comparison · DNS resolvers
AdGuard DNS vs ControlD
Both are listed in DNS resolvers. The table below pulls directly from each service’s data sheet; see each entry for sourcing.
| Field | AdGuard DNS | ControlD |
|---|---|---|
| KYC | optional KYC | optional KYC |
| Category | DNS resolvers | DNS resolvers |
| Jurisdiction | Cyprus (operator-disclosed) | Canada (operator-disclosed) |
| Payment methods | card | card, crypto |
| Fiat on-ramp | no | no |
| Custodial | no | no |
| Open source | no | no |
| Founded | 2018 | 2020 |
| Last verified | Jan 1, 2026 | Jan 1, 2026 |
AdGuard DNS — summary
AdGuard DNS is the ad-blocking-focused free public resolver with optional account-based customization.
- + Multiple endpoints (default, family, unfiltered).
- + DoH/DoT/DoQ/DoH3 supported.
- + Per-account filtering and analytics on paid plan.
- − Account-bound for custom filters.
- − AdGuard is primarily an ad-blocking-software vendor; the DNS is one product within that line.
- − Facts need re-verification by operator (last seeded 2026-01).
ControlD — summary
ControlD is the most-featured public resolver after NextDNS.
- + Per-endpoint filtering and "redirect" rules.
- + Crypto payment accepted on paid tiers.
- − Account-bound for custom flows.
- − Operator is the same group as Windscribe — review the broader ad-incentive context.
- − Facts need re-verification by operator (last seeded 2026-01).
When to choose which
Treat this section as heuristic. Privacy properties depend on how you use the service, not just which one you pick.
- Choose AdGuard DNS if multiple endpoints (default, family, unfiltered)..
- Choose ControlD if per-endpoint filtering and "redirect" rules..
- Either way, re-check the entry’s last verified date — the DNS resolvers category churns.
Mentioned in (combined)
Pages on the site that reference AdGuard DNS, ControlD, or both.
Quick answers
Country pages
Compared as of .