NordVPN vs Proton VPN: Which is better in 2024?

NordVPN and Proton VPN have many similarities that make it difficult to choose between the two. For example, both are swift, located in privacy-friendly countries, and audited by reliable third parties. Besides, the two ensure their customers’ privacy with strong security features—military-grade AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch.

However, these VPN (Virtual Private Network) services are not completely identical. NordVPN offers a grand selection of servers, while Proton VPN offers a cheaper one-month subscription and quite an impressive free version. In this article, I’ll compare NordVPN vs Proton VPN to find out which is better for you and your needs in terms of prices, features, usability, and others.

NordVPN vs Proton VPN: specifications

NordVPN and Proton VPN are both excellent VPN providers. They both offer essential security measures, such as a no-logs policy, AES-256 encryption, kill switch, and DNS leak protection – all topped off with multiple independent third-party audits. They also work on Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android and iOS devices. And you will have no difficulty accessing popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, Disney+, and others, no matter where you’re located.

While I was satisfied with both providers during my tests, NordVPN proved to be the best choice due to its superior balance of affordability and performance. Not only it excels in speed and effortlessly bypasses geo-restricted content, NordVPN also offers a bigger server fleet (7000 servers compared to 9200 Proton VPN has). While it may not matter to some of you, travelers and remote workers can greatly benefit from a bigger server selection.

Proton VPN vs NordVPN price comparison

NordVPN and Proton VPN have roughly similar and industry-standard subscription prices. While NordVPN offers generally better pricing for long-term users, Proton VPN offers a sweeter deal for one-month subscriptions. Currently, NordVPN prices start at only $2.99/month, while Proton VPN starts at $3.59/month.

Both NordVPN and Proton VPN offer their best deals with a 2-year subscription. NordVPN comes in at $2.99/month, while ProtonVPN is priced at $3.59/month. Therefore, if you’re looking for the best value plan, NordVPN is clearly the better choice.

Nevertheless, you don’t have to commit to a long-term subscription right away. With NordVPN, Android users can snag the 7-day free trial on the Google Play Store. While ProtonVPN provides a completely free version to try out their services at no cost. Although the free plan comes without any time limitations, it does have limited servers and device connections. Fortunately, both VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you don’t mind putting some money on the table.

When it comes to payment matters, NordVPN is once again more flexible than Proton VPN. NordVPN accepts payments by credit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, AmazonPay, Sofort, prepaid cards, and cryptocurrencies, whereas ProtonVPN accepts credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bitcoin, or PayPal, which, compared to NordVPN, appear limited.

Proton VPN vs NordVPN speed test

After thoroughly testing both providers’ upload and download speeds, NordVPN proved to be faster than Proton VPN. I used a MacBook Pro with an integrated M2 chip, 10-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, and Apple’s state-of-the-art operating system, Sonoma for testing. However, both providers utilize cutting-edge technologies to ensure fast and reliable connections.

NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx, an upgraded version of the open-source WireGuard protocol, offers unrivaled connectivity and enhanced security. Additionally, all NordVPN servers are physical, ensuring optimal performance.

On the flip side, Proton VPN delivers excellent results with WireGuard. It is then boosted by its in-house VPN Accelerator, which can improve speeds by up to 400%, especially for far-away connections. Best of all, this feature is available even on the free plan.

As you can see from the table above, the NordVPN network with NordLynx is much faster than the ProtonVPN network. With NordVPN, I didn’t experience any issues with connection speeds or lagging. Meanwhile, there were hiccups with Proton VPN, such as random lag spikes or speed drops, which can eventually lead to disappointment with its performance.

Overall, while Proton VPN’s speeds were truly impressive, they were nowhere near what NordVPN provides with its lightning-fast NordLynx protocol. It is no surprise that NordVPN, easily one of the fastest VPNs in the market, earns the crown in the connection speed category.

Streaming performance on Netflix and other platforms

I tested NordVPN and Proton VPN to find out how both providers fare when it comes to accessing popular streaming platforms and their geo-restricted content. I can confirm that both NordVPN and Proton VPN effortlessly bypassed restrictions on streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and others.

