Comparisons · 5 min read · By WhatsMyIPv4 Team · Updated June 24, 2026

Google DNS vs Cloudflare DNS

Switching to a public DNS resolver can make websites load a touch faster and add a layer of privacy over your ISP's default. The two most popular are Google's 8.8.8.8 and Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1, and both are free.

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The quick comparison

  • Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) markets itself on speed and privacy, with a promise not to log your queries to identify you and to wipe logs quickly.
  • Google (8.8.8.8) is rock solid and globally distributed, backed by Google's infrastructure.
  • Both are fast almost everywhere. Which is fastest for you depends on your location.

Privacy

Both are better for privacy than most ISP resolvers, and both support encrypted DNS. Cloudflare leans harder on privacy in its public commitments. Google keeps minimal logs for its public resolver. Either is a step up from a default ISP resolver that may log and monetise your browsing.

How to switch

You can set DNS on your router to cover every device, or on a single device in its network settings. Use 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 for Cloudflare, or 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 for Google. Change takes effect immediately and is easy to undo.

Frequently asked questions

Which DNS is fastest?

It depends on where you are, but both are among the fastest public resolvers. The difference is usually a few milliseconds. Try each and keep whichever feels snappier.

Will changing DNS speed up my internet?

It can make the first connection to a site resolve a little quicker, but it won't increase your bandwidth. Think faster lookups, not faster downloads.

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