📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 VPN Speed Tests: NordVPN averaged 450 Mbps vs AuraVPN 180 Mbps — NordVPN wins
- ⚡ Server Network: NordVPN has 9,200+ servers vs AuraVPN 100+ locations — NordVPN wins
- 🔒 Identity Theft Protection: AuraVPN offers $1M insurance vs NordVPN basic monitoring — AuraVPN wins
- 📝 Credit Monitoring: AuraVPN covers all 3 bureaus vs NordVPN none — AuraVPN wins
- 🛡️ DNS Leak Test: NordVPN passed all leak tests vs AuraVPN passed basic tests — NordVPN wins
Are you confused about picking between NordVPN and AuraVPN?
These two vpn services take very different paths to online safety.
NordVPN is a pure vpn provider with 9,200+ vpn servers worldwide.
It focuses on vpn features like split tunneling, a kill switch, and obfuscated servers.
AuraVPN is an all-in-one identity theft protection service with a built-in VPN.
It monitors your credit reports, scans the dark web, and protects your financial accounts.
We tested nordvpn vs auravpn side by side for four weeks.
We ran speed tests on every vpn server type NordVPN offers.
We checked how Aura monitored our online accounts and credit file for threats.
This nordvpn review and Aura breakdown will help you pick the right tool for your needs.
Overview
We tested nordvpn and AuraVPN to give you the most honest comparison.
We ran speed tests, checked for dns leaks, and tested each vpn connection on different vpn protocols.
We also looked at identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and malware protection from both tools.
We checked if nordvpn support could solve problems quickly through live chat.
We also tested how fast aura offers credit fraud alerts when suspicious activity appears.
Here is what we found after weeks of hands-on testing.
What is NordVPN?
NordVPN is one of the biggest vpn providers in the vpn industry today.
It runs over 9,200 vpn servers across 111 countries.
NordVPN uses the wireguard vpn protocol through its custom NordLynx engine for fast internet speed.
The nordvpn app is available on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and linux operating systems.
It also has browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.
NordVPN goes beyond just a vpn with threat protection, a data breach scanner, and a password manager.
The windows client gives you full access to every vpn feature NordVPN offers.
Nordvpn’s apps on mobile are just as polished with a clean map interface.
You can connect up to 10 devices at once on a single nordvpn subscription.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a top-rated virtual private network with 9,200+ servers, AES-256 encryption, and split tunneling. It keeps your browsing data private and blocks malicious websites with Threat Protection Pro.
NordVPN Pricing
NordVPN offers three plans with a nordvpn subscription that fits most budgets.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.99/mo | VPN-only users on a budget |
| Plus | $3.49/mo | VPN + password manager users |
| Complete | $5.39/mo | Full security with encrypted cloud storage |
Free trial: No free trial, but a 30 day money back guarantee covers all plans.
Money-back guarantee: Full refund within 30 days, no questions asked.
📌 Note: The Plus plan adds Threat Protection Pro, NordPass password manager, and the data breach scanner. The Complete plan adds NordLocker encrypted cloud storage on top of everything.
⚠️ Warning: Prices shown are for the 2-year plan. Monthly plans cost $12.99+ per month. The nordvpn subscription renews at a higher rate after the first term.
Key Benefits of NordVPN
Here is why nordvpn offers more than other vpn providers:
- Massive Server Network: Over 9,200 nordvpn servers in 111 countries give you fast server locations everywhere. You can always find a nordvpn server close to you.
- Threat Protection Pro: This blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites while scanning downloaded files for malware. It works even when you are not connected to the VPN.
- Double VPN: Routes your internet traffic through two vpn servers for extra encryption. This is ideal for journalists or anyone who needs maximum privacy.
- No-Logs Policy: Five independent audits confirm NordVPN never stores your browsing data or ip addresses. It is based in Panama, outside surveillance alliances.
- NordLynx Speed: The custom wireguard vpn protocol delivers speeds up to 450 Mbps in our speed tests. Your internet connection barely slows down.
- Streaming Access: NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and dozens of streaming services with its SmartPlay feature. It works on streaming sites in 15+ regions.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which nordvpn apps use the vpn connection and which ones bypass it. This saves internet speed for apps that do not need encryption.
NordVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 9,200+ servers across 111 countries for reliable access
- NordLynx protocol gives top speeds in vpn reviews
- Nordvpn’s kill switch stops data leaks if vpn connection drops
- Works with Netflix, Hulu, and 20+ streaming services
- Five independent no-logs audits by Deloitte and PwC
❌ Cons
- No identity theft protection or credit monitoring included
- Monthly plans are expensive at $12.99+
- Some nordvpn desktop apps lack features found on mobile
- Past server breach in 2018 raised trust concerns
What is AuraVPN?
AuraVPN is not just a vpn. It is a full identity theft protection service that includes a VPN as one of its core features.
Aura helps protect your personal information, financial accounts, and online accounts from identity thieves.
It bundles credit monitoring, antivirus software, a password manager, and a VPN into one subscription.
Aura offers identity theft insurance up to $1 million per adult member.
The family plan includes parental controls with screen time limits and safe gaming alerts.
Aura scans the dark web and data broker sites for your sensitive information around the clock.
If identity thieves steal your data, Aura covers legal fees and lost wages through its insurance.
The credit lock feature blocks most credit inquiries from new accounts opened in your name.
AuraVPN
Aura is an all-in-one identity protection service that monitors your credit reports, scans the dark web for your sensitive information, and includes antivirus, VPN, and aura’s password manager in every plan.
AuraVPN Pricing
Aura plans cover identity protection, credit monitoring, and digital security tools.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Kids | $10/month | Child identity monitoring |
| Individual | $12/month | Solo users who want full protection |
| Couple | $22/month | Two adults sharing one plan |
| Family | $32/month | Up to 5 adults + unlimited kids |
Free trial: Yes, Aura offers a 14-day free trial on all aura plans. No charge if you cancel.
Money-back guarantee: 60 day money back guarantee on annual plans.
📌 Note: All aura plans include the same core features. There is no tiered service. Every plan gets credit monitoring, aura antivirus, aura’s vpn, and identity theft insurance.
⚠️ Warning: Aura’s monthly billing costs more. The Individual plan is $15/month without annual billing. You save money with annual plans. Also, if you cancel after 60 days on an annual plan, you still pay for the rest of the year.
Key Benefits of AuraVPN
Here is why aura worth considering for your online safety:
- Identity Theft Protection: Aura monitored your SSN, bank accounts, and credit file across billions of data points. Aura’s identity theft protections alert you to fraud up to 250 times faster than rivals.
- Credit Monitoring: All three bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) are covered. You can lock your experian credit file instantly to block most credit inquiries from identity thieves.
- Dark Web Scanning: Aura scans the dark web for leaked personal information like SSNs, emails, and passwords. You get real time protection alerts when your data appears.
- All-in-One Security: VPN, antivirus software, and aura’s password manager come with every plan. You do not need separate subscriptions for other features.
- Family Protection: The family plan covers up to 5 adults and unlimited kids. Parental controls include screen time limits, safe gaming, and safe browsing filters.
- $1M Insurance: Every adult member gets up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. It covers legal fees, lost wages, and stolen funds.
AuraVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- All-in-one identity theft protection with credit monitoring
- $1M insurance covers legal fees and financial fraud losses
- 14-day free trial and 60 day money back guarantee
- Family plans with parental controls and safe gaming
- Data broker removal from data broker sites
❌ Cons
- VPN lacks server choice and kill switch features
- No double vpn or obfuscated servers for advanced users
- Higher starting price than dedicated vpn services
- Aura antivirus is not as strong as standalone products
Feature Comparison
Let us compare NordVPN vs AuraVPN across 10 key areas.
This will help you see which vpn service fits your needs best.
We looked at everything from vpn server speed to identity theft coverage.
Each section names a clear winner so you can decide fast.
| Feature | NordVPN | AuraVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.99/mo | $12/mo |
| VPN Servers | 9,200+ | 100+ locations |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ❌ |
| Identity Theft Protection | ❌ | ✅ |
| Credit Monitoring | ❌ | ✅ 3-bureau |
| Antivirus | ✅ Threat Protection | ✅ Basic |
| Password Manager | ✅ NordPass (Plus+) | ✅ All plans |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ❌ |
| Streaming Access | ✅ 20+ services | ❌ Limited |
| Best For | VPN power users | Identity protection seekers |
1. VPN Server Network
NordVPN: NordVPN runs over 9,200 vpn servers in 111 countries. You can pick from regular servers, obfuscated servers, onion over vpn servers, and dedicated ip addresses. The massive server network means you always find a fast server near your location. Each nordvpn server runs on RAM-only hardware for extra security.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn has over 100 virtual locations. You cannot choose a specific server. The VPN connects you to the nearest location for you. This is fine for safe browsing but limits access to streaming sites in other regions.
