In today’s hyper-connected world, protecting your online identity and enjoying unrestricted access to global content is more important than ever. While NordVPN has built a strong reputation for its reliability, speed, and privacy, it’s not the only option worth considering. Many users are now discovering that other VPNs offer comparable or even superior features — from faster connections and more flexible pricing to unlimited device support and advanced privacy tools.

Exploring NordVPN alternatives opens the door to VPNs that are tailored for specific needs, whether that’s seamless streaming, lag-free gaming, or enhanced anonymity. These options combine cutting-edge encryption, intuitive interfaces, and powerful unblocking capabilities to deliver a smooth, secure, and private browsing experience. If you’re ready to take your online protection and freedom to the next level, discovering the right VPN alternative might be the smartest digital decision you’ll make this year.

Why Choose NordVPN Alternatives

NordVPN is also a reputable brand in terms of online security, and it may not meet the needs or preferences of all people. As competition increases in 2025, most VPNs will have lower prices, greater flexibility, and more advanced functionality, which can match NordVPN in some aspects. Researching through the following options will enable you to discover a VPN that best fits your lifestyle, whether for streaming, gaming, or privacy-oriented browsing.

The following are some of the main reasons that should be taken into account when switching NordVPN:

1. Better Pricing and Value:

NordVPN has some of the best VPNs that match in high-end encryption, high speed, and good performance, at a significantly cheaper price, thus they are more affordable without sacrificing security.

2. Infinite or Greater number of connection devices:

They have many plans that support an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, which is suitable for houses, small teams, or users who need to access multiple devices simultaneously and be considered as a single user.

3. Individualized Gaming and Streaming:

Other VPNs also focus on unlocking these types of websites, as well as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, which offer high-speed, lag-free connections and customized servers to enjoy a stream of movies and games without any issues.

4. Greater Privacy and Transparency:

Some of the providers are based on privacy-friendly locations and have no-log policies, which guarantee total anonymity and provide better protection to users who are concerned about genuine privacy on the internet.

5. Less complex, More personalizable Interfaces:

Most of the NordVPN alternatives have a user-friendly interface and user-friendly installation features to allow users to have more control, personalization, and a more relaxed overall experience without the need to be tech-savvy.

The correct NordVPN alternative will provide you with the optimal combination of all three factors: affordability, performance, and privacy, depending on your individual requirements on the internet.

List of 10 best NordVPN Alternatives in 2025

As much as speed is important when picking out the right VPN, it is also about the fact that it should suit you perfectly. Although NordVPN is a popular one, they have superior flexibility, performance in streaming, and value.

1. Surfshark

Surfshark is a top all-in-one cybersecurity VPN with unlimited device connections and privacy tools like Alternative ID and a built-in antivirus. It offers AES-256 encryption across 3200+ servers worldwide, ensuring fast, private browsing for budget-conscious users seeking comprehensive protection with value-added extras like CleanWeb and NoBorders Mode.

Key Features:

• CleanWeb ad/tracker blocker
• MultiHop (double VPN) connections
• Alternative ID & real-time Antivirus protection
• Unlimited device connections

Pros:

• Strong privacy tools, including Alternative ID
• Excellent value for price
• Works in VPN-restricted regions

Cons:

• Antivirus is only available in premium tiers
• Occasional performance lag on distant servers
• Some features may be redundant for basic users

Best For: Budget-conscious users needing all-in-one online security

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN leads among the best NordVPN alternatives with TrustedServer RAM-only technology, a unique Lightway protocol, and servers in 105+ countries. Known for high speeds, excellent privacy, and streaming unblocking, it supports up to 8 devices. Ideal for professionals and travelers prioritizing performance and user-friendly apps.

Key Features:

• TrustedServer RAM-only tech
• Proprietary Lightway protocol
• Servers in 105+ countries
• Split tunneling & Network Lock kill switch

Pros:

• Consistently high performance and reliability
• Excellent for streaming and torrenting
• Transparent with independent audits

Cons:

• Slightly expensive compared to competitors
• Limited to 8 simultaneous devices
• Lacks extras like multi-hop

Best For: Professionals or travelers demanding top-tier privacy and speed

3. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is distinguished in 2025 for its open-source software, Swiss jurisdiction, Secure Core multi-hop routing, and VPN Accelerator, which boosts speeds by up to 400%. Its VPN solutions include a generous, unlimited data-free plan, making it a favorite among privacy advocates and anyone seeking transparent, trustworthy protection.

Key Features:

• Open-source apps with audited code
• Secure Core multi-hop servers
• VPN Accelerator for speed
• Free plan with unlimited data

Pros:

• Excellent speed and security balance
• Best-in-class free version
• Based in Switzerland with strong privacy laws

Cons:

• Refund policies are prorated
• Costlier on longer plans
• Limited effectiveness in restricted regions

Best For: Privacy advocates seeking free and open-source protection

4. Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA is a proven privacy champion in 2025, offering open-source clients, a no-logs policy verified in court, and a large network covering 91 countries. Its MACE ad-blocking and advanced split tunneling give tech-savvy users powerful customization. It’s ideal for those who value transparency and control at an affordable price.

Key Features:

• Open-source clients
• MACE ad and malware blocker
• Advanced split tunneling
• Server network in 91 countries

Pros:

• Proven no-logs policy
• Highly customizable
• Large server network

Cons:

• Dated UI occasionally
• Some slow connections on distant servers
• Complex router setups

Best For: Power users preferring customization and transparency

5. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost stands out as one of the most user-friendly NordVPN alternatives, perfect for streaming your favorite shows with ease. It offers a massive global network of over 11,000 servers, including dedicated ones for Netflix, Hulu, and other major platforms. With strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy, CyberGhost ensures your online activities remain private and secure. It’s an excellent choice for beginners seeking hassle-free, reliable privacy and unrestricted access from anywhere in the world.

Key Features:

• 11,000+ servers in 100 countries
• Dedicated streaming and torrenting servers
• NoSpy servers for extra privacy
• Automatic kill switch and ad blocker

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Great streaming support
• Strong security and privacy

Cons:

• Speeds can vary by location
• No multi-hop or double VPN
• Limited connections (7 simultaneous)

Best For: Beginners and streaming fans

6. IPVanish

IPVanish is known for fast speeds and supports unlimited device connections. It uses the WireGuard protocol for strong security and has features like split tunneling and double-hop for extra privacy. The VPN also changes your IP address regularly to keep you anonymous. It’s a great choice for families, gamers, or anyone who wants fast, flexible security.

Key Features:

• Support for unlimited devices
• Fast WireGuard VPN protocol
• Split tunneling and double-hop VPN
• Dynamic IP address rotation

Pros:

• Very fast VPN speeds
• Good for gaming and streaming
• Strong privacy features and a no-logs policy

Cons:

• Based in the US (Five Eyes)
• Can have trouble with some streaming platforms
• Price rises after initial subscription

Best For: Families, gamers, and heavy users

7. Bitdefender VPN

Bitdefender VPN is a simple yet powerful option among the top NordVPN alternatives, especially for users already using Bitdefender antivirus. It encrypts your data, blocks ads and trackers, and ensures safe browsing without slowing you down. The VPN also auto-connects when you’re on public Wi-Fi, adding an extra layer of protection effortlessly. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking straightforward, reliable online security with minimal setup.

Key Features:

• AES-256 encryption
• Auto-connect on public Wi-Fi
• Blocks ads and trackers
• Integrates seamlessly with Bitdefender antivirus

Pros:

• Easy to use with an antivirus bundle
• Fast, reliable speeds
• Good compatibility with streaming services

Cons:

• Lacks advanced VPN options
• No Linux or router apps
• Not open source or independently audited

Best For: Current Bitdefender users

8. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is one of the fastest VPNs, thanks to its unique Hydra protocol, which helps keep your connection smooth and buffer-free. It offers both a free version for casual users and premium plans with more features. It’s beginner-friendly and works well for travelers, streamers, and everyday users who want speedy, reliable online privacy. 

Key Features:

• Proprietary Hydra protocol for exceptional speed
• Free and premium plans available
• Malware and phishing protection built in
• Available on multiple platforms, including mobile and desktop

Pros:

• Outstanding speed for streaming and browsing
• Reliable free tier for basic use
• Easy, user-friendly app

Cons:

• Based in the US, which can raise privacy concerns
• Limits up to 10 connected devices
• The free version has slower upload speeds

Best For: Casual users, travelers, and beginners looking for a fast, easy-to-use VPN

9. Mullvad VPN

Mullvad VPN stands out as one of the most privacy-focused NordVPN alternatives, built entirely around anonymity and user control. It doesn’t require an email or any personal information to sign up — only a unique account number. With strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy, Mullvad ensures your online activities remain completely private. It’s the ideal choice for users who prioritize security and anonymity over streaming or additional features.

Key Features:

• Anonymous signs up with an account number only
• Strong WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
• Multi-hop and quantum-resistant tunnels
• Built-in ad and tracker blocking

Pros:

• Industry-leading privacy and no-logs policy
• Open-source apps verified by audits
• Accepts crypto and cash payments

Cons:

• Smaller server network (around 700 servers)
• Not good for Netflix or streaming services
• No live chat support

Best For: Privacy-conscious users wanting total online anonymity

10. PrivadoVPN

PrivadoVPN offers a free plan with 10GB of data each month, plus strong 256-bit AES encryption to keep your internet activity safe and private. It blocks ads and trackers for a smoother browsing experience and supports torrenting and streaming with decent speeds. It’s a great choice if you’re a student or casual user looking for affordable online privacy.

