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15 Best McAfee VPN Alternatives: Upgrade Online Security in 2025

by | Last updated Dec 30, 2024

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Surfshark
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mcafee alternatives

Tired of your McAfee VPN slowing you down or struggling to unblock that streaming site you love?

Maybe you’re just looking for a virtual private network with better security features or a more user-friendly interface.

Whatever your reason for exploring alternatives, you’ve come to the right place.

This post examines the 15 best McAfee VPN alternatives, which offer top-notch security, blazing-fast speeds, and seamless streaming.

Let’s get started!

What is the Best McAfee VPN Alternative?

Ready to ditch McAfee and upgrade your online experience?

Whether you crave faster speeds, stronger security, or a more intuitive interface, there’s a perfect VPN out there waiting for you.

Let’s explore the top contenders that outshine McAfee in key areas, offering exceptional value and performance.

1. ExpressVPN

Ever heard of ExpressVPN? It’s super popular and known for being reliable and fast.

They have servers in many countries, so you can easily watch your favorite shows no matter where you are.

Plus, they’re great for security and privacy.

ExpressVPN Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

ExpressVPN is popular because it’s fast, reliable, and secure. It’s a great all-around VPN, but it’s a little expensive compared to some others.

Key Benefits

  • Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
  • Huge server network: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
  • Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.

Pricing

  • 1-month plan: $12.95/month
  • 12-month plan: $8.32/month (+3 months FREE)
  • 2 Years plan: $4.99/month (+4 months FREE)
ExpressVPN

Pros

Cons

  • A bit pricey.
  • Limited device connections.
  • There is no free trial.

2. NordVPN

Ever heard of NordVPN? It’s a super popular VPN, and for good reason.

They’ve been around for a while and have a solid reputation.

NordVPN is known for its strong security and massive network of servers. It’s an excellent all-arounder, perfect for beginners and experienced users alike.

NordVPN Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

Ready for a faster, more secure online experience? NordVPN offers blazing speeds, robust security features, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. Try NordVPN today!

Key Benefits

  • Massive server network: Boasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries.
  • Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and a variety of security protocols.
  • Specialty servers: Offers dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and extra security.
  • Strict no-logs policy: They don’t track your online activity.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Plenty of time to try it risk-free.

Pricing

  • Complete: $14.99/month – Secure, high-speed VPN, Anti-malware, and advanced browsing protection.
  • Plus: $13.99/month – Secure, high-speed VPN, Anti-malware, and advanced browsing protection.
  • Basic: $12.99/month – Secure, high-speed VPN, Anti-malware, and advanced browsing protection.
NordVPN Pricing

Pros

Cons

  • Can be pricey.
  • Speeds can vary.

3. Proton VPN

If privacy is your top priority, check out Proton VPN. It is based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws.

Proton VPN is known for its focus on security and even has a free version!

This makes it a great option to try a VPN before committing to a paid plan.

ProtonVPN Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

Proton VPN is popular because it’s a solid choice for privacy-focused users. The free version is a great perk, and the paid plans offer good value. However, it may not be the fastest VPN and is not ideal for streaming.

Key Benefits

  • Strong focus on privacy: Based in Switzerland with a strict no-logs policy.
  • Secure core servers: Adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Free version available: Try it out before you buy.
  • Open-source apps: Transparency and community-driven development.

Pricing

  • 1-month plan: โ‚ฌ9.99/month
  • 1-year plan: โ‚ฌ4.49/month
  • 2-year plan: โ‚ฌ4.99/month
Proton VPN

Pros

  • Excellent for privacy.
  • Secure core servers.
  • Free version available.
  • Easy to use apps.

Cons

  • The free version is limited.
  • It can be slower than other VPNs.
  • Not the best for streaming.

4. Aura VPN

Aura VPN is a newer VPN that is quickly becoming popular.

It’s part of the Aura digital security suite, so you get antivirus and other security features along with the VPN.

This makes it a good option if you’re looking for an all-in-one security solution.

AuraVPN homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

Aura VPN is popular because it offers a comprehensive security solution at a reasonable price. It’s a good choice for those who want more than just a VPN. However, it’s a newer provider with a smaller server network.

Key Benefits

  • Part of a comprehensive security suite: Includes antivirus, malware protection, and more.
  • Good speeds: Suitable for streaming and downloading.
  • Growing server network: Expanding to more locations.
  • User-friendly interface: Easy to set up and use.

Pricing

  • Kids: $10/month
  • Individual: $12/month
  • Couple: $22/month
  • Family: $32/month
AuraVPN Pricing

Pros

  • All-in-one security solution.
  • Good value for money.
  • Easy to use.
  • Decent speeds.

