When I first started looking for ways to protect my privacy online Proton VPN quickly caught my attention. Its strong security features and commitment to user privacy made it a popular choice. But as I dug deeper I realized there are plenty of other VPN services that offer unique benefits and might be a better fit for my needs.
Whether you’re searching for faster speeds lower prices or different server options it’s smart to explore all your choices. I’ve compared some of the top Proton VPN alternatives to help you find the right match for your online security and streaming needs. Let’s see what sets these options apart and why one of them might be the perfect upgrade for you.
One of the fastest VPNs in the world.
Secures up to 10 devices with a single account.
Helps you avoid phishing, scams, and malware.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in Proton VPN Alternatives
Finding reliable Proton VPN alternatives means focusing on details that match or improve upon its core strengths. I compare each option based on features, security, and policy transparency.
Key Features to Consider
Strong Proton VPN alternatives offer diverse server locations, robust connection speeds, and cross-platform compatibility. I check if services provide multi-device support, kill switch functionality, split tunneling, and optimized servers for streaming platforms like Netflix or Hulu. Fast server networks with 2,000+ nodes, for example NordVPN or CyberGhost, enable stable connections for data-intensive use. Intuitive apps across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android enhance user experience.
Privacy and Security Standards
Finding trustworthy Proton VPN alternatives means verifying no-logs policies and strong encryption protocols. I assess each service for independent third-party audits, confirming privacy commitments. Look for VPNs with AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols. Jurisdictions outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances, like Switzerland or Panama, present fewer data-sharing risks. Transparency reports and open-source desktop clients, exemplified by Mullvad and IVPN, further assure user data safety.
Top Proton VPN Alternatives
Many VPN providers deliver advanced privacy, strong encryption, and streaming access similar to Proton VPN. I rely on trusted alternatives that stand out for server variety, speed, and user protections.
NordVPN
NordVPN offers over 6,000 servers across 60+ countries for global reach. I get consistent high-speed connections on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Using AES-256 encryption, NordVPN enforces a strict no-logs policy, confirmed by PwC audits. Features like Double VPN, the CyberSec malware blocker, and dedicated streaming servers make it a strong Proton VPN alternative.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN provides secure browsing with 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries. I can use apps for all major platforms and benefit from Independent audits supporting its no-logs claims. TrustedServer tech loads software fresh with each boot, minimizing risk. Lightway protocol, split tunneling, and fast streaming access highlight ExpressVPN as a reliable competitor.
Surfshark
Surfshark lets me connect unlimited devices under one account. It operates 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries and uses RAM-only servers for privacy. Camouflage mode, kill switch, CleanWeb ad blocker, and audited zero-logs policy ensure strong protections. Affordability and unlimited connections distinguish Surfshark from other Proton VPN alternatives.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost supplies specialized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. With 9,400+ servers in 100+ countries, I get extensive global options. CyberGhost follows a no-logs policy and semi-annual transparency reports establish trust. Easy-to-use apps and dedicated IPs make it appealing for privacy-focused users seeking convenience.
Windscribe
Windscribe offers strong privacy controls with a flexible free plan and unlimited device connections. I can access servers in 69+ countries and 110+ cities. Built-in ad/tracker blocking, configurable connection modes, and a transparent, publicly available audit set Windscribe apart as a cost-effective, privacy-centric alternative.
Comparing Proton VPN Alternatives
I compare top Proton VPN alternatives by reviewing price structures, server networks, and media unlocking features to highlight meaningful differences for users prioritizing privacy and performance.
Pricing and Plans
I find NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost offer tiered subscriptions with monthly, yearly, and multi-year options. NordVPN charges about $12.99/month, dropping to roughly $3.39/month on two-year plans. Surfshark starts at $12.95/month, with two-year rates near $2.49/month and unlimited device support. CyberGhost’s plans begin around $12.99/month, falling to just $2.19/month on three-year deals. Windscribe uses a flexible model, offering a limited free plan and custom pro plans. ExpressVPN generally retains premium pricing, with monthly rates at $12.95 and only modest discounts for longer terms. Each service launches seasonal promotions, though NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost advertise the broadest bundle savings.
