Avast VPN vs NordVPN differences: 2025 comparison

NordVPN has built a reputation as one of the best VPN services on the market, celebrated for its blazing-fast speeds, advanced security tools, and impressive versatility. Meanwhile, Avast SecureLine VPN comes from Avast, a renowned name in cybersecurity, offering a no-frills VPN solution that prioritizes ease of use and privacy. But when choosing NordVPN vs Avast VPN, which option is better for your needs?

Both VPNs boast strong performance and reliable security; however, they cater to slightly different audiences. After extensively testing both services, I’ve analyzed their key features, including speed, servers, streaming, and overall value, to help you decide whether NordVPN or Avast SecureLine VPN is the right choice for you. Read on to find everything you need to know to make an informed choice.

Avast SecureLine VPN vs NordVPN: specifications

While both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN are reliable enough choices for online security, NordVPN outshines Avast in terms of advanced features, server count, and overall speed. Avast SecureLine VPN may appeal to users seeking a simple, straightforward VPN, but NordVPN is better suited for those who need a feature-rich service with powerful performance.

NordVPN vs Avast SecureLine VPN speed test

NordVPN’s speeds generally surpassed Avast’s in my tests across multiple international servers. NordVPN, using its NordLynx protocol, delivered consistently high download and upload speeds with better retention, while Avast SecureLine VPN showed notable drops, particularly in upload speeds on some servers. This performance difference makes NordVPN a more reliable VPN for data-intensive activities such as streaming and gaming, especially when connecting to servers in various regions.

The table below highlights the speed and retention rates of NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN on the servers I tested in the US, UK, and Canada. With NordVPN’s download retention averaging 93.42%, it offers smoother performance, whereas Avast VPN struggles to retain high upload speeds. For users seeking consistent, high-speed connections, NordVPN has the edge over Avast SecureLine VPN.

With these results, NordVPN’s superior speed retention rate on international servers clearly distinguishes it from Avast VPN, especially for users prioritizing stable, fast connections across various regions.

Server fleet

Regarding server networks, NordVPN clearly outpaces Avast SecureLine VPN. With over 7400+ servers in 118+ countries, NordVPN provides a significantly broader global reach than Avast, which offers just 700 servers in 34 countries. Additionally, NordVPN boasts specialty servers and an infrastructure designed to enhance speed and security, making it the superior choice for users who need reliable access to servers worldwide.

A larger server network translates to better performance, as it reduces the risk of server overcrowding, ensuring faster connections. NordVPN’s diverse server locations also improve accessibility to region-locked content and provide better options for bypassing blocks.

While Avast SecureLine VPN offers solid coverage for casual users, it falls short for those requiring extensive options. NordVPN’s robust fleet, paired with its high-speed connections and specialized servers, provides a superior experience. Whether you’re streaming US-based content or gaming on low-latency servers, NordVPN offers greater flexibility and reliability.

Specialized servers

Specialized servers are designed for specific online activities, adding versatility to your VPN usage. While NordVPN excels in this area, offering a range of options, Avast SecureLine VPN doesn’t support specialized server types, making it less suitable for users who need tailored server options for privacy, secure browsing, or bypassing restrictions.

Avast Secureline VPN has a lengthy free trial. More precisely, you can enjoy its 60-day free trial and take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee. Let’s see what it offers:

NordVPN offers multiple specialized servers:

• Double VPN. Provides enhanced privacy by routing your traffic through two VPN servers, and is ideal for users seeking extra layers of security.
• Tor over VPN. Combines Tor with VPN encryption for highly secure connections, and is beneficial in restrictive environments.
• Obfuscated servers. Mask VPN traffic to bypass VPN blocks, and is perfect for accessing content in countries with heavy internet censorship.
• P2P servers. Optimized for torrenting, allowing safer and faster file-sharing activities.

Meanwhile, Avast SecureLine VPN lacks these specialized server types, meaning users don’t have access to features like Double VPN or Obfuscated Servers, which are essential for bypassing advanced firewalls or protecting sensitive data.

Comparing NordVPN vs Avast VPN, NordVPN’s specialized servers make it the better choice for users needing flexibility and privacy. If you’re looking for advanced security features or need to bypass restrictions, NordVPN’s range of specialized servers is hard to beat.

Avast SecureLine VPN vs NordVPN streaming test

In the NordVPN vs Avast VPN streaming comparison, NordVPN is the clear winner for accessing a wide range of streaming services.

NordVPN successfully unblocks platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, YouTube TV, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, providing access to popular content worldwide.

Avast SecureLine VPN, however, struggles with certain streaming platforms, only reliably unblocking Netflix, YouTube TV, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. It cannot access UK-exclusive services such as BBC iPlayer and ITVX, limiting its utility for international streaming.

