Cloudflare DNS vs Quad9
A detailed comparison to help you choose between Cloudflare DNS and Quad9.
Cloudflare DNS Fast public DNS (1.1.1.1) with WARP VPN option. | Quad9 Non-profit DNS resolver with threat blocking (9.9.9.9). | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.3 (309 reviews) | 4.5 (432 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | free | free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| Best For | Best for users prioritizing fast VPN connections for streaming and browsing | Best for users wanting private and fast DNS resolution |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
Cloudflare DNS
Pros
- + DNS-only mode plus full-tunnel WARP option
- + MASQUE support in current WARP apps
- + Resolver logs documented as deleted within 25 hours
- + Independent attestation report for public DNS resolver
- + Free tier available for 1.1.1.1 and WARP
- + Family DNS variants for malware and adult blocking
Cons
- - Not designed for anonymity or anti-tracking
- - Does not reliably bypass geo-restrictions
- - WARP client collects some usage/performance metrics
- - WARP+ Unlimited pricing varies and is shown in-app
- - DNS category filtering can misclassify sites
Quad9
Pros
- + Free resolver; no account or sign-up required
- + Threat-blocking option for malicious domains
- + Supports DoT, DoH, DNSCrypt, DoH3, DoQ
- + States it does not store client IP addresses
- + Opt-in ECS endpoint for better CDN geolocation
- + Transparent block behavior and tester guidance
Cons
- - Not a VPN; websites still see your IP
- - ECS mode leaks partial client network info
- - NXDOMAIN blocking can confuse troubleshooting
- - No independent no-logs audit confirmed in sources
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