⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Proton VPN starts at $0/month (free plan) with paid plans from $2.99/month. Avast VPN starts at $4.39/month with no free plan.
- Best for: Proton VPN for privacy-first users who want open-source transparency. Avast VPN for existing Avast antivirus users who want a simple add-on.
- Key difference: Proton VPN has 8,600+ servers in 112 countries with verified no-logs. Avast VPN has around 700 servers in 34 countries with no independent audit.
- Our pick: Proton VPN for most users — it offers a stronger server network, better privacy credentials, and a genuinely free plan.
ProtonVPN and Avast VPN protect your internet connection in very different ways.
One is built by a Swiss privacy company with open-source apps and Proton VPN’s focus on transparency.
The other comes from a well-known antivirus brand with a troubled data history.
This comparison breaks down both VPN services so you can pick the right VPN provider for your needs.
Overview
This ProtonVPN vs Avast VPN comparison covers pricing, privacy, server networks, and ease of use.
We also break down who each VPN provider works best for.
Our sources include published specs, official documentation, and user reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which VPN service fits your needs.
What is ProtonVPN?
Proton VPN is a premium VPN service built by Proton Technologies AG in Switzerland.
It helps you hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel.
The Proton VPN app works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. The Windows app and Android app both support the same security features.
Most users choose it because Proton VPN easy setup takes just minutes. Does Proton VPN work well? Yes — it supports VPN connections on up to 10 devices. Is Proton VPN good for beginners? It’s simple enough for anyone.
Proton VPN offers access to Tor servers, dedicated servers for P2P, and Secure Core for double VPN routing. You can also visit Proton VPN’s website for a full list of Proton services.
ProtonVPN
Swiss-based VPN with 8,600+ servers in 112 countries. Free plan available with unlimited bandwidth. All apps are open-source and independently audited.
ProtonVPN Pricing
Here’s what Proton VPN costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0.00/month | Basic browsing on one device |
| Plus | $2.99/month | Full VPN access with all features |
| Unlimited | $7.99/month | VPN + Proton Mail, Drive, Pass |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: Proton VPN offers a permanent free tier. No credit card needed. The free version gives you unlimited bandwidth on one device.
Money-back guarantee: All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
📌 Note: The free plan limits you to one device and servers in a few countries. The Plus plan unlocks 8,600+ VPN servers, 10 devices, and features like Secure Core and NetShield.
⚠️ Warning: Proton VPN’s prices renew at the standard rate after your first term. The 2-year Plus plan renews at $9.99/month. Cancel before renewal to avoid the price jump.
Key Benefits of ProtonVPN
Here’s what makes Proton VPN worth considering:
- Swiss Privacy Protection: Proton VPN is based in Switzerland. The country has some of the world’s strongest privacy laws and sits outside surveillance alliances. Your internet service provider cannot see your online activities.
- Verified No-Logs Policy: Independent auditors have confirmed that Proton VPN does not store IP logs, IP addresses, or browsing data. Proton VPN is good for journalists and activists who need real privacy.
- Secure Core Servers: Your internet traffic routes through privacy-friendly countries before reaching the endpoint server. This adds an extra layer of protection against network-level attacks.
- NetShield Ad Blocker: Proton VPN blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. It also includes a DNS leak test to verify your connection. Your browsing gets faster and cleaner.
- Open-Source Apps: Every Proton VPN app is open-source. Anyone can inspect the code for security features. The Linux app is also available, making it a good choice if you’re a Linux user.
- VPN Accelerator: This feature uses advanced networking to speed up your VPN tunnel, improving internet speeds on distant server locations.
- Unlimited Free VPN: The free version has no ads and no data caps. Compared to other free VPNs, Proton VPN is not an expensive VPN — it’s free. You can download and install it from Proton VPN’s website with no payment needed.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Proton VPN and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:
ProtonVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with unlimited bandwidth and no ads
- 8,600+ servers across 112 countries
- Audited no-logs policy based in Switzerland
- Open-source apps on all platforms
- Secure Core and Tor over VPN support
❌ Cons
- Free plan limited to one device and few servers
- Secure Core servers slow down internet speeds
- No live chat support available
- Renewal prices jump after the first term
What is Avast VPN?
Avast SecureLine VPN is a virtual private network from the Avast antivirus company based in the Czech Republic.
It encrypts your internet connection on multiple platforms and hides your IP address on public Wi-Fi and public network connections.
The VPN app works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV. The Windows app is beginner-friendly. There are no browser extensions available.
If you use Avast SecureLine VPN, you get a fast VPN for basic online privacy and protection on banking sites.
Most users pick it because Avast products bundle together. The VPN integrates with other Avast security tools for more security on your devices.
