DNSimple vs Kong: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DNSimple and Kong comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
DNSimple
Simple and secure DNS management
Best for you if:
- • DNSimple is a DNS hosting and domain registration service for developers and teams
- • It provides simple DNS management, domain registration, and SSL certificates in one platform
Kong
API gateway and platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Kong is an API gateway and platform for managing, securing, and monitoring APIs
- • It provides rate limiting, authentication, and traffic control for microservices
| At a Glance |  DNSimple |  Kong |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 80/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | DNSimple | Kong |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How DNSimple and Kong Compare
DNSimple
Simple and secure DNS management
Paid · 80/100 score
Kong
API gateway and platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kong has a free tier. DNSimple is paid only.
Go with: Kong
Want the highest-rated option?
DNSimple: 80/100. Kong: 84/100.
Go with: Kong
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kong
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
DNSimple is paid. Kong is freemium. Kong lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Kong scores higher: 84/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Kong
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
DNSimple
The Bottom Line
Kong (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DNSimple or Kong better?
Kong scores 84/100 in our evaluation. DNSimple is paid and Kong is freemium.
What are DNSimple and Kong used for?
DNSimple: Simple and secure DNS management. Kong: API gateway and platform.
What does DNSimple cost vs Kong?
DNSimple is a paid tool. Kong is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.