What is the difference between a lacop.site subdomain and a custom domain?
· The subdomain is free for everyone, a custom domain starts at Pro.
Subdomain vs custom domain
LACOP offers two ways to shape your portfolio link — free subdomain or custom domain.
The two options
1. lacop.site subdomain (free)
- Example:
ariamodel.lacop.site - Cost: Nothing — included in all plans, even Free
- Setup: Automatic once you have a slug
- SSL: Activated automatically
2. Custom domain (from Pro)
- Example:
ariamodel.com - Cost: ~€10-15/year at domain registrar + Pro plan
- Setup: Manual via DNS settings (see connect custom domain)
- SSL: Automatic from LACOP via Let's Encrypt
Comparison
| Aspect | Subdomain | Custom domain |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Pro plan + domain cost |
| Branding | "lacop.site" visible | Your own name |
| Setup | 0 minutes | 5-60 minutes |
| SEO | Good | Slightly better |
| Professionalism | OK for start | Professional |
| Portability | Tied to LACOP | You can take domain elsewhere |
When which?
Subdomain is enough if:
- You're just starting and want to save costs
- Your portfolio is used internally (friends, small bookings)
- You want to test if LACOP is right for you
- You use Free plan (no choice)
Custom domain pays off if:
- You win clients through your portfolio
- You print business cards and want your own name
- You want to be long-term online
- You want to differentiate from other creatives
Both at the same time?
Yes! When you connect a custom domain, your lacop.site subdomain keeps working (as fallback/redirect). Users with old links are forwarded.
What if I want to switch?
From subdomain to custom domain
- Upgrade to Pro
- Buy domain
- Enter in profile + set up DNS
- Done — old links keep working
Away from custom domain
- Delete domain entry in profile
- Remove DNS at registrar
- You're back on
yourname.lacop.site
SEO impact
Google slightly prefers custom domains — but the difference is much smaller than content quality and backlinks. A great lacop.site page always beats a mediocre custom domain.
Tip for beginners
Start with the subdomain. Focus on good photos and a clear bio. Once you have 10+ clients and work seriously long-term — then invest in a custom domain.
Questions? support@lacop.app