NordVPN vs ProtonVPN Comparison

Navigating the world of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many options available. In this comparison, we delve into two of the most popular and highly regarded services: NordVPN and ProtonVPN.

We break down the key aspects of each service, including their features, pricing, and overall performance, all in a straightforward, easy-to-understand manner. Whether you're new to VPNs or looking to switch providers, this guide will help you make an informed decision between NordVPN and ProtonVPN.

To provide a comprehensive evaluation, we conducted an in-depth analysis of both services, examining their features, usability, and application performance. Here's what we discovered:

When comparing NordVPN and ProtonVPN pricing,

key differences emerge beyond surface-level costs.

NordVPN's monthly rate hits $12.99—higher than ProtonVPN's $9.99—

but long-term commitments reveal dramatic savings.

NordVPN slashes prices to $4.99/month for annual subscriptions

and plunges to just $3.48/month over two years—

a striking 66% discount that undercuts ProtonVPN's best rate

by $1.50 monthly.

ProtonVPN offers competitive tiered pricing:

$4.99/month for two-year plans (50% savings)

though its ecosystem bundles add pricing complexity.

Both guarantee risk-free testing:

30-day refund windows let users trial services thoroughly.

NordVPN's best value:

Two-year plan at $3.48/month (66% off)

ProtonVPN's optimal deal:

Two-year subscription at $4.99/month (50% off)

Ultimately, NordVPN delivers deeper long-term savings,

while ProtonVPN provides lower entry-level pricing

for monthly users.

NordVPN and ProtonVPN: A Comprehensive Comparison

When choosing between NordVPN and ProtonVPN, users should consider several key aspects of these popular VPN services. Both providers offer impressive platform compatibility, supporting all major operating systems including Linux. ProtonVPN stands out with its rare graphical interface for Linux users, enhancing user experience for this specific audience.

For those looking to protect multiple devices simultaneously, both services can be configured on compatible routers. While this setup requires more technical knowledge than standard app installation, it effectively removes device connection limits and extends protection across your entire home network.

Security features are robust in both offerings, with built-in ad blockers and malware scanning capabilities. The recent addition of browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox expands their accessibility, though users should note these extensions only secure browser traffic rather than all device communications.

Flexibility in connection management is available through split tunneling, allowing users to route specific applications or websites outside the VPN tunnel. This proves particularly useful for applications requiring your actual location or maximum connection speeds.

For users with specific technical requirements, ProtonVPN's support for port forwarding in its Windows client provides an advantage for those hosting servers or seeding torrents. NordVPN currently lacks this feature and has indicated no plans to implement it.

Infrastructure security differs between the providers. NordVPN operates entirely on self-owned diskless RAM servers, eliminating potential data storage concerns. ProtonVPN takes a hybrid approach, with specially designated "Secure Core" servers in privacy-friendly jurisdictions for users with heightened security needs.

Both services cater to advanced privacy users by offering Tor over VPN functionality, allowing anonymous access to the dark web while preventing ISPs from detecting Tor network connections.

When selecting between these services, users should prioritize features most relevant to their specific privacy, security, and usability requirements.

ProtonVPN has seen a significant improvement in performance, especially when compared to its earlier versions. It now provides seamless and secure access to notoriously difficult streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video. Moreover, it can also unlock US Netflix, though users might need to switch between a few servers to find one that consistently works.

In contrast, NordVPN has consistently demonstrated its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on a wide array of streaming services. During our most recent tests, NordVPN successfully unblocked all the streaming platforms we tested, including CBS, which was previously a challenge. The range of streaming services accessible through NordVPN is extensive, covering over a dozen Netflix regions, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Peacock, Sling TV, DIRECTV Stream, YouTube TV, ESPN+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iplayer, TNT Sports, Channel 4, and many more international platforms.

NordVPN's exceptional performance in streaming sets it apart, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a fast and reliable VPN that can access almost any streaming service or TV stream across more than 60 countries, all at the most competitive price point.

