Proton vpn alternatives you should consider in 2025: a comprehensive comparison of ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Mullvad, PIA, VyprVPN and more

Proton vpn alternatives include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Mullvad, Private Internet Access PIA, and VyprVPN. Yes — there are solid options beyond ProtonVPN that compete on security, speed, and value. In this guide, you’ll get a clear, no-nonsense comparison of top Proton vpn alternatives, with practical insights on features, pricing, server networks, privacy posture, and real-world performance. We’ll also walk you through choosing the right one for your needs and provide a step-by-step setup guide for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even routers.

Useful resources unclickable text only: NordVPN official site – nordvpn.com, ExpressVPN official site – expressvpn.com, Surfshark official site – surfshark.com, Mullvad VPN official site – mullvad.net, Private Internet Access official site – privateinternetaccess.com, VyprVPN official site – vyprvpn.com, ProtonVPN official site – protonvpn.com, Speedtest by Ookla – www.speedtest.net, How to unblock streaming with a VPN – www.wikihow.com, VPN security best practices – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network

Why you should consider Proton vpn alternatives

If you’re here, you’re likely searching for a VPN that matches ProtonVPN’s strengths but perhaps excels in specific areas like streaming reliability, speed, price, or privacy controls. Here’s a quick snapshot of the as of 2025:

• Beyond ProtonVPN, the big players offer larger server networks, sometimes sharper pricing on long-term plans, and specialized features like private DNS, built-in ad blocking, or multi-hop routing.
• Privacy-minded users may value providers with independent audits, transparent ownership, and RAM-only servers. Mullvad, for example, pushes privacy to the extreme with no email required and anonymous payments.
• Streaming enthusiasts often prioritize stable access to Netflix, Disney+, and other platforms, along with reliable speed and strong bypass for geo-restrictions.
• Power users may want robust router support, Linux apps, and advanced features like split tunneling, port forwarding, and custom protocol options.

With that in mind, the following sections break down the top Proton vpn alternatives by what matters most: security posture, speed, price, and everyday usability.

NordVPN: a well-rounded powerhouse with global reach

NordVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs for a reason. It consistently balances strong privacy, good speed, and broad platform support.

• Server network: 5500+ servers in 60+ countries. That kind of scale means you can usually find a fast option nearby, which helps with latency and streaming.
• Protocols and performance: NordLynx a WireGuard-based protocol delivers excellent speeds on most connections. The company also supports OpenVPN for compatibility and offers automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection.
• Privacy and security: No-logs policy independently audited in the past, plus multi-hop and obfuscated servers for higher-censorship environments. Based in Panama, which is relatively privacy-friendly compared to some jurisdictions.
• Features worth knowing: CyberSec ad and malware blocking, threat protection, split tunneling, and a user-friendly interface across desktop and mobile.
• Pricing and plans: Long-term plans tend to be very affordable when you lock in 2-year or 3-year terms, with monthly options higher. Look for occasional promotions that bring the price down into the mid-range for a two- or three-year commitment.
• Use case: Great all-rounder for streaming, privacy-conscious users, and households with many devices.

Bottom line: NordVPN remains one of the most balanced choices if you want a large server network, strong privacy posture, and reliable performance for everyday use and streaming.

ExpressVPN: best for fast, reliable streaming and broad compatibility

ExpressVPN is often the pick for those who want a no-hassle, high-speed experience with excellent compatibility. Expressvpn edge

• Server network: About 3000+ servers in 90+ locations. That breadth helps with speed consistency and access to geo-restricted content.
• Protocols and performance: Lightway protocol emphasizes speed and reliability, with OpenVPN as a fallback. Strong kill switch and DNS leak protection to keep you safe.
• Privacy and security: No-logs policy with independent audits, jurisdiction in the British Virgin Islands, which is privacy-friendly and outside the 14 Eyes intel-sharing regime.
• Features: Split tunneling, app-level kill switch, and broad device support including routers. ExpressVPN also offers 24/7 live chat and a very polished user experience.
• Pricing and plans: Typically higher monthly price than some competitors, but frequent promotions and a straightforward refund policy 30 days ease the commitment.
• Best use case: If you want a fast, dependable VPN for streaming, gaming, and travel, with minimal setup friction.