During testing, NordVPN’s high-speed servers made it ideal for lag-free 4K streaming, while Avast SecureLine VPN’s lower speeds and limited server options led to buffering, especially on distant servers. Therefore, if you need reliable access to popular streaming services and HD streaming, NordVPN is the superior choice in this comparison.

NordVPN vs Avast VPN: which is more secure?

When comparing the security features of NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN, NordVPN stands out as the more robust option. Both VPNs provide essential security functions, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, yet NordVPN offers several additional layers of protection that make it the clear winner in terms of security. Here’s a breakdown for you:

NordVPN pulls ahead with additional security options like Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and obfuscated servers. These features are vital for users seeking higher levels of privacy and protection, particularly in restrictive or heavily monitored environments.

Another factor is the jurisdiction — NordVPN’s base in Panama ensures it is outside the jurisdiction of data retention laws, whereas Avast is based in the Czech Republic, which follows EU regulations that may require data storage under certain circumstances.

In summary, while both VPNs are secure, NordVPN is the better choice for users who prioritize enhanced security features and need more options to protect their privacy, particularly those requiring obfuscation or multi-layered encryption.

Which VPN offers better privacy protections?

Regarding privacy, both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN are based in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. NordVPN is located in Panama, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, offering strong protection against international data-sharing agreements. Avast SecureLine VPN, based in the Czech Republic, also benefits from privacy regulations under EU law (GDPR), but as an EU member, it could be more susceptible to international data-sharing.

Both VPNs claim a zero-logs policy, meaning they do not track your online activities. However, NordVPN has undergone multiple independent audits, with its most recent audit conducted by Deloitte in 2024, providing solid confirmation of its no-logs commitment. On the other hand, Avast SecureLine VPN does not have independent audits from major firms like PwC or KPMG, which slightly weakens its transparency.

When it comes to data leaks, both VPNs perform well. NordVPN consistently passes IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests, ensuring your online identity remains secure. Avast SecureLine VPN also passed these tests, but NordVPN’s proven history of leak protection gives it an edge in trustworthiness. In summary, while both services offer solid privacy protections, NordVPN takes the lead with its strong jurisdiction, multiple audits, and more reliable track record in leak prevention.

Is NordVPN or Avast SecureLine better for torrenting?

Regarding torrenting, both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN support peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic; however, NordVPN offers a significant edge in terms of performance and features.

NordVPN allows torrenting on all of its servers and provides specialized P2P servers to optimize your download and upload speeds. With its split tunneling feature (available on Windows, Android, and Android TV), NordVPN lets you encrypt your torrenting traffic while using your regular connection for other activities, like gaming or browsing. This minimizes any potential performance impact. During my tests, I downloaded open-source software at 96% of my original speed, which is impressive.

In contrast, Avast SecureLine VPN also allows torrenting on all servers but lacks the added advantages of specialized P2P servers or a SOCKS5 proxy. While it supports split tunneling, it doesn't provide the same level of optimization for torrenting speeds. Avast’s general server load can lead to slower speeds for some users.

Overall, if you're looking for the best VPN for torrenting, NordVPN is the better choice due to its dedicated P2P servers, faster speeds, and the added benefit of a SOCKS5 proxy.

Avast VPN vs NordVPN: installation & ease of use

Both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN are easy to install and use, offering applications for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. However, NordVPN stands out with more extensive device support and additional installation flexibility.

NordVPN offers apps for Android TV, Firesticks, and even router firmware, which means you can protect all devices connected to your home network. Additionally, it supports Linux, which Avast SecureLine VPN does not. If you’re a gamer, NordVPN can be directly installed on your gaming console, ensuring added protection and giving you better control over your online experience, such as using a VPN for easier bot lobbies.

In contrast, Avast SecureLine VPN is more limited in its compatibility, supporting only Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also lacks support for Linux, gaming consoles, and routers. While both services allow up to 10 simultaneous connections, NordVPN offers more versatility with its installation options, making it the superior choice for users seeking more flexibility.

In conclusion, NordVPN is the better choice for installation and ease of use due to its wider device compatibility and ability to protect multiple types of devices.

Desktop apps

Regarding desktop applications, NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN offer distinct experiences, each with its pros and cons.

NordVPN’s desktop app stands out for its larger, more interactive interface. The app features a world map view of servers, which makes it easy to select a server. Specialty servers, such as Double VPN and Onion over VPN, are available on the server list. Overall, the app is intuitive, responsive, and offers a seamless experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more feature-rich interface.

In contrast, Avast SecureLine VPN’s desktop app takes a more minimalist approach. The interface is compact, which could be an advantage for those who prefer a simpler design. Avast’s app is smaller and more uniform across platforms, making it a consistent but less dynamic option, especially when compared to NordVPN’s larger, more feature-packed design.