When it comes to accessing the internet in China, both ProtonVPN and NordVPN face challenges due to the country's stringent Great Firewall. ProtonVPN, which used to work on the mainland, has been blocked by recent upgrades to the firewall. Despite this, there has been no update from ProtonVPN addressing the issue since 2019, indicating that it is no longer a reliable option for use in China.

On the other hand, NordVPN has historically performed well in China, and while it has encountered some issues with the latest updates to the Great Firewall, it remains operational. For users experiencing connection difficulties, manually configuring the VPN or using one of NordVPN's obfuscated servers can help maintain access.

When comparing the user interfaces of NordVPN and ProtonVPN, both feature a server list on one side and a world map on the other. However, their main screens offer distinct functionalities. NordVPN provides direct access to its specialized servers, such as obfuscated and P2P-optimized options, right from the main screen. In contrast, ProtonVPN allows users to switch between different profiles, toggle the kill switch, and activate port forwarding, all without navigating away from the initial display.

ProtonVPN presents a streamlined interface

with a modern, visually driven approach.

Its home screen prominently features an expansive map

for intuitive geographical server selection.

Complementing this, a collapsible server list resides on the left

complete with integrated search functionality.

Notably, ProtonVPN offers powerful profile customization.

Users can define specific connection behaviors,

such as automatically linking to a random server

each time the application launches.

Essential security tools are readily accessible:

dedicated buttons activate the kill switch

and NetShield (ad-blocking and malware protection) directly.

The mobile application of NordVPN closely mirrors its desktop counterpart, with nearly all features and functionalities remaining consistent. The primary distinction lies in the navigation, where you now scroll down on the main screen to view the server list. All the robust security features that users have come to expect are included, and there's an added layer of protection against tapjacking. This feature alerts you if a malicious app is attempting to deceive you into tapping something different from what is displayed on your screen.

ProtonVPN organizes its main interface into three distinct tabs on mobile, each serving a unique purpose. The first tab displays the server list, allowing for easy selection and connection to various locations. A second tab features an interactive map, providing a visual representation of the available servers worldwide. Lastly, the third tab is dedicated to managing your saved profiles, enabling you to quickly switch between different configurations.

To access the settings, users need to navigate to a separate menu. This section is packed with useful features, such as ad-blocking, which helps to enhance your browsing experience by filtering out unwanted advertisements. Additionally, there is an alternative routing option specifically designed for ProtonVPN services, ensuring a more stable and secure connection. One notable feature is the VPN accelerator, a tool that promises to boost your internet speeds, making your online activities smoother and faster.

NordVPN and ProtonVPN both cater to a comparable number of countries, but NordVPN boasts a much larger network of servers. With nearly double the number of servers compared to ProtonVPN, NordVPN users have a higher likelihood of finding a less crowded server, although this can also depend on other variables such as user volume and the time of day. Additionally, if some of NordVPN’s servers are blocked by a geo-restricted service, there are still numerous alternative options available.

ProtonVPN has seen significant improvements in recent evaluations, now ranking among the fastest VPNs available. It achieved an average speed of around 320 Mbps across various locations, which is more than five times faster than its previous performance. NordVPN also provided impressive speeds, averaging about 200 Mbps. Both services are well-suited for high-definition streaming and data-heavy activities like torrenting.

For a detailed comparison of the speed test results for each VPN, see the breakdown below:

NordVPN vs ProtonVPN Overview

When comparing the server locations of NordVPN and ProtonVPN, it's important to note the extensive global reach each service offers. Both providers maintain a robust network across numerous countries, ensuring users have access to secure and speedy connections no matter where they are. Below, you'll find a detailed breakdown of the countries where each service has servers, highlighting their global presence and commitment to providing reliable and accessible VPN services.

While both NordVPN and ProtonVPN provide server access in unique locations, their focus areas differ. NordVPN emphasizes smaller regions rich with content, such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. On the other hand, ProtonVPN has a more robust presence in Eastern Europe and South America, offering servers in countries like Colombia, Peru, Lithuania, and Russia.

Both leading VPN services utilize OpenVPN as their foundational protocol

due to its robust security framework and cross-platform compatibility.

