Domain vs Subdomain vs Subdirectory

by 6 replies
8
What's more effective from an SEO perspective? Does it matter?
domain.com
subdomain.domain.com
domain.com/subdirectory

I'm working with about 30 keyword phrases, all related to one single topic. I will be building separate content for each phrase.

I could set up separate domains for each phrase.
or
I could set up a single domain for the broad topic, house everything under that broad domain, and use subdomains to house the remaining phrases.
or
I could set up a single domain and use subdirectories for the remaining phrases.

Any help appreciated.
#search engine optimization #domain #subdirectory #subdomain
  • Ideally exact domain keywords are the best for SEO. But honestly, with a bit more backlinking you can rank anything, whether it's a subdomain or subdirectory.

    I've got some domains that ranked #1 for low competition keywords and they are exact keyword match domains. That was with NO backlinking. It does happen, you just have to find the keywords. Just proves the advantage of exact keyword domains.

    EDIT: To clarify, I use a threshold of 900 exact searches per month when I look for keywords. Typically you find these for micro sub niche sites. Sometimes you find a keyword that has zero competition and the exact keyword will rank naturally on index.
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    • epple123,

      I would go for directory if it is in the same niche, for example

      fish .com/how-to-fish

      If it is different niche, then go for sudomain. One of the example is about.com

      You can do research site:about.com and you will notice each different niche has it own subdomain name.

      Hope my answer help.
      • [1] reply
  • domain.com is the best however you may go ahead with domain.com/key-word since you are working with about 30 keyword phrases, all related to one single topic
    • [1] reply
    • Thanks for this info. I have a domain in the weight loss niche and I think I will try subfolders and subdomains for my keywords. Thanks again
  • I won't suggest you to go for separate domains for each keyword phrases , Moreover it doesn't make sense as well. I would suggest to add separate page for each keyword and optimize that page instead of creating sub-domain/sub-directory
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