Bottom line: ExpressVPN is a premium, dependable option for users who value speed, compatibility, and solid privacy assurances, even if the price is a bit higher.

Surfshark: best value with unlimited devices and clever features

Surfshark is often championed for value without sacrificing core VPN protections.

• Server network: 3200+ servers across 100+ countries. Wide coverage helps with speed and access, especially for travelers.
• Protocols and performance: WireGuard-based speeds on most networks. also supports OpenVPN and its own stealth-like Camouflage mode to help with restrictive networks.
• Privacy and security: No-logs policy, independently audited, and strong privacy stance. Based in the British Virgin Islands, which is favorable for privacy.
• Features worth noting: Unlimited simultaneous connections, CleanWeb ad blocker, Whitelister split tunneling, and a built-in VPN kill switch. Surfshark also offers a robust malware and tracker-blocking layer.
• Pricing and plans: Among the best price-to-value ratio, especially on longer plans 2- to 3-year terms with frequent discounts.
• Best use case: Families or users with many devices who want a single subscription that can cover phones, laptops, smart TVs, and more.

Bottom line: Surfshark is the obvious choice if you want a feature-rich VPN at a compelling price, especially when you need to protect multiple devices at once.

Mullvad: the privacy purist’s dream

If privacy is your north star, Mullvad often tops the list for people who value minimal data collection and anonymity.

• Server network: Several hundred servers across many countries, with a strong emphasis on independent, privacy-friendly operation.
• Protocols and performance: WireGuard is the default, delivering strong speed with a simple, privacy-first approach. OpenVPN is also available.
• Privacy and security: No account name required, no email needed, and anonymous payment options including cash or crypto. The service is built around transparency and minimal data retention.
• Features: Weathered, but straightforward: straightforward client, no lingering data, and a strong privacy philosophy. No mandatory login, which lowers the data trail.
• Pricing and plans: Flat monthly fee often around 5€ with transparent pricing. no tiered features to complicate things.
• Best use case: People who want maximum anonymity and a low-commitment sign-up process.

Bottom line: Mullvad’s design philosophy is privacy first. If that matters more than extras and bells-and-whistles, Mullvad is hard to beat. Urban vpn edge chrome

Private Internet Access PIA: budget-friendly with broad coverage

PIA remains popular among price-conscious users who still want solid features and a broad server footprint.

• Server network: Thousands of servers in dozens of countries, giving you plenty of proximity options and load-balancing opportunities.
• Protocols and performance: Supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and legacy PPTP/L2TP where needed. Good performance across typical internet plans.
• Privacy and security: No-logs claims, though jurisdiction is the United States, which is a trade-off some privacy-minded users consider. Independent audits exist for some features, and the network is generally transparent about capabilities.
• Features: Split tunneling, ad blocking, port forwarding on select plans, and a robust browser-based extension for extra control.
• Pricing and plans: Among the most affordable long-term options, with never-ending promos, which makes it a favorite for students and light-to-moderate users.
• Best use case: Budget users who still want reliable security and broad server access.

Bottom line: PIA is a practical, wallet-friendly choice that covers the basics well and scales nicely for users who don’t need premium extras.

VyprVPN: independent tech, strong anti-censorship tools

VyprVPN puts a strong emphasis on owning its technology stack and providing tools to bypass censorship in some regions.

• Server network: Hundreds of servers in dozens of countries, with proprietary protocols designed to maximize privacy and performance.
• Protocols and performance: Chameleon a VPN protocol designed to defeat deep packet inspection in addition to standard options like OpenVPN and WireGuard in newer setups.
• Privacy and security: Company ownership and audits provide a different privacy profile than some larger chains. It’s based in Switzerland, a country known for privacy-friendly laws.
• Features: Multi-device support, a reputable pass-through for streaming, and strong obfuscation options for restrictive networks.
• Pricing and plans: Competitive pricing with regular promotions. often slightly higher than entry-level options but with solid value for the feature set.
• Best use case: Users needing robust obfuscation and a privacy-centric Swiss angle, plus good streaming capability.

