Table of Contents
Brace yourself for an intriguing comparison of NordVPN vs Proton VPN. But hold on – there is a third contender you might have overlooked: PureVPN.
As we navigate the intricacies of these three options, you will gather insights to help you make the right choice for the perfect VPN service to fit your needs.
| PureVPN | ProtonVPN | NordVPN | |
Rating (Trustpilot) | 4.7
| 2.4
| 4.3
|
Quantum-Resistant Encryption | Yes | No | No |
Servers | 6000+ | 2900+ | 5700+ |
No logs policy | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pricing | 3.85 $/M | 4.99 $/M | 3.99 $/M |
Coupons | Yes | Yes | Yes |
VPN protocols | OpenVPN, IPSec/IKEv2, WireGuard, SSTP, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, Stealth | OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx, and more |
Streaming services | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more |
Platform | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge | macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick | macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick |
Simultaneous connections | 10 | 10 | 6 |
Support | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat |
Speed – NordVPN Wins
Baseline speed: 1 Gbps
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Average download speeds | 365 Mbps | 323 Mbps | 379 Mbps |
| Average upload speeds | 298 Mbps | 271 Mbps | 315 Mbps |
In a recent speed test, we evaluated the performance of Proton VPN, NordVPN, and PureVPN. The test focused on assessing their average upload and download speeds while using the WireGuard protocol and connecting to servers in the US, UK, and Canada.
NordVPN emerged as the top performer in download speeds, showcasing an impressive average of 379 Mbps. Following closely behind was PureVPN with a commendable average of 365 Mbps, while Proton VPN achieved a notable average of 323 Mbps.
When it came to upload speeds, NordVPN maintained its dominance with an outstanding average of 315 Mbps. PureVPN showed its strength with an average upload speed of 298 Mbps, while Proton VPN held its ground with a decent average of 271 Mbps.
Who tops this category? NordVPN delivered the fastest upload and download speeds, bagging the first spot.
Server Locations – PureVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Servers | 6,000+ | 2,900+ | 5,700+ |
| Countries | 65 | 68 | 60 |
Proton VPN gives its paid users unlimited access to 2,900+ servers in 68 countries around the world. It might not be as big as a network in comparison to NordVPN and PureVPN, but the coverage is still decent.
NordVPN’s powerful network encompasses 5,700+ servers scattered across 60 countries, ensuring a formidable shield for online activities and granting users seamless access to content worldwide.
PureVPN stands strong with a staggering network of 6000+ servers spread across 65 countries, offering users a vast selection of global virtual locations for unmatched access to content and superior browsing speeds.
Who tops this category? PureVPN is first, followed by NordVPN.
Security – Tie between PureVPN and NordVPN
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Encryption used | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit |
| Protocol selection | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, IPSec | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, Stealth | OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx |
| Private DNS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RAM-based servers | No | No | Yes |
| Quantum-resistant | Yes | No | No |
Proton VPN employs AES 256-bit to encrypt user data and keep it safe from threats. As for its protocol selection, the options available are OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and Stealth. The VPN service runs its own DNS servers, which resolve all your DNS requests.
NordVPN provides strong security with its use of AES 256-bit encryption. Users can select from multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx (based on WireGuard), allowing flexibility. NordVPN also routes your DNS queries through its private DNS and relies on RAM-based servers, enhancing data protection.
PureVPN boasts robust security measures, offering AES 256-bit encryption. It gives you access to a diverse range of protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and IPSec. While PureVPN uses its own network of DNS servers, it does not provide RAM-based servers. However, the VPN service is quantum-safe!
Who tops this category? PureVPN and NordVPN are tied for first, Proton VPN takes second.
Privacy – PureVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Base of operation | British Virgin Islands | Switzerland | Panama |
| Audited no-logs policy | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Always on-audit | Yes | No | No |
Proton VPN operates from Switzerland, a country known for its strong privacy laws Moreover, Proton VPN further reinforces its commitment to user privacy with a Securitum-audited no-logs policy, which means they do not collect or store any user activity data.
NordVPN maintains a strong stance on privacy with its headquarters in Panama, a country not affiliated with the 5/9/14 eyes alliances. It offers a PWC-audited no-logs policy, providing assurance that it does not store user activity logs.
PureVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, ensuring a favorable privacy environment. It follows a Well known audit firm-audited no-logs policy, affirming that it does not retain user activity logs. What distinguishes PureVPN is its implementation of an always-on audit mechanism, providing an additional layer of transparency and accountability.
Who tops this category? PureVPN is based in a privacy-friendly location, offers an audited no-logs policy, and is the only VPN of the three to follow an always-on audit structure. Proton VPN and NordVPN are tied for second.
Netflix and streaming performance – PureVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Netflix | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hulu | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Max | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BBC iPlayer | Yes | No | Yes |
| Disney+ | Yes | Yes | No |
Proton VPN impressively unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max, making it a reliable choice for accessing popular streaming content. However, it does not currently support unblocking BBC iPlayer, while Disney+ remains accessible.
NordVPN is a powerhouse when it comes to unblocking streaming services. It seamlessly bypasses restrictions for Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, but does not offer Disney+ unblocking at present.
PureVPN is a top performer in unblocking various streaming platforms. With seamless access to Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, it provides an all-in-one solution for streaming enthusiasts.
Who tops this category? PureVPN’s excellent unblocking capabilities give it the top spot. Once again, Proton VPN and NordVPN are tied for second.
