PureVPN vs NordVPN: Which VPN is Better in 2024?

Welcome to our head-to-head comparison of two leading VPN providers, NordVPN and PureVPN. We will assess their performance across various key categories, including pricing, speed, server locations, security, privacy, and unblocking capabilities, to name a few.

By examining these aspects, we aim to help you make an informed decision and choose the VPN service that best suits your needs. Without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the similarities, differences, and overall value of NordVPN and PureVPN.

Speed – PureVPN Wins

Baseline speed: 2 Gbps

	PureVPN	NordVPN
OpenVPN	77.00 Mbps (download), 82.17 Mbps (upload)	67.22 Mbps (download), 71.88 (upload)
IKEv2	113.29 Mbps (download), 120.33 (upload)	88.66 Mbps (download), 95.57 (upload)

We connected to a VPN server in Canada from our client location in the United Kingdom using OpenVPN UDP. With NordVPN, we achieved download speeds of 67.22 Mbps and upload speeds of 71.88 Mbps. On the other hand, PureVPN provided even faster speeds, with download speeds measuring at 77.00 Mbps and upload speeds at 82.17 Mbps.

Next, we connected to a VPN server in Australia from our client location in the United States using IKEv2. Our results showed that PureVPN achieved download speeds of 113.29 Mbps and upload speeds of 120.33 Mbps. In comparison, NordVPN provided slightly slower speeds with download speeds measuring at 88.66 Mbps and upload speeds at 95.57 Mbps.

These results indicate that PureVPN delivered notably faster speeds than NordVPN in both scenarios. However, it is important to consider that speed performance can vary based on various factors, including server load and network conditions.

Who tops this category? PureVPN

Server locations – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Servers	6,000+	5,700+
Countries	65	60

PureVPN boasts an extensive network of servers, with an impressive count of 6,000+ servers spread across 65 countries. This vast server coverage allows users to enjoy a broad range of options when it comes to selecting their desired server location. 

In comparison, NordVPN offers a slightly smaller server network, with 5,700+ servers available in 60 countries. While NordVPN’s server network is still substantial, PureVPN takes the lead in terms of the number of countries covered.

Who tops this category? PureVPN

Security – NordVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Encryption used	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit
Protocol selection	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx
Private DNS	Yes	Yes
RAM-based servers	No	Yes

NordVPN and PureVPN are known for their robust security features. Both VPN services utilize AES 256-bit encryption, which is widely regarded as one of the most secure encryption standards available.

In terms of protocol selection, both NordVPN and PureVPN offer a range of options to cater to different user preferences. They support OpenVPN and IKEv2, which are widely recognized and trusted protocols for secure VPN connections. Additionally, PureVPN also offers WireGuard, while NordVPN has its custom variant called NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard.

When it comes to private DNS, both NordVPN and PureVPN incorporate this feature into their services. Private DNS helps enhance security and privacy by resolving domain names without relying on public DNS servers and encrypting your DNS requests.

As far as server infrastructure is concerned, NordVPN stands out with its RAM-based servers. These servers only store data in volatile memory and do not retain any information once they are rebooted or powered off. This adds an extra layer of security, as there is no risk of data remnants being left behind on storage devices. On the other hand, PureVPN does not offer RAM-based servers.

Who tops this category? NordVPN

Privacy – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Base of operation	British Virgin Islands	Panama
Audited no-logs policy	Yes	Yes
Always on-audit	Yes	No

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, a country without data-retention laws, making it the perfect place for a VPN company. On the other hand, PureVPN relocated its operations from Hong Kong to the British Virgin Islands in 2021, which too is a privacy-friendly location.

Both VPN services prioritize user privacy by implementing strict no-logs policies. NordVPN has undergone a third-party audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to verify its no-logs claim, providing an additional layer of transparency and trust. Similarly, PureVPN has been audited by Well known audit firm, a renowned auditing firm, ensuring that user logs are not stored or tracked.

However, did you know that PureVPN is the first and only VPN service with an always-on audit structure? This means that PureVPN can be audited by Well known audit firm at any time without prior notice, giving it the win over NordVPN in this category.

Who tops this category? PureVPN

Unblocking – It’s a Tie

Streaming platforms and VPNs are engaged in a continuous battle, where streaming platforms try to block VPN services, and VPNs strive to stay ahead of these blocks. This can make it challenging to find a VPN that can consistently bypass streaming platform restrictions without getting blocked shortly after.