NordVPN is the clear winner, thanks to its intuitive interface and additional features. However, Avast SecureLine VPN will suffice for those who prioritize simplicity and ease of use.

Mobile apps

NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN offer solid mobile applications for both iOS and Android, but there are some key differences in terms of features and usability.

NordVPN’s mobile apps for both platforms are sleek, intuitive, and feature-rich. The app retains the same interactive server map design from the desktop version, allowing users to easily select servers across the globe. It also supports specialized servers, such as Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and obfuscated servers, ensuring enhanced privacy and security for mobile users. Additionally, NordVPN’s mobile apps support split tunneling (on Android) and kill switch functionality.

Avast SecureLine VPN offers a simpler mobile experience, with a clean, easy-to-navigate interface. While its Android and iOS apps both support essential features like a kill switch and auto-connect, it lacks the interactive map and specialized server options found in NordVPN. Avast's app provides basic functionalities, like server selection and protection for online activities, but it does not have advanced features like split tunneling or Onion over VPN.

Overall, NordVPN’s mobile apps excel with a more polished interface, more advanced features, and better consistency across platforms. Avast SecureLine VPN, while reliable and easy to use, doesn’t offer the same level of flexibility and customization.

NordVPN vs Avast SecureLine VPN: pricing

When comparing the pricing of NordVPN vs Avast SecureLine VPN, it is clear that NordVPN offers more flexible pricing plans with greater value for long-term subscriptions, while Avast SecureLine is slightly pricier for comparable plans.

NordVPN provides a range of subscription options with considerable discounts for longer-term plans. For instance, its 1-year plan costs $4.99/month, while the 2-year plan is even more affordable at $3.39/month. Lastly, there’s also a 3-year plan, costing $3.30/month. NordVPN also includes a free 7-day trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee with all plans, making it a risk-free investment. On top of this, users who subscribe to long-term plans get 3 months free with their initial payment.

Avast SecureLine VPN, on the other hand, is more expensive in its pricing. The 1-year plan is priced at $3.99/month, while the 2-year plan costs $4.39/month. Unlike NordVPN, Avast doesn’t offer any significant discounts for longer plans, making it a bit pricier in the long run for users opting for extended coverage. However, Avast SecureLine VPN has a 60-day free trial on PC, while mobile users also have a 7-day free trial.

Although Avast SecureLine VPN is slightly cheaper on its monthly plan, NordVPN provides better long-term value with lower prices for extended plans, additional features, and a broader array of payment options, including cryptocurrency. If you're looking for an affordable yet feature-packed VPN for the long haul, NordVPN is the clear winner, providing better value overall.

Features comparison

Both VPNs deliver solid security foundations, including encryption, no-logs policies, and DNS leak protection, but NordVPN stands out with a range of additional features. From Multi-hop and Tor over VPN for more robust anonymity, to port forwarding for optimized torrenting and gaming, NordVPN goes beyond the basics. Meanwhile, Avast SecureLine VPN offers a simpler set of features but still covers the essentials, with a strong focus on ease of use. Take a look at the key differences below:

NordVPN’s additional features include Dark Web Monitoring, which automatically scans the dark web and alerts you if your personal information is leaked, and Meshnet, which allows users to create a secure local area network (LAN) across multiple devices for secure file and password sharing. These features are not available with Avast SecureLine VPN, which lacks advanced tools like Malware protection, Tracker blocking, and specialized server options.

While Avast SecureLine VPN covers the basics like split tunneling and ad blocking, it doesn’t offer much else.

Split tunneling

Split tunneling is vital for users seeking more control over their internet traffic routing, allowing specific apps or services to bypass the VPN while others remain protected.

NordVPN provides split tunneling on its Windows, Android, and Android TV apps, making it versatile for both desktop and mobile users. Activating the feature is straightforward – you can toggle it on from the settings menu and add specific apps to the exception list.

In contrast, Avast SecureLine VPN does not support split tunneling. Without it, all your internet traffic is routed through Avast’s VPN servers, which may result in slower speeds for bandwidth-heavy tasks like gaming or streaming.

In summary, NordVPN is the better choice for users who need to fine-tune their VPN usage.

Ad and malware blocker

NordVPN excels in this area with its Threat Protection feature. This feature actively scans downloaded files and identifies malicious software before it can compromise your device. Additionally, it blocks access to malicious websites known to distribute malware or phishing scams.

On the other hand, Avast SecureLine VPN does not include built-in ad or malware blocking within its VPN service. While Avast does offer advanced antivirus and web protection features, these are available only as part of separate subscriptions.

For users who want seamless protection without relying on multiple services, NordVPN clearly stands out with its Threat Protection addition.

