Comparison

DNS Shield vs ARK

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

DNS Shield

Encrypt your DNS queries and use no-logging servers to safeguard your online presence across all your Apple devices. Easily configure settings, switch servers, and benefit from system-wide protection without needing a VPN. It helps minimize contact with harmful sites and updates DNS providers automatically.

Highlights
  • Encrypts DNS queries
  • No-logging DNS servers
  • Ease of configuration
  • Effortless DNS server switching
  • System-wide protection
  • Minimizes harmful site contact
  • Automatic DNS provider updates
Read full description

Protect yourself on all your Apple devices by encrypting DNS queries and using no-logging DNS servers. Safeguard your online presence. Key features: - Ease of configuration. - Effortlessly switch DNS servers. - No vendor lock in. - No need for VPN. - Minimise or completely eliminate, in some cases, the amount of harmful sites contacted by your device. - Works System wide (not only in the browser). - Extensive In-App Help system. - We don't collect any data and we don't track your activities. - Automatic updates of the DNS providers collection. Your feedback and reviews will be highly appreciated!

About

ARK

Features
Read full description

ARK – Emergency Tools ARK – Emergency Tools is an Advanced Readiness Kit designed to help you stay prepared when traditional communication networks are unavailable. Built for emergency preparedness, disasters, and remote situations, ARK focuses on offline-first functionality, providing access to essential tools even when cellular service or internet connectivity is limited or unavailable. Designed for When Networks Fail Most apps depend on constant connectivity. ARK is built differently. Core features are designed to remain usable during: Natural disasters Power outages Remote or backcountry travel Infrastructure disruptions ARK helps you stay organized and prepared when conditions are uncertain and network reliability cannot be assumed. Offline-First by Design ARK prioritizes local operation, reliability, and simplicity. Essential features function using on-device capabilities, allowing the app to remain useful when connectivity is limited or unavailable. Some advanced communication features may require compatible external hardware to operate beyond standard device range. Hardware Compatibility ARK is designed to work independently on your device while also supporting optional hardware-based expansion. Certain extended-range or mesh-based communication capabilities may require compatible external hardware, which is not included with the app. Hardware availability and supported features may vary by region and configuration. The app remains functional without additional hardware, with expanded capabilities becoming available when supported devices are paired. Expandable Readiness Platform ARK is built as a modular preparedness platform. As the system evolves, future updates and optional hardware integrations may extend functionality while preserving reliability, clarity, and user control. This design allows ARK to scale from basic readiness tools to more advanced emergency use cases over time. Privacy & Local Control ARK is designed with privacy in mind. Data is stored locally on your device, and core functionality does not rely on constant cloud connectivity. This approach helps ensure availability and control when external services may be unreliable. Who ARK Is For Individuals and families preparing for emergencies Outdoor and remote travelers Professionals working in low-connectivity environments Anyone who values preparedness and self-reliance ARK does not replace emergency services. It is a preparedness tool designed to support readiness and organization when traditional systems are unavailable or unreliable.

Screenshots

DNS Shield4 screens
ARK4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is update cadence: ARK at every 10 days against DNS Shield's monthly. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

DNS Shield costs $1.99 and ARK $1.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

DNS Shield ships an update monthly, ARK every 10 days. The most recent releases landed on November 4, 2026 and November 9, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard1 real difference · 9 level
DNS Shield versus ARK: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterDNS ShieldARK
Price$1.99$1.99
Rating4.0 (4 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews0.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings4 — better—
Update frequencyMonthlyEvery 10 days — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNoNo
MonetizationPaid—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, Mac — betteriPhone, iPad
Requires iOS18.417.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size3 MB3 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperARETORI SOLUTIONS LTDGaelon Swift

In-app purchases

None

DNS Shield

No in-app purchases

None

ARK

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is DNS Shield free?
DNS Shield costs $1.99, with no in-app purchases.
Is ARK free?
ARK costs $1.99, with no in-app purchases.
Do DNS Shield or ARK have ads?
Neither DNS Shield nor ARK shows ads.
Which is updated more often, DNS Shield or ARK?
DNS Shield ships an update monthly, and ARK every 10 days. Most recently, DNS Shield was updated on November 4, 2026 and ARK on November 9, 2026.

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