Server Locations and Speed
I note NordVPN runs over 6,200 servers in 111 countries as of June 2024. ExpressVPN maintains 3,000+ servers spanning 105 countries. Surfshark lists 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, while CyberGhost operates more than 11,000 servers in 100 countries. Windscribe offers servers across 69 countries, prioritizing bandwidth on both free and paid plans. Speed tests from sources like AV-TEST (2024) and VPNpro show NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently achieving average speeds over 800 Mbps, with Surfshark and CyberGhost ranging from 650–780 Mbps on top-tier connections. Server proximity, congestion, and protocol choices (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2) impact results for all providers.
Streaming and Torrenting Support
I confirm NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN reliably unblock global Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ libraries, citing reviews from TechRadar and CNET. CyberGhost provides servers optimized for streaming and torrenting – listing specialty servers by platform in its apps. Windscribe allows streaming on its premium servers but with mixed compatibility on the free plan. All five providers support P2P file sharing, with Surfshark and NordVPN offering dedicated torrenting nodes and built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocking. ExpressVPN and CyberGhost combine Smart DNS features for device-wide streaming access, even where native VPN apps aren’t available.
Choosing the Right Proton VPN Alternatives for You
Selecting the right VPN involves comparing features that matter most to me based on how I use the internet. Identifying my priorities, whether that is streaming, torrenting, gaming, or prioritizing privacy, guides my decision.
Feature evaluation
Checking server network coverage identifies if a service fits my needs. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost each offer thousands of servers worldwide, supporting stable, fast connections for streaming, browsing, and torrenting. Choosing a provider with servers in locations relevant to my online activity allows reliable access to content.
Performance needs
Reviewing speed results from recent independent tests pinpoints optimal services for bandwidth-heavy tasks. I consider performance data from sources like AV-TEST and Ookla. NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently deliver high torrent and streaming speeds, while Surfshark suits unlimited device connections with minimal speed loss.
Privacy and security
Scrutinizing privacy protections ensures my data stays safe. Each major Proton VPN alternative enforces no-logs policies and military-grade encryption such as AES-256. I prioritize providers with independent security audits and transparent privacy policies. ExpressVPN and NordVPN, for example, undergo regular third-party audits, confirming no-logs claims.
Platform compatibility
Confirming broad support guarantees a smooth experience on all my devices. Each provider supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and browser extensions. Surfshark and Windscribe allow unlimited simultaneous connections, which benefits households or power users.
Pricing and contract flexibility
Comparing costs allows me to balance value and features. Table 1 lists the subscription options for top Proton VPN alternatives.
| Provider | Monthly Price | Yearly Discount | Free Plan/Trial | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $12.99 | Yes (58% off) | 30-day guarantee | 6 |
| ExpressVPN | $12.95 | Yes (49% off) | 30-day guarantee | 8 |
| Surfshark | $12.95 | Yes (82% off) | 30-day guarantee | Unlimited |
| CyberGhost | $12.99 | Yes (84% off) | 45-day guarantee | 7 |
| Windscribe | Free/$9.00 | No | Free plan avail. | Unlimited (paid) |
Assessing these factors such as server coverage, performance, privacy, compatibility, and pricing, lets me confidently decide which Proton VPN alternative fits my needs.
Conclusion
Choosing a VPN isn’t just about picking a popular name, it’s about finding the right match for your unique online habits and priorities. While Proton VPN is a solid choice for privacy and security, there are plenty of strong alternatives that might suit your needs even better.
I always recommend taking a close look at what matters most to you, whether that’s speed, streaming access, device support, or pricing flexibility. With so many great options out there, it’s easier than ever to find a VPN that fits your lifestyle and keeps your data protected.
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