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Best for Streaming
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No split tunneling feature on desktop
Best for Free Use
Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PrivadoVPN are reputable virtual private network (VPN) alternatives to Proton VPN. We love Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections, CyberGhost’s extensive streaming libraries, and PrivadoVPN’s secure free option.
A VPN keeps you safe online, but it should also help you unblock geo-restricted streaming catalogs, reduce ads, trackers, and malware exposure, and even stop your internet service provider (ISP) from spying on you.
We break down these three highly-rated VPN services and their unique features so you can pick the one that’s best for you.
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| Starting price | Starts at Free | Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $2.03/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at Free |
| Free plan | ||||
| # of connected devices | Up to 10 | Unlimited | Up to 7 | Up to 10 |
| # of servers | Plus: 8,500+ servers in 112 countries
Free: Unlisted servers in 5 countries |
3,200+ servers in 100+ countries | 11,700+ servers in 100 countries | Premium: Unlisted servers in 49 countries
Free: 13 servers |
| VPN protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, SOCKS5 | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, SOCKS5 |
| Blocks ads, trackers, and malware | ||||
| Specialized torrenting/streaming servers | ||||
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 45 days for 6-month and 2-year plans, 14 days for monthly plans | Yes — 30 days |
| Streaming support | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, BBC iPlayer, Max, DAZN, and more | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, BBC iPlayer, Max, DAZN, and more | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, BBC iPlayer, Max, DAZN, and more | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, BBC iPlayer, Max, DAZN, and more |
| Learn more | Get Proton VPN | Get Surfshark | Get CyberGhost | Get PrivadoVPN |
We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.
Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.
All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Unlimited simultaneous connections is a rare feature not offered by many VPN providers. If you need options and want to connect a lot of devices (10 or more), Surfshark might be the perfect solution.
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Surfshark doesn’t just offer unlimited simultaneous connections as a gimmick on a subpar VPN. It’s a top-notch VPN solution with various useful features like NoBorders, which detects restricted networks and suggests the best way to connect. Its attention to detail and unique features make it a valuable part of your security.
No matter if you have a large family or a lot of personal devices, Surfshark’s ability to cover all of them while still providing unique offerings — like Surfshark CleanWeb and Surfshark Alt ID — leaves us (and other users) with a sense of security. And you get those premium security features with the starter plan. Plus, if you want antivirus or robust privacy protection, you can opt for a high-tier Surfshark One plan that includes Surfshark Antivirus or Surfshark Incogni. Definitely a win.
Surfshark is headquartered in the U.S., which is notorious for spying on its citizens. While Surfshark doesn’t keep logs, it may still have to turn over information, like the email address attached to your account.
| Price range | $1.99–$17.95/mo |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days |
| Number of servers | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| Number of connected devices | Unlimited |
| Average speed | 254.03 Mbps |
| DNS leak test | Pass |
| Kill switch test | Pass |
| VPN protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark |
High-speed global servers offering industry-leading 256-bit AES encryption and no data logs
Unlimited bandwidth, DNS and IP leak protection, and automatic kill switch available for up to 7 devices
Configurable with your router, smart TV, Amazon Fire TV stick, or gaming console
CyberGhost includes a hefty number of locations on its server list (over 11,000), meaning travelers and armchair explorers alike can experience geo-restricted catalogs from around the globe.
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CyberGhost’s list of supported streaming services seems endless, which means that no matter where you are in the world, you can experience your favorite shows, movies, sporting events, and more. Having personally tested CyberGhost while traveling internationally, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that we could still legally watch our favorite shows before bed without any issues.
Streamers aren’t the only ones who will love CyberGhost. Gamers also get an advantage with lower ping rates and compatibility with Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, as well as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more. Want to play that latest international release? CyberGhost can get you online quickly and securely.
The split-tunneling feature is available only on Android, which we don’t love. Banks and other high-security sites don’t typically like VPNs, and we don’t love the idea of having to turn our entire VPN off to check our bank balance. While it isn’t a deal breaker, it means you’ll have to be diligent about what networks you connect to outside your home.
| Price range | $2.03–$6.99/mo |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 45 days for 6-month and 2-year plans, 14 days for monthly plans |
| Number of servers | 11,700+ in 126 locations |
| Number of connected devices | 7 |
| Average speed | 199.24 Mbps |
| DNS leak test | Pass |
| Kill switch test | Pass |
| VPN protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get CyberGhost |
Affordable pricing and a free plan option
Fast speeds and unblocks Netflix
Whether you’re on a tight budget or need to quickly download a VPN without jumping through a ton of payment hoops, PrivadoVPN offers a free option that can still be used to unblock streaming and keep you secure on shared Wi-Fi.