NordVPN distinguishes itself through NordLynx

a proprietary implementation of WireGuard technology

delivering enhanced connection speeds and reduced latency

while maintaining modern cryptographic standards.

ProtonVPN optimizes mobile performance via IKEv2/IPsec implementation

offering faster reconnection capabilities during network transitions

compared to traditional OpenVPN connections.

Industry analysis indicates WireGuard-based solutions represent evolutionary advancements

providing improved efficiency through streamlined code architecture

and resilient tunnel maintenance during server switching scenarios.

Current cybersecurity evaluations emphasize

that all major protocols now implement AES-256 encryption

with configuration specifics significantly impacting vulnerability exposure.

When comparing NordVPN and ProtonVPN security features, both services implement robust protection through 256-bit AES encryption combined with 4096-bit RSA keys. These providers maintain complete data control by avoiding public DNS servers throughout the connection process.

A notable security difference emerges in their kill switch implementation. While NordVPN provides this critical feature across all platform versions, ProtonVPN limits it to desktop applications only. Android users of ProtonVPN can create similar functionality through device settings, though this requires additional configuration.

For users in censored regions, these services offer different circumvention techniques. NordVPN deploys specialized obfuscated servers designed specifically to bypass restrictive networks. ProtonVPN takes an alternative approach by routing connection requests through alternative paths to ensure access to their website, servers, and ProtonMail service in most restricted areas.

It's worth noting that neither service can reliably penetrate China's sophisticated firewall system, despite their anti-censorship capabilities working effectively in many other restricted regions.

Privacy Comparison: ProtonVPN and NordVPN

Both ProtonVPN and NordVPN prioritize user privacy with strict no-logs policies. While ProtonVPN records timestamp information for your most recent session to prevent brute force attacks, this doesn't compromise your anonymity. NordVPN's collection of mobile advertising IDs can be mitigated through regular clearing in your device settings.

Unlike many competitors making unverified privacy claims, both services have undergone professional security audits. These independent assessments confirmed their privacy practices align with their marketed policies, providing users with verified reassurance rather than empty promises.

For those seeking maximum anonymity, cryptocurrency payment options are available with both providers. NordVPN offers additional flexibility by accepting Ethereum and Ripple alongside Bitcoin, while ProtonVPN supports Bitcoin transactions.

Performance Testing Results

Our speed tests revealed ProtonVPN delivered marginally faster connections overall, though NordVPN demonstrated exceptional consistency across its network. This means NordVPN users experience similar performance regardless of which server location they select.

NordVPN's diskless server infrastructure provides enhanced security benefits, as no data can be physically extracted from their hardware. Their proprietary NordLynx protocol—a customized WireGuard implementation—delivers impressive speed and reliability.

Gaming Considerations

Gamers concerned about latency and performance will find both services suitable for online gaming. Whether accessing international game servers or seeking improved connections in popular titles like Fortnite, PUBG, or Warzone, both VPNs deliver the necessary stability and speed for competitive gaming environments.

When evaluating support systems,

both VPN providers feature searchable documentation centers

and round-the-clock live assistance channels.

To assess reliability beyond chat platforms,

we initiated email inquiries with three distinct questions.

This method accounts for potential chat access limitations

across different global regions.

Detailed findings include:

• Precise queries submitted
• Measured response intervals
• Comparative reply efficiency metrics

The complete test outcomes follow below.

When it comes to customer support, there's a noticeable difference in response times between ProtonVPN and NordVPN. For ProtonVPN, email is the primary method for users to reach out, but the wait time for a reply can be quite long, often stretching into days.

In contrast, many other providers, including those that provide live chat, typically respond to emails within minutes or hours. NordVPN stands out as an exemplar of prompt service. Despite offering 24/7 support, they manage to get back to customers in approximately five hours on average. Jun 2025NordVPN vs ProtonVPN: A Comprehensive Comparison

When choosing between NordVPN and ProtonVPN, several factors come into play that can influence your decision. Both services offer robust security features, but they excel in different areas.

