Proton VPN vs NordVPN (October 2026)
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Proton VPN
Privacy-focused Swiss VPN with a genuinely free plan and paid plans bundled with Proton Mail.
Visit Proton VPNNordVPN
One of the largest VPN services, with fast servers in many countries and a dedicated IP add-on.
Visit NordVPNVerdict. Both start at USD 3.49, so the plans and features below decide. Proton VPN also has a free plan; NordVPN does not. Intro prices need a prepaid term; afterwards Proton VPN renews at USD 6.99 and NordVPN at USD 11.59 a month. Proton VPN confirms 2 of our 3 key features; NordVPN confirms 2.
Side by side
| Feature | Proton VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest paid plan | VPN Plus: USD 3.49 per month, 2-year term | Basic: USD 3.49 per month, 2-year term |
| Other plan or fee | Free | Complete: USD 4.49 per month, 2-year term |
| Another plan or fee | Proton Unlimited: USD 7.99 per month, 2-year term | Prime: USD 7.49 per month, 2-year term |
| Free plan or trial | Yes | No |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| 30-day money-back guarantee | Yes | Yes |
| Dedicated IP option | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Number of plans listed | 3 | 3 |
| Our score | 83/100 (#1 of 4) | 63/100 (#4 of 4) |
| Best for | Best free starting point | Good all-round option |
| A year on the cheapest paid plan | USD 42 | USD 42 |
| Notes | — | 10 devices; intro price needs a 2-year prepaid term |
Shaded cells mark the lower price. Sources: Proton VPN, NordVPN.
Which to choose
Choose Proton VPN if you need free plan.
Choose NordVPN if you need dedicated IP option.
See all options: best VPN services.
More: Proton VPN pricing, Proton VPN alternatives, NordVPN pricing, NordVPN alternatives, NordVPN vs Surfshark, NordVPN vs ExpressVPN.