linktree vs milkshake
Linktree vs Milkshake: Which Link-in-Bio Tool is Best for You in 2025?
In the digital landscape of 2025, having a strong online presence is more important than ever. For content creators, influencers, businesses, and professionals, the challenge isn't just about being on multiple platforms—it's about connecting them effectively. This is where link-in-bio tools like Linktree and Milkshake have become essential resources in the digital toolkit.
Both platforms offer solutions to the common problem of limited link sharing on social media profiles, but they approach this challenge with different features, designs, and pricing structures. If you're trying to decide between Linktree vs Milkshake for your digital presence, this comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
What Are Link-in-Bio Tools?
Before diving into the specifics of Linktree and Milkshake, let's understand what link-in-bio tools actually do. These platforms allow users to create a single landing page that houses multiple links to websites, social media profiles, products, portfolios, or any other online content. Instead of changing the single link in your Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter bio every time you want to promote something new, you can direct followers to your link-in-bio page where all your important links are organized in one place.
This solution has become particularly valuable as social media platforms continue to limit direct linking capabilities, making it harder for creators and businesses to drive traffic to multiple destinations.
Linktree: The Pioneer in Link-in-Bio Solutions
Linktree launched in 2016 and quickly established itself as the go-to platform for link-in-bio solutions. With over 30 million users by 2025, it's recognized as the industry leader that popularized the concept of centralized link pages.
Key Features of Linktree
User Interface and Setup: Linktree offers an intuitive, straightforward interface that allows users to create an account and set up their link page in minutes. The platform is designed with simplicity in mind, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical skills.
Customization Options: Even with the free plan, Linktree allows for basic customization including profile pictures, button styles, and limited color schemes. Premium plans unlock more extensive branding options including:
Custom backgrounds and button designs
Removal of the Linktree branding
Custom fonts
Video backgrounds
Custom thumbnails for links
Analytics: Linktree provides analytics to track visitor behavior, including:
Link clicks
Geographic location of visitors
Referral sources
Time of day metrics
Click-through rates
The depth of analytics increases with premium plans, offering more detailed insights into audience behavior.
Monetization Features: In 2025, Linktree has expanded its monetization options to include:
Integration with payment processors like PayPal, Square, and Stripe
Tip jar functionality
Request forms for services
Product showcases
Support for subscription models
Integrations: Linktree connects with numerous third-party platforms including:
Social media platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc.)
E-commerce solutions (Shopify, Amazon, etc.)
Music streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud)
Email marketing tools (Mailchimp, ConvertKit)
Video platforms (YouTube, Vimeo)
Linktree Pricing Structure
As of 2025, Linktree offers several pricing tiers:
Free: Basic functionality with Linktree branding, unlimited links, and basic analytics
Starter ($5/month): Removes Linktree branding, adds custom themes, and provides enhanced analytics
Pro ($9/month): Includes advanced features like scheduling, priority support, and more customization options
Premium ($24/month): Offers full customization, advanced analytics, and priority support
These prices may vary based on region and any promotional offers available.
Milkshake: The Mobile-First Challenger
Milkshake entered the market more recently than Linktree, launching in 2019. What sets it apart is its mobile-first approach—the platform was designed specifically for creating and managing link pages directly from smartphones.
Key Features of Milkshake
Mobile-Centric Design: Milkshake was built as a mobile app first, making it particularly appealing to creators who manage their content primarily from their phones. The app allows users to create, edit, and publish their link pages without ever needing to use a desktop computer.
Card-Based Interface: Unlike Linktree's list-based approach, Milkshake uses a card or "shake card" system where each page of content is presented as a swipeable card. This creates a more interactive, website-like experience for visitors.
Customization Options: Milkshake offers extensive customization even on its free plan:
Multiple pre-designed themes and templates
Custom color schemes
Font selection
Image backgrounds
Animated elements
Content Flexibility: Milkshake allows for more diverse content types on each card:
Text blocks
Image galleries
Contact forms
Social media feeds
Video embeds
Analytics: While not as robust as Linktree's premium analytics, Milkshake provides basic insights including:
Page views
Link clicks
Visitor demographics
Integrations: Milkshake supports integration with:
Social media platforms
E-commerce links
Email subscription forms
Music platforms
Video content
Milkshake Pricing Structure
As of 2025, Milkshake has maintained a simpler pricing structure than Linktree:
Free: Includes basic functionality, limited templates, and Milkshake branding
Pro ($9/month): Removes branding, unlocks all templates, provides advanced analytics, and offers priority support
This straightforward approach makes it easier for users to decide whether to upgrade without navigating multiple tiers of service.