Cons

  • Newer provider, still growing.
  • Limited server network compared to others.
  • There is no free trial.

5. Surfshark

Want a VPN that doesn’t break the bank? Surfshark VPN is a great option!

This one is known for its low price and unlimited simultaneous connections.

This means you can use it on all your devices simultaneously. That’s pretty cool. It also has some powerful security features to keep you safe online.

Surfshark Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

Surfshark VPN is popular because it offers an outstanding balance of features, security, and price. It’s a fantastic choice for budget-conscious users or those who need to connect multiple devices. However, its speeds can be inconsistent and might not be the best choice for accessing geo-restricted content.

Key Benefits

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections: Connect all your devices!
  • Affordable price: Great value for your money.
  • Strong security features: Includes AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
  • Fast speeds: Good for streaming and downloading.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Plenty of time to try it out.

Pricing

  • Surfshark Starter: $15.45/month
  • Surfshark One: $17.95/month
  • Surfshark One+: $20.65/month
Surfshark Pricing

Pros

  • Very affordable.
  • Unlimited devices.
  • Easy to use interface.
  • Good customer support.

Cons

  • Speeds can be inconsistent.
  • Smaller server network.
  • Not the best for bypassing geo-blocks.

6. PureVPN

PureVPN is another veteran in the VPN industry.

It has an extensive server network & offers a wide range of features.

The company has also been working hard to improve its reputation and has implemented a no-logs policy.

What is PureVpn?

Our Take

10out of 10

PureVPN is known for its many features and extensive server network. Its privacy policy has improved, but its speeds can be inconsistent, and its customer support has mixed reviews.

Key Benefits

  • Extensive server network: Over 6,500 servers in 78 countries.
  • Wide range of features: Includes split tunneling, port forwarding, and dedicated IPs.
  • No-logs policy: Audited by independent firms.
  • 31-day money-back guarantee: Gives you a little extra time to decide.

Pricing

  • Max: $19.95/month
  • Plus: $15.95/month
  • Standard: $12.95/month
Pricing of PureVPn

Pros

  • Large server network.
  • Lots of features.
  • Improved privacy.
  • It’s good for streaming.

Cons

  • It can be expensive.
  • Mixed customer support reviews.
  • Speeds can vary.

7. Mysterium VPN

Mysterium VPN is different from other VPNs.

It’s a decentralized VPN that uses blockchain technology.

This means your traffic is routed through a network of users rather than a central server, which can provide increased privacy and security.

Mysterium VPN

Our Take

10out of 10

Mysterium VPN is popular because its decentralized network offers a unique approach to VPN technology. It’s a good option for privacy-conscious users, but it can be more complex and vary speeds.

Key Benefits

  • Decentralized network: Increased privacy and security.
  • No-logs policy: Doesn’t store your data.
  • Open-source: Transparent and community-driven.
  • Pay-as-you-go pricing: Only pay for what you use.

Pricing

  • 1-month plan: $9.99/month
  • 6-month plan: $6.85/month
  • 1-year plan: $5.14/month
  • 2-year plan: $3.19/month
Mysterium VPN

Pros

  • Unique decentralized network.
  • Strong privacy focus.
  • Flexible pricing.
  • Growing community.

Cons

  • It can be more complex to use.
  • Speeds can be inconsistent.
  • Smaller network compared to others.

8. Mullvad VPN

Mullvad VPN is another privacy-focused VPN known for its strong security and anonymity.

Signing up doesn’t require an email address, making it an excellent option for those serious about protecting their privacy.

Mullvad VPN

Our Take

10out of 10

Mullvad VPN is known because it’s an excellent choice for privacy-conscious users. It’s secure, anonymous, and open-source. However, it can be more challenging and lacks some of the features other VPNs offer.

Key Benefits

  • Strong focus on anonymity: No email address is required to sign up.
  • Open-source: Transparent and trustworthy.
  • Strong security: Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
  • Accepts Bitcoin: For anonymous payments.

Pricing

Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: โ‚ฌ5/month. That’s it! No discounts for longer subscriptions.

Mullvad VPN Pricing

Pros

  • Excellent for privacy.
  • Strong security.
  • Simple pricing.
  • Open-source.

Cons

  • There is no free trial.
  • It can be more challenging to use.
  • Limited features compared to others.

9. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-established VPN known for its strong security and affordable price.

Its extensive server network offers a good balance of features and performance.

Private Internet Access

Our Take

10out of 10

Private Internet Access is popular because it offers a good balance of security, features, and price. It’s a solid choice for general VPN use but can be slow and isn’t the best for streaming.

Key Benefits

  • Extensive server network: Over 35,912 servers in 84 countries.
  • Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
  • Affordable price: Offers competitive plans.
  • Ten simultaneous connections: Protect all your devices.

