AdGuard DNS alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave AdGuard DNS: can't block ads served from the same domain as content, and your DNS queries go through AdGuard's servers. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces AdGuard DNS, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. NextDNS currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best AdGuard DNS alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for most people
NextDNSVery similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for a free option
AdGuard HomeSelf-host the same idea for free, with your queries staying at home.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
NextDNSVery similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for open source
Pi-holeSelf-hosted DNS blocking with full control over your data.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for self-hosting
AdGuard HomeSelf-host the same idea for free, with your queries staying at home.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for Mac
Control DHosted DNS filtering with strong business and multi-device management.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for Windows
Quad9Free non-profit DNS that blocks malicious domains, for security rather than ads.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for Linux
NextDNSVery similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for iPhone and Android
NextDNSVery similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance.
Best AdGuard DNS alternative for working in the browser
NextDNSVery similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance.
AdGuard DNS alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to AdGuard DNS?
NextDNS ranks first right now. Very similar hosted DNS filtering with a generous free query allowance. Control D and AdGuard Home follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to AdGuard DNS?
Yes. NextDNS (free plan + paid), AdGuard Home (open source), Quad9 (free) and Pi-hole (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to AdGuard DNS?
Yes: AdGuard Home and Pi-hole. AdGuard Home and Pi-hole can also be self-hosted.
Which AdGuard DNS alternatives work on Linux?
NextDNS, Control D, AdGuard Home, Quad9 and Pi-hole run on Linux.
Why do people switch from AdGuard DNS?
The complaints we hear most: can't block ads served from the same domain as content; your DNS queries go through AdGuard's servers; free plan has usage limits.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces AdGuard DNS, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.