This question can be highly debated, but here's my take...<p>Yes, alternative TLDs are cool for us nerds, but it's horrible for any startup in the consumer internet space. Most "regular" people are not familiar or comfortable using them. More often than not, people will meet you with a blank stare when you tell them your website is example.io.<p>I once spoke with the founders of Vol.ly (since acquired) and they said their name choice was a nightmare. Their company was pronounced Volly, but every time they would have to take time to explain their domain was v-o-l dot l-y. This is annoying for the founders and instantly forgotten by the user.<p>There's a reason why most startups that begin with non-.com domains eventually switch if they gain enough traction.<p>All that being said, I don't think it's logical to purchase an expensive .com before your company proves its success (or raises an absurd amount of money). Take your time, and get creative to find a workable .com, or get a domain that will still make sense if you ever want to purchase the .com. For example, served.io (no disrespect to them) could never change to servedio.com.<p>However, if your not in the consumer space, then I think alternative TLDs are a much more viable option. You're not depending on eyeballs for your startup's success. And if your target market is technology folk, it's even better.