software
NordVPN vs ProtonVPN 2026 - Speed, Price & Streaming
NordVPN is the faster, cheaper option with superior streaming capabilities and 5,700+ servers globally, while ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy transparency, a free tier, and Swiss jurisdiction—making it ideal for privacy-first users willing to accept slower speeds.
NordVPN
Premium VPN service with 6,500+ servers in 111 countries and advanced security features.
Streaming enthusiasts, gamers, budget-conscious users, and those prioritizing speed and value
Score75%
VS
ProtonVPN
Swiss-based VPN focused on privacy with free tier and integrated security features
Privacy-conscious users, dissidents in restrictive countries, Swiss jurisdiction preference, and those wanting to test before committing
Score67%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryNordVPN is the faster, cheaper option with superior streaming capabilities and 5,700+ servers globally, while ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy transparency, a free tier, and Swiss jurisdiction—making it ideal for privacy-first users willing to accept slower speeds.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose NordVPN if you prioritize speed, streaming access, and long-term value—it's 5.20% faster, unblocks all major US streaming platforms, and costs $40/year less than ProtonVPN. Choose ProtonVPN if maximum privacy transparency and having a free trial option are your primary concerns, even if it means accepting slower long-distance connections and limited streaming support.
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NordVPN
8.9/10
ProtonVPN
6.1/10
Choose NordVPN if
Best pickStreaming enthusiasts, gamers, budget-conscious users, and those prioritizing speed and value
Choose ProtonVPN if
Privacy-conscious users, dissidents in restrictive countries, Swiss jurisdiction preference, and those wanting to test before committing
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Global Server Count:✓ NordVPN wins(5,700+ servers vs 3,500+ servers)
- Annual Pricing (USD):✓ NordVPN wins($59.88/year (2-year plan) vs $99.99/year (Plus plan))
- Download Speed Performance:✓ NordVPN wins(5.20% decrease vs baseline vs 8-12% decrease vs baseline)
Key Facts & Figures
101 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | NordVPN | ProtonVPN | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Download Speed(Mbps) | 950+ Mbps | — | — |
| Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | 65 countries | |
| Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92% | 76% | |
| Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms) | 10+ | 8+ (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN) | |
| Starting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month) | $3.99 | — | — |
| Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline) | 5.20% decrease | 8-12% decrease | |
| Download Speed(Mbps) | 950 Mbps | — | — |
| Internet Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92% | — | — |
| Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries) | 30+ | — | — |
| Total Streaming Services Supported(services) | 10+ | — | — |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,500+ | — | — |
| Countries Covered(count) | 110+ countries | 68 countries | |
| Annual Plan Price(USD) | From $69/year | — | — |
| Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) | $3.09 | — | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 7,200+ | 2,000+ | |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 110+ | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $36+ | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month) | $3.09 | — | — |
| Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year) | $83.43 | — | — |
| Number of Servers(servers) | 7200+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 10+ | 10 connections (Pro) | |
| Average Download Speed(Mbps) | Fast (20-50 Mbps typical) | 40+ Mbps | — |
| Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $69.99/year (2-year plan) | $99.99 (Plus) | |
| Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices) | 0 (Premium only) | — | — |
| Devices Supported on Premium(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — | — |
| Browser Extensions Available(count) | 7 major browser extensions | — | — |