Luckily, both PureVPN and NordVPN are great when it comes to unblocking streaming services like US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ITVX, HBO Max, Kayo Sports, and Optus Sport. NordVPN also offers a SmartDNS feature (SmartPlay) that lets you stream geo-blocked content on devices without VPN support, but you can use PureVPN on any device via router configuration.

Who tops this category? It’s a tie

Pricing – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Monthly	Standard ($10.95), Plus ($16.95), Max ($20.95)	Standard ($12.99), Plus ($13.99), Complete ($14.99)
1-year	Standard ($3.74/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($6.24/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)	Standard ($3.49/month), Plus ($4.49/month), Complete ($5.49)

When it comes to pricing, both NordVPN and PureVPN offer similar plan durations, making it easy to compare their prices. At first glance, it is evident that PureVPN is the slightly more affordable option between the two VPN providers, making it a more budget-friendly option from the two for users.

As far as payment methods go, both PureVPN and NordVPN let you pay with credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, cryptocurrency, and more. NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not happy with the service, whereas PureVPN comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Who tops this category? PureVPN

Features – NordVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes
Split Tunneling	Yes	Yes
Obfuscation	Yes	Yes
DNS Leak Protection	Yes	Yes
IPv6 Leak Protection	Yes	Yes

The availability of advanced features can greatly appeal to experienced VPN users seeking more customization options for their connections. In this aspect, both PureVPN and NordVPN offer unique features. 

PureVPN offers quantum-resistant encryption keys, 20 Gbps servers in key locations, and dedicated IP and port forwarding as add-ons, which will cost you a little extra. On the other hand, NordVPN stands out with features like SmartDNS, special servers (double VPN and onion over VPN), and threat protection. 

While both VPNs offer valuable features, NordVPN takes the lead in this category, providing a more extensive range of options for users to enhance their VPN experience.

Who tops this category? NordVPN

Compatibility – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Available apps	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick
Browser extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Multi-logins	10	6

PureVPN offers a native app for Huawei devices and supports macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick. NordVPN, on the other hand, provides support for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick. In terms of browser extensions, both VPN providers offer compatibility with Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. 

PureVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous multi-logins, allowing users to connect multiple devices at the same time. In comparison, NordVPN supports up to 6 simultaneous connections. Overall, PureVPN offers a slightly broader compatibility range, including native support for Huawei devices and a higher limit for multi-logins.

Who tops this category? PureVPN

Customer Support – It’s a Tie

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Live chat	Yes	Yes
Email	Yes	Yes
Knowledgebase	Yes	Yes
In-app support	Yes	Yes

PureVPN and NordVPN offer similar customer support options, providing assistance to users in various ways. If you prefer to find answers independently, both VPN providers offer extensive knowledgebases that include an array of helpful resources such as FAQs, setup guides, troubleshooting articles, and more.

In terms of more advanced support options, both NordVPN and PureVPN cover all the bases. They have 24/7 live chat, chatbot, email support, as well as in-app support, which can be accessed by clicking/tapping the help icon i.e. a question mark in a circle (?).

Who tops this category? It’s a tie

PureVPN vs NordVPN – Which one takes the crown?

	PureVPN	NordVPN
Pricing	1st	2nd
Speed	1st	2nd
Server locations	1st	2nd
Security	2nd	1st
Privacy	1st	2nd
Unblocking	Tie	Tie
Features	2nd	1st
Compatibility	1st	2nd
Customer support	Tie	Tie

The comparison ends with PureVPN on top as it provides affordable prices, faster speeds, a wider range of server locations, better privacy, and more simultaneous connections, making it a great NordVPN alternative.

However, NordVPN should not be looked down upon as it proves a great choice for those looking for top-notch security, advanced features, and effortless unblocking on just about any device.

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Frequently asked questions

Is NordVPN better than PureVPN?

Determining whether NordVPN is better than PureVPN depends on individual preferences and specific needs. Both VPN providers offer a range of features and services, and the “better” choice will vary depending on what you prioritize

Is PureVPN a Chinese company?

No. PureVPN is a British Virgin Islands-based company owned by GZ Systems Limited.

Is PureVPN fast?

Yes. PureVPN can offer impressive speeds thanks to its 20 Gbps servers and super-fast WireGuard protocol.