Auto-connect feature

NordVPN provides a robust and highly configurable auto-connect feature. It automatically activates your VPN when you join public Wi-Fi, connect to Ethernet, or access any new network, protecting your data from potential threats. Plus, it’s highly customizable.

Avast SecureLine VPN, while offering an auto-connect feature, has a more basic implementation. It activates on unsecured Wi-Fi networks, providing essential protection when browsing in public spaces, such as cafes or airports. However, you can’t customize it.

Here, NordVPN is the clear winner, due to the high level of customization it provides.

Meshnet

Meshnet is an innovative feature offered by NordVPN, designed to create a secure local area network (LAN) between your devices or even with trusted devices of other users, no matter where they are in the world. This comes very handy when sharing passwords or sensitive files between devices and accounts.

Setting up Meshnet in NordVPN is straightforward, with options available for desktop and mobile apps. Users can link up to 60 devices under a single subscription and share secure connections with family, friends, or colleagues.

Unfortunately, Avast SecureLine VPN does not include a Meshnet-like feature or any comparable functionality.

Customer support

Both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN provide reliable customer support options, though there are clear differences in their offerings. Each VPN delivers essential support services like a knowledge base and 24/7 live chat, ensuring users can resolve most issues quickly and efficiently. These features are invaluable for troubleshooting technical issues or answering questions about their services.

However, NordVPN excels in providing comprehensive support. During my tests, the live chat responded within a minute, offering detailed guidance and solutions. Additionally, NordVPN has a well-organized knowledge base, filled with FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tutorials, making it easy for users to find answers without direct assistance. For less urgent matters, email tickets are also available, with responses typically arriving within a few hours.

Avast SecureLine VPN, while solid in its offerings, is slightly less robust. It provides a knowledge base and live chat as well, though the response times during my tests were less consistent. Avast also lacks dedicated email ticket support, relying heavily on its FAQ section for self-service help. However, it does provide phone support, which NordVPN does not. This feature could be appealing to users who prefer speaking directly with a representative.

Overall, NordVPN delivers faster, more detailed assistance through its live chat and email options, while Avast SecureLine VPN offers the added convenience of phone support. However, NordVPN remains the stronger contender for in-depth technical help and self-service resources.

NordVPN vs Avast VPN - which is better?

When comparing NordVPN and Avast VPN, NordVPN emerges as the superior option in every category. Its vast server network, advanced features, and robust security tools outshine Avast SecureLine VPN's more basic offerings. While Avast provides a user-friendly experience with decent speeds and essential features, it falls short in areas like advanced privacy tools, streaming unblocking capabilities, and device compatibility.

Here’s a breakdown of how the two VPNs compare:

NordVPN's broad feature set, including specialized servers, Meshnet, and Dark Web monitoring, makes it a comprehensive choice for both advanced and casual users. It’s particularly suitable for those prioritizing streaming, privacy, and fast global connections.

On the other hand, Avast SecureLine VPN is a viable option for users seeking simplicity, phone support, and a no-frills VPN experience. However, its lack of advanced features like multi-hop, split tunneling, and broader device compatibility makes it less appealing for power users.

For most users, NordVPN is the clear winner in 2025, delivering exceptional value and functionality.

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FAQ

Should I consider switching from Avast SecureLine VPN to NordVPN?

Yes, especially if you prioritize advanced features, better streaming support, and stronger privacy tools. NordVPN offers features like multi-hop, specialized servers, and wider compatibility, which Avast SecureLine VPN lacks. Additionally, NordVPN’s larger server network and faster speeds make it a superior choice for gaming, streaming, and overall performance.

Do I need to enable Nord Threat Protection if I’m using NordVPN?

Not necessarily, but enabling it enhances your security. NordVPN’s Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers, and malware, complementing its encryption and privacy features. While NordVPN alone secures your connection, Threat Protection provides an extra layer of safety, especially for browsing and downloading.

Can you use Avast SecureLine VPN and NordVPN together?

No, running two VPNs simultaneously is not recommended. VPNs encrypt traffic differently, causing potential conflicts, connection issues, or slower speeds. Instead, choose one based on your needs: NordVPN for advanced privacy features and streaming or Avast SecureLine VPN for simplicity and ease of use.

Which VPN is better for gaming: NordVPN or Avast SecureLine VPN?

NordVPN is better for gaming due to its faster speeds, lower latency, and optimized server options. Features like Meshnet and NordLynx (its WireGuard protocol) improve performance. Avast SecureLine VPN provides stable connections but lacks advanced options like port forwarding, making NordVPN the superior gaming choice.

Which is faster – NordVPN or Avast SecureLine VPN?

NordVPN is faster, due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol and extensive server network. Avast SecureLine VPN offers decent speeds but struggles with consistency across locations. If speed for streaming, gaming, or torrenting is a priority, NordVPN is the better option.