Shlink if you want a short URL and an API. Dub if the job is campaign attribution. Most Bitly users only needed the short URL.

Stacks / SEO

Easy

Shlink / Dub

Short links you host. Shlink is the MIT shortener; Dub is the open-source link attribution platform.

The problem

Bitly Core is $10/month billed yearly for 100 links. Shlink is the self-hosted shortener with a REST API and QR codes. Dub is the marketing-attribution shortener you can also self-host.

Replaces

Bitly

Replace Bitly

Estimated SaaS saved

$1,200

per year, small team, before lock-in

Start on Railway

Sponsor this stack Tip jar

Placeholder: Shlink + a database (easiest), or Dub if you need attribution dashboards. Custom domain on Railway.

The stack

Shlink
Self-hosted URL shortener (API, QR, custom domains)
Dub
Open-source link attribution platform you can self-host

Cost table

You stop paying	Typical / year	Self-host instead
Bitly Core / Growth	$1,200	Shlink + your domain

Agent setup prompt

Replace Bitly with Shlink (preferred) or self-hosted Dub.

- Shlink: database + a public domain. Create one short link and a QR. Set the 404 redirect.
- Dub if you need click attribution dashboards, not only a short URL.
- Write AGENT_PROMPT.md.

Also as markdown: /stacks/shlink-urls.md

FAQ

Shlink or Dub?: Shlink if you want a short URL and an API. Dub if the job is campaign attribution. Most Bitly users only needed the short URL.