During my test, NordVPN and Proton VPN easily accessed the most popular streaming services, such as Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+. I even gained access to more niche streaming platforms, such as Hotstar, Rakuten Viki, or Crunchyroll.

However, only NordVPN top-tier speeds ensured a buffer-free experience, even when I was streaming in UHD. While I was generally happy with Proton VPN’s ability to tackle geo-restricted content, I couldn’t help but notice more buffering compared to the seamless performance of NordVPN.

Another great perk is that both providers have specialized Android TV and Amazon Fire TV apps. After testing both of them on my router, I was able to enjoy streaming on any device in my household.

NordVPN is the better streaming VPN out of two due to its Smart DNS feature and larger number of servers. While ProtonVPN effectively unblocked popular streaming sites, it lacks Smart DNS, which allows watching geo-restricted and speed-sensitive content on devices such as smart TVs that do not support VPN connections. Moreover, it has fewer servers, which can sometimes result in slower speeds and less reliable connections during peak usage times.

Proton VPN vs NordVPN Torrenting comparison

NordVPN and Proton VPN are both excellent VPNs for torrenting, offering secure peer-to-peer file sharing. However, based on my tests, NordVPN consistently delivers better speeds when using torrents, making it a more favorable choice compared to Proton VPN for those who prioritize fast and reliable torrenting.

Although NordVPN offers specialty P2P servers, you can technically torrent in any location (albeit with suboptimal connectivity). Meanwhile, Proton VPN doesn’t allow torrenting on non-P2P servers. Most importantly, free users don’t have access to any peer-to-peer servers, making Proton VPN unsuitable as a free VPN for torrenting.

When it comes to torrenting speeds, NordVPN outperforms Proton VPN by a slight margin. After extensively trying the feature using both providers, I wasn’t too surprised with the results given that NordVPN supports P2P traffic on over 4,500 servers across 45+ countries. In contrast, Proton VPN’s mere 300+ P2P servers in a third of the locations makes finding a fast, nearby connection much more challenging — something that can be the deciding factor for many torrenters considering Proton VPN versus NordVPN.

Proton VPN also lacks a SOCKS5 proxy, but it makes up for it with port forwarding, which allows for a faster P2P connection as you can connect with more peers. On the other hand, NordVPN grants the proxy yet lacks port forwarding.

While Proton VPN offers decent torrenting speeds, it can’t compete with NordVPN. NordVPN delivered great P2P speeds on nearby servers, with a wide selection available, with only minor slowdowns on distant ones. Whereas Proton VPN suffered noticeable slowdowns when torrenting on distant servers. I also tested the downloading speeds, and NordVPN was slightly faster in that case. These differences may be the deciding factor for many torrenters considering Proton VPN vs NordVPN.

Which is more secure: Proton VPN or NordVPN?

When it comes to security, both NordVPN and Proton VPN provide essential security features like a no-logs policy and AES-256 encryption. On top of that, they have also undergone independent audits to guarantee top-tier safety standards and include a robust kill switch and DNS leak protection.

It’s also worth noting that Proton VPN operates as an open-source service, emphasizing transparency, while NordVPN utilizes RAM-only servers to prevent long-term data storage, further enhancing privacy measures.

NordVPN and Proton VPN are, without a doubt, some of the most secure VPNs in the market. They include robust features for keeping your identity safe and devices protected against various digital threats.