Avast VPN
Simple VPN from a well-known antivirus brand. Comes with a 60-day free trial and supports up to 10 devices. Works well for basic browsing and public Wi-Fi protection.
Avast VPN Pricing
Here’s what Avast SecureLine VPN costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Antivirus | Free | Basic antivirus without VPN |
| Premium Security | $49.99/first yr | Antivirus + VPN bundle |
| Ultimate | $49.99/first yr | Full security suite with VPN |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: Avast SecureLine VPN comes with a 60-day free trial. This is one of the longest free trials in the VPN market.
Money-back guarantee: Paid subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee. The refund process requires contacting support directly.
📌 Note: The standalone Avast SecureLine VPN is also available separately with 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year plans. Expect to pay around $4.59/month for a 1-year plan or $4.29/month on the 2-year plan.
⚠️ Warning: Avast’s renewal prices are much higher than the initial discounted rate. A 3-year plan that starts at $4.39/month renews at $8.19/month. Cancel before renewal to avoid paying double.
Key Benefits of Avast VPN
Here’s what makes Avast VPN worth considering:
- 60-Day Free Trial: You get two full months to test the VPN service. Most VPN providers only offer 7 days or 30-day money-back guarantees.
- Smart VPN Mode: This feature lets the app automatically connect when you join a public Wi-Fi network. You set the rules once and forget about it.
- Simple Interface: The VPN app is clean and beginner-friendly. You click one button to connect. No technical knowledge needed.
- 10 Device Connections: One subscription covers up to 10 devices at the same time. Good for families or users with multiple platforms.
- Antivirus Bundle: If you already use Avast antivirus, the VPN fits into your existing security setup with no extra apps to manage.
- Kill Switch Protection: If your VPN tunnel drops, the kill switch cuts your internet connection to prevent DNS leaks and data exposure.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Avast SecureLine VPN and spent several days testing it. Here’s what stood out:
Avast VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 60-day free trial with full feature access
- Simple and beginner-friendly interface
- Smart VPN mode for automatic public Wi-Fi protection
- 10 simultaneous device connections
❌ Cons
- Only 700 servers in 34 countries
- No independent audit to verify no-logs claims
- Parent company fined $16.5M for selling user data
- Speeds drop significantly on distant servers
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare ProtonVPN and Avast VPN across 9 key categories. This will help you see where each VPN service stands.
| Feature | ProtonVPN | Avast VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0/month (free) | $4.39/month |
| Free Plan | ✅ | ❌ (60-day trial) |
| Server Network | 8,600+ in 112 countries | ~700 in 34 countries |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ Independent audit | ❌ No audit |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Streaming Support | ✅ Netflix, BBC iPlayer | ✅ Mixed results |
| Best For | Privacy-first users | Avast antivirus users |
1. Server Network
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN runs 8,600+ servers across 112 countries. This gives you more server locations and better chances of finding a fast connection nearby. All servers are owned and operated by Proton, not rented from third parties.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN has around 700 servers in 34 countries. That’s a much smaller network. The US has the most locations with 25 cities, but most other countries get just one server location.
2. Privacy and Security
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN passed a third-party audit that verified its strict no-logs policy. The VPN provider is based in Switzerland, which sits outside surveillance alliances. All Proton apps are open-source, so anyone can inspect the code. Among other VPN providers, few match this level of transparency.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN claims a no-logs policy but has no independent audits to back it up. The company records connection timestamps and data transfer amounts for up to 35 days. In 2024, the FTC fined Avast $16.5 million for selling user browsing data through its Jumpshot subsidiary. Compared to other VPN services, this is a major red flag.
⚠️ Warning: Avast’s data privacy controversy is a serious concern for anyone who values online privacy. The Jumpshot incident involved selling browsing data collected through Avast antivirus without user consent.
3. VPN Protocols
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It also has a Stealth protocol that disguises your VPN tunnel as normal internet traffic. This helps bypass censorship in restricted regions.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and its proprietary Mimic protocol. The Mimic protocol works similar to Proton’s Stealth by hiding VPN traffic. Both VPN providers cover the main protocol options well.
4. Streaming and Content Access
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its large server network with Proton VPN servers gives you more options for accessing geo-restricted Prime Video content. Streaming performance stays consistent on a fast connection across most server locations.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN can access Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. However, reviews note mixed results with BBC iPlayer and Hulu. The smaller Avast SecureLine VPN servers network means fewer options for accessing streaming optimized servers on different platforms.