2. Speed and Performance
NordVPN: We tested nordvpn on speed tests and got average speeds of 450 Mbps. The NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard cuts latency. NordVPN barely impacts your internet speed on nearby servers.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn is fast enough for daily browsing with minimal slowdown. However, it does not match dedicated vpn providers on raw speed. In our tests, speeds averaged around 180 Mbps.
⚠️ Warning: Aura’s VPN does not support different vpn protocols. NordVPN lets you switch between NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 for different needs. You can even use openvpn configuration files for custom setups.
3. Security and Encryption
NordVPN: NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the gold standard. Nordvpn’s kill switch blocks all internet traffic if the vpn connection drops. It also offers a double vpn feature that routes browser traffic through two servers for double encryption.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn protects your internet connection with military grade encryption. It blocks dangerous sites and malicious sites to add protection. However, it lacks a kill switch. If the VPN disconnects, your ip address may be exposed briefly.
4. Identity Theft Protection
NordVPN: NordVPN is not an identity theft protection service. It has a basic Dark Web Monitor in the Plus plan. This scans for leaked email credentials. It does not cover credit monitoring, bank accounts, or financial transactions.
AuraVPN: This is where Aura shines. Aura’s identity theft protections cover your SSN, financial accounts, credit reports, and online accounts. It scans the dark web and data broker sites for your sensitive information. Aura offers identity theft insurance up to $1M per adult member. It covers legal fees, lost wages, and stolen funds from financial fraud.
5. Credit Monitoring and Financial Protection
NordVPN: NordVPN does not monitor your credit file or credit reports. It has no investment account monitoring or credit scoring systems tracking. For credit fraud protection, you would need a separate identity protection service.
AuraVPN: Aura monitors all three credit bureaus. You can lock your experian file with one tap. Aura tracked credit inquiries, new accounts, and address monitoring changes. It also watches for financial fraud on your bank accounts and credit reports. You get an annual credit report and monthly VantageScore updates. Aura alerts you to credit fraud up to 250 times faster than competitors.
6. Malware and Threat Protection
NordVPN: Threat Protection Pro blocks malicious websites, ads, and trackers. It scans downloaded files for malware. In tests, NordVPN blocked 92% of phishing sites. The tracker blocking works even without a vpn connection active.
AuraVPN: Aura antivirus provides real time malware protection with detection rates between 98% and 100%. It scans for most malware types including viruses, spyware, and ransomware. However, it lacks advanced features like a firewall or system scan scheduling.
7. Streaming and Content Access
NordVPN: NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and 20+ streaming services. Its SmartPlay feature on android tv and other platforms bypasses geo-blocks easily. Nordvpn users can access content from 15+ Netflix regions. The fast internet speed makes 4K streaming buffer-free.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn is not built for streaming. It does not let you pick server locations. You cannot bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services with it. If streaming matters to you, AuraVPN is not the right choice.
8. Device Support and Apps
NordVPN: NordVPN supports up to 10 devices. The nordvpn app runs on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. Nordvpn’s mobile apps and nordvpn desktop apps are clean and easy to use. You also get browser extensions and an android tv app. The windows app and nordvpn’s mac app have the most features. Nordvpn’s windows app includes advanced settings like a custom dns server. Mac users and those on nordvpn’s ios app get a smooth experience too.
AuraVPN: Aura works on Windows, Mac, Android, and ios devices. The Individual plan covers up to 10 devices per user. The family plan removes device limits entirely. Aura installed easily on all operating system types we tested.
9. Privacy and No-Logs Policy
NordVPN: NordVPN has passed five independent audits proving its no-logs policy. It is based in Panama, outside the 14 Eyes alliance. The dns leak test results show zero leaks. NordVPN never stores your ip address, browsing data, or dns leaks data.