| Annual Subscription Price(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Total VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | 3,500+ | |
| Independent Security Audit(year) | 2024 (PwC) | — | — |
| Annual Subscription Cost(USD) | $47.88/year | $119.88/year | |
| Maximum Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 6 devices | — | — |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 111 | — | — |
| Latest Security Audit Year | 2022 (PwC) | 2023 (Securitum) | |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,000+ | 3,500+ | |
| Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Independent Security Audits | 2 (PwC & Deloitte 2024) | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Free Tier Monthly Data(GB) | None | 10GB | |
| Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | — | — |
| Total VPN Server Count(servers) | 5,400+ | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Annual Cost(USD) | $47.88 | — | — |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 111 countries | 91 countries | |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD) | $3.99 | — | — |
| Total Server Count(servers) | 5,800+ | — | — |
| Annual Plan Price(USD/month) | $3.99/month | $4.99/month | |
| Global Server Network(servers) | 6,500+ servers | — | — |
| Money-Back Guarantee Period(days) | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 6,200+ servers | 2,700+ servers | |
| Server Countries(countries) | 111 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers) | 6,500+ | — | — |
| Countries with Server Presence(countries) | 111 countries | — | — |
| No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year) | Annual (PwC) | — | — |
| Average Download Speed Loss(%) | 8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard) | — | — |
| Netflix Streaming Reliability(%) | 89% success rate (tested 13 regions) | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD) | $3.99 | — | — |
| Simultaneous Device Connections(devices) | 6 | 10 devices | |
| Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0) | 4.4 | — | — |
| Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Number of Servers(servers) | 5,900+ | — | — |
| Countries Covered(count) | 111 countries | 68 countries | |
| Average Download Speed(Mbps) | 420 Mbps | 565 Mbps | |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 6 devices | 10 devices | |
| Monthly Plan Price(USD) | $12.99 | $12.99/month | |
| Average Connection Speed(Mbps) | 320 Mbps | — | — |
| Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD) | $3.49/month | — | — |
| Total Global Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | — | — |
| Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD) | $6.99/month | — | — |
| VPN Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | — | — |
| Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Number of VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | — | — |
| Countries with Server Coverage(countries) | 111 | — | — |
| Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps) | 350 | — | — |
| Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds) | 200-500ms | — | — |
| Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | — | — |
| Global Server Network Size(servers) | 6,000+ | — | — |
| Countries Served(countries) | 111 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD) | $3.99/month | — | — |
| Transparency Report Frequency(per year) | Annual (1x/year) | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) | $47.88/year | — | — |
| Annual Plan Cost(USD/month) | $3.99 | — | — |
| Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)(USD) | $4.99 | $4.99 | |
| Open Source Code(percentage) | Partial (apps only) | Partial (apps only) | |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $9.99/month (1-year) | $9.99/month (1-year) | |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Speed Loss (Average)(percent) | 12-15% | 12-15% | |
| Monthly Pricing (Annual Plan)(USD) | $9.99/month | $9.99/month | |
| Total Server Locations(number) | 2000+ | 2000+ | |
| Monthly Price (Standard Plan)(USD) | $9.99 | $9.99 | |
| Annual Price (Lowest Tier)(USD) | $59.88 | $59.88 | |
| Server Network Size(servers) | 1,900+ servers | 1,900+ servers | |
| Average Download Speed (256-bit AES)(Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 200 Mbps | |