Server Network and Global Reach

ProtonVPN operates a modest but reliable server network spanning multiple countries. In contrast, NordVPN boasts an extensive server infrastructure with thousands of servers across more locations worldwide. This larger network helps reduce congestion and provides more connection options for users seeking specific geographic access points.

Speed Performance

Interestingly, despite having fewer servers, ProtonVPN often delivers superior speeds during testing. Our evaluations consistently showed ProtonVPN reaching impressive speeds exceeding 300 Mbps, while NordVPN typically averaged around 200 Mbps. Both are certainly fast enough for most online activities, but ProtonVPN has a slight edge in raw performance.

Streaming Capabilities

NordVPN significantly outperforms ProtonVPN when it comes to accessing streaming platforms. If you're primarily interested in watching geo-restricted content from services like Netflix, HBO Max, or YouTube TV, NordVPN provides more reliable unblocking capabilities and works with a broader range of streaming services.

Special Features and Use Cases

For torrenting enthusiasts, both services offer dedicated P2P servers. While NordVPN provides faster overall speeds, ProtonVPN includes built-in port forwarding in its desktop applications—a valuable feature for optimizing torrent performance that NordVPN only offers through router installations.

Global Accessibility

NordVPN works reliably in restrictive internet environments like China, whereas ProtonVPN may struggle in such locations. This makes NordVPN the clear choice for travelers or residents in countries with heavy internet censorship.

Privacy Considerations

Both providers maintain strict no-logs policies and offer strong encryption. However, they differ in their approach to privacy extras—NordVPN includes additional tools for tracking prevention, while ProtonVPN emphasizes its Swiss jurisdiction as a privacy advantage.

Value Assessment

When considering price versus features, NordVPN typically offers better overall value, especially with long-term subscription plans. Both providers offer money-back guarantees, allowing risk-free trials of their premium services.

The free VPN option deserves mention—while we generally caution against free VPN services due to potential security risks, data limitations, and performance issues, ProtonVPN does offer one of the more reputable free tiers in the industry, though with significant restrictions compared to their paid plans.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a specialized virtual private network service designed primarily to bypass geographical restrictions imposed by streaming platforms. It enables users to connect to servers in various countries, effectively unlocking access to that region's exclusive Netflix content library. This allows subscribers to enjoy a vastly wider range of movies, shows, and documentaries not available in their home location.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content on Netflix, you might want to consider SafeShell VPN as your go-to solution. This powerful service stands out for its ability to provide Netflix unblocked access across various global libraries, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of shows and movies regardless of your physical location. SafeShell VPN offers high-speed servers specifically optimized for streaming, ensuring you can watch your favorite content in high definition without buffering or interruptions.

What truly sets SafeShell VPN apart is its unique combination of features designed for the modern streaming enthusiast. You can connect up to five devices simultaneously across multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Apple Vision Pro. The exclusive App Mode lets you access content from different regions concurrently, while the proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol ensures your streaming activities remain private and secure. With lightning-fast speeds, no bandwidth limitations, and a flexible free trial plan to get you started, SafeShell VPN delivers everything needed for a seamless Netflix streaming experience.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

Unlocking global entertainment has never been easier with SafeShell Netflix VPN , a powerful tool designed to bypass regional restrictions. To begin your journey into unlimited streaming, first visit the SafeShell VPN website and select a subscription plan that aligns with your viewing habits. After completing your purchase, download the appropriate application for your device—whether you're using Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android—and install it following the on-screen instructions. Once installed, launch the application and log into your account to access the dashboard.

For the optimal Netflix streaming experience, select the APP mode within the SafeShell interface, which is specifically optimized for streaming services. Next, browse through the server list and select a location that corresponds to the Netflix library you wish to access—popular choices include servers in the United States, United Kingdom, or Japan for their extensive content libraries. After connecting to your chosen server, simply open the Netflix application or website, sign in with your credentials, and you'll immediately notice an expanded catalog of shows and movies that were previously unavailable in your region. SafeShell Netflix VPN ensures a seamless streaming experience with high-speed connections and reliable server performance.