Domain registrar comparison for web3: your guide to the best providers

2. Key evaluation criteria for web3 registrars

Choosing the right name for your digital life is a big deal. We at NameCab want you to pick the best home for your online identity. Not all providers are the same. Some are better for money apps, while others are better for social media.

When we look at different options, we use four main rules. These rules help us see which service is truly helpful.

2.1 Interoperability

Interoperability is a big word that means “working well with others.” In the world of Web3, there are many different blockchains. A blockchain is like a digital ledger. Some names only work on one ledger, like Ethereum. Others can work on Solana, Polygon, or Arbitrum.

In 2026, you want a name that follows you everywhere. If you go from a game on one chain to a bank on another, your name should stay the same. If a domain registrar only works in one small place, it is not very useful. We look for names that the whole internet recognizes.

2.2 Renewal and cost structures

How you pay for your name is very important. There are two main ways this works:

• Subscription models: This is like paying rent. You pay every year to keep your name. If you forget to pay, someone else can take your name. You also have to pay “gas fees.” These are small costs to the network to process your payment.
• Perpetual ownership: This is like buying a house. You pay once, and you own it forever. There are no monthly or yearly bills. This is very popular because you never have to worry about losing your name.

2.3 Native browser resolution

Usually, a web browser like Chrome or Safari looks for a traditional website. But Web3 sites are different. They use decentralized storage. Native resolution means the browser can find your site without any extra help.

Some browsers, like Brave or Opera, have this built-in. For other browsers, you might need to install a small tool called an extension. MetaMask is a common tool used for this. We prefer registrars whose domains work in as many browsers as possible without needing extra tools.

2.4 Ecosystem utility

Utility means how useful something is. A name is only good if other apps know how to use it. We check how many “dApps” or decentralized applications support the name. Can you use the name to sign into a social network? Can you use it to send money on Coinbase or Ledger Live?

The more apps that use the name, the more valuable it is to you.

3. Ethereum Name Service (ENS) and web3 registrar reviews

When we talk about the best in the business, we have to talk about the Ethereum Name Service. Most people call it ENS. It is the most famous name service in the world. It mainly gives out names that end in .eth. These names live on the Ethereum blockchain. We believe ENS is the gold standard for many reasons.

3.1 Wide adoption and security

ENS has been around for a long time. Because of this, almost every Web3 app uses it. Over 500 different apps and wallets work with ENS names. This makes it very easy to use. If you have an ENS name, you can be sure it will work on apps like Uniswap or OpenSea.

It is also very safe. The code that runs ENS is checked by many experts. It has a great record of keeping people’s names safe. When we perform web3 registrar reviews, security is always our top priority. ENS has proven that it can protect your digital identity better than almost anyone else.

3.2 Governance and the ENS DAO

ENS is not owned by a single company. Instead, it is run by a group called a DAO. This stands for Decentralized Autonomous Organization. People who hold a special coin called the $ENS token get to vote on the rules.

They decide how much names should cost and what to do with the money the service earns. This means the community has a say in the future. It is a very fair way to run a network. It prevents one person from making bad choices for everyone else.

3.3 The ENSv2 update for 2026

In 2026, ENS has become much faster and cheaper. This is because of something called ENSv2. In the past, changing your name on Ethereum could be expensive. Now, they have moved much of the work to “Layer 2” networks like Optimism.

These networks are like fast lanes for the main road. They make it cost just pennies to register a name or update your profile. This change has made ENS much better for regular people who do not want to spend a lot of money on fees. It keeps ENS at the top of our list for quality and value.

4. Unstoppable Domains: Leading decentralized domain providers

Unstoppable Domains is another major player. They do things a bit differently than ENS. While ENS focuses on one main extension, Unstoppable offers many. You can get names like .crypto, .nft, .x, .polygon, and even .go. We consider them one of the most important decentralized domain providers because they make things very simple.

4.1 Wide variety of extensions

Having many extensions is great for personal expression. If you are an artist, you might want a .nft name. If you are into tech, maybe .x is better. This variety allows you to pick a name that fits your personality.

Unstoppable Domains also works with big brands. This helps more people learn about Web3. They make it easy to find a name that is short and easy to remember. We like that they give users so many choices for their digital handles.

4.2 No renewal fees and perpetual ownership

The best part about Unstoppable Domains is that there are no renewal fees. Once you buy a name, it is yours forever. You do not have to pay every year. This is a huge relief for many people. You never have to worry about an email saying your name is about to expire.

They also use the Polygon network to save you money. When you want to change your profile picture or add a link to your name, it is “gasless.” This means Unstoppable pays the small fee for you. It makes managing your identity very easy and free after the first purchase.

4.3 User-friendly dashboard for non-technical users

Web3 can be confusing. Unstoppable Domains knows this. They have a website that looks like a regular store. You can even buy a name with a credit card. You do not need to know how to use crypto to get started.

They have a very clean dashboard. From there, you can link your social media, your email, and your wallet addresses. It is built for people who want the benefits of Web3 without the headache of learning complex technology. This focus on ease of use is why they are so popular.

5. Handshake (HNS): The primary blockchain registrar

Handshake is very different from the others. Most services live on top of another blockchain. Handshake is its own blockchain. Its goal is to change how the entire internet works. Instead of just selling you a name, it lets you own a piece of the internet’s foundation. We see it as a powerful blockchain registrar for the future.

