Just like any other industry, in the search engine optimization or SEO world, some trends are bound to change. However, there is always some topic of constant discussion. In this case, the topic centers around the rich domain keywords. The question we will be answering today is whether rich domain keywords aid in Google rankings, or are simply an obsolete tactic.
In order to answer that question, we will look at what rich keywords domains are, how to use these domains effectively, and when they can work against you.
What Are Keywords Rich Domains?
Also known as exact match domains or EMDs, Keywords Rich Domains are those domains that have your target keyword. Some examples are:
- toolsping.com
- buyusedcarsonline.com
- seoexpertlondon.co.uk
Such domains mirror what users input into the search tab and aim to increase visibility on the search results.
Do Keywords Rich Domains Help With SEO?
Rich domains are helpful with SEO, and the answer is yes, if used correctly.
With the former algorithm systems, having a keywords-rich domain automatically placed your website on the front page of Google. That was until the algorithm update in 2012, where they changed the system to only reward rich keywords on pages providing relevant subject matter to the site.
In conclusion, rich keywords domains can play a strategic role, although not as direct manipulation.
Why Keywords Rich Domains Still Matter in 2024
Here is why the SEO experts still use them:
- Higher Click-Through Rates (CTR): Users tend to click on domains that exactly match their searches.
- Brand Clarity: Gardeningtipsdaily.com provides clear brand instructions and tells users exactly what the website is about.
- Increased Trust: Sites with keywords in their domains have greater chances of seeming more relevant and authoritative.
- Paraphrasing Specificity: Helps attract a certain audience that is looking for the specific item being sold.
A domain such as weightlossmealplans.com communicates powerful information before a user even clicks on the site.
Keywords Rich Domains Vs. Branded Domains
| Feature | Keywords Rich Domains | Branded Domains |
| SEO Advantage | Strong (if well done) | Moderate |
| Branding Potential | Restricted | High |
| Memorability | Average | Above Average |
| CTR | High (implicit trust mark) | Variable |
In numerous instances, the ideal strategy is to merge the two: create a Keywords Rich Domain that also enhances your identity, like smartfitnutrition.com — it’s keyword-based and brandable.
Warning: The Dangers of Keyword-Rich Domains
Proceed with caution. Google is zealous when it comes to penalizing spammy, low-value websites that incorporate keywords in the domain. Steer clear of the following:
- Over two hyphens (e.g., buy-cheap-best-shoes.com)
- Content that does not correlate with the domain promise
- Affiliate websites lacking substance
- Domains that try to con users into believing they are something they are not
- Outright misrepresentation
If you are looking to perform well with your Keywords Rich Domain, ensure you focus on quality content, a trusted website, and a solid user experience.
Steps for Selecting a Suitable Keywords Rich Domain
When choosing a domain, ensure you pay attention to the following:
- Use a primary keyword (e.g., photography, lawyer, plumbing) as the domain name
- It should be concise, catchy, and easy to read
- Use .com where possible — it’s the most trusted domain extension
- Avoid tough-to-spell words or numbers
- Check domain history using tools such as Wayback Machine or Whois Lookup
Factual Illustration: Do They Work?
A blogger set up budgettravelguides.com, and it gained over 2 million visitors in the first year, primarily due to strong backlinks from travel guides.
What was the kicker in this example?
- Keyword-relevant
- Backed with Quality Content
- Was consistently updated
- Shared on reputable platforms
This is the importance of relevant, guideless-based, underlined Keywords Rich Domains in 2024.
Conclusion: Should You Use Keywords Rich Domains?
Without a doubt — but, as with anything, be cautious.
A strategically selected KRSD can:
- Improve VSEO
- Enhance CTR
- Instantly communicate the value of your offer to users
But do not forget that content, experience, and authority still reign supreme. While a domain may lure users, it is the content that retains them.
Therefore, if you are creating a new site or going through a rebranding, a concise and orderly KRSD can be a secret weapon for SEO.