Why Keyword Domains Still Rank in Google

Despite changes to Google's algorithm over the years, keyword-rich domains continue to show up prominently in search results. Let's explore why.

The Evolution of Keyword Domains

Back in the early days of SEO, exact match domains (EMDs) provided a massive ranking advantage. A site with the domain "bestrunningshoes.com" would often rank #1 for "best running shoes" with minimal effort.

Google's 2012 EMD update aimed to reduce the ranking power of low-quality exact match domains. However, this didn't eliminate the advantage entirely—it just leveled the playing field.

Why They Still Work

1. Relevance Signals

A keyword in your domain sends a clear signal about your site's topic. This helps both users and search engines understand what you're about.

2. Click-Through Rate Boost

Users are more likely to click on a result that matches their search query. A domain with relevant keywords can improve your CTR, which is a ranking factor.

3. Anchor Text Benefits

When people link to your site using your domain name, you naturally get keyword-rich anchor text.

4. Brand + Keyword Combo

Partial match domains that blend branding with keywords (like "TechCrunch" or "SocialMediaExaminer") get the best of both worlds.

The Right Way to Use Keyword Domains

Conclusion

Keyword domains still have value, but they're not a magic bullet. Combine a strategic domain choice with solid SEO fundamentals for the best results.