Finding a VPN that fits your needs can be tricky.
NordVPN is a popular choice, but it might not be the best for everyone.
Maybe you’re seeking a more affordable option, faster speeds, or more substantial security features.
This post explores the 15 best NordVPN alternatives in 2025.
We’ll compare their features, pricing, and unique strengths to help you find the perfect VPN for secure and private browsing.
What is the Best NordVPN Alternative?
It’s time to uncover the top contenders! We’ve researched and tested many VPNs.
Below are our picks for the best NordVPN alternatives, each with its strengths.
Check them out to find the one that’s right for you.
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.
Our Take
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)
Pros
Cons
2. 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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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: €9.99/month
- 1-year plan: €4.49/month
- 2-year plan: €4.99/month
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
5. FastestVPN
As the name suggests, FastestVPN is all about speed.
It claims to be one of the fastest VPNs on the market, making it an awesome choice for activities that needs a lot of bandwidth, such as gaming or streaming.
Our Take
FastestVPN is popular because it delivers on its promise of fast speeds. It’s a good option for performance-critical tasks like gaming and torrenting. However, it can have connectivity issues, and its privacy features aren’t the strongest.
Key Benefits
- Fast speeds: Fully optimized for performance.
- P2P optimized servers: Good for torrenting.
- Affordable pricing: Offers competitive plans.
- 15-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.
Pricing
- 1-month plan: $5/month
- 1-year plan: $0.83/month
- Lifetime plan: $40/month
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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: €5/month. That’s it! No discounts for longer subscriptions.
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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.
Pros
Cons
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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
11. 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.
Our Take
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.
Pros
Cons
12. 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.
Our Take
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
Pros
Cons
13. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN that’s known for its cute bear-themed interface.
It’s a good option for beginners, but it doesn’t have as many features as other VPNs on this list.
Our Take
TunnelBear is popular because it’s a user-friendly VPN with strong security. However, it has limited features, and the free version is very restrictive.
Key Benefits
- User friendly interface: Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption.
- Free version available: Try it out before you buy.
- Independent security audits: Transparent and trustworthy.
Pricing
- Free: Limited data and features.
- Unlimited: $3.33/month
- Teams: $5.75/month
The Unlimited plan includes unlimited data and access to all server locations.
Pros
Cons
14. 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.
Our Take
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.
Pros
Cons
15. Windscribe
Windscribe is a free VPN with decent data and features.
It’s a good option for basic VPN needs but not the best choice for streaming or torrenting.
Our Take
Windscribe is popular because it offers a decent free VPN service. However, it has limited features and isn’t the fastest VPN.
Key Benefits
- Free version available: Offers a generous amount of data.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
- Built-in ad blocker: Blocks ads and trackers.
- User-friendly interface: Easy to use.
Pricing
- Monthly Plan: $9.00/month
- Yearly Plan: $5.75/month
- Build A Plan: Custom pricing.
The Pro plan includes unlimited data and access to all server locations.
Pros
Cons
Buyers Guide
When searching for the best NordVPN alternatives, we took a deep dive to ensure we recommended only the top contenders.
Here’s how we conducted our research:
- VPN Services Exploration: To get a good market overview, we explored a wide range of VPN services, including paid and free VPNs. We specifically looked for free NordVPN alternatives that offered comparable features and performance.
- VPN Client Testing: We downloaded and installed the VPN client for each service. This simply allowed us to test the user interface, connection speed, and overall ease of use.
- VPN Connection Analysis: We established VPN connections to various servers worldwide to evaluate speed, stability, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions.
- VPN Providers Scrutiny: We carefully examined each VPN provider’s reputation and logging policies. We prioritized providers with a strong commitment to online security and user privacy.
- Free Alternative Comparison: We compared the features and limitations of each free NordVPN alternative to their paid counterparts to determine their value and suitability for different users.
- Best VPN Services Benchmarking: We benchmarked each service against the best VPN services in the industry to identify those that genuinely stood out regarding performance, security, and features.
When doing our research to find the perfect product, we determined using these factors:
- Pricing: How much did each product cost? Were there different pricing tiers and options?
- Features: What were the best features of each product? Did it offer unique functionalities or advanced security protocols?
- Negatives: What was missing from each product? Were there any limitations or drawbacks users should be aware of?
- Support or Refund: Do they offer a community forum, customer support channels, or a refund policy? How easy is it to get help or a refund if needed?
Wrapping Up
That’s a wrap on our exploration of the 15 best NordVPN alternatives!
We’ve covered a lot of ground, from super-fast VPNs to those with a laser focus on privacy.
Remember, the best VPN depends on your needs and what you’ll use it for.
Think about what matters most. Is it speed, security, or price? Choosing the right VPN is easy once you know what you’re looking for.
We’ve done the hard work and tested these VPNs ourselves.
You can trust our recommendations.
Now, go out there and enjoy a safer, more private internet experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want a NordVPN alternative?
NordVPN is a solid VPN, but it might not be perfect for everyone. Alternatives might offer better prices, faster speeds, more substantial privacy features, or specialized servers for gaming or torrenting.
What’s the most important thing to look for in a VPN?
It depends on your needs! If you’re concerned about privacy, look for a VPN with a strict no logs policy & strong encryption. If you want to stream, make sure the VPN can bypass geo-blocks. If you need speed, look for a VPN with an extensive server network and optimized performance.
Are free VPNs a good option?
Free VPNs can be okay for basic browsing but often have limitations. They might have slower speeds, fewer server locations, data caps, and weaker security. Some free VPNs might even log your data or display ads. If you need a VPN for regular use, a paid option is usually better.
How do I know if a VPN is safe to use?
Look for a VPN with strong encryption (like AES-256), a kill switch, & a no-logs policy. Choosing a VPN from a reputable provider with a good track record is also a good idea.
Can I use a VPN on all my devices?
Most VPNs offer apps for various devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets. Some even allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously with a single account. Check the VPN’s specifications to see how many devices it supports.