• AES-256 encryption. NordVPN and Proton VPN have military-grade AES-256 encryption and a kill-switch feature, which ensures your data security and anonymity online. I tried a kill switch feature on both VPNs, and I can grant you that my internet connection was turned off whenever I disabled the VPN.
• IP and DNS leak protection. The two providers grant airtight connections free from DNS, IPv6, or WebRTC leaks. During my tests, I regularly checked if my IP was still hidden, and I can assure you that both providers kept me safe from IP and DNS leaks.
• Ad-blocking. Some online ads are not only annoying but also dangerous. They may include malicious software and trackers that undermine your overall privacy. Luckily, NordVPN and Proton VPN include Threat Protection and NetShield, respectively.
• Double VPN. There are situations where you will benefit from rerouting your connection through multiple VPN servers. Then, you’ll enjoy stronger encryption and different exit and entry points in the VPN tunnel. Both NordVPN and Proton VPN offer this feature, however they call it differently. In NordVPN, it is called multi-hop, while Proton VPN calls it Secure Core. However, this extra safety comes with a price – after enabling it, the internet connection gets much slower.

While NordVPN and Proton VPN share a lot of similarities, there is this one difference, which can be a selling point to some – dedicated IPs. This feature allows you to get a dedicated IP and not share one with other VPN users. A dedicated IP usually allows you to bypass blocks or limited access due to suspicious activity that can be associated with shared IPs. NordVPN offers this additional feature for an extra small price, however, it is still better to have a paid option than no option at all.

Get a NordVPN dedicated IP for unrestricted streaming

Privacy

NordVPN and Proton VPN are both based in privacy-friendly countries – NordVPN in Panama and Proton VPN in Switzerland. This is great news since both countries don’t belong to the Fourteen Eyes alliance and are not obliged to provide users’ online browsing data.

Furthermore, their strict zero-logs policies are verified by reliable third parties, meaning their claims aren’t just empty promises. Plus, NordVPN and Proton VPN support anonymous payments via cryptocurrencies or cash to satisfy the most die-hard privacy freaks.

However, there are some differences in this regard, too. For example, NordVPN’s server network is 100% RAM-only, meaning the data centers don’t use hard drives to store any data for the long term. Conversely, Proton VPN open-sourced some of its apps for improved transparency.

Logging

The third-party audits assure everyone that NordVPN and Proton VPN don’t log any information that could undermine customer security or privacy.

To be precise, NordVPN has already verified its no-logs policy four times. PwC Switzerland independently analyzed NordVPN’s service the first two times, in 2018 and 2020, and Deloitte Audit Lithuania verified privacy claims for the last two years. The service is also continuously tested for flaws by independent security researchers, thanks to the bug bounty program.

Meanwhile, Securitum double-checked Proton VPN in 2022 and 2023. It passed the test without major security issues. Furthermore, enthusiasts can sift through the app’s code because it’s open-source. In fact, security specialists are encouraged to do so with the bug bounty program.

Proton VPN vs NordVPN server locations

NordVPN boasts an extensive server network of 6,483 servers, surpassing Proton VPN’s smaller network of 6,305 servers. However, Proton VPN makes up for this by strategically distributing its servers more widely across Africa and the Asia Pacific regions.

It’s easy to spot that NordVPN has more servers in more countries than ProtonVPN. Servers can get overcrowded or be far away from your location. A bigger server network will ensure great speeds and an easier connection because you will be able to connect to the closest server. So, the bigger the number of servers, the better the connectivity overall.

While Proton VPN is slowly catching up in terms of server network size, NordVPN remains the top choice for users prioritizing speed and flexible VPN connections. NordVPN’s extensive server network and advanced features make it a superior option for those seeking fast and reliable VPN services.

Using in China and other countries with restricted internet access

Only the toughest VPN services can handle China and other censorship-heavy regions because they need multiple ways of tackling DPI. Thankfully, both NordVPN and Proton VPN have obfuscated server features available to bypass internet restrictions and VPN blocks, especially in countries like China.

To access NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, simply choose the OpenVPN TCP tunneling protocol and toggle on the Obfuscated Servers option in the Advanced settings.

Proton VPN’s Stealth servers are equally impressive, capable of bypassing internet restrictions and VPN blocks. Activate them under protocol selection, a feature that’s available only on Android, macOS, and iOS devices.