5. Speed and Performance
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN uses its VPN Accelerator feature to boost internet speeds. This helps reduce latency on distant VPN servers. Note that Secure Core servers do slow down your internet connection because they route traffic through extra locations.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN performs well on nearby servers but shows noticeable speed drops on distant ones. Reviews report around a 20% speed loss on US West Coast and Asian servers. The small server network can also cause slower speeds during peak hours.
6. Free Plan and Trials
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN offers a permanent free plan with no ads and unlimited bandwidth. The free version limits you to one device and servers in a few countries. No credit card is required to start using it.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN has a 60-day free trial instead of a free plan. You get full access to all features during the trial. After 60 days, you must subscribe or lose access entirely.
7. Ease of Use
ProtonVPN: The Proton VPN app has a clean design with a map-based interface. You click on a country to connect. It takes a few minutes to set up. The Linux app is also available, which is rare among VPN providers.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN has a very simple interface. One big button to connect. The Smart VPN mode automatically connects on public networks. It’s designed for people who want set-and-forget protection.
8. Advanced Security Features
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN includes Secure Core servers, Tor over VPN access to the Tor network, split tunneling, port forwarding, and DNS leak protection. The NetShield feature blocks ads and malware at the VPN server level. Proton VPN also publishes a transparency report on legal requests and supports VPN connections across your mobile device and desktop.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN includes a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and WebRTC leak protection. It lacks double VPN routing, Tor support, and port forwarding. The VPN also has no browser extensions. Security features are basic compared to what other VPN providers offer in the same price range.
9. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ProtonVPN | Avast VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free/Trial | $0 (permanent free plan) | 60-day free trial |
| Cheapest Paid | $2.99/month (2-year) | $4.29/month (2-year) |
| Monthly | $9.99/month | No monthly option |
| Bundle | $7.99/month (Unlimited) | $49.99/first yr (Premium Security) |
ProtonVPN: The free plan alone makes Proton VPN a better value. The Plus plan at $2.99/month gives you full access to all VPN features. The Unlimited plan adds Proton Mail, Proton Drive, and Proton Pass.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN costs $4.29/month on a 2-year plan. That’s $1.30 more per month than Proton VPN’s equivalent plan. Avast also doesn’t offer a monthly subscription, so you must commit to at least one year.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | ProtonVPN | Free plan available |
| Maximum privacy | ProtonVPN | Audited no-logs, Swiss-based |
| Simple setup | Avast VPN | One-button connection |
| Large server network | ProtonVPN | 8,600+ vs ~700 servers |
| Long free trial | Avast VPN | 60-day full-feature trial |
| Streaming access | ProtonVPN | More reliable unblocking |
💰 Your Budget
Proton VPN wins on price. The free plan gives you unlimited bandwidth at no cost. Even the paid Plus plan is cheaper than Avast’s cheapest option.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
If you already use Avast antivirus, SecureLine VPN fits right in. If you use Proton Mail or Proton Drive, the Proton Unlimited plan bundles everything together.
🔒 Your Privacy Needs
For journalists, activists, or anyone with critical privacy needs, Proton VPN is the clear pick. Its audited no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction provide real protection. Proton VPN support staff handle privacy inquiries through secure email channels. Avast’s data selling history makes it a weaker choice among VPN companies.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both VPN apps are beginner-friendly. Avast VPN is slightly simpler with its one-button design and smart VPN mode that can automatically connect. Proton VPN offers more settings but the interface stays clean. Either way, both let you connect to a secure VPN in seconds.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Try Proton VPN’s free plan first. It has no time limit, unlike many VPNs with short free trials. If you want to test Avast with full features including speed tests and stress tests, use the 60-day trial before committing. Both best VPNs in this comparison let you try before you buy.
🛟 Support Options
Neither VPN offers live chat support, which is a weak spot for both. Proton VPN has email-based customer support. Avast support has received mixed reviews from users.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ProtonVPN to Avast VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 60-day free trial with all features unlocked
- Smart VPN mode for automatic public network protection
- Avast antivirus integration in one dashboard
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Access to 8,600+ servers across 112 countries
- Secure Core routing and Tor over VPN
- Verified no-logs policy and open-source transparency
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Proton VPN subscription in your Proton account settings
- Download Avast SecureLine VPN and start the 60-day free trial
- Set up Smart VPN rules and connect to your preferred server
🔄 Switching from Avast VPN to ProtonVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 8,600+ servers with better global coverage
- Audited no-logs policy and open-source apps
- Free plan with unlimited bandwidth forever
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Smart VPN auto-connect for public networks
- Avast antivirus integration
- The ultra-simple one-button interface
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Avast SecureLine VPN subscription before it renews
- Create a free Proton VPN account at proton.me
- Download the Proton VPN app on your devices and connect
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t test enterprise-level features or evaluate how either VPN performs for blocking access in the Middle East or other heavily censored regions. Router-level setup, the Mac desktop app, and Android TV performance weren’t fully covered. If you’re a Linux user who needs port forwarding for torrenting servers, your experience may differ. We also didn’t run detailed speed tests or stress tests comparing other VPN services. Our observations are based on the May 2026 versions of both apps, and you should download the latest version before making a decision.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | ProtonVPN |
| 🔒 Privacy & Security | ProtonVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network | ProtonVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | ProtonVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Avast VPN |
| 🆓 Free Trial | Tie |
| 🔧 Advanced Features | ProtonVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ProtonVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, budget-conscious buyers, streaming, and anyone who wants a secure VPN with verified no-logs.