Bottom line: VyprVPN appeals to users who want an independent provider with strong anti-censorship features and a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

How to pick the right Proton vpn alternative for you

Choosing the right VPN isn’t just about the biggest network or the lowest price. Here’s a practical framework to help you decide quickly: How to install vpn on microsoft edge

• What are you using it for? Streaming, gaming, torrenting, or just privacy? For streaming, prioritize providers with reliable unblocking and fast speeds ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark excel here. For privacy, Mullvad and PIA offer compelling approaches.
• How many devices? If you have many devices, Surfshark’s unlimited devices could be a huge win.
• Your budget? If price matters most, Surfshark and PIA tend to offer compelling long-term rates. Mullvad provides a simple, predictable price.
• Jurisdiction and audits? If independent audits matter, NordVPN and ExpressVPN have public audits. Mullvad is also well-regarded for its privacy-first approach.
• Platform and router support? Ensure the provider offers native apps for your devices and robust router support if you want to cover home devices like smart TVs or NAS boxes.
• Privacy features? Look for a kill switch, DNS leak protection, ad/m malware blocks, and split tunneling if you want control over what traffic goes through the VPN.

How to test quickly:

• Run a 24–72 hour trial or take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee across multiple servers to assess speed, streaming compatibility, and reliability.
• Check for DNS/Ips leaks with a quick test on websites like dnsleaktest.com or ipleak.net.
• Try streaming a platform you use Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ to confirm access stays stable.

Smart setups: using Proton vpn alternatives on Linux and routers

Linux users and people who want to cover their entire home network should plan a little differently:

• Linux support: Most top VPNs offer official clients or at least strong command-line compatibility on Linux. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and PIA provide straightforward Linux apps and good documentation.
• Router installation: If you want all devices on your home network to benefit from VPN encryption, install the VPN on a compatible router DD-WRT, Tomato, OpenWrt, or stock firmware with built-in VPN support. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and Mullvad provide detailed router setup guides. This setup helps with gaming consoles, smart TVs, and IoT devices that don’t have native VPN clients.
• Privacy-friendly options on routers: Mullvad and PIA stand out for simpler configurations if you’re comfortable with manual setup. Mullvad’s privacy-first approach often resonates with advanced users who want minimal data trails.

Pro tip: If you’re new to VPN routers, start with provider-supported preconfigured routers or easy-to-follow guides. A smooth setup saves hours of troubleshooting.

Real-world speed and reliability snapshot 2024–2025

• Speed: On WireGuard-based protocols, most top providers deliver consistent throughput across a range of base connections. Expect typical download speeds of 100–900 Mbps on gigabit lines, with some users seeing even higher numbers on nearby servers.
• Streaming: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark consistently unblock major platforms, with Surfshark’s MultiHop and obfuscation modes helping in tougher networks.
• Privacy audits: NordVPN and ExpressVPN have undergone independent audits, boosting trust. Mullvad’s approach—anonymous signups and open-source clients—appeals to privacy purists.
• Reliability: With large server networks, downtime and congestion drop as you switch servers. If one server slows down, you usually have many nearby alternatives to test in seconds.

Practical takeaway: If you’re chasing speed and streaming reliability, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark generally offer the most predictable performance. Mullvad and PIA appeal to privacy-leaning users who want a no-frills, transparent setup.

Pricing cheatsheet typical long-term plans

• NordVPN: Competitive with long-term plans around a few dollars per month when you commit to 1–2 years. occasional promos apply.
• ExpressVPN: Premium pricing, but strong value with reliable performance. 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Surfshark: Very strong value for multi-device use. often the lowest price on multi-year plans.
• Mullvad: Simple flat monthly price roughly 5€ with anonymous sign-up. no credit card headaches.
• PIA: Budget-friendly with frequent promotions. good for users who want broad servers on a budget.
• VyprVPN: Mid-range with occasional promos. feature-rich for users who want obfuscation and independent tech.

Tip: If you’re unsure, start with a monthly plan to test all features and then switch to a longer plan if the service fits your needs. How to open vpn on microsoft edge with edge extensions, Windows VPN, and step-by-step guidance for secure browsing

Bonus features that can tip the scales

• Ad-blocking and malware protection: Surfshark’s CleanWeb is a nice bonus if you want less clutter while browsing.
• Anonymous sign-up and payments: Mullvad excels here, making privacy-conscious folks feel comfortable.
• Obfuscation and anti-censorship: VyprVPN’s Chameleon and Surfshark’s Camouflage mode are useful if you’re in restrictive networks.
• Multi-hop: NordVPN’s double VPN option or similar can add an extra privacy layer, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
• Router-level protection: If you want total coverage at home, ensure the provider supports easy router integration with solid tutorials.

Bottom line: The best value isn’t always the cheapest. look for a feature set that matches your real-life needs—streaming reliability, privacy emphasis, or router-wide protection.

Step-by-step guide: switch from ProtonVPN to a strong Proton vpn alternative

1. Define your must-haves: streaming access, maximum privacy, price, or number of devices.
2. Compare top choices using the framework above. Pick 2–3 finalists.
3. Try the trial or 30-day refund window to test on your devices and networks.
4. Test on at least two servers in different regions to gauge speed and reliability.
5. Set up kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling where needed.
6. If you want router-wide protection, follow the provider’s router guide and test on a few devices.
7. Decide on a longer plan if you’re satisfied, but keep a refund window in mind in case you switch.
8. Re-check streaming platforms to confirm access and any region-lock changes.

Pro tip: Keep a log of your test results server location, speed, streaming reliability, and any connection issues. It makes the final decision much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Proton vpn alternatives?

Proton vpn alternatives are other reputable VPN providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Mullvad, PIA, and VyprVPN that offer similar privacy protections, different pricing, and unique features to fit your needs.

Which Proton vpn alternative is best for streaming?

NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are often the top picks for streaming thanks to reliable access to major platforms and strong speed. Surfshark’s device count flexibility can be a plus for households with many devices.

Is Mullvad a good choice for privacy?

Yes. Mullvad is highly privacy-centered, offering anonymous sign-ups and payments, and using WireGuard by default. If privacy is your top priority, Mullvad is a standout option. Edge free vpn reddit

Can I use these VPNs on Linux?

Absolutely. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, PIA, and Mullvad all offer Linux clients or strong CLI support. Linux users typically appreciate official docs and community guides.

Do these VPNs work with routers?

Many do. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Mullvad, and PIA provide router-compatible guides. If you want full home coverage, installing on a compatible router is a strong approach.

Which VPN has the best privacy audits?

NordVPN and ExpressVPN have undergone independent audits, providing extra assurance. Mullvad’s privacy-first model is also highly trusted among privacy enthusiasts.

Are there free Proton vpn alternatives?

Free VPNs exist but usually come with significant limitations—data caps, fewer servers, and often weaker privacy protections. For sustainable privacy and security, paid options are generally safer and more reliable.

Do these VPNs keep logs?

Most reputable providers maintain no-logs policies, but the specifics vary. Always read the privacy policy and consider independent audits when privacy is critical for you. Vpn on edge: the ultimate guide to running a VPN on edge devices, edge networks, and secure remote access

What should I look for besides price?

Key factors include server location count and distribution, speed especially on WireGuard-based protocols, kill switch, DNS leak protection, privacy posture audits and jurisdiction, device support including routers, and customer support quality.

Can I test a Proton vpn alternative before buying?

Yes. Most major VPNs offer a money-back guarantee or trial period typically 7–30 days. Use that window to test on your devices and in your typical usage scenarios.

Which VPN is best for gaming?

If latency matters most, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are commonly recommended due to fast servers and reliable connections. Surfshark can also work well, especially on multi-device setups where you don’t want to worry about limits.

Are there VPNs that are especially good for privacy in restrictive markets?

Mullvad and VyprVPN are often highlighted for users in restrictive regions due to their robust privacy posture and obfuscation features.

Resources and further reading unclickable text

NordVPN official site – nordvpn.com
ExpressVPN official site – expressvpn.com
Surfshark official site – surfshark.com
Mullvad VPN official site – mullvad.net
Private Internet Access official site – privateinternetaccess.com
VyprVPN official site – vyprvpn.com
ProtonVPN official site – protonvpn.com
Speedtest by Ookla – www.speedtest.net
VPN setup guides – www.wikihow.com
VPN security best practices – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network How to use vpn microsoft edge: a comprehensive guide to browser extensions and system-wide vpn on windows

Edgerouter x l2tp vpn setup