Cloudflare DNS vs NS1
A detailed comparison to help you choose between Cloudflare DNS and NS1.
Quick Verdict
4.0/5
Cloudflare DNS
374 reviews
4.1/5
NS1
208 reviews
NS1 is rated higher (4.1 vs 4.0). Cloudflare DNS provides authoritative DNS management for any domain — free forever. Anycast routing ensures fastest DNS resolution globally. DNS analytics, DNSSEC, and DDoS protection included. NS1 (now IBM) provides intelligent DNS with filter chains for complex traffic steering. Pulsar performance insights, DDOS protection, and anycast routing. Used by LinkedIn, Yelp, and Dropbox.
Cloudflare DNS Fastest and most trusted free DNS service | NS1 Intelligent DNS with advanced traffic steering | |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Rating | 4.0 (374 reviews) | 4.1 (208 reviews)✓ |
| Pricing model | free | freemium |
| Starting price | Free | Free tier available |
| Best for | Every domain owner — Cloudflare DNS is the standard for fast, free, protected DNS management | Large enterprises needing intelligent DNS traffic steering with real-time performance optimization |
| Tags | ||
| Tags | free tierapi accessddos protection | free tierapi access |
| Visit Cloudflare DNS → | Visit NS1 → | |
Cloudflare DNS
Pros
- + Fastest DNS resolution globally — 1.1.1.1
- + Free forever with full features
- + DNSSEC and DDoS protection included
Cons
- - Cloudflare account required
- - Some privacy concerns about DNS data
NS1
Pros
- + Most advanced traffic steering in market
- + Pulsar real-time performance data
- + IBM acquisition adds stability
Cons
- - Complex for simple DNS needs
- - IBM acquisition may affect direction
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