Control D vs NextDNS
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Control D is a DNS filtering and security service that blocks malware, unwanted content, and specific applications across devices at the DNS level. It runs on a claimed 100M-user threat intelligence network with a reported 99.98% malware block rate, and supports modern encrypted DNS protocols including DNS-over-HTTPS, DNS-over-TLS, and DNS-over-QUIC.
NextDNS is a customizable DNS-based content filtering and privacy protection service. It allows users to block unwanted content, protect their online identity, and customize their internet experience.
- Broad native OS support including Linux
- Encrypted DNS protocols supported out of the box
- Transparent self-serve per-endpoint pricing for SMBs
- 14-day free trial with no credit card required
- Highly customizable and flexible
- Effective at blocking unwanted content and protecting online identity
- Supports multiple devices and platforms
- Offers a free plan with limited features
- Enterprise, MSP, and school pricing requires contacting sales
- Per-endpoint pricing can add up for larger device fleets
- No permanent free tier for individual home users listed on the pricing page
- May require technical knowledge to set up and configure
- Limited features in the free plan
- May not be compatible with all devices or platforms
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataControl D is a paid, enterprise‑grade DNS filtering service with broad OS support and encrypted DNS; NextDNS offers a freemium model that is highly customizable but may need more technical setup.
Key differences
- •Control D provides native apps for Windows, Mac, Linux with silent install; NextDNS relies on manual configuration.
- •Control D includes SOC 2 and ISO certifications; NextDNS does not list any security certifications.
- •Pricing model: Control D is per‑endpoint subscription with a 14‑day trial; NextDNS has a free tier and paid plans.
- •API availability: Control D offers an API; NextDNS does not.
- •Target audience: Control D targets SMBs, MSPs, schools, enterprises; NextDNS targets families and individual users.
Pricing & value
NextDNS offers a free tier and lower‑cost paid plans, while Control D requires a paid subscription per endpoint.
Ease of use / learning curve
Control D provides native silent‑install apps for major OSes; NextDNS may need manual DNS configuration and technical knowledge.
Features & depth
Control D includes encrypted DNS protocols, multi‑tenancy, threat intel from 100M‑user network, and compliance certifications.
Integrations & ecosystem
NextDNS integrates with routers, VPNs, and offers customizable blocklists; Control D’s integrations are not specified.
Support
Control D lists API access and is aimed at managed service providers; NextDNS only offers email and documentation.
Security & privacy
Control D holds SOC 2 and ISO certifications and supports DNS‑over‑HTTPS/TLS/QUIC; NextDNS does not disclose certifications.
Scalability
Control D is built for SMBs, MSPs, schools, and enterprises with multi‑tenant management; NextDNS targets individual/family use.
Choose Control D if…
Enterprises, schools, MSPs, or SMBs needing managed, compliant DNS filtering across many devices.
Choose NextDNS if…
Families or individual users who want a low‑cost, highly customizable DNS blocker.
Common questions
Can I try Control D before buying?
Yes, Control D offers a 14‑day free trial with no credit card required.
Does NextDNS provide an API for automation?
No, NextDNS does not list an API; Control D does provide an API.
Which solution has formal security certifications?
Control D holds SOC 2 and ISO certifications; NextDNS does not specify any certifications.