DNS Query Performance Comparison
Compare response times across multiple DNS resolvers to find the fastest for your location
Quick Examples
Why DNS Performance Matters
DNS (Domain Name System) performance directly impacts how fast websites and applications load. Every time you visit a website, your device must first query a DNS resolver to translate the domain name into an IP address. This lookup happens before any content can be downloaded. A slow DNS resolver can add hundreds of milliseconds to every page load, making websites feel sluggish even on fast internet connections. By testing and choosing the fastest resolver for your location, you can significantly improve your browsing experience.
Understanding Your Results
Response times tell you how quickly each resolver can answer queries:
Barely noticeable delay. Resolver is very close or highly optimized.
Fast enough for smooth browsing. Most users won't notice the delay.
Noticeable on slow connections. May want to test alternatives.
Adds noticeable delay to page loads. Consider switching resolvers.
Significant impact on browsing speed. Definitely switch resolvers.
Public DNS Resolvers
Cloudflare (1.1.1.1)
Privacy-focused, claims to be fastest
Pros
- Very fast
- Strong privacy policy
- No logging
- Global anycast network
Cons
- Relatively new (2018)
- Some ISPs may block it
Best for
Privacy-conscious users wanting speed
Google (8.8.8.8)
Most widely used public resolver
Pros
- Excellent reliability
- Fast response times
- Good global coverage
- Well-established
Cons
- Privacy concerns (Google)
- Logs queries
- May track usage
Best for
Users prioritizing reliability over privacy
Quad9 (9.9.9.9)
Security and privacy focused
Pros
- Blocks malware domains
- No logging
- Privacy-focused
- Threat intelligence
Cons
- Slightly slower than top competitors
- Blocking may cause issues
Best for
Security-conscious users
OpenDNS (208.67.222.222)
Cisco-owned, customizable filtering
Pros
- Content filtering options
- Phishing protection
- Reliable
- Dashboard for monitoring
Cons
- Logs queries
- Redirects NXDOMAIN
- Can be slower
Best for
Families wanting content filtering
ControlD (76.76.2.0)
Modern resolver with extensive customization
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Multiple blocking lists
- Fast
- Detailed analytics
Cons
- Newer service
- Some features require account
- Less proven
Best for
Advanced users wanting control
AdGuard (94.140.14.14)
Ad-blocking DNS service
Pros
- Blocks ads and trackers
- Privacy-focused
- No logging
- Multiple variants
Cons
- May break some sites
- Can be slower
- Aggressive blocking
Best for
Users wanting ad-blocking at DNS level
Optimizing DNS Performance
Choose the Fastest Resolver for Your Location
Use this tool to test multiple resolvers and pick the consistently fastest one. Geographic proximity usually helps.
Configure DNS at Router Level
Setting DNS at your router applies to all devices on your network and allows router-level caching.
Use Multiple Resolvers
Configure primary and secondary DNS servers. If one fails or is slow, the system fails over to the backup.
Enable DNS Caching
Most operating systems cache DNS results. Ensure caching is enabled to avoid repeated lookups for the same domains.
Consider DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) or DNS-over-TLS (DoT)
Encrypted DNS prevents ISP snooping but may add slight overhead. Test to see if the privacy benefit is worth it.
Monitor and Retest Periodically
Resolver performance changes over time. Retest quarterly to ensure you're still using the best option.