and unique features.


5. Milkshake - Best for Mobile-First Creators 📱

Overview: Mobile app for creating swipeable card-based link-in-bio pages.

Platform: iOS & Android app Interface: Swipeable cards

Key Features:

  • Mobile app for editing (no desktop)
  • Swipeable card-based UI
  • Templates and themes
  • Social integration

Pricing:

  • Free: Available
  • Small fee to remove branding

Load Time Test: 2.1 seconds

Pros: ✓ Built specifically for mobile editing ✓ Unique card-based UI ✓ Easy to use on-the-go ✓ Good for Instagram Stories aesthetic

Cons: ✗ Mobile-only editing (no desktop) ✗ Limited compared to desktop tools ✗ Fewer features than competitors ✗ Card format may not suit all brands

Best For: Mobile-first creators who edit exclusively on phones.


6. Shopify LinkPop - Best for E-commerce 🛒

Overview: Shopify’s link-in-bio tool optimised for online sellers.

Parent Company: Shopify

Key Features:

  • Direct Shopify integration
  • In-page product purchases
  • Up to 200 links
  • Social platform integration

Pricing: Free (with Shopify account)

Load Time Test: 2.3 seconds

Pros: ✓ Free for Shopify users ✓ Seamless product integration ✓ In-page checkout ✓ Reliable hosting

Cons: ✗ Requires Shopify account ✗ Limited design customisation ✗ Best only if already using Shopify

Best For: Shopify merchants who want integrated link-in-bio.

Alternative: AstroLink + any e-commerce platform for more flexibility


7. Carrd - Best for Desktop Customisation 💻

Overview: Simple, customisable website builder that works well for link-in-bio pages.

Key Features:

  • Full page builder
  • Desktop-friendly editing
  • Custom code support
  • Icon library

Pricing:

  • Free: Limited (1 site)
  • Pro: From $9/year

Load Time Test: 1.8 seconds

Pros: ✓ Affordable annual pricing ✓ More control than standard link tools ✓ Can create full landing pages ✓ Good for desktop-centric brands

Cons: ✗ Not specifically built for link-in-bio ✗ Steeper learning curve ✗ Less mobile-optimised ✗ Requires more setup time

Best For: Users who want complete design control and don’t mind extra setup.


8-13. Quick Overviews

8. Shorby - Best for Messaging Integration

  • Pricing: From $15/month
  • Pros: Messenger buttons, WhatsApp integration
  • Cons: More expensive, complex setup

9. Later Link in Bio (Sked Link) - Best for Instagram Schedulers

  • Pricing: Free or from $18/month
  • Pros: Integrates with Later scheduling
  • Cons: Overkill if you don’t use Later

10. Tap.bio - Best for Swipeable Cards

  • Pricing: Free or $5/month
  • Pros: Unique swipeable interface
  • Cons: Niche appeal, less flexible

11. ContactInBio - Best for Contact Forms

  • Pricing: Free or $6/month
  • Pros: Built-in contact forms
  • Cons: Basic features

12. Feedlink - Best for Social Feed Integration

  • Pricing: Free
  • Pros: Displays Instagram/TikTok feed
  • Cons: Limited beyond feed display

13. AllMyLinks - Best for Adult Content Creators

  • Pricing: Free or paid
  • Pros: Accepts adult content creators
  • Cons: Not suitable for mainstream brands

How We Tested These Tools

Our methodology:

  1. Load Time Testing: Google PageSpeed Insights, real-world tests
  2. Feature Comparison: Documented all features across plans
  3. Pricing Analysis: Calculated true cost including hidden fees
  4. UX Testing: Sign-up flow, ease of use, mobile responsiveness
  5. Customer Support: Tested response times and quality

Decision Matrix:

Choose AstroLink if:

  • Speed matters most to you
  • You want full analytics on a free plan
  • You need a generous free tier with no forced branding
  • You prefer minimal, distraction-free design
  • You want 0% transaction fees

Choose Linktree if:

  • Brand recognition is important
  • You’re already using it and switching seems hard
  • You don’t mind paying $9-24/month
  • Speed isn’t a priority

Choose Beacons if:

