

π Our Test Results:
- π Privacy Jurisdiction: ProtonVPN (Switzerland) vs PureVPN (British Virgin Islands) β ProtonVPN wins
- β‘ Speed Tests: ProtonVPN retains 85% base speed vs PureVPN 67% with WireGuard β ProtonVPN wins
- πΊ Netflix Unblocking: ProtonVPN unblocks 10+ regions vs PureVPN 6-7 libraries β ProtonVPN wins
- π° Cheapest Plan: PureVPN $2.15/month vs ProtonVPN $2.99/month β PureVPN wins
- π Server Count: ProtonVPN 8,600+ vs PureVPN 6,500+ servers β ProtonVPN wins

Are you tired of your internet service provider tracking your every move?
You need a virtual private network that keeps your internet traffic private and your ip address hidden.
Two heavyweights in this field are PureVPN and ProtonVPN.
Both are trusted vpn providers with large server networks and strong security features.
But which vpn service is right for you?
In this PureVPN vs ProtonVPN head-to-head matchup, we break down the strengths and weaknesses of both vpn services.
You will see real speed tests, server location counts, and pricing details.
By the end, you will know which vpn provider fits your needs best.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested both PureVPN vs ProtonVPN for three weeks.
We ran speed tests across multiple server locations and checked each vpn server for dns leaks.
We tested streaming on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu to see which vpn supports geo-blocked content best.
We checked simultaneous connections, split tunneling, and kill switch reliability on both desktop apps and mobile apps.
We also verified claims about no-logs policies, server list sizes, and customer support response times.
Our firsthand experience helps you make the right choice between these two vpn services.
What is PureVPN?
PureVPN is one of the oldest vpn providers in the market, launched in 2007.
This vpn service has over 6,500 servers spread across more than 140 countries, giving users plenty of server locations to choose from.
PureVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple vpn protocols including OpenVPN UDP, IKEv2, and WireGuard.
The vpn provider is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, which has privacy-friendly data retention laws.
PureVPN allows up to ten simultaneous connections on a single account, making it a quality vpn for families.

PureVPN
PureVPN is a budget-friendly vpn service with 6,500+ vpn servers in 140+ countries. It offers dedicated P2P servers, a KPMG-audited no-logs policy, and 10 device connections per account.
PureVPN Pricing
Here is what PureVPN costs in 2026.
PureVPN pricing is very affordable on long-term plans, but the monthly rate is higher.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $2.15/per month | Basic vpn users on a tight budget |
| Plus | $3.15/per month | Users who need password manager add-ons |
| Max | $3.55/per month | Power users wanting full security features |

Free trial: PureVPN offers a 7-day trial for just $0.99.
Money-back guarantee: PureVPN comes with a 31-day money back guarantee on all paid plans.
π Note: When you purchase PureVPN long-term plans, the introductory price is low. But the discounted rate increases on renewal. An annual subscription starts at $44.95 and renews at $54.95 the following year.
β οΈ Warning: PureVPN accepts payments via credit card, Bitcoin, and PayPal. But some landing pages hide the cryptocurrency option. Add-ons like dedicated IPs cost extra at $2.49 per month.
Key Benefits of PureVPN
Here is why PureVPN features stand out in the crowded vpn market.
- Huge Server Network: PureVPN servers span 6,500+ physical servers and virtual servers. You get access to server locations in 140+ countries including Hong Kong and Canada.
- KPMG-Audited Privacy: PureVPN has undergone audits by KPMG to verify its no-logs claims. An always-on audit feature allows surprise checks by the auditor.
- 10 Simultaneous Connections: One PureVPN subscription protects up to ten devices at once. The vpn supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV.
- Internet Kill Switch: PureVPN’s kill switch stops internet access if the vpn connection drops. This prevents dns leaks and protects your real ip address.
- Port Forwarding Add-On: PureVPN offers port forwarding as an add-on for $1.49 per month. This helps with torrenting and remote access setups.
- Quantum-Resistant Servers: PureVPN has rolled out quantum-resistant vpn servers. These use encryption keys generated through a verifiable quantum process for future-proof security.
- Browser Extensions Included: PureVPN comes with browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. This makes it easy to protect your internet connection while browsing.