Linktree vs Milkshake: Head-to-Head Comparison
Now that we've explored the key features of both platforms, let's compare them directly across several important categories to help you determine which might be the better fit for your needs.
User Experience and Interface
Linktree: Offers a clean, minimalist interface focused on simplicity. The web-based platform is intuitive and allows for quick setup and management. The admin dashboard provides a straightforward way to add, remove, and rearrange links.
Milkshake: Provides a more visual, interactive experience through its mobile app. The card-based system feels more like creating a mini-website than a simple link list. This approach offers more creative freedom but may require a slightly steeper learning curve.
Verdict: If simplicity and efficiency are your priorities, Linktree has the edge. If you prefer a more visual, creative approach and primarily work from your phone, Milkshake might be more appealing.
Design and Customization
Linktree: While Linktree has expanded its customization options significantly by 2025, it still maintains a relatively structured format. The focus remains on presenting links clearly, with customization serving to enhance brand identity rather than dramatically altering the user experience.
Milkshake: Offers more extensive design flexibility with its card-based system. Users can create experiences that feel more like browsing a website than a link list. The platform excels at visual presentation and allows for more creative expression.
Verdict: Milkshake wins for creative customization and design flexibility. Linktree is better for those who want professional, branded simplicity without extensive design work.
Analytics and Insights
Linktree: Provides comprehensive analytics, especially at higher pricing tiers. Users can access detailed information about visitor behavior, allowing for data-driven decisions about content and link placement. The platform also offers UTM parameter support for integration with Google Analytics.
Milkshake: Offers basic analytics that cover the essentials but lacks the depth available in Linktree's premium plans. The focus is more on creative presentation than detailed performance tracking.
Verdict: Linktree has a clear advantage for users who prioritize detailed analytics and performance tracking.
Monetization Options
Linktree: Has developed robust monetization features including direct payment processing, product showcases, tip jars, and subscription support. These features make it particularly valuable for creators looking to generate revenue directly through their link page.
Milkshake: While it supports links to e-commerce platforms and payment services, Milkshake doesn't offer the same level of integrated monetization tools as Linktree. The platform is more focused on presentation than transaction processing.
Verdict: Linktree offers more comprehensive monetization options for creators and businesses looking to generate revenue directly through their link page.
Mobile Experience
Linktree: Has a mobile app that allows for management on the go, but the platform was originally designed as a web-based service. The mobile experience is functional but not the primary focus of the platform.
Milkshake: Built specifically as a mobile-first platform. The entire experience from creation to management is optimized for smartphones, making it particularly appealing to creators who work primarily from mobile devices.
Verdict: Milkshake is the clear winner for mobile-centric users who create and manage content primarily from their phones.
Pricing and Value
Linktree: Offers a tiered pricing structure that allows users to select the level of service that matches their needs. While this provides flexibility, it can also mean paying for features you don't need or having to upgrade to access specific functionality.
Milkshake: Maintains a simpler pricing model with just free and pro options. This straightforward approach makes it easier to decide whether to upgrade, though it offers less flexibility for users with specific needs.
Verdict: Milkshake offers better value for basic users who want a simple decision, while Linktree provides more options for those with specific feature requirements.
Who Should Choose Linktree?
Based on the comparison above, Linktree might be the better choice for:
Businesses and professional brands that prioritize a clean, professional appearance and need robust analytics
Content creators focused on monetization who want to sell products, accept payments, or receive tips directly through their link page
Data-driven marketers who need detailed analytics to optimize their link performance
Users who manage their online presence primarily from desktop computers and prefer a web-based interface
Those who need specific features available in Linktree's various pricing tiers
Linktree's established position in the market also means more regular updates and a larger user community for support and inspiration.
Who Should Choose Milkshake?
Milkshake might be the better option for:
Mobile-first creators who manage their content primarily from smartphones
Visual storytellers and creative professionals who want more design flexibility and a more immersive experience for their audience
Users who prefer simplicity in pricing with a straightforward free/pro decision
Those who prioritize visual presentation over detailed analytics or advanced monetization features
Creators who want their link page to feel more like a mini-website than a simple list of links
Milkshake's card-based approach creates a more engaging, interactive experience that can help your content stand out in an increasingly crowded digital landscape.