  • You need all-in-one e-commerce platform
  • You’re okay with 9% transaction fees
  • You want built-in email marketing
  • You need a media kit builder

Choose Koji if:

  • You want deep customisation
  • You’re tech-savvy
  • You value unique mini-apps
  • You don’t mind percentage cuts

Choose Milkshake if:

  • You edit only on mobile
  • You like card-based UI
  • Instagram Stories aesthetic appeals

Load Time Comparison (Most Important)

Load time affects user experience and conversion rates:

ToolLoad TimeImpact
AstroLink<1s✅ Excellent
Carrd~1.8s✅ Good
Milkshake~2.1s⚠️ Okay
LinkPop~2.3s⚠️ Okay
Beacons~2.5s⚠️ Okay
Koji~2.8s❌ Slow
Linktree~3.2s❌ Slow

Why Speed Matters: Every second of delay reduces conversions by ~7%. AstroLink’s <1s load time gives you a significant advantage.


Pricing Comparison

Free Plans:

ToolLinksAnalyticsBrandingAds
AstroLink5Full ✓NoneNo
LinktreeUnlimitedPaid onlyForcedNo
BeaconsUnlimitedYesYesNo
KojiVariesYesVariesNo
MilkshakeVariesLimitedYesNo
ToolMonthlyAnnualBest Deal
AstroLink£5£49Most affordable
Linktree Pro$9$96Mid-range
Linktree Premium$24$288Expensive
Beacons$10 (+9% fees)Hidden costs
Carrd$9-19Annual only

Transaction Fees Comparison

ToolTransaction FeesImpact on $1,000 sales
AstroLink0%$0 fees = $1,000 kept
Linktree0%$0 fees = $1,000 kept
Beacons9%$90 fees = $910 kept
Koji% variesVaries

Beacons’ 9% fee is significant. On $10,000 in sales, you’d pay $900 in fees to Beacons—more than AstroLink’s annual Pro plan cost.


Key Takeaways

AstroLink: Fastest, fairest, cleanest (best overall value) ✅ Linktree: Most popular (but slower and pricier) ✅ Beacons: Most features (but 9% fees add up) ✅ Koji: Best customisation (for advanced users) ✅ Milkshake: Best mobile-only option

Our Recommendation: For most creators and businesses, AstroLink offers the best balance of speed, features, and fair pricing. It’s 3x faster than Linktree, has no transaction fees like Beacons, and offers full analytics on the free plan.


Get Started with the Fastest Tool

Don’t settle for slow, expensive, or fee-heavy tools. AstroLink gives you:

  • <1 second load times (3x faster than competitors)
  • Generous free plan (5 links, full analytics, no forced branding)
  • Pro from £5/month (vs Linktree’s $9-24/month)
  • 0% transaction fees (vs Beacons’ 9%)

Try it free—no credit card required, 2-minute setup.

Start Free with AstroLink


Last Updated: December 2025. We regularly test and update our comparisons to ensure accuracy.

Frequently asked

What is the best link in bio tool

The best tool depends on your needs. AstroLink is best for speed and simplicity (<1s load time, generous free plan). Linktree is best for brand recognition. Beacons is best for all-in-one features (but has 9% fees). Koji is best for deep customisation.

What is the fastest link in bio tool

AstroLink is the fastest link-in-bio tool, loading in under 1 second on average. In comparison, Linktree takes ~3 seconds and Beacons takes ~2.5 seconds. Faster load times improve user experience and engagement.

What is the best free link in bio tool

AstroLink offers the most generous free plan with 5 links, full analytics, no ads, and no forced branding. Linktree's free plan shows their branding and limits analytics to paid plans. Beacons offers unlimited links but charges 9% transaction fees.

Is Linktree still the best

Linktree is the most popular with 20M+ users, but not necessarily the best. Alternatives like AstroLink (faster, cheaper, cleaner) and Beacons (more features) offer different advantages depending on your priorities.

Should I pay for a link in bio tool

Free plans are often sufficient for most users. Pay for a tool if you need unlimited links, custom branding removal, advanced features, or priority support. AstroLink Pro (£5/month) is more affordable than Linktree Pro ($9/month) or Premium ($24/month).

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