In some cases, access to the censorship regions can be denied. However, there are some steps that can help you find the solution:

1. Check for IP or DNS leaks. While VPNs should hide your actual location, slips can happen. Use websites like ipleak.net and dnsleaktest.com to check whether your IP address is still hidden. If it’s visible, I recommend turning on VPN security features and rebooting the VPN on your device.
2. Change servers. In some cases, servers can be blacklisted by the country. Therefore, your access using those servers will be denied. Try connecting to different servers in the same country.
3. Update your software. Sometimes, all you need is just a quick update. Check if your VPN’s software is up to date.
4. Clear your browser’s cache. Cookies can accidentally leak your true location. Try cleaning those out!

If that doesn’t work, you can try routing your connection through the Tor Network. Luckily, both providers offer specialty servers that pass through it. If those fail, I suggest reaching out to customer support.

Proton VPN vs NordVPN feature comparison

While NordVPN and Proton VPN are both equipped with plenty of essential tools, NordVPN offers more overall features. Notably, NordVPN includes RAM-only servers and Smart DNS, which can be handy when unblocking geo-restricted video content on smart TVs. This may not be a necessity for everyone, but it is definitely a downgrade for some.

Smart DNS

The most glaring difference between Proton VPN and NordVPN is that the former lacks Smart DNS. This feature makes it possible to change your Netflix region on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and various other devices without requiring VPN installation on a router. It does so by changing your DNS requests to bypass geographical restrictions. However, this method lacks encryption, meaning your viewing habits remain visible to your ISP.

NordVPN customers can take advantage of Smart DNS on their preferred devices using the dashboard on the account page. Meanwhile, SmartPlay works in the background on NordVPN apps to improve their geo-block removal capabilities.

Ad & malware blocker

Online ads are notorious for being both annoying and potential carriers of malware. Thankfully, NordVPN and ProtonVPN come with integrated ad blockers that not only enhance security but seamlessly block pesky online advertisements.

Firstly, NordVPN users gain Threat Protection. It’s well-equipped to deal with almost any digital danger, including ads, online trackers, and virus-laden files. It’s even akin to antivirus tools because it can scan your device for malware.

On the flip side, Proton VPN grants users NetShield. It’s a DNS filter that prevents users from connecting to dangerous web domains. It also blocks ads, trackers, and ill-willed scripts. However, this tool can’t scan your device or incoming files for malicious code.

Split tunneling

NordVPN and Proton VPN both offer split tunneling, but NordVPN extends this feature to its Windows, Android, and Android TV apps, while Proton VPN supports it only on Windows and Android. Although both VPNs deliver the same split tunneling function, NordVPN edges out with a touch more speed, making it a faster provider overall.

The aptly-named split tunneling feature allows users to choose which apps or IP addresses need to be excluded from the VPN tunnel or vice versa. This customization tool opens up optimization and convenience options if you like to go granular. However, unlike Proton VPN, NordVPN lacks the option to configure split tunneling with specific IP addresses.

Additionally, with Proton VPN you can include specific IP addresses in the list of services that must be included or excluded.

Specialty servers

Proton VPN and NordVPN both feature specialty servers tailored for specific tasks. Proton VPN, for example, has Tor over VPN servers that let you connect to the server first and then to the Tor network.

Similarly, NordVPN offers Onion over VPN for enhanced security. It also features specialized P2P servers to ensure optimal torrenting speeds and a SOCKS5 proxy, which adds an extra layer of encryption to your torrenting traffic, even if you forget to activate the VPN.

Splitting the server network into specialized categories adds an extra layer of anonymity, making it particularly useful for whistleblowers, journalists, and other individuals who need to avoid leaving digital footprints. Thus, I couldn’t overlook this aspect when comparing NordVPN vs Proton VPN.

NordVPN boasts an impressive array of specialty servers. Besides P2P and Onion Over VPN servers, it offers obfuscated servers designed to mask your VPN traffic and bypass online censorship measures like DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). For that spy-like anonymity, NordVPN has Double VPN servers for double encryption with different entry and exit points in the VPN tunnel and dedicated IP servers for those who have purchased exclusive IP addresses.

