OpenDNS FamilyShield vs CleanBrowsing
A detailed comparison to help you choose between OpenDNS FamilyShield and CleanBrowsing.
OpenDNS FamilyShield DNS-level content filtering for families. | CleanBrowsing DNS-based content filtering with family-safe profiles. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.2 (344 reviews) | 4.3 (94 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | free | freemium |
| Starting Price | Free | From $0/mo |
| Best For | Best for users wanting private and fast DNS resolution | Best for parents protecting children online |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
OpenDNS FamilyShield
Pros
- + Free DNS-based adult content filtering
- + Router-level setup covers all home devices
- + No account required for basic use
- + Works on virtually any DNS-configurable device
- + Cisco documentation clearly states limitations
Cons
- - No category customization or allowlists/denylists
- - Easy to bypass with VPN or DNS-over-HTTPS
- - Not a full parental control suite
- - DNS filtering is domain-level, not page-level
CleanBrowsing
Pros
- + Free forever DNS filters with no signup
- + Supports DoH, DoT, and DNSCrypt
- + Family filter enforces SafeSearch on major platforms
- + Paid plans include profiles and category controls
- + “Total Privacy” mode disables DNS log storage
- + Published pricing for monthly and yearly plans
Cons
- - US (Delaware) jurisdiction may deter privacy purists
- - No self-serve trial for paid plans
- - Terms state fees are nonrefundable for unused time
- - DNS filtering can’t inspect pages inside allowed domains
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