Does G still prefer subdomains to new domains?

[fom2001uk]

I'm thinking of starting a new website which is related to my existing widgets site, but will have different content. Lets say my old site sells widgets, but I want a new site which will be a widgets guide.

I want the new site to rank almost as well as my old site, and I don't want to wait for 1-2 years before this happens. So am I better considering a subdomain of my old site, rather than a new site (new domain)?

I know subdomains have traditionally done very well on Google SERPS, but is this still a viable strategy, at least in the short to medium term?

Any experiences and opinions appreciated.

[tedster]

Have you read last month's discussion about the (apparently subtle) changes in how Google treats subdomains [webmasterworld.com]? That might have some impact on your decision.

It no longer takes 1-2 years for a new site to rank well, but it still can take months. It can also take months for a new subdomain to rank well, and the same kinds of factors come into play to establish trust, etc.

[fom2001uk]

Thanks for the link to the other thread. Very interesting info.

Sounds like its now a coin toss between a new subdomain or a new site. But either way, you need a whole new link campaign to get the rankings anywhere near the original site's rankings.

I'm targeting the generic "widgets" keyword (which my original site ranks No.1 for), so you can imagine how competitive it is.

No shortcuts, then. Bummer :-(