| Independent Security Audits (Last 3 Years)(audits) | 3 (Securitum, Cure53, 2021-2024) | 3 (Securitum, Cure53, 2021-2024) | |
| Simultaneous Connections Per Account(devices) | 10 devices | 10 devices |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
NordVPN leads1 tie
NordVPN
Attribute
ProtonVPN
- 5,700+ servers(winner)Global Server Count3,500+ servers
- $59.88/year (2-year plan)(winner)Annual Pricing (USD)$99.99/year (Plus plan)
- 5.20% decrease vs baseline(winner)Download Speed Performance8-12% decrease vs baseline
- Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified(winner)Streaming Service SupportNetflix, basic streaming only
- No free planFree Plan AvailabilityFree plan with 100 MB/month(winner)
- Panama-based (5/9/14 Eyes alliance)Privacy JurisdictionSwitzerland-based (5 Eyes only)(winner)
- AES-256 (NordLynx protocol)Encryption StandardAES-256 + ChaCha20 options
- Global Server Count
NordVPN
5,700+ servers(winner)
ProtonVPN
3,500+ servers
- Annual Pricing (USD)
NordVPN
$59.88/year (2-year plan)(winner)
ProtonVPN
$99.99/year (Plus plan)
- Download Speed Performance
NordVPN
5.20% decrease vs baseline(winner)
ProtonVPN
8-12% decrease vs baseline
- Streaming Service Support
NordVPN
Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified(winner)
ProtonVPN
Netflix, basic streaming only
- Free Plan Availability
NordVPN
No free plan
ProtonVPN
Free plan with 100 MB/month(winner)
- Privacy Jurisdiction
NordVPN
Panama-based (5/9/14 Eyes alliance)
ProtonVPN
Switzerland-based (5 Eyes only)(winner)
- Encryption Standard
NordVPN
AES-256 (NordLynx protocol)
ProtonVPN
AES-256 + ChaCha20 options
Full Comparison
| Attribute | NordVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Download Speed(Mbps) | 950+ Mbps | — |
| Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92%(winner) | 76% |
| Connection Speed Rating | Fastest | — |
| Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline) | 5.20% decrease(winner) | 8-12% decrease |
| Download Speed(Mbps) | 950 Mbps | — |
Show 12 more attributesInternet Speed Retention Rate(%) 92% — Connection Speed Performance Faster globally — Average Download Speed(Mbps) Fast (20-50 Mbps typical) 40+ Mbps Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps) 580 Mbps — Average Download Speed Loss(%) 8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard) — Average Download Speed(Mbps) 420 Mbps 565 Mbps Average Connection Speed(Mbps) 320 Mbps — Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps) 350 — Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps) 580 Mbps — Speed Loss (Average)(percent) 12-15% — Streaming Services Optimized(platforms) Most major platforms — Average Download Speed (256-bit AES)(Mbps) 200 Mbps — | ||
| Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries(winner) | 65 countries |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 111 | — |
| Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms) | 10+(winner) | 8+ (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN) |
| Native Streaming Box Apps | Limited | — |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 10+ | 10 connections (Pro) |
| Maximum Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 6 devices | — |
| Simultaneous Device Connections(devices) | 6 | 10 devices(winner) |
Show 4 more attributesSimultaneous Connections(devices) 6 devices 10 devices Port Forwarding Not available — Free Trial Available Yes (free tier) — Simultaneous Connections Per Account(devices) 10 devices — | ||
| VPN Protocols Offered | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | — |
| Encryption Standards Offered(algorithms) | AES-256 (NordLynx) | AES-256 + ChaCha20 |
| Primary VPN Protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard-based) | — |
| Kill Switch Feature | Yes (Standard) | Yes, all platforms |
| Encryption Standard | AES-256 | AES-256 and ChaCha20 |