Pricing

  • 1-month plan: $11.95/month
  • 1-year plan: $3.33/month
  • 3-years + 4 months free: $1.98/month

All plans include unlimited bandwidth and access to all server locations.

Private Internet Access

Pros

  • Large server network.
  • Strong security features.
  • Affordable pricing.
  • Good for torrenting.

Cons

  • It can be slow at times.
  • Not the best for streaming.
  • Based in the US.

10. Avast VPN

Avast VPN is a very good option if you know Avast antivirus products.

It’s a simple, easy-to-use VPN that is a good choice for basic VPN needs but doesn’t have as many features as other VPNs.

Getting started with Avast Vpn

Our Take

10out of 10

Avast VPN is known for its simple, easy-to-use VPN that meets basic needs. However, it lacks advanced features and has a smaller server network.

Key Benefits

  • Simple and easy to use: Good for beginners.
  • Decent speeds: Suitable for browsing and streaming.
  • Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
  • Reputable brand: From a well-known security company.

Pricing

  • 1 year: $4.59/month
  • 2 years: $4.39/month
  • 3 years: $4.39/month
Avast VPN pricing

Pros

  • Easy to use.
  • Decent speeds.
  • Strong security.
  • Reputable brand.

Cons

  • Limited features.
  • Smaller server network.
  • There is no free trial.

11. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is a popular VPN known for its extensive server network and user-friendly interface.

It’s a good option for streaming and torrenting but can be expensive.

CyberGhost Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

CyberGhost VPN is popular because it has an extensive server network and is suitable for streaming. However, it can be expensive, and there have been some privacy concerns.

Key Benefits

  • Large server network: Over 9,700 servers in 91 countries.
  • User-friendly interface: Easy to use, even for beginners.
  • Good for streaming: Unblocks many popular streaming services.
  • Dedicated servers for torrenting: Optimized for P2P traffic.

Pricing

  • 1 Month: $12.99/month
  • 6 Month: $6.99/month
  • 2-Year + 4 months: $2.03/month

All plans include unlimited bandwidth and access to all server locations.

CyberGhost Pricing

Pros

  • Large server network.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • It’s good for streaming.
  • Dedicated servers for torrenting.

Cons

  • It can be expensive.
  • It’s not the fastest VPN.
  • Some past privacy concerns.

12. Norton VPN

Norton Secure VPN is another VPN from a well-known security company.

It’s a decent option for basic security and privacy, but it’s not the best for streaming or torrenting.

Getting Started with norton VPN

Our Take

10out of 10

Norton Secure VPN is popular because it’s a decent VPN from a trusted brand. However, it lacks features and isn’t the best performer.

Key Benefits

  • Reputable brand: From a trusted security company.
  • Suitable security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
  • No-logs policy: Doesn’t track your activity.
  • Easy to use: Simple interface.

Pricing

  • Plus: $29.99/year.
  • Standard: $39.99/year.
  • Deluxe: $49.99/year.
  • Select Plus: $99.99/year.
Norton VPN Pricing

Pros

  • Reputable brand.
  • Good security.
  • No-logs policy.
  • Easy to use.

Cons

  • Limited features.
  • Not the best for streaming.
  • It can be slow.

13. Bitdefender VPN

Bitdefender VPN is a simple and lightweight VPN that’s included with Bitdefender’s antivirus software.

It’s a good option for basic security and privacy, but it’s not the most feature-rich VPN on this list.

Bitdefender VPN Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

Bitdefender VPN is popular because it’s a decent VPN that comes with Bitdefender antivirus. However, it has limited features and a small server network.

Key Benefits

  • Lightweight and easy to use: It doesn’t slow down your device.
  • Suitable security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
  • Included with Bitdefender antivirus: Good value if you already use Bitdefender.
  • No-logs policy: Doesn’t track your activity.

Pricing

  • 1-month: $6.99/month
  • 1-year: $2.92/month
Bitdefender VPN Pricing

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to use.
  • Good security.
  • Included with Bitdefender antivirus.
  • No-logs policy.

Cons

  • Limited features.
  • Small server network.
  • Not the best for streaming.

14. TorGuard

Ever heard of TorGuard? They’re like the security experts of the VPN world. Really focus on privacy.

They even offer some cool extra features like stealth VPN to bypass censorship.

Plus, they have a dedicated streaming bundle for those who love to binge-watch.

Torguard Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

TorGuard gets a solid 8 because of its strong focus on security and privacy. The large server network is a big plus. However, it can be a bit expensive, and the apps aren’t as intuitive as some of the other VPNs on this list.

