They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery so Namewinner should be flattered that its auction-based backorder system has become the preferred method by companies in the expiring domains industry. Pool is the best example of a company that has taken NW’s auction model and improved it to their own benefit. Apparently, this new player made Namewinner think that it had to change drastically in order to compete because the company made some changes like a new interface, different bid increments, time differences in bids, and basically a more complex system.

These changes were not welcomed with open arms in the domain community and Namewinner had to alter some of its changes as a result. For example, existing Namewinner members were able to keep making initial bids at $8.75 instead of paying the new price of $15. The bottom line is that the changes along with the rise of Pool as a major player has reduced Namewinner’s role in the backorder industry.

Domain Radar’s Rating (out of 5 stars): ***1/2

Pros
•  can be the cheapest backorder if name closes at $8.75 or $15
•  does not rely solely on Dotster anymore
•  you only pay if you win
•  now can bid on .infos
•  existing members get a $8.75 starting bid instead of $15

Cons
•  recent changes make it more complicated than it should be
•  customer support leaves a lot to be desired
•  you pay a little more if wait till the final 20 hours to bid on a name
•  all increments after initial bids are now $10

The Verdict - Can still be the cheapest place to backorder names if you stick only to initial bids.