Show 25 more attributesIndependent Security Audits Yes, regular audits — Kill Switch Feature Yes, on all platforms — Advanced Threat Protection Yes - Threat Protection Pro — Kill Switch Availability Yes (All Plans) — Independent Security Audit(year) 2024 (PwC) — Kill Switch Implementation Yes, all platforms — Independent Security Audits 2 (PwC & Deloitte 2024) — Encryption Standard AES-256 AES-256 with 4096-bit RSA Primary Encryption Standard WireGuard with ChaCha20 — No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year) Annual (PwC) — Supported Encryption Protocols(protocols) OpenVPN, WireGuard, ChaCha20, NordLynx — Kill Switch / Leak Protection Yes (Threat Protection included) — Kill Switch Protection Yes (automatic) Yes, always enabled Recent Independent Security Audit PwC (2024) — Kill Switch Enabled by Default Yes — Encryption Type AES-256 Double VPN (dual layer) — No-Logs Certification Yes (multiple 2022-2024) — Password Encryption Standard IKEv2/IPSec or WireGuard — Code Openness Proprietary (audited) 100% open-source (audited) Independent Security Audit (Latest) Deloitte (2024) — Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds) 200-500ms — Audit Frequency(years) Annual third-party audit — Multi-Hop Encryption Available (optimized) — Privacy Audit Certification Deloitte no-logs audit (2022) — Independent Security Audits (Last 3 Years)(audits) 3 (Securitum, Cure53, 2021-2024) — | ||
| Starting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month) | $3.99 | — |
| Free Plan Data Limit(GB/month) | None available | — |
| Annual Plan Price(USD) | From $69/year | — |
| Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) | $3.09 | — |
| Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $36+ | — |
Show 32 more attributesBase Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month) $3.09 — Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year) $83.43 — Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD) $69.99/year (2-year plan) $99.99 (Plus) Annual Subscription Cost(USD) $47.88/year $119.88/year Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Cost(USD) $47.88 — Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD) $3.99 — Annual Plan Price(USD/month) $3.99/month $4.99/month Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD) $3.99 — Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Plan Price(USD) $12.99 $12.99/month Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD) $3.49/month — Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD) $6.99/month — Free Trial Duration(days) 7 days — Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) $11.99 — Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) $47.88/year — Annual Plan Cost(USD/month) $3.99 — Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month) $11.99 — Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)(USD) $4.99 — Starting Monthly Price(USD) $9.99/month (1-year) — Free Version Available with unlimited data — Monthly Pricing (Annual Plan)(USD) $9.99/month — Free Tier Data Allowance(GB/month) 10 GB/month — Monthly Price (Standard Plan)(USD) $9.99 — Annual Price (Lowest Tier)(USD) $59.88 — Free Trial / Free Tier Free tier: 3 servers, 1 GB/month — | ||
| Logging Policy | Strict no-logs | — |
| Jurisdiction Privacy Rating | Excellent - Panama | — |
| No-Logs Policy | Verified no-logs | — |
| Payment Anonymity Options | Crypto, card, PayPal | — |
| No-Logging Audit Verification | Yes (PwC audit 2024) | — |
Show 2 more attributesNo-Logs Policy Jurisdiction Panama (outside 5/9/14-Eyes) — Log Retention Policy Strict no-logs policy Strict no-logs, Swiss law compliance | ||
| Dark Web Monitor | Included | — |
| App Kill Switch Feature | Yes (app-level) | — |
| Dark Web Breach Monitoring | No | — |
| Breach Monitoring Included | No | — |
| US Streaming Platforms Supported(platforms) | 4+ (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified)(winner) | 1 (Netflix only) |
| Free Trial or Free Plan(monthly data) | None - 30-day money back only | 100 MB/month free plan |
| Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices) | 0 (Premium only) | — |
| Devices Supported on Premium(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — |
| Privacy Jurisdiction | Panama (5/9/14 Eyes) | Switzerland (5 Eyes only) |
| Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries) | 30+ | — |
| Total Streaming Services Supported(services) | 10+ | — |
| Netflix Streaming Reliability(%) | 89% success rate (tested 13 regions) | — |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,500+ | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 7,200+(winner) | 2,000+ |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,000+(winner) | 3,500+ |
| Global Server Network(servers) | 6,500+ servers | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 6,200+ servers(winner) | 2,700+ servers |