PureVPN Pros & Cons
β Pros
- Very affordable long-term PureVPN subscription plans
- Large server list with 6,500+ vpn servers in 140+ countries
- Supports 10 simultaneous connections per account
- 24/7 live chat support and support ticket system
- Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video
β Cons
- Monthly plan is expensive at $12.95
- Discounted rate increases sharply on renewal
- PureVPN’s Windows app is sometimes clunky and may crash
- Past privacy controversy with FBI logs in 2017
What is ProtonVPN?
ProtonVPN is a secure vpn developed by Proton Technologies AG, the same team behind Proton Mail.
The vpn company is based in Switzerland, home to some of the world’s strongest privacy laws.
Proton VPN runs a server network of over 8,600 Proton VPN servers spread across 112 countries.
This premium vpn supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard vpn protocols for strong security.
Proton VPN offers a free tier that is considered the best free vpn available today.
The Proton VPN app is open-source, allowing anyone to inspect the code for security flaws.

ProtonVPN
Proton VPN is a secure vpn from Switzerland with 8,600+ servers, Secure Core double vpn, and a strict no logs policy. It offers the best free vpn plan with unlimited bandwidth.
ProtonVPN Pricing
Here is what Proton VPN costs in 2026.
Proton VPN offers three simple plans, including a forever-free option.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0.00/month | Casual users wanting a free vpn with no ads |
| Plus | $2.99/month | Streaming, torrenting, and full server access |
| Unlimited | $7.99/month | Users who need Proton Mail and Drive too |

Free trial: Proton VPN offers a forever-free plan with unlimited bandwidth, no credit card needed.
Money-back guarantee: Proton VPN offers a 30-day money back guarantee on all paid plans.
π Note: Proton VPN’s annual plan drops to $3.99 per month and the two-year plan is $3.59 per month. The Unlimited tier also includes Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive.
β οΈ Warning: The Proton VPN free version limits you to one device and only three server locations. Paid plans are pricier than some other vpn providers on a monthly basis.
Key Benefits of ProtonVPN
Here is why Proton VPN has become a top choice for privacy-minded users.
- Secure Core Architecture: Proton VPN’s Secure Core servers route traffic through privacy-friendly countries first. This double vpn setup protects you even if an endpoint server gets compromised.
- Verified No-Logs Policy: Proton VPN passed an independent third-party audit confirming its strict no logs policy. No ip logs, dns queries, or browsing data are stored.
- Best Free VPN Plan: The free version has no ads, unlimited bandwidth, and no time limits. Other free vpns usually limit data or inject ads into your internet connection.
- VPN Accelerator Technology: VPN Accelerator boosts internet speeds on long-distance vpn connections. It keeps an encrypted vpn tunnel fast even across continents.
- NetShield Ad-Blocker: NetShield blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. This speeds up browsing and saves mobile device data.
- Tor Over VPN: Proton VPN offers Tor servers that route your traffic through the Tor network automatically. You get onion-layer privacy without extra software.
- Open-Source Apps: Every Proton VPN app is fully open-source and independently audited. Security researchers can verify there are no backdoors hidden in the code.

ProtonVPN Pros & Cons
β Pros
- Based in Switzerland with world’s strongest privacy laws
- Best free vpn with no data caps or ads
- Open-source and independently audited apps
- Secure Core double vpn for journalists and activists
- Strong unblocking of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming sites
β Cons
- Expensive vpn monthly price at $9.99
- Free vpn plan limits access to three server locations
- Proton VPN support staff response can be slower than rivals
- No dedicated IP included by default
Feature Comparison
Ready to dive into a detailed comparison of PureVPN vs ProtonVPN?
We explore ten key features to help you decide which vpn provider fits your needs.
| Feature | PureVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.15/month | $2.99/month |
| Free Plan | β | β |
| Server Count | 6,500+ | 8,600+ |
| Countries | 140+ | 112 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | 10 |
| Kill Switch | β | β |
| Split Tunneling | β | β |
| Secure Core / Double VPN | β | β |
| Tor Over VPN | β | β |
| Open Source Apps | β | β |
| Best For | Budget-conscious users | Privacy-first users |
1. Server Network and Server Locations
PureVPN: PureVPN has over 6,500 vpn servers across 140+ countries. The server list includes physical servers and virtual locations. You can find vpn servers in niche places like Hong Kong and small island nations.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN has more than 8,600 Proton VPN servers in 112 countries. Most servers are physical servers rather than virtual servers. The server network focuses on quality and privacy-friendly jurisdictions.

