If you’re sharing content online—whether you’re a musician, marketer, influencer or small business owner—the links you use can make a surprising difference.
While a regular link might get the job done, a smart link can supercharge your strategy. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between regular and smart links, and explain why tools like PUSH.fm are changing the game for creators.
What is a regular link?
A regular link (or URL) is a direct web address that leads users to a single destination—like your website, product page or latest YouTube video. It’s simple and straightforward, but it doesn’t offer much beyond that.
For example:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example
This link works fine if you’re only sharing one thing with one audience. But what if your followers use different platforms? What if you want to see how many people clicked? That’s where smart links come in.
What is a Smart Link?
A smart link is a dynamic, customisable link that can do far more than just redirect. It can:
- Combine multiple destinations into one shareable page
- Track user clicks and engagement
- Automatically route users based on their location or device
- Include branding and calls to action
- Offer social proof and sleek visual previews
Instead of sending people to one static page, a smart link can act like a mini landing page tailored to your audience.
Platforms like PUSH.fm make this easy. Their smart link tool lets you create beautiful, trackable links that lead fans to your music on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and more—all from one URL. You can even add your own branding and collect insights about your audience behaviour.
Smart link vs. regular link: key differences
| Feature | Regular link | Smart link (e.g. Push.fm) |
|---|---|---|
| Sends to one destination | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (and more) |
| Tracks clicks and analytics | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Multiple platforms in one | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Custom branding | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Device or geo-targeting | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Visual appeal | ❌ Basic | ✅ Customisable and engaging |
Why it matters
Using smart links isn’t just about looking professional (though that helps). It’s about making the most of every click. With a tool like PUSH.fm, you’re not guessing—you’re measuring. You’re not scattering your links—you’re streamlining them. This is especially important for creators and brands with followers across multiple platforms.
Imagine releasing a new single. A regular link sends fans to YouTube. A smart link gives them the option to choose their platform—Spotify, Apple Music, or even a merch store. That flexibility leads to better engagement and a smoother experience for your audience.
Smart links give you more control, more data, and more impact. While regular links are still useful in certain contexts, they’re no longer enough if you want to grow and engage your audience effectively. Platforms like PUSH.fm offer powerful tools to help you make the most of your online presence—without needing to be a tech expert.