Meanwhile, Proton VPN simplifies server selection by labeling each with an icon that indicates its specific function. These labels, which are self-explanatory, include distinctions such as Streaming, P2P, and Tor. Additionally, Proton VPN offers Secure Core servers, which must be enabled separately. These servers function similarly to double VPN servers, routing traffic through enhanced hardware in ultra-secure data centers for added protection.

Additional features

Both NordVPN and Proton VPN pack some pretty impressive, not to mention exclusive, features. NordVPN’s Meshnet deserves an honorary mention because it’s a standout feature among VPN services. It allows you to link different devices for remote access or file-sharing purposes. You can even create a LAN (local area network) with your friends to easily connect to play old-school multiplayer games.

You’ll also benefit from Dark Web Monitor. As the name suggests, the tool scours the dark web for data leaks containing your email address and recommends a remedying course of action if that happens.

While Proton VPN doesn’t offer anything similar, it has other excellent features that are noteworthy. For instance, Proton VPN’s state-of-the-art VPN Accelerator significantly boosts connectivity over vast distances, ensuring lightning-fast speeds wherever you are.

Additionally, the Secure Core feature ensures maximum security by rerouting your traffic through ultra-secure servers nestled in the fortified data havens of Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden.

Device compatibility and ease of use

Generally speaking, NordVPN and Proton VPN are equal regarding device compatibility. They have apps for PC and mobile, manual configuration options, and browser extensions. Naturally, they also support manual router configuration for covering devices without VPN app support.

Desktop applications

The desktop applications of my comparison subjects are pretty similar at first glance. Most obviously, both NordVPN and Proton VPN feature world maps to help you select your desired connection point. Alternatively, you can utilize the search bar or scroll through the available server options.

The key difference is that Proton VPN provides more details about your VPN connection. You can analyze the session duration, connection speeds, and download speeds in graph form. On the other hand, NordVPN doesn’t bog you down with such details. Additionally, there are two NordVPN app versions for macOS users. The one available on the App Store supports all tunneling protocols, including NordLynx. The one you can download from the website supports OpenVPN only but has more features. Another noticeable surface-level difference is that Proton VPN is in dark mode by default, while NordVPN is the opposite.

Further customization of the connection details and other features like split tunneling are tucked away in various menus. This is done to reserve the main area of the interface for the essentials.

Mobile applications

The mobile applications are exactly what you would expect to see when adjusting the desktop versions to smaller screens. Both NordVPN and Proton VPN decided to put the world map front and center while keeping other options at the bottom of the screen.

Crucially, the NordVPN mobile app lacks Threat Protection and instead includes a Lite version. On the flip side, you gain the exclusive Tapjacking protection feature to protect your device against malicious screen overlays.

The NordVPN Android app is slightly more developed than the iOS one. That’s due to iOS applications lacking certain features like split tunneling or configurable kill switch.

However, other features are the same whether you use iOS or Android, including the map interface, which is present in both versions and the ability to add a NordVPN widget to the home screen. Additionally, you will get Dark Web monitoring, pausing, and auto-connect features with both apps.

Proton VPN’s Android and iOS apps are pretty much identical, except that the iOS version doesn’t have split tunneling or alternate routing features. Both apps have the same map interface, and iOS users can add a Proton VPN widget to their screen. Conversely, Proton VPN mobile includes Secure Core, split tunneling, and other protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2.

Overall, during my testing, I found both NordVPN and Proton VPN quite easy to use on mobile devices. I had no problem connecting different servers in various countries, and the app’s interface was intuitive.

Customer support

Customer support is not just for the looks. I sometimes face unexpected challenges that are not so easy to solve. Therefore, I appreciate fast and responsive customer support. Since NordVPN has 24/7 live chat, it wins over Proton VPN in this aspect.

Troubleshooting issues with NordVPN or Proton VPN is a walk in the park because both offer massive online knowledge bases covering various topics. However, getting urgent assistance is only possible with NordVPN because it includes 24/7 live chat support. I don’t need to write emails and wait several hours or even days for the response. Meanwhile, live chat with Proton VPN agents — who are usually not working around the clock — is exclusive to premium customers only.

