FormURL vs Bitly for Google Forms
Bitly is a general-purpose link platform for any web address. FormURL does one job: short links for forms, mainly Google Forms. Both let you choose the words and make a QR code. The difference is what happens when someone opens the link: a Bitly link redirects to the form, while a FormURL link opens the Google Form embedded on its own page. FormURL is free, and your first link needs no account.
Side by side
| Feature | FormURL | Bitly |
|---|---|---|
| Built for | Forms, Google Forms first | Any link |
| Choose the words | Yes | Yes |
| QR code | Yes | Yes |
| Click analytics | Yes, with a free account | Yes |
| When someone opens the link | Shows the Google Form embedded; other form tools open directly | Redirects to the form |
| Your own domain | Not yet, planned for Pro | Yes, see Bitly’s plans |
| Price | Free | Free and paid plans |
Where FormURL is different
- It’s made for forms. A Google Form opens embedded on the FormURL page, so the link people opened is the page they fill in.
- It handles form-specific cases. A form that requires Google sign-in can’t work embedded, so FormURL detects it and sends people straight to the form. forms.gle links are resolved to the full form.
- Your first link needs no account. Sign in later to keep, edit and track it.
When Bitly is the better choice
If you shorten many kinds of links, not just forms, need your own domain today, or want team features and integrations, a general-purpose platform like Bitly fits better. Bitly’s features and limits depend on the plan, so check its pricing page for current details.
Questions
Can I use FormURL for links that aren’t forms?
No. FormURL is for form links. Google Forms work best, and Microsoft Forms, Typeform, Tally, Jotform, Wufoo and SurveyMonkey links work too.
Does FormURL have custom domains?
Not yet. Custom domains are planned for a future Pro plan.
Is FormURL free?
Yes. Creating, editing and tracking links is free.