Show 6 more attributesServer Countries(countries) 111 — Number of Servers(servers) 5,900+ — Total Global Servers(servers) 6,500+ — Number of VPN Servers(servers) 6,500+ — Countries with Server Coverage(countries) 111 — Server Network Size(servers) 1,900+ servers — | ||
| Countries Covered(count) | 110+ countries(winner) | 68 countries |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 110+ | — |
| Total VPN Server Count(servers) | 5,400+ | — |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 111 countries(winner) | 91 countries |
| Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers) | 6,500+ | — |
| Countries Covered(count) | 111 countries(winner) | 68 countries |
Show 1 more attributeVPN Server Locations(countries) 111 countries — | ||
| Number of Servers(servers) | 7200+ | — |
| Server Storage Type(text) | Mix of disk and RAM | — |
| Streaming Compatibility | Full support for major platforms | — |
| Maximum Password Character Support(characters) | Not applicable | — |
| Browser Extensions Available(count) | 7 major browser extensions | — |
| Annual Subscription Price(USD) | $3.99/month | — |
| Total VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+(winner) | 3,500+ |
| Countries with Server Presence(countries) | 111 countries | — |
| Countries Served(countries) | 111 | — |
| Total Server Locations(number) | 2000+ | — |
| Open-Source Code Availability | Partial (selected components) | — |
| Source Code Availability | Proprietary/Closed-source | — |
| Open-Source Code | Partial components only | Yes (Cure53 audit 2023) |
| Open-Source Client | No (proprietary) | — |
| Open Source Code(percentage) | Partial (apps only) | — |
| Latest Security Audit Year | 2022 (PwC) | 2023 (Securitum) |
| Free Tier Monthly Data(GB) | None | 10GB(winner) |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | 30 days |
| Total Server Count(servers) | 5,800+ | — |
| Geographic Coverage(countries) | 60+ countries | — |
| Supported Platforms | 12+ (major platforms only) | — |
| Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — |
| Money-Back Guarantee Period(days) | 30 days | 30 days |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | — |
| Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0) | 4.4 | — |
| Customer Support Hours(hours per week) | 24/7 live chat and email | — |
| Global Server Network Size(servers) | 6,000+ | — |
| Transparency Report Frequency(per year) | Annual (1x/year) | — |
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland (5-eyes exempt) | — |
NordVPNProtonVPNPeak Download Speed(Mbps)
950+ Mbps
—
Speed Retention Rate(%)
92%
76%
Connection Speed Rating
Fastest
—
Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline)
5.20% decrease
8-12% decrease
Download Speed(Mbps)
950 Mbps
—
Show 12 more attributes
Internet Speed Retention Rate(%)
92%
—
Connection Speed Performance
Faster globally
—
Average Download Speed(Mbps)
Fast (20-50 Mbps typical)
40+ Mbps
Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps)
580 Mbps
—
Average Download Speed Loss(%)
8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard)
—
Average Download Speed(Mbps)
420 Mbps
565 Mbps
Average Connection Speed(Mbps)
320 Mbps
—
Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps)
350
—
Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps)
580 Mbps
—
Speed Loss (Average)(percent)
12-15%
—
Streaming Services Optimized(platforms)
Most major platforms
—
Average Download Speed (256-bit AES)(Mbps)
200 Mbps
—
Server Locations(countries)
111 countries
65 countries
Countries with Presence(countries)
111
—
Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms)
10+
8+ (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN)
Native Streaming Box Apps
Limited
—
Simultaneous Connections(devices)
10+
10 connections (Pro)
Maximum Simultaneous Connections(devices)
6 devices
—
Simultaneous Device Connections(devices)
6
10 devices
Show 4 more attributes
Simultaneous Connections(devices)
6 devices
10 devices
Port Forwarding
Not available
—
Free Trial Available
Yes (free tier)
—
Simultaneous Connections Per Account(devices)
10 devices
—
VPN Protocols Offered
NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2
—
Encryption Standards Offered(algorithms)
AES-256 (NordLynx)
AES-256 + ChaCha20
Primary VPN Protocol
NordLynx (WireGuard-based)
—