AuraVPN: Aura maintains a no-logs policy for VPN usage. However, it may log your ip address briefly during a session. For identity protection services, Aura collects personal information like your SSN and financial data. This is needed for the credit monitoring service to work.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let us compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | NordVPN | AuraVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest | $2.99/mo (Basic) | $10/mo (Kids) |
| Mid Tier | $3.49/mo (Plus) | $12/mo (Individual) |
| Top Tier | $5.39/mo (Complete) | $32/mo (Family) |
| Free Trial | ❌ (30-day refund) | ✅ 14-day free trial |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 60 days |
NordVPN: NordVPN costs much less at $2.99/mo on a 2-year plan. Even the Complete plan with encrypted cloud storage is just $5.39/mo. You save money if you only need vpn features without identity protection.
AuraVPN: Aura plans start at $12/mo for individuals. This is higher, but you get identity theft protection, credit monitoring, antivirus, VPN, and a password manager. If you need all these tools, Aura can save money versus buying them separately. The family plans cover multiple adults, which adds value.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best VPN speed | NordVPN | NordLynx 450 Mbps speeds |
| Identity theft protection | AuraVPN | $1M insurance + credit monitoring |
| Streaming access | NordVPN | 20+ services unblocked |
| Family protection | AuraVPN | Parental controls included |
| Tight budget | NordVPN | $2.99/mo vs $12/mo |
| Credit monitoring | AuraVPN | 3-bureau monitoring built in |
| Advanced VPN features | NordVPN | Double VPN + split tunneling |
💰 Your Budget
NordVPN costs $2.99/mo while AuraVPN starts at $12/mo. If you only need a vpn service, NordVPN is the clear budget pick. But if you are paying for identity protection, antivirus, and a VPN separately, Aura could save money by bundling everything into one plan.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
NordVPN works with android and ios apps, Windows, Mac, Linux, and android tv. AuraVPN covers Windows, Mac, Android, and ios devices but skips Linux and smart TVs.
🛡️ Your Security Needs
If data breaches scare you, Aura monitors your personal information and financial transactions. It also offers home title monitoring and investment account monitoring. NordVPN protects your internet traffic and vpn connection but does not watch for identity theft. For a secure network on public Wi-Fi, NordVPN is the better tool.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners who want simple protection may prefer Aura. It handles everything from one dashboard. NordVPN gives more control with vpn apps that support different vpn protocols and advanced settings. Power users who want a dedicated ip or a custom dns server will prefer NordVPN.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Test aura free for 14 days before paying anything. NordVPN has no free trial but gives you a 30 day money back guarantee to try it risk-free.
🛟 Support Options
NordVPN support is available 24/7 through live chat and email. Aura also offers 24/7 customer support with phone access and US-based fraud experts.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here is what to expect if you switch.
Switching is easy in both directions.
Just know what you will gain and lose before you make the move.
🔄 Switching from NordVPN to AuraVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Full identity theft protection with $1M insurance and credit lock
- 3-bureau credit monitoring with annual credit report access
- Data broker removal from data brokers and spam list removal
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 9,200+ server locations and server choice control
- Double vpn, kill switch, and obfuscated servers
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, and 20+ services
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your nordvpn subscription from your account dashboard
- Sign up for AuraVPN and start with the 14-day free trial
- Install aura on all your devices and set up credit monitoring
🔄 Switching from AuraVPN to NordVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 9,200+ vpn servers with dedicated ip address options
- Double vpn, split tunneling, and onion over vpn for privacy
- Streaming unblocking on Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Identity theft protection and $1M insurance coverage
- 3-bureau credit monitoring and credit fraud alerts
- Parental controls, home title monitoring, and safe gaming alerts
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Aura plan and request a refund within the 60-day window
- Sign up for NordVPN and install nordvpn on all your devices
- Consider a separate identity guard service if you still need ID protection
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | NordVPN |
| 🚀 VPN Features | NordVPN |
| ⚡ Speed | NordVPN |
| 🎯 Identity Protection | AuraVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | AuraVPN |
| 🔌 Device Support | NordVPN |
| 🛡️ Credit Monitoring | AuraVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | NordVPN |
🏆 WINNER: NordVPN
NordVPN wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: VPN speed, streaming access, online privacy, and budget-friendly plans
NordVPN and AuraVPN solve different problems.
NordVPN is a dedicated vpn provider with the best server network in the vpn industry.
It protects your internet traffic with the fastest vpn protocol available.