Alternative Platforms to Consider
While Linktree and Milkshake are two of the most popular link-in-bio tools, the market has expanded significantly by 2025. Depending on your specific needs, you might also want to consider these alternatives:
Bio.fm: Offers extensive customization options and is particularly popular with musicians and artists
Beacons: Focuses on monetization tools for creators with features like tip jars and product showcases
Lnk.bio: Provides a simple, affordable alternative with basic functionality
Tap Bio: Uses a card-based system similar to Milkshake but with different design options
Campsite: Offers robust analytics and a clean, professional design
You might also consider creating a dedicated landing page on your own website if you have one, which gives you complete control over the experience and keeps visitors within your own domain.
Tips for Maximizing Your Link-in-Bio Page
Regardless of whether you choose Linktree, Milkshake, or another platform, here are some best practices for creating an effective link-in-bio page:
Prioritize Your Most Important Links
Place your most important or timely links at the top of your page. Most visitors won't scroll through your entire link collection, so make sure the most crucial content is immediately visible.
Maintain Brand Consistency
Use colors, fonts, and imagery that match your overall brand identity. Your link-in-bio page should feel like a natural extension of your social media profiles and other online presence.
Use Clear, Action-Oriented Text
Instead of generic labels like "Website" or "Shop," use compelling calls to action such as "Read My Latest Article" or "Shop the Summer Collection." This clarity helps visitors understand what to expect when they click.
Don't Overload Your Page
While it might be tempting to include every possible link, too many options can overwhelm visitors. Focus on quality over quantity, and regularly update your page to remove outdated content.
Track and Analyze Performance
Use the analytics provided by your chosen platform to understand which links are performing well and which might need to be repositioned or reworded. This data can help you optimize your page for better results over time.
Test on Multiple Devices
Make sure your link page looks good and functions properly on both mobile devices and desktop computers. Most of your traffic will likely come from mobile, but it's important to provide a good experience for all visitors.
The Future of Link-in-Bio Tools
As we move through 2025, link-in-bio tools continue to evolve beyond simple link collections. Both Linktree and Milkshake are expanding their offerings to become more comprehensive digital presence platforms. Here are some trends to watch:
Enhanced E-commerce Integration: Deeper connections with online stores, allowing for product browsing and purchasing without leaving the link page
Advanced Analytics and AI Recommendations: More sophisticated data analysis to help users optimize their link placement and content strategy
Expanded Content Types: Support for more diverse content formats including interactive elements, mini-games, and immersive experiences
Community Features: Tools that facilitate direct interaction between creators and their audiences
Augmented Reality Integration: As AR becomes more mainstream, expect to see link-in-bio tools incorporating these technologies for more engaging experiences
Both Linktree and Milkshake are likely to adopt these innovations in their own ways, maintaining their distinct approaches to the link-in-bio concept.
Final Verdict: Linktree vs Milkshake in 2025
The choice between Linktree and Milkshake ultimately comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and how you manage your online presence:
Choose Linktree if:
You want a proven platform with comprehensive features
Analytics and monetization are priorities for you
You prefer a clean, straightforward presentation of links
You manage your content primarily from a desktop computer
You need specific features available in their tiered pricing structure
Choose Milkshake if:
You create and manage content primarily from your smartphone
You want more creative freedom and visual expression
You prefer a card-based, more website-like experience for visitors
You value simplicity in pricing and decision-making
Visual presentation is more important to you than detailed analytics
Both platforms offer free versions that allow you to test their basic functionality before committing to a paid plan. This hands-on experience is often the best way to determine which platform feels right for your specific workflow and objectives.
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of 2025, having an effective link-in-bio solution is no longer optional for creators and businesses—it's essential. Whether you choose Linktree, Milkshake, or another platform, the important thing is to create a centralized hub that effectively connects your audience with all aspects of your online presence.
Remember that the best platform is ultimately the one that helps you achieve your specific goals while providing an intuitive experience for both you as the creator and your audience as visitors. As both Linktree and Milkshake continue to evolve their offerings, the gap between their features may narrow, but their fundamental approaches to the link-in-bio concept are likely to remain distinct.