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PrivadoVPN also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, but unlike Surfshark and CyberGhost, you can take advantage of its free plan at no cost. Plus, its adherence to Swiss privacy laws means you won’t have to worry about data sales, and the protocol options include both OpenVPN and WireGuard.
On top of all these impressive benefits, you’ll get 24/7 support and compatibility with a variety of operating systems. PrivadoVPN is a trustworthy alternative if you love Proton VPN’s free plan but want the ability to select your VPN server. You can always upgrade to a premium plan to access PrivadoVPN's advanced features, such as Threat Protection, an ad blocker, parental controls, and a more extensive server network.
PrivadoVPN isn’t forthcoming on its server count, so we can’t accurately gauge how it compares to competitors. Also, its free service does have a monthly data cap of 10GB. If you’re a gamer or streamer, you’ll use that up quickly and be left waiting until the next month to re-up your data.
| Price range | Free–$10.99/mo |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days |
| Number of servers | Unlisted servers in 49 countries |
| Number of connected devices | Unlimited |
| Average speed | 276.23 Mbps |
| DNS leak test | Pass |
| Kill switch test | Pass |
| VPN protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, SOCKS5 |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get PrivadoVPN |
We recommended Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PrivadoVPN as Proton VPN alternatives based on their similar qualities. But if you want a VPN service with even more robust security features, check out NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Internet speeds vary depending on the provider package you’ve purchased, how well your device processes Wi-Fi, and if you’re hardwired into your router or using Wi-Fi exclusively. We test using Wi-Fi at normal home speeds to give you an accurate picture of what this VPN might look like for you.
VPN speeds are important because if it slows down your connection too much, you won’t use it. If you don’t use the VPN, you expose yourself to potential security risks.
| Normal speed | VPN speed to US server | Speed loss | |
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310.54 Mbps | 306.53 Mbps | -1.29% |
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309.06 Mbps | 274.92 Mbps | -11.05% |
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307.01 Mbps | 284.61Mbps | -7.30% |
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307.70 Mbps | 293.06 Mbps | -4.76% |
If you’re wondering how to evaluate a VPN, consider the following features and functions. These features and specs are the hallmarks of a good VPN:
Proton VPN is a robust and secure virtual private network. But if you’re looking for another provider with specific features, you may want to consider competitors like Surshark, CyberGhost, PrivadoVPN, or even NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Nord and Express have a slightly higher cost but include unique extras, while Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PrivadoVPN all offer lower monthly pricing in addition to excellent quality.
There are various alternatives to Proton VPN, but some of our tested favorites are Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PrivadoVPN. All three options have lower monthly costs than some competitors, like Proton VPN. They’re all robust, work with streaming platforms, and keep you secure.
ExpressVPN offers a super fast, secure VPN service, but it’s pricey. If you want features comparable to Proton VPN, PrivadoVPN might be the better option. It offers a free tier with the ability to upgrade. You’ll be able to unblock streaming on multiple devices due to Privado’s broad compatibility.
Both NordVPN and Proton VPN are two of the most secure VPNs we’ve tested. But NordVPN offers a variety of additional features like Meshnet and Threat Protection Pro, which Proton VPN doesn’t have. If you need these features, then NordVPN is a better choice. On the other hand, Proton might be better if you’re looking for a free or low-cost VPN with a secure connection and streaming compatibility.
Remember that not all free VPNs are created equal, and you should avoid them unless they’ve been vetted and recommended by reputable sites. The best free VPNs don’t log or sell your data, are secure, and unblock streaming. PrivadoVPN offers a secure free VPN, but there are other options, too, like TunnelBear and Windscribe.
The best alternatives to Proton VPN are Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PrivadoVPN.
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections with a high server count and no monthly data cap. CyberGhost covers a wide range of streaming and gaming devices, systems, providers, and more, with optimized servers that keep you connected no matter where you are. PrivadoVPN’s free option is comparable to Proton VPN, which has unlimited simultaneous connections and the ability to unblock some streaming libraries.
Remember, the best VPN services keep you secure and safe while also enhancing your overall online experience.
| Starting price | Best for | Learn more | |
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Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years) | Best for unlimited devices | Get Surfshark |
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Starts at $2.03/mo (billed every two years) | Best for streaming | Get CyberGhost |
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Starts at Free | Best for free use | Get PrivadoVPN |
All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
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