ProtonVPN and Avast VPN serve different users with different priorities.
Proton VPN is a full-featured VPN service with strong privacy credentials. Its Swiss base, open-source apps, and audited no-logs policy set it apart from most VPN providers.
Avast VPN works well as a basic VPN add-on for existing Avast antivirus users. Its 60-day free trial is generous. But the small server network and data privacy concerns are hard to ignore.
If you need a secure VPN for everyday browsing, streaming, or protecting your mobile device on public Wi-Fi, Proton VPN is the better choice.
More of ProtonVPN Compared
Here’s how ProtonVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ProtonVPN vs NordVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan availability, open-source transparency, Swiss privacy jurisdiction
NordVPN wins on: Larger server network with 6,000+ servers, faster average speeds, dedicated IP addresses
ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Lower price point, permanent free tier, Secure Core multi-hop routing
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster connection speeds, better streaming reliability across more platforms, 24/7 live chat support
ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Audited no-logs with Swiss base, open-source code, Tor over VPN support
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Lower paid pricing starting at $1.99/month, unlimited simultaneous connections, CleanWeb ad blocker
ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost
ProtonVPN wins on: Better free plan, stronger privacy credentials, open-source apps
CyberGhost wins on: Larger server fleet with 11,000+ servers, streaming-optimized servers by service, 45-day money-back guarantee
More of Avast VPN Compared
Here’s how Avast VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Avast VPN wins on: 60-day free trial period, simpler interface for beginners, Avast antivirus bundle option
NordVPN wins on: 6,000+ servers vs 700, audited no-logs policy, much better streaming support across all platforms
Avast VPN vs ExpressVPN
Avast VPN wins on: Lower yearly cost, longer free trial at 60 days, easier one-button setup
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds worldwide, servers in 105 countries, 24/7 live chat customer support
Avast VPN vs McAfee VPN
Avast VPN wins on: Longer 60-day trial vs McAfee’s 30-day, WireGuard protocol support, Smart VPN auto-connect
McAfee VPN wins on: Included free with McAfee Total Protection, larger server network, better overall privacy reputation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Proton VPN safe to use?
Yes. Proton VPN passed independent audits verifying its strict no logs policy. The VPN company is based in Switzerland, a country with the world’s strongest privacy laws. All Proton apps use the OpenVPN protocol, WireGuard, and AES-256 encryption through an encrypted VPN tunnel. You can read our full Proton VPN review for more details.
Is Avast SecureLine VPN safe to use?
The Avast SecureLine VPN review shows mixed results. The VPN uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch to protect against connection drops. However, the VPN company behind Avast was fined for selling browsing data. There is no independent audit confirming its privacy claims. Most VPNs from other VPN providers offer more security through verified no-logs policies. If you use Avast SecureLine VPN, your online activities are encrypted but the company’s track record raises concerns.
Is Proton VPN actually free?
Yes. Proton VPN offers a permanent free tier with no ads and unlimited bandwidth on one device. Among other free VPNs, the Proton free version stands out because many VPNs limit data or show ads. No payment information is needed. The free plan gives access to Proton VPN servers in a few countries. It’s a good VPN for basic online privacy without spending money.
Does Avast have a free VPN?
Avast doesn’t have a permanent free VPN. It does offer a 60 day free trial for the SecureLine VPN. During the 60 day trial, you get full access to all Avast SecureLine VPN servers and features including streaming optimized servers and torrenting servers. After the trial ends, you must install a paid subscription. The free Avast antivirus does not include VPN access. Among free trials in the VPN market, this is one of the longest available.
Which is better for streaming — ProtonVPN or Avast VPN?
Proton VPN is better for streaming. It works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video consistently. Proton VPN’s dedicated servers help with blocking access restrictions on geo-locked content. Avast VPN can access some streaming services but has mixed results. The Avast VPN’s smaller server network gives fewer options for fast connection to streaming platforms.
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