Pricing – PureVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Standard ($10.95), Plus ($16.95), Max ($20.95) | $11.49 | Standard ($12.99), Plus ($13.99), Complete ($14.99) |
| 1-year | Standard ($3.74/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($6.24/month) | $5.99/month | Standard ($4.99/month), Plus ($5.99/month), Complete ($6.99/month) |
| 2-year | Standard ($1.96/month), Plus ($3.21), Max ($3.85/month) | $4.99/month | Standard ($3.49/month), Plus ($4.49/month), Complete ($5.49) |
Unlike the other two, Proton VPN offers a completely free (and limited) version of its VPN service. When it comes to the paid version, Proton VPN offers monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans that come packed with all the features.
NordVPN offers three tiers: Standard, Plus, and Complete. These tiers are available in monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans, each of which give you access to unique features. The pricing varies based on the tier and duration chosen.
PureVPN also follows a tier-based pricing structure. The tiers are categorized as Standard, Plus, and Max, having different features and pricing levels. Users can choose from monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans within each tier.
Who tops this category? PureVPN is not only cheaper but also offers more flexible pricing.
P2P File Sharing – Tie between PureVPN and Proton VPN
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| P2P-Friendly | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| P2P Support | Specialized P2P servers | Specialized P2P servers | Specialized P2P servers |
The free version of Proton VPN does not have P2P support. However, if you are a paid subscriber, you can take advantage of their dedicated P2P servers to engage in safe, fast, and private file sharing.
NordVPN allows users to engage in P2P activities by connecting to their dedicated P2P servers. These servers are designed to facilitate fast, secure, and throttle-free file sharing across all popular P2P platforms.
PureVPN offers specialized P2P servers, which are capable of handling large file transfers and ensure users enjoy fast speeds and robust security. However, the VPN service does not allow P2P where it is illegal.
Who tops this category? PureVPN and Proton VPN are tied for first as they support port forwarding. NordVPN is second.
Features – NordVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| DNS Leak Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IPv6 Leak Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dedicated IP | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Port Forwarding | Yes | Yes | No |
Proton VPN has great features that enhance your online experience, such as Secure Core (commonly referred to as Double VPN), Tor over VPN, and an ad-blocker. Furthermore, Proton VPN also offers separate products like Proton Cloud, Proton Pass, and Proton Mail.
NordVPN stands out with its diverse feature set, like SmartDNS for seamless streaming, Double VPN servers for added encryption layers, Onion over VPN for improved anonymity, and Threat Protection for safety against online threats. NordVPN also provides additional features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, and file encrypter, which can be added for an additional price.
PureVPN offers impressive features with its 20 Gbps serverss, providing fast and reliable connections, and VPN over Tor enhancing online anonymity. Additionally, PureVPN offers a range of bundled products like a password manager (PureKeep), file encrypter (PureEncrypt), and privacy auditor (PurePrivacy), which can be purchased alongside the VPN service.
Who tops this category? NordVPN takes first due to its extensive feature set, PureVPN comes second.
Compatibility – PureVPN Wins
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Available apps | macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, Fire Stick | macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick | macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick |
| Browser extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Chrome, Firefox | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Multi-logins | 10 | 10 | 6 |
Proton VPN supports macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick. It also offers browser extensions for Firefox and Chrome and supports up to 10 multi-logins under one subscription.
NordVPN is compatible with macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick, covering a wide range of devices. It has one-click browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. With support for up to 6 multi-logins, users can secure multiple devices with a single NordVPN account.
PureVPN offers broad compatibility with easy-to-use apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, and Fire Stick. It also provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Supporting up to 10 simultaneous multi-logins, PureVPN allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
Who tops this category? PureVPN offers more apps than NordVPN and Proton VPN.
Customer Support – Tie between PureVPN and NordVPN
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Live chat | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Knowledgebase | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| In-app support | Yes | No | Yes |
All three VPN services provide email support, knowledgebase, and live chat. However, both PureVPN and NordVPN offer the convenience of in-app support, whereas Proton VPN lacks this much-needed option.
Who tops this category? PureVPN and NordVPN are tied for first.
Proton VPN vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Which is the Best?
| PureVPN | Proton VPN | NordVPN | |
| Pricing | 1st | 3rd | 2nd |
| Speed | 2nd | 3rd | 1st |
| Server locations | 1st | 3rd | 2nd |
| Security | 1st (Tie) | 2nd | 1st (Tie) |
| Privacy | 1st | 2nd (Tie) | 2nd (Tie) |
| Unblocking | 1st | 2nd (Tie) | 2nd (Tie) |
| Features | 2nd | 3rd | 1st |
| Compatibility | 1st | 2nd | 3rd |
| Customer support | 1st (Tie) | 2nd | 1st (Tie) |
PureVPN shines in pricing, server locations, privacy, unblocking, and compatibility. NordVPN’s strong showing in security, features, and customer support give it the second spot. Proton VPN performed decently in most of the categories, but could have done better, so it takes third.
FAQ
Is Proton VPN actually safe?
Yes, Proton VPN is one of the safest VPNs on the market. It uses AES 256-bit encryption to secure user data and offers great security features like an ad-blocker (aka NetShield), Tor over VPN, and more.
What are the downsides of Proton VPN?
Speeds are sometimes inconsistent, especially with the free version of Proton VPN. The set of features offered are decent, but Proton VPN lacks the anti-malware capabilities of VPNs like NordVPN.
Which is better: Proton VPN or NordVPN?
NordVPN outshines Proton VPN in various aspects. For instance, NordVPN is the better option when it comes to speed, security, and features. However, both VPNs are equally good in terms of unblocking and compatibility.
Can I trust Proton VPN?
Yes, Proton VPN is a trustworthy VPN with open-source and audited apps. Furthermore, its no-logs policy has been verified by Securitum.
Is NordVPN actually the best?
NordVPN is easily one of the best VPN providers on the market. It is packed with tons of useful features, runs a RAM-only server infrastructure, and undergoes regular no-logs audits.