NordVPN excels at unblocking streaming services and securing your vpn connection with a kill switch.
AuraVPN is excellent for identity theft protection services and credit monitoring.
It watches your financial transactions, bank accounts, and experian credit file for fraud.
Aura also removes your data from data brokers and provides address monitoring.
However, as a pure vpn service, NordVPN is the stronger choice.
If you need both VPN power and identity protection, use NordVPN plus a standalone identity guard service.
Now, go out and secure your digital life!
More of NordVPN Compared
Here’s how NordVPN stacks up against other competitors:
NordVPN wins on: Server count, price, Threat Protection
ExpressVPN wins on: Router support, user interface
NordVPN wins on: Speed, audited no-logs, security features
PureVPN wins on: Lower price, port forwarding
NordVPN wins on: Server count, speed, double VPN
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, server count
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Server network, features, speed
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, security
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking focus, lower price
NordVPN wins on: Server count, features, audits
Virtual Shield wins on: Simplicity, US-based
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, features
StrongVPN wins on: Simple pricing, WireGuard
NordVPN wins on: Speed, security, streaming
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, low price
NordVPN wins on: Speed, no-logs audits, features
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, longer refund
NordVPN wins on: VPN speed, server network, privacy
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus suite
NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, no-logs audits
Private Internet Access wins on: Open source, lower price
NordVPN wins on: Speed, reliability, features
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
NordVPN wins on: Server network, audits, reputation
SafeShell VPN wins on: China access, obfuscation
NordVPN wins on: Speed, features, global coverage
Oyster VPN wins on: Budget pricing, simplicity
More of AuraVPN Compared
Here’s how AuraVPN stacks up against other competitors:
AuraVPN wins on: Identity protection, credit monitoring
ExpressVPN wins on: VPN speed, streaming, server count
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft insurance, all-in-one bundle
PureVPN wins on: VPN features, price, servers
AuraVPN wins on: Credit monitoring, identity insurance
SurfsharkVPN wins on: VPN speed, unlimited devices, price
AuraVPN wins on: Identity protection, family plans
ProtonVPN wins on: Free tier, privacy focus, open source
AuraVPN vs PrivadoVPN
AuraVPN wins on: Credit monitoring, insurance coverage
PrivadoVPN wins on: VPN performance, Swiss privacy laws
AuraVPN vs CyberGhost
AuraVPN wins on: Identity protection, family coverage
CyberGhost wins on: VPN speed, streaming, server network
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NordVPN actually any good?
Yes, NordVPN is a top-rated vpn provider in every major nordvpn review. It has 9,200+ nordvpn servers, a verified no-logs policy, and fast speeds using the wireguard vpn protocol. Nordvpn users rely on it for safe browsing, streaming, and protecting their secure network from snoops. Installing nordvpn takes under two minutes on any windows client or mobile device. Nordvpn’s apps deliver the same score of quality across all platforms.
Is Aura a good VPN?
Aura’s vpn provides basic added protection for safe browsing and public Wi-Fi. But it is not just a vpn. It is an identity theft protection service with credit monitoring, aura antivirus, and aura’s password manager. The vast majority of users choose Aura for its unique features in identity protection, not VPN power. The VPN is more of an add on to the main service.
Can I be tracked if I use NordVPN?
NordVPN hides your real ip address and encrypts all internet traffic. Its dns leak test results show zero leaks. The no-logs policy means NordVPN never stores your browsing data. Five independent audits confirm this claim. However, no virtual private network can make you 100% invisible online. Your internet service provider cannot see what you do, but websites you log into can still track you.
Is Aura better than Norton?
Aura is better for identity theft protection with 3-bureau credit monitoring and real time protection alerts. It also scans data broker sites and offers spam list removal to cut unwanted contacts. Norton is better for real time malware protection and antivirus on your operating system. If identity protection is your priority, Aura wins. For device security against most malware, Norton is stronger. Many users pair NordVPN with Norton for the best of both worlds.
What is the NordVPN scandal?
In 2018, a NordVPN server in Finland was breached through a data center vulnerability. No user data was stolen. NordVPN has since passed five independent audits. They moved to RAM-only servers that wipe data on every reboot. The tor network and onion over vpn features add extra layers if you need maximum privacy. NordVPN now runs its own colocated servers for tighter security control. This incident pushed the entire vpn industry toward better server management.
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