β οΈ Test Result: PureVPN has more server locations by country, but Proton VPN has 2,000+ more total servers. If you need a specific country, check PureVPN’s server list first.
2. Speed Tests and Performance
PureVPN: In our speed tests, PureVPN reduced download speeds by 7.61% on nearby servers. But speed drops hit 99% on some distant vpn servers. Using WireGuard kept about 67% of base internet speeds.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN retained roughly 85% of base speeds across most servers we tested. The VPN Accelerator feature keeps the encrypted tunnel fast on long routes. Internet speeds stayed steady even on transcontinental hops.
3. Security Features and Encryption
PureVPN: PureVPN uses AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN UDP and WireGuard support. PureVPN’s kill switch blocks all internet access if the vpn tunnel drops. DNS leak protection and IP leak prevention are built in.

ProtonVPN: Proton VPN uses AES-256 with Perfect Forward Secrecy and strong vpn protocols. Its kill switch, NetShield ad-blocker, and DNS leak protection work across all Proton VPN apps. The Secure Core feature adds a second encrypted vpn tunnel for extra safety.

4. No-Logs Policy and Privacy Jurisdiction
PureVPN: PureVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands and has a no-logs policy audited by KPMG. An always-on audit feature allows surprise checks at any time. Past issues with FBI logs in 2017 led to these policy upgrades.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN is based in Switzerland under the world’s strongest privacy laws. Its strict no logs policy passed independent third-party audits. Proton VPN’s transparency report shows very few legal requests were ever complied with.
5. Streaming Service Support
PureVPN: PureVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video in most regions. Some users report issues unblocking Netflix French and German libraries. PureVPN has a dedicated Apple TV app for easy streaming.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN strongly unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Only the paid plans can access streaming servers though. The free tier does not unblock any streaming sites.
β οΈ Warning: If you want unblocking Netflix as a priority, test both on your internet connection first. Results can vary by region and by which vpn protocol you use.
6. Split Tunneling and Advanced Features
PureVPN: PureVPN offers split tunneling on Windows and Android apps. You can choose which apps use the vpn connection and which skip it. Port forwarding is available as a paid add-on for torrent users.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN offers split tunneling across Windows and Android apps too. It adds Tor over VPN, Secure Core, and port forwarding for free on paid plans. NetShield blocks ads and trackers without extra setup.
7. Apps and Device Compatibility
PureVPN: The PureVPN app runs on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Apple TV. PureVPN’s Android app is the most feature-rich of the bunch. PureVPN’s Windows app is sometimes clunky and may crash. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox.
ProtonVPN: The Proton VPN app is available on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, and Apple TV. Every Proton VPN app is open-source. The Linux app is a true native build, not a clunky wrapper, making life easier for any Linux user.
8. Customer Support Quality
PureVPN: PureVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, a support ticket system, and in-app troubleshooting. Customer support responses are usually quick. Some users have reported mixed experiences with refund requests though.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN support staff reply via ticketed email and live chat support on paid plans. Free users get limited help. Proton VPN’s website has deep help guides that solve most issues.
9. Torrenting and P2P Support
PureVPN: PureVPN offers dedicated P2P servers in several countries. Torrent traffic is allowed on these specific vpn servers only. Paid port forwarding can boost torrent speeds.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN has dedicated servers optimized for P2P file sharing on all paid plans. Port forwarding is included free. The free vpn plan does not allow P2P at all though.
10. Bonus Features and Extras
PureVPN: PureVPN offers a password manager, dark web monitoring, and data broker removal on higher plans. A dedicated IP add-on is available for $2.49 per month. You get the same IP address every time you connect.
ProtonVPN: The Proton Unlimited plan bundles Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive with the vpn service. You get the full suite of Proton services for one price. This makes it a better value for privacy-focused users.
Pricing & Cost
Let us compare PureVPN pricing and Proton VPN pricing side by side.
| Plan | PureVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | β No free plan | β $0/month |
| Starter / Basic | $2.15/per month (Standard) | $2.99/month (Plus) |
| Pro / Plus | $3.15/per month (Plus) | $2.99/month (Plus) |
| Top Tier | $3.55/per month (Max) | $7.99/month (Unlimited) |
PureVPN: PureVPN is cheaper upfront at $2.15 per month on the Standard plan. But renewal rates rise sharply after the first term. Monthly plans at $12.95 are expensive compared to the long-term deals.