5.1 Peer-to-peer root DNS protocol

The traditional internet uses something called DNS. A group called ICANN controls the main list of names like .com and .org. Handshake wants to replace this with a system that no one person controls.

It uses a “Proof-of-Work” system, just like Bitcoin. This makes it very hard for anyone to censor or take away a name. It is a truly decentralized way to manage the root zone of the internet. It is built for people who believe in total digital freedom.

5.2 Namebase: The gateway to handshake

If you want to use Handshake, you will likely use Namebase. Namebase is the main website and marketplace for Handshake names. It makes it easy to bid on names in auctions.

Because Handshake uses an auction system, you can sometimes get very cool names for a low price. Namebase acts as the bridge between the complex Handshake tech and the user. It allows you to buy, sell, and manage your names in one place. We think Namebase is the best way for most people to get started with this protocol.

5.3 Owning top-level domains (TLDs)

The coolest thing about Handshake is that you can own a Top-Level Domain (TLD). In ENS, you buy a name under .eth. In Handshake, you can own the entire .name extension.

If you own a TLD, you are the boss of that extension. You can keep it for yourself, or you can let other people buy names from you. For example, if you own .poker, you could sell names like john.poker to other people. This makes Handshake an investment in the infrastructure of the web, not just a single username.

6. Freename: Custom TLDs and web3 registrar reviews

Freename is a newer service that is doing something very exciting. They allow you to create your own custom extensions across many different networks. This includes the BNB Chain, Polygon, and Aurora. In our web3 registrar reviews, Freename stands out for its focus on earning money and customization.

6.1 Becoming your own registrar

Freename lets you become your own registrar. This is a very unique idea. When you register a TLD like .moon or .biz on their platform, you own it. If other people like your TLD and want to buy a name under it, you get paid.

You receive a percentage of the money every time someone else signs up. These are called royalties. It is a way to earn passive income from your digital assets. If you pick a name that becomes popular, you could make money for a long time. It turns owning a domain into a small business.

6.2 The web2-to-web3 bridge

Freename also works hard to connect the old internet with the new one. They have tools that help their domains work with traditional internet protocols. This is called a “bridge.”

It helps your Web3 name feel more like a regular website address. This is important for 2026 because many people still use the old way of browsing. Freename makes the transition smooth. They offer a mix of new technology and old-school compatibility that is hard to find elsewhere.

7. Comparative analysis table and web3 registrar reviews

To help you decide, we have put together a simple table. This table summarizes our web3 registrar reviews for the top providers in 2026. You can quickly see which one fits your needs best.

This chart shows that there is no single “winner.” The best choice depends on what you want to do. If you want the most popular name, go with ENS. If you want to own it forever for a low price, Unstoppable is great. If you want to own an entire extension, look at Handshake via Namebase.

8. Strategic recommendations for 2026

We want you to have the best experience possible. Depending on who you are, we have different suggestions. Here is how we think you should plan your digital identity.

8.1 Best for developers and DeFi power users

If you spend a lot of time with smart contracts or voting in DAOs, you should choose ENS. The .eth extension is the “standard” for serious crypto users. It shows people that you are part of the core community.

Because ENSv2 is now on Layer 2, the high costs of the past are gone. It is the most trusted name service for a reason. Most big money apps will look for an ENS name first. If you want to be seen and trusted in the world of decentralized finance, this is the one for you.

8.2 Best for personal branding and social media

Are you a creator? Do you want a name for your social media profiles? Unstoppable Domains is our pick. They have fun extensions like .go or .pudgy. These names are easy to tell your friends about.

The “no renewal fee” model is perfect for personal branding. You don’t want to lose your social handle just because you forgot to check your email. It gives you peace of mind. Also, their easy-to-use website makes it simple for anyone to set up a digital profile in minutes.

8.3 Best for investors and infrastructure builders

If you want to think big, look at Handshake. Using Namebase to buy a TLD is a great long-term move. You aren’t just buying a name; you are buying a piece of the internet’s map.

This is perfect for people who want to build their own private networks or niche communities. Owning a TLD like .community or .tech on Handshake is a powerful asset. It allows you to build a whole ecosystem under your own rules. It is the ultimate choice for those who want to own the pipes of the internet.

9. Conclusion: Using our domain registrar comparison for web3 2026

The world of the internet is changing fast. We have moved from names owned by big companies to names owned by you. This domain registrar comparison for web3 2026 shows that you have many great choices. Whether you pick ENS, Unstoppable, Handshake, or Freename, you are taking a big step.

You are moving away from being a “user” and becoming an “owner.” This is the core of Web3. When you own your name as an NFT, no one can take it from you. You have the power to move your data and your identity wherever you want.

We at NameCab recommend that you always look for a blockchain registrar that gives you “self-custody.” This means you hold the private keys. If you don’t hold the keys, you don’t really own the name. Always make sure your name is stored in your own digital wallet.

The year 2027 will likely bring even more people into the decentralized web. Now is the perfect time to secure your handle. Don’t wait until all the good names are taken. Pick the provider that fits your goals and claim your piece of the future today. Your digital identity is your most valuable asset—keep it safe and keep it yours.