Key Benefits

  • Strong encryption: Uses AES-256 encryption, the gold standard for security.
  • Strict no-logs policy: They don’t keep any records of your online activity.
  • Large server network: Over 3,000 servers in 50+ countries.
  • Unlimited bandwidth: Stream and download as much as you want.
  • 7-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.

Pricing

  • Anonymous VPN: $9.99/month
  • Pro-VPN: $12.99/month
  • Business VPN: $32.99/month
  • Anonymous Email: $3.29/month
Torguard pricing

Pros

  • Strong encryption protocols
  • Many server locations.
  • Allows torrenting.
  • Apps for various devices
  • Stealth VPN feature

Cons

  • Inconsistent speeds
  • Limited split tunneling
  • No browser extensions
  • Not the best for streaming.

15. VyprVPN

VyprVPN owns and operates its own servers, which is great for privacy.

They have strong security features and a no-logs policy. They’re a bit more expensive, but they offer a good service.  

And they offer static IP addresses for an extra fee.

VyprVPN Homepage

Our Take

10out of 10

VyprVPN is a solid choice. It scores high on security and privacy. However, it’s a bit expensive compared to some competitors. The speeds are good but not the best. Overall, it is a reliable option, especially if you need a VPN for China.

Key Benefits

  • Proprietary Chameleon protocol: bypass VPN blocking.
  • Independently audited: Ensures your privacy.
  • 700+ servers in 70+ locations: Plenty of choices.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.

Pricing

VyprVPN has a simple pricing structure:

  • 1 month: $10/month.
  • 12 months: $5/month.
  • 24 month: $3/month.
VyprVPN pricing

Pros

  • Strong security features.
  • Works reliably in China.
  • It’s good for streaming.
  • Easy-to-use apps.

Cons

Buyers Guide

To find the best McAfee VPN alternatives, we focused on key factors that matter most to users. Here’s how we narrowed down the top contenders:

  • Security First: We prioritized VPN services with strong encryption protocols, a strict no-logs policy, and essential features like kill switches to guarantee online privacy and network security. We also looked for providers who offer robust identity theft protection and integrate well with the best antivirus software.
  • Server Network: We assessed the size and global reach of each VPN server network. More servers mean better speeds, easier access to geo-restricted content, and diverse IP address options.
  • Speed & Performance: We tested VPN connections to analyze download/upload speeds and overall performance for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
  • Privacy is Key: We scrutinize each provider’s privacy policy to ensureittprotects yourr data andminimizes identityy theft ris. Some providers even offer identity theft insurance for added peace of mind.
  • Pricing & Value: We compared VPN providers based on pricing, features, and overall value. We also looked for McAfee alternatives that offer free trials or money-back guarantees.
  • User-Friendly Experience: We prioritized virtual private networks with intuitive interfaces and seamless compatibility across various devices.
  • Customer Support: We evaluated the availability and quality of customer support channels.
  • Extra Features: We considered valuable extras like split tunneling and ad blockers.
  • Reputation Matters: We analyzed user reviews and expert opinions to gauge the reputation and reliability of each provider.

This rigorous process allowed us to identify the best McAfee VPN alternatives that excel in internet security, performance, and user experience.

Wrapping Up

That’s a wrap on our exploration of the best McAfee VPN alternatives! We’ve covered a lot of ground, from security features to server networks.

Choosing the right VPN can significantly boost your internet security and privacy. Finding a VPN connection that fits your needs and budget is essential. Consider what matters most to you: speed, security, or streaming access.

Don’t forget to prioritize strong identity protection features.

We’ve researched this so that you can make an informed decision.

Trust our recommendations and upgrade your online experience today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I consider McAfee alternatives?

While McAfee offers a VPN, other providers often surpass it in speed, server network, and security features. Exploring alternatives can lead you to a virtual private network with better performance and value for your money.

What are the most essential features to look for in a VPN?

Prioritize strong encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, and a wide range of server locations. These features enhance your online privacy and ensure a secure VPN connection.

Can a VPN protect me from identity theft?

While a VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, it doesn’t directly prevent identity theft. However, securing your online activity and reducing your vulnerability to data breaches adds a crucial layer of identity protection.

Are free VPNs a good alternative to McAfee?

Free VPNs often have limitations like data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options. They might also compromise your privacy by logging your data. Opting for a reputable paid VPN is generally recommended for better security and performance.

How can I ensure my VPN is compatible with my other security software?

Most VPNs work seamlessly with other internet security tools, such as antivirus software. However, checking for compatibility information on the VPN provider’s website or contacting customer support for confirmation is always a good idea is always a good idea.

Fahim Joharder

Fahim Joharder

Author

A tech enthusiast and writer with a passion for AI and software innovations. He simplifies complex topics to help readers stay ahead in the digital world.

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