ProtonVPN: Proton VPN costs a bit more per month but comes with the best free vpn tier in the industry. The Unlimited plan adds Proton Mail and Drive for better total value. No sharp renewal hikes either.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget long-term | PureVPN | $2.15/month is cheaper |
| Best free vpn | ProtonVPN | Unlimited bandwidth, no ads |
| Strongest privacy laws | ProtonVPN | Swiss jurisdiction |
| Most server locations | PureVPN | 140+ countries covered |
| Tor over VPN needs | ProtonVPN | Built-in tor servers |
| Linux user focus | ProtonVPN | Native Linux app |
| Dedicated ip address | PureVPN | $2.49 add-on available |
π° Your Budget
PureVPN wins on pure entry-level cost with plans starting at $2.15 per month. But Proton VPN offers a free tier that costs nothing forever.
π Your Tech Stack
Both vpn services support Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Android TV. Proton VPN adds a true native Linux app, which matters for any Linux user.
π Your Privacy Needs
Proton VPN is the better fit for journalists, activists, and high-risk users. Its Swiss base and Secure Core architecture offer stronger protection than most other vpn providers.
π Your Experience Level
Both vpn providers make Proton VPN easy or PureVPN simple to use for beginners. PureVPN safe defaults and Proton VPN’s clean design both work fine for first-time vpn users.
π Free Trials and Demos
You can test PureVPN with a $0.99 seven-day trial. Proton VPN work for free forever on its limited free version so you can try before you buy.
π Support Options
PureVPN customer support includes 24/7 live chat support plus a support ticket option. Proton VPN support staff focus on paid users but offer deep help docs.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these vpn companies?
Here is what to expect if you switch between these two vpn services.
π Switching from PureVPN to ProtonVPN?
β What you’ll gain:
- Swiss privacy jurisdiction with world’s strongest privacy laws
- Free vpn plan with unlimited bandwidth and no ads
- Secure Core double vpn and Tor over VPN features
β What you’ll lose:
- PureVPN server list with 140+ countries coverage
- Bundled password manager and data broker removal
- Cheapest long-term PureVPN subscription deal
π How to switch:
- Cancel your PureVPN account via the billing page before renewal
- Sign up for a free Proton VPN account to test the service first
- Upgrade to Plus if you need streaming and P2P support
π Switching from ProtonVPN to PureVPN?
β What you’ll gain:
- Wider server location spread across 140+ countries
- Lower long-term pricing as low as $2.15 per month
- Password manager and dedicated IP add-ons in one place
β What you’ll lose:
- Best free vpn tier with unlimited data
- Secure Core servers and Tor over VPN support
- Bundled Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive
π How to switch:
- Cancel your Proton VPN subscription via Proton VPN’s website before renewal
- Purchase PureVPN on a long-term plan for the best discount
- Install the PureVPN app and enable the internet kill switch right away
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| π° Pricing | PureVPN |
| π Free Plan | ProtonVPN |
| β‘ Speed / Performance | ProtonVPN |
| π Privacy / Security | ProtonVPN |
| π Server Locations | PureVPN |
| πΊ Streaming Unblocking | ProtonVPN |
| πΆ Ease of Use | Tie |
| π Overall Winner | ProtonVPN |
π WINNER: PROTONVPN
ProtonVPN wins 5 out of 7 categories in this head-to-head.
Best for: Privacy-first users, journalists and activists, free vpn seekers, Linux users
PureVPN and ProtonVPN are two very different vpn services.
PureVPN is an affordable vpn provider with a huge server list and bonus tools.
Proton VPN is a premium vpn with top privacy and a great free tier.
PureVPN is excellent for budget-conscious users who want lots of server locations and a dedicated IP option. Does PureVPN work for the average home user? Yes, it does, and it comes with 24/7 live chat support.
However, if you need the strongest privacy, the best free vpn, or a Linux app, Proton VPN is the better choice.
Now, go out and crush those privacy goals!
More of PureVPN Compared
Here is how PureVPN stacks up against other vpn providers.
PureVPN vs NordVPN
PureVPN wins on: More server locations, cheaper long-term PureVPN pricing
NordVPN wins on: Faster speed tests, better security features
PureVPN vs ExpressVPN
PureVPN wins on: Much lower pricing, more simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster download speeds, better unblocking Netflix
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP add-on, wider country coverage
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, faster WireGuard speeds
PureVPN vs PrivadoVPN
PureVPN wins on: Bigger server list, more advanced security features
PrivadoVPN wins on: Simpler pricing, transparent Swiss base
PureVPN vs AdGuard VPN
PureVPN wins on: More servers, dedicated P2P support
AdGuard VPN wins on: Lightweight design, built-in ad-blocker
PureVPN vs Virtual Shield
PureVPN wins on: Bigger vpn server count, more apps
Virtual Shield wins on: Simpler interface, no upsell ads
PureVPN vs StrongVPN
PureVPN wins on: Cheaper entry price, more countries
StrongVPN wins on: More stable Windows app, cleaner interface
PureVPN vs FastestVPN
PureVPN wins on: Bigger network, audited no-logs claims
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deals, lower upfront cost
PureVPN vs AuraVPN
PureVPN wins on: More server locations, mature PureVPN app
AuraVPN wins on: Bundled identity theft protection tools
PureVPN vs CyberGhost
PureVPN wins on: Password manager add-on, more countries