Kill Switch Feature
Yes (Standard)
Yes, all platforms
Encryption Standard
AES-256
AES-256 and ChaCha20
Show 25 more attributes
Independent Security Audits
Yes, regular audits
—
Kill Switch Feature
Yes, on all platforms
—
Advanced Threat Protection
Yes - Threat Protection Pro
—
Kill Switch Availability
Yes (All Plans)
—
Independent Security Audit(year)
2024 (PwC)
—
Kill Switch Implementation
Yes, all platforms
—
Independent Security Audits
2 (PwC & Deloitte 2024)
—
Encryption Standard
AES-256
AES-256 with 4096-bit RSA
Primary Encryption Standard
WireGuard with ChaCha20
—
No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year)
Annual (PwC)
—
Supported Encryption Protocols(protocols)
OpenVPN, WireGuard, ChaCha20, NordLynx
—
Kill Switch / Leak Protection
Yes (Threat Protection included)
—
Kill Switch Protection
Yes (automatic)
Yes, always enabled
Recent Independent Security Audit
PwC (2024)
—
Kill Switch Enabled by Default
Yes
—
Encryption Type
AES-256 Double VPN (dual layer)
—
No-Logs Certification
Yes (multiple 2022-2024)
—
Password Encryption Standard
IKEv2/IPSec or WireGuard
—
Code Openness
Proprietary (audited)
100% open-source (audited)
Independent Security Audit (Latest)
Deloitte (2024)
—
Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds)
200-500ms
—
Audit Frequency(years)
Annual third-party audit
—
Multi-Hop Encryption
Available (optimized)
—
Privacy Audit Certification
Deloitte no-logs audit (2022)
—
Independent Security Audits (Last 3 Years)(audits)
3 (Securitum, Cure53, 2021-2024)
—
Starting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month)
$3.99
—
Free Plan Data Limit(GB/month)
None available
—
Annual Plan Price(USD)
From $69/year
—
Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD)
$3.09
—
Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$36+
—
Show 32 more attributes
Base Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month)
$3.09
—
Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year)
$83.43
—
Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$69.99/year (2-year plan)
$99.99 (Plus)
Annual Subscription Cost(USD)
$47.88/year
$119.88/year
Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Cost(USD)
$47.88
—
Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD)
$3.99
—
Annual Plan Price(USD/month)
$3.99/month
$4.99/month
Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD)
$3.99
—
Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Plan Price(USD)
$12.99
$12.99/month
Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD)
$3.49/month
—
Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD)
$6.99/month
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
7 days
—
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$11.99
—
Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD)
$47.88/year
—
Annual Plan Cost(USD/month)
$3.99
—
Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month)
$11.99
—
Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)(USD)
$4.99
—
Starting Monthly Price(USD)
$9.99/month (1-year)
—
Free Version
Available with unlimited data
—
Monthly Pricing (Annual Plan)(USD)
$9.99/month
—
Free Tier Data Allowance(GB/month)
10 GB/month
—
Monthly Price (Standard Plan)(USD)
$9.99
—
Annual Price (Lowest Tier)(USD)
$59.88
—
Free Trial / Free Tier
Free tier: 3 servers, 1 GB/month
—
Logging Policy
Strict no-logs
—
Jurisdiction Privacy Rating
Excellent - Panama
—
No-Logs Policy
Verified no-logs
—
Payment Anonymity Options
Crypto, card, PayPal
—
No-Logging Audit Verification
Yes (PwC audit 2024)
—
Show 2 more attributes
No-Logs Policy Jurisdiction
Panama (outside 5/9/14-Eyes)
—
Log Retention Policy
Strict no-logs policy
Strict no-logs, Swiss law compliance
Dark Web Monitor
Included
—
App Kill Switch Feature
Yes (app-level)
—
Dark Web Breach Monitoring
No
—
Breach Monitoring Included
No
—
US Streaming Platforms Supported(platforms)
4+ (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified)
1 (Netflix only)
Free Trial or Free Plan(monthly data)
None - 30-day money back only
100 MB/month free plan
Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices)
0 (Premium only)
—
Devices Supported on Premium(devices)
6 simultaneous connections
—
Privacy Jurisdiction
Panama (5/9/14 Eyes)
Switzerland (5 Eyes only)
Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries)
30+
—
Total Streaming Services Supported(services)
