Pi-hole vs AdGuard Home: Which Self-Hosted Ad Blocker Is Better?
Quick Answer
Use AdGuard Home if you want a modern UI, built-in encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT), and easier setup. Use Pi-hole if you want the largest community, most blocklist options, and a proven track record. Both are excellent. For new setups in 2026, AdGuard Home has a slight edge.
Overview
Pi-hole
Pi-hole is the original self-hosted DNS ad blocker, launched in 2014. It’s been the default recommendation for years and has an enormous community. It works as a DNS sinkhole — queries for ad domains return nothing, blocking ads network-wide.
AdGuard Home
AdGuard Home is a newer DNS-based ad blocker (2018) from AdGuard, a company known for its commercial ad blocking products. It matches Pi-hole’s core functionality while adding modern features like built-in encrypted DNS and a cleaner interface.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Pi-hole | AdGuard Home |
|---|---|---|
| DNS-level ad blocking | Yes | Yes |
| Web UI | Good | Better (more modern) |
| Encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT/DoQ) | Requires separate setup | Built-in |
| DHCP server | No (requires separate) | Built-in |
| Per-client settings | Limited | Yes |
| Regex filtering | Yes | Yes |
| Query log | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Safe search enforcement | No | Yes (Google, YouTube, etc.) |
| Parental controls | No | Built-in |
| Community blocklists | Massive ecosystem | Good (compatible with many Pi-hole lists) |
| Resource usage | Very light | Very light |
Installation & Setup
Both run in Docker with minimal configuration. AdGuard Home wins on initial setup — its web wizard configures everything including DNS settings. Pi-hole requires manually handling port 53 conflicts (like systemd-resolved on Ubuntu).
Performance & Resource Usage
Both are extremely lightweight — they run on a Raspberry Pi Zero with room to spare. DNS query response times are comparable (1-5ms overhead). Neither will be a bottleneck.
The Verdict
For new installations in 2026, AdGuard Home is the better choice. The built-in encrypted DNS, per-client settings, and modern UI give it an edge. Pi-hole has the larger community and more third-party integrations, but AdGuard Home matches its core functionality while adding features Pi-hole doesn’t have.
That said, if you’re already running Pi-hole and it’s working well, there’s no compelling reason to switch.
See also: Best Self-Hosted Ad Blockers