Comparing ENS (Ethereum Name Service), Unstoppable Domains, and Handshake (HNS) provides insight into the key differences between these three decentralized domain name systems. Each offers unique features, pricing models, and levels of decentralization.
Ethereum Name Service (ENS) is a protocol running on the Ethereum blockchain that allows users to register domains with the .eth extension. Registering a domain requires paying an annual fee that depends on the length of the name:
- 3 characters: $640 in ETH per year;
- 4 characters: $160 in ETH per year;
- 5 or more characters: $5 in ETH per year.
Additionally, you need to take into account gas commissions for domain registration and renewal. ENS is managed by a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO), which provides a high level of decentralization and allows ENS token holders to participate in the management of the protocol. ENS domains are widely integrated into the Ethereum ecosystem and are supported by many wallets and decentralized applications.
Unstoppable Domains offers domain registration with various extensions such as .crypto, .nft, .wallet and others. The main advantage of this platform is that there are no annual fees: a domain is purchased once and for all. Prices vary depending on the length of the name and the popularity of the domain, starting at $5 and reaching several thousand dollars for premium names. Registration takes place on the Polygon blockchain, which avoids high gas fees. However, Unstoppable Domains is managed by a centralized company, which may raise concerns among proponents of complete decentralization.
Handshake (HNS) is a decentralized protocol focused on replacing the traditional DNS system. Unlike ENS and Unstoppable Domains, HNS allows users to register their own top-level domains (TLDs), such as .myname. Registration occurs through auctions where the winner gets the right to the domain and the second highest bid is burned, which promotes decentralization and prevents speculation. HNS domains require minimal renewal fees every two years (less than 0.01 HNS) and are managed through wallets such as Namebase. Integration of HNS into browsers and applications is still limited but evolving.
So the choice between ENS, Unstoppable Domains and Handshake depends on the user’s priorities:
- ENS is suitable for those looking for high decentralization and broad integration into the Ethereum ecosystem, willing to pay annual fees and gas commissions.
- Unstoppable Domains offers ease of use and no annual fees, but with less decentralization.
- Handshake offers the ability to own your own TLDs and full decentralization, but requires more technical understanding and has limited support in apps and browsers so far.
Each of these systems has its advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