10+
—
Netflix Streaming Reliability(%)
89% success rate (tested 13 regions)
—
Global Server Count(servers)
6,500+
—
Server Count(servers)
7,200+
2,000+
Global Server Count(servers)
6,000+
3,500+
Global Server Network(servers)
6,500+ servers
—
Server Count(servers)
6,200+ servers
2,700+ servers
Show 6 more attributes
Server Countries(countries)
111
—
Number of Servers(servers)
5,900+
—
Total Global Servers(servers)
6,500+
—
Number of VPN Servers(servers)
6,500+
—
Countries with Server Coverage(countries)
111
—
Server Network Size(servers)
1,900+ servers
—
Countries Covered(count)
110+ countries
68 countries
Country Coverage(countries)
110+
—
Total VPN Server Count(servers)
5,400+
—
Country Coverage(countries)
111 countries
91 countries
Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers)
6,500+
—
Countries Covered(count)
111 countries
68 countries
Show 1 more attribute
VPN Server Locations(countries)
111 countries
—
Number of Servers(servers)
7200+
—
Server Storage Type(text)
Mix of disk and RAM
—
Streaming Compatibility
Full support for major platforms
—
Maximum Password Character Support(characters)
Not applicable
—
Browser Extensions Available(count)
7 major browser extensions
—
Annual Subscription Price(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Total VPN Servers(servers)
6,500+
3,500+
Countries with Server Presence(countries)
111 countries
—
Countries Served(countries)
111
—
Total Server Locations(number)
2000+
—
Open-Source Code Availability
Partial (selected components)
—
Source Code Availability
Proprietary/Closed-source
—
Open-Source Code
Partial components only
Yes (Cure53 audit 2023)
Open-Source Client
No (proprietary)
—
Open Source Code(percentage)
Partial (apps only)
—
Latest Security Audit Year
2022 (PwC)
2023 (Securitum)
Free Tier Monthly Data(GB)
None
10GB
Money-Back Guarantee(days)
30 days
30 days
Total Server Count(servers)
5,800+
—
Geographic Coverage(countries)
60+ countries
—
Supported Platforms
12+ (major platforms only)
—
Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices)
6 simultaneous connections
—
Money-Back Guarantee Period(days)
30 days
30 days
Money-Back Guarantee(days)
30 days
—
Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0)
4.4
—
Customer Support Hours(hours per week)
24/7 live chat and email
—
Global Server Network Size(servers)
6,000+
—
Transparency Report Frequency(per year)
Annual (1x/year)
—
Jurisdiction
Switzerland (5-eyes exempt)
—
Pros & Cons
12 pros·5 cons across both
NordVPN
+6-2
Pros
- 5,700+ servers across 60+ countries for faster connections and better streaming access
- Superior streaming support verified on Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max
- 5.20% download speed decrease—fastest in class compared to competitors
- Double VPN (Onion Over VPN) for additional anonymity layers
- Gaming-optimized with low ping rates even on long-distance servers
- $59.88/year on 2-year plan (40% cheaper than ProtonVPN annually)
Cons
- No free plan—requires paid commitment to test the service
- Panama jurisdiction falls under 5/9/14 Eyes alliance (weaker privacy than Switzerland)
ProtonVPN
+6-3
Pros
- Switzerland jurisdiction with strongest privacy protections (5 Eyes only, not 9/14)
- Free plan with 100 MB/month data for testing without commitment
- ChaCha20 encryption as alternative to AES-256 for enhanced flexibility
- Secure Core multi-hop routing for additional anonymity
- Complete transparency in privacy policy and no-logs audit verification
- VPN Accelerator feature to optimize long-distance server performance
Cons
- 8-12% download speed decrease on long-distance servers—noticeably slower than NordVPN
- Limited streaming support compared to NordVPN (Netflix only, no verified Hulu/Disney+)
- $99.99/year pricing ($40 more expensive annually than NordVPN's 2-year deal)
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
NordVPN is faster, delivering a 5.20% download speed decrease versus ProtonVPN's 8-12% decrease. NordVPN's larger server network (5,700+ vs 3,500+) and optimized infrastructure make it the clear winner for speed-critical activities like streaming and gaming. ProtonVPN's VPN Accelerator feature helps but doesn't match NordVPN's native performance.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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