CyberGhost wins on: 45-day money back guarantee, streaming-optimized servers
PureVPN vs McAfee VPN
PureVPN wins on: More server locations, better unblocking
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, brand trust
PureVPN vs Private Internet Access
PureVPN wins on: Better streaming service support, more countries
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source apps, proven no-logs court cases
PureVPN vs Mysterium
PureVPN wins on: Traditional vpn reliability, 24/7 customer support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized peer network, pay-as-you-go billing
PureVPN wins on: Larger server network, more protocols
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming-focused features, simpler pricing
PureVPN wins on: Audited no-logs claims, more mature apps
Oyster VPN wins on: Cheap pricing, basic vpn needs focus
More of ProtonVPN Compared
Here is how Proton VPN stacks up against other vpn companies.
ProtonVPN vs NordVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, free tier, Swiss privacy base
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more servers, brand recognition
ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, lower prices, Secure Core servers
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds, better streaming unblocking
ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Better privacy jurisdiction, open-source code
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
ProtonVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Larger server network, Secure Core architecture
PrivadoVPN wins on: Cheaper paid plans, generous free tier
ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Bigger server list, Secure Core and Tor support
AdGuard VPN wins on: Tighter ad-blocking integration
ProtonVPN vs Virtual Shield
ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, verified no-logs policy
Virtual Shield wins on: Simpler US-based customer support
ProtonVPN vs StrongVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss base, Secure Core
StrongVPN wins on: Dedicated IP by default, simpler pricing
ProtonVPN vs FastestVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Strict no logs policy audits, better apps
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deals, aggressive pricing
ProtonVPN vs AuraVPN
ProtonVPN wins on: True vpn service focus, Tor over VPN
AuraVPN wins on: Bundled identity theft monitoring
ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost
ProtonVPN wins on: Stronger privacy, better free plan
CyberGhost wins on: 45-day money back guarantee, more streaming-focused servers
ProtonVPN vs McAfee VPN
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss privacy base, Secure Core architecture
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, big brand name
ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss base, Secure Core, Tor servers
Private Internet Access wins on: Lower prices, proven no-logs court cases
ProtonVPN vs Mysterium
ProtonVPN wins on: Reliable vpn connections, audited infrastructure
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, crypto payments
ProtonVPN wins on: Larger server network, stronger privacy
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming-focused, simpler interface
ProtonVPN wins on: Proton Technologies AG reputation, audited code
Oyster VPN wins on: Cheaper basic plans, simpler onboarding
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use PureVPN?
Yes, PureVPN safe to use thanks to AES-256 encryption, dns leak protection, and an internet kill switch. We tested PureVPN against a public dns leak test and saw zero leaks of ip addresses in either Windows or Android. PureVPN has been audited by KPMG under an always-on audit program to verify its no-logs claims. In our PureVPN review we found that PureVPN claims about no-logging hold up under real checks. We recommend PureVPN for most users who want a quality vpn at a budget price.
Is Proton VPN actually free?
Yes, Proton VPN offers a real free vpn plan with unlimited bandwidth and no ads. Proton apps on iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac all get the same free vpn access. The free tier limits you to three server locations and one device though. Does Proton VPN work without asking for a credit card? Absolutely, which makes it one of the best free vpns around. In our hands-on Proton VPN review we confirmed that Proton VPN work flawlessly on free and paid tiers.
How much does PureVPN cost?
PureVPN pricing starts at $2.15 per month on the Standard plan when you purchase PureVPN for two years. The Plus plan is $3.15 per month and Max is $3.55 per month. Monthly plans jump to $12.95, so long-term is always cheaper.
Which is better NordVPN or Proton VPN?
NordVPN is faster in most speed tests, but Proton VPN wins on privacy and transparency. Is Proton VPN good for critical privacy work? Yes, and that makes many users prefer it over other vpn services. Proton VPN’s strict no logs policy has passed independent audits and its apps are open-source. NordVPN has more polished streaming unblocking across regions.
Is PureVPN good for streaming?
Yes, PureVPN offers unblocking Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video on most servers. Some users report issues with the French and German Netflix libraries. There are many PureVPN alternatives if streaming is your only need, but pure vpn performance here is solid overall. PureVPN also has a dedicated Apple TV app for smart TV streaming.