During my testing, I sent the same questions to both service providers. NordVPN responded quickly and thoroughly both in 24/7 live chat and email. Proton VPN was also detailed in their answers; however, I had to wait much longer. Both service providers include FAQs on their websites, and they are great if your question is quite common. Therefore, the victory in this category, without a doubt, belongs to NordVPN.

ProtonVPN vs NordVPN: Reddit users’ opinion

Reddit is the ultimate hub for candid user reviews and firsthand experiences with products and services. Given the booming VPN market, it’s no wonder Redditors are vocal about their preferences. While opinions vary, the consensus on NordVPN vs. Proton VPN remains largely split. Each provider has its loyal fans and critics — even some that switched sides. However, the general consensus leans slightly towards NordVPN, placing it a notch above Proton VPN as the king of the hill.

The main takeaway from seeing Proton VPN vs. NordVPN debate from both sides of the fence is that users primarily focus on streaming speeds, server reliability, and overall pricing when comparing the two. In this bout for the ‘best VPN’ title, Reddit users tend to highlight Proton VPN’s competitive pricing and port-forwarding feature, while praising NordVPN’s speed and additional security features.

While the one you end up choosing boils down mostly to one’s needs, NordVPN emerges as the frontrunner over Proton VPN according to Redditors. It’s proven to be reliable, excels in the speed department, and has a great overall reputation. For a deeper dive into the top VPNs Reddit users rave about, check out our dedicated article.

Final verdict: Which is better, NordVPN vs Proton VPN?

After going through multiple tests, NordVPN emerged as the clear winner over Proton VPN in most categories. Not only does it offer a blazing-fast, reliable VPNwith a huge server selection for everyone’s needs, whether that’s streaming or torrenting, its exemplary 24/7 customer service and innovative Meshnet feature further enhanced the overall experience.

Nevertheless, being on par in some areas with the best VPN on the market can be considered a victory in itself because other providers would pale in comparison. I enjoyed using Proton VPN since it also has some compelling perks, such as Secure Core servers, that will undoubtedly sway the most ardent privacy enthusiasts to its side.

If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, you can’t go wrong with NordVPN. It’s ultra-fast, packed with servers, and grants well-rounded cybersecurity.

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FAQ

Is Proton VPN or NordVPN better in any area?

NordVPN is overall a better package than Proton VPN. Both services are equal in terms of privacy, device compatibility, and bypassing online censorship. However, NordVPN offers better pricing, diskless servers, and has undergone multiple third-party audits to verify its no-logs claims.

Is NordVPN faster than Proton VPN?

Yes, NordVPN is much faster than Proton VPN thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol and more expansive server fleet. But Proton VPN isn’t far behind with its combination of WireGuard and VPN Accelerator.

Do NordVPN or Proton VPN offer obfuscated servers?

Yes, both NordVPN and Proton VPN offer obfuscated servers. In order to turn the feature on, head to either VPN provider’s protocol selection in the settings and toggle on the appropriate protocol.

Is Proton VPN a reliable VPN?

Proton VPN is a great VPN that boasts numerous servers and prioritizes user privacy. Yet, while its speeds were satisfactory, our tests revealed faster options among other VPNs, NordVPN included. Proton VPN ranks 7th on our list of the Best VPNs of 2024, earning a solid score of 4 out of 5.

What is the difference between the free and paid plans of Proton VPN?

The free Proton VPN plan does not have any data or bandwidth limits. However, that comes at the cost of fast connection speeds (found in Proton VPN’s premium plans). Also, users on the free plan cannot torrent or access streaming platforms like Netflix, as the location selection capability has been removed.

Is NordVPN worth it in 2024?

NordVPN is totally worth it in 2024. It uses military-grade encryption, has the fastest connection speeds with NordLynx, allows torrenting, and unlocks streaming platforms without costing an arm and a leg.