Key Features:

• 10GB of free data monthly
• Ad and tracker blocking
• Strong AES-256 encryption
• Split tunneling on paid plans

Pros:

• Generous free plan for light use
• Firm no-logs policy
• Good support for P2P and torrenting

Cons:

• Smaller server network than the big competitors
• Streaming works, but not always reliably
• Limited options for Linux users

Best For: Students and casual VPN users wanting safe, budget-friendly protection

Comparison Table

VPN Name	Price (USD)	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Best For
Surfshark	$2.49/mo (2-year plan)	Unlimited devices, MultiHop, Alternative ID, Antivirus, CleanWeb	Great privacy tools, excellent value, and it works in restricted regions	Antivirus is only available in premium, with occasional lag	Budget-conscious users needing full security
ExpressVPN	$8.32/mo (annual plan)	TrustedServer RAM-only, Lightway protocol, 105+ countries, Network Lock	fast, reliable, great for streaming & torrenting, audited privacy	Higher price, 8 device limit, lacks multi-hop	Professionals, travelers needing top speed
Proton VPN	$5/mo (annual Plus plan)	Open-source, Secure Core multi-hop, VPN Accelerator, Free unlimited plan	Good speed/privacy balance, best free version, Swiss jurisdiction	Prorated refunds, pricier long-term, and challenges in restricted countries	Privacy advocates, free plan users
Private Internet Access	$2.19/mo (2-year plan)	Open-source apps, MACE ad blocker, split tunneling, 91 countries	Proven no-logs, highly customizable, large network	Old UI, slower far servers, advanced setup complexity	Power users valuing transparency
CyberGhost	$2.29/mo (3-year plan)	11,000+ servers, streaming/torrent servers, NoSpy, kill switch	Easy to use, great streaming, strong privacy	Variable speed, no multi-hop, 7 device limit	Beginners, streamers
IPVanish	$3.99/mo (annual plan)	Unlimited devices, WireGuard, dynamic IP, split tunneling, double-hop	Very fast, good for gaming/streaming, strong privacy	US-based (Five Eyes), streaming issues, price jump	Families, gamers, heavy users
Bitdefender VPN	$6.67/mo (1-year with antivirus)	AES-256 encryption, auto-connect public Wi-Fi, ad & tracker blocking	Easy for Bitdefender users, fast, reliable streaming	No advanced features, no Linux/router apps	Bitdefender antivirus users
Hotspot Shield	$7.99/mo (annual Premium plan)	Hydra protocol, malware/phishing protection, free option, multi-platform	Outstanding speed, good free plan, easy app	US base, 10 device limit, slower free upload	Casual users, travelers, beginners
Mullvad VPN	€5/mo (~$5.50 flat rate)	Anonymous signup, open source, multi-hop, ad/tracker blocking	Leading privacy, no logs, crypto/cash payments	Small server network, no streaming/no chat	Privacy-focused users
PrivadoVPN	Free 10GB + Paid $7.50/mo	10GB free, ad/tracker blocking, AES-256 encryption, split tunneling	Good free plan, no-logs, torrent support	Small server network, inconsistent streaming, and limited Linux	Students, light users

How to Choose the Right NordVPN Alternative for You

There’s no shortage of VPNs to choose from these days, but finding the best NordVPN alternative won’t take you up and down the market. The right one for you depends on what you care about most — price, streaming access, privacy, or device coverage. To guide you in the right choice, we’ve provided five things to pay attention to before signing up for your next VPN in 2025.

1. Budget and Value for Money

VPNs can be expensive or pricey, so determine your budget first. Alternatives such as Surfshark and PIA provide a solid performance for cheaper, while if you’re looking to splash the cash, then ExpressVPN gets speed and reliability. And always check for multiyear discounts or bundles with extras like ad-blockers or antivirus software.

2. Privacy and Security Features

Your VPN should provide total privacy and high security. Check for AES-256-bit encryption, no-logs policies, and an independent security audit. VPNs like Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN are famous for their openness to operations and privacy-oriented strategies, so they would be great for users who want anonymity the most.

3. Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities

If you love streaming Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer, pick VPNs that reliably bypass geo-blocks. CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are top choices here. For torrenting, look for VPNs with P2P-optimized servers, kill switch protection, and no data limits to keep your downloads safe and fast.

4. Speed and Server Coverage

VPN speed depends on how many servers it has and where they’re located. VPNs using fast protocols like WireGuard or Lightway, such as Hotspot Shield and Proton VPN, give you smooth, stable connections without slowing your internet. More servers mean better chances to connect quickly and unblock content worldwide.

5. Device Compatibility and Ease of Use

When choosing a NordVPN alternative, make sure it works smoothly on all your devices — whether it’s your laptop, smartphone, tablet, or even your home router. Some VPNs, like Surfshark and IPVanish, let you protect unlimited devices at once, which is perