Best DNS Servers for Gaming in Germany (2025 Guide)

Fast internet is not the only thing that makes online games run well. How fast a DNS server responds that is, how long it takes to turn a website name into a computer address matters too.

It can change how fast you get matched into games, connect to servers, and load pages. It can even reduce lag while you are playing.

If you are a gamer in Germany, picking a good DNS resolver can cut down the lookup time from 40-70 milliseconds to just 5-15 milliseconds.

This depends on where you live, your internet company, and the network paths. This article looks at good DNS server choices for gamers in Germany, their real benefits, tech specs, and how to set them up.

What Makes a DNS Good for Gaming?

A DNS server won't make your downloads faster or lower your game ping. What it will do is help your connections run more smoothly and reliably.

A high-performance DNS should have:

ISPs usually go for cheaper DNS servers instead of the best ones. That's why changing your DNS can make your connection more stable and quicker.

Best DNS Servers for Gaming in Germany (Ranked)

1. Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) - Fastest Overall

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1

• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1

• IPv6: 2606:4700:4700::1111 / ::1001

Cloudflare runs a fast DNS resolver all over the world. Because it has lots of connections in Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, it's a great option for gamers in Germany.

Pros:

• Extremely low latency

• No data selling

• Strong Anycast distribution

Best for: Competitive FPS and MMO players seeking minimal resolution time.

2. Google Public DNS

• Primary: 8.8.8.8

• Secondary: 8.8.4.4

Google DNS is built for reliability and works everywhere, not just for being the fastest.

Pros:

• Highly reliable

• Excellent failover performance

Best for: General gaming, streaming, and mixed network use.

3. Quad9 DNS

• Primary: 9.9.9.9

• Secondary: 149.112.112.112

Quad9 focuses on privacy and boosts security by automatically blocking hostnames known to be malicious.

Pros:

• Strong cybersecurity layer

• Good speed in Europe

• Nonprofit foundation

Best for: Gamers who download mods, custom content, or browse unfamiliar platforms.

4. OpenDNS

• Primary: 208.67.222.222

• Secondary: 208.67.220.220

Owned by Cisco, OpenDNS offers filtering options and parental controls.

Best for: Shared households or gaming cafés.

5. Local German DNS Providers

Gamers might see better latency with local DNS resolvers, mostly if they're close to:

• Frankfurt

• Stuttgart

• Cologne

• Hamburg

These may route faster depending on ISP backbone proximity.

Performance Comparison Table

Latency varies by provider, routing, and exact city.

How to Know Which DNS is Best for Your Console or PC

The most accurate method is testing. Use the following tools:

• DNS Benchmark (Windows)

• NameBench (Linux/macOS)

• GRC DNS Benchmark Suite

Test at peak gaming hours (18:00-23:00 CET) for accuracy.

How to Change DNS for Gaming

Windows:

1. Network & Internet → Change Adapter Settings

2. Right-click your connection → Properties

3. Internet Protocol Version 4 → Use the following DNS server

PlayStation & Xbox:

Network Settings → Manual → DNS Settings.

Router (best practice):

Set DNS at router level to apply system-wide.

German gamers usually find that Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) works best because it has quick response times, is built with current tech, and has good routing in Europe.

Google DNS is a good second choice, and Quad9 is great if you want more security. Changing from your internet provider's default DNS to a faster resolver can:

• Speed up server connections

• Reduce wait times for matchmaking

• Make your network more stable

Changing your DNS takes just a few minutes but can really make your online gaming better.