Proton VPN vs NordVPN: Which VPN Offers More?
Proton VPN is a popular choice for people who want more privacy online. It offers a free plan, safe connections and useful tools. However, if you want a VPN with more tools for streaming, browsing and device safety, NordVPN is worth a look.
Both services can hide your IP address and keep your web traffic private. However, they have different plans, tools and ways to protect your connection.
At Starcom, we offer NordVPN to customers who want more from a VPN. With that in mind, this guide looks at Proton and shows what NordVPN can offer.
What Is Proton VPN?
Proton VPN is a VPN service that helps keep your online activity private. It also locks your internet traffic and hides your IP address while you browse.
You can use it on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS. In addition, some browsers and smart TVs are supported.
Privacy is a key part of the service. For example, Proton has a no-logs policy and its apps are open source. As a result, people can check much of the code used in the apps.
Proton VPN Free vs Paid Plans
The free plan is one reason many people try the service. However, paid plans offer more tools and more server choices.
What Does the Free Plan Include?
The free plan gives you unlimited data with no adverts. It also includes a kill switch and no-logs protection.
There are some limits, though. For example, fewer server locations are available, and some tools are only found on paid plans. As a result, your server choice can also affect your speed.
What Does Proton Plus Offer?
A paid plan gives you more servers and more locations. It also gives you tools for streaming and file sharing.
Secure Core and NetShield are included with paid plans. In addition, faster server options are available. Up to 10 devices can be used, based on the plan you choose.
Proton VPN vs NordVPN: Privacy and Security
Both services use encryption to help keep your online traffic safe. In addition, each one has tools that add more protection.
Proton puts a strong focus on privacy and open-source apps. For example, its Secure Core tool sends your traffic through extra servers.
NordVPN has several other safety tools. For instance, Double VPN sends your traffic through two VPN servers. It can also use Threat Protection to block harmful sites and trackers.
Secure Core vs Double VPN
Secure Core and Double VPN both add another step to your VPN connection. However, they do this in different ways.
With Secure Core, your traffic first goes through secure servers. By comparison, Double VPN sends the traffic through two VPN servers.
NordVPN also has other server types for people who need different ways to connect.
VPN Streaming and Entertainment
A VPN can help keep your connection private while you watch online content. It can also let you connect through a server in another country.
The paid Proton plan supports streaming on supported services. However, its free plan has more limits.
NordVPN also supports streaming. For example, SmartPlay helps match VPN protection with supported streaming services.
No VPN can promise access to every streaming service. Therefore, streaming companies can change their rules and block VPN traffic.
VPN Server Locations
The server you use can affect your VPN experience. For example, a server close to you may give better speed. On the other hand, a server in another country can give you an IP address from that country.
The paid Proton service has servers in more than 140 countries. By comparison, the free plan gives you fewer server choices.
NordVPN also has a large server network. In addition, it offers different server types for different needs. Both services can offer South African server connections, based on current access.
Proton VPN Speed and Performance
VPN speed can change for many reasons. For example, your internet speed, server distance, server use and VPN type can all make a difference.
Proton uses WireGuard and VPN Accelerator to help with speed. Meanwhile, NordVPN uses NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard.
Your speed may still change from one server to another. In general, a nearby server will often perform better than one far away.
Extra VPN Security Features
A VPN can do more than hide your IP address. In addition, extra tools can help protect your devices and online activity.
Proton has Secure Core, NetShield, a kill switch and Stealth connections.
NordVPN also has tools that go beyond a basic VPN. For example, these can help with web safety, device links and account checks.
NordVPN Threat Protection
Threat Protection can block harmful sites and trackers. It can also warn you about unsafe downloads.
This gives you another layer of safety while you browse. However, it is not a replacement for full antivirus software.
NordVPN Meshnet
Meshnet lets you link supported devices through a private network. As a result, this can help with remote access and file sharing.
For some users, this makes NordVPN useful for more than a normal VPN connection.
NordVPN Dark Web Monitor
Dark Web Monitor looks for some personal details linked to known data leaks. If matching details are found, an alert can be sent.
In this way, users have another way to watch for problems with their online accounts.
Choosing a VPN in South Africa
South African users can use either service for online privacy. For example, the free Proton plan may suit someone who wants basic VPN use without paying for a plan.
Paid plans give you more tools and more server choices. Meanwhile, NordVPN adds Threat Protection, Double VPN, Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor and SmartPlay.
Your needs should guide your choice. For instance, think about how many devices you use and which server locations you need. Also, streaming and extra safety tools may matter.
Get NordVPN Through Starcom
NordVPN is the VPN product we offer through Starcom. As a result, you get access to a wide range of tools for private browsing, streaming and online safety.
You can also use its extra tools for web protection and device connections. In addition, these features go beyond a basic VPN service.
Get NordVPN through Starcom and choose a plan that suits your needs. Before you order, check the current plans, prices and terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Proton VPN free?
Yes. A free plan is available with no data limit. However, it has fewer server choices and tools than the paid plans.
Is NordVPN better than Proton VPN?
That depends on what you need. For example, NordVPN has a wide range of tools, including Threat Protection, Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, Double VPN and SmartPlay.
Does Proton VPN work in South Africa?
Yes. Users in South Africa can use the service to protect their internet connection. They can also connect through supported servers.
Can NordVPN protect multiple devices?
Yes. NordVPN supports several devices with its plans. However, the exact limit depends on the plan and current terms.
Which VPN should I choose?
Think about the tools you need before you choose a VPN. For example, basic privacy may be enough for some users. On the other hand, others may want more safety, streaming and network tools. NordVPN offers a wider range of features through Starcom.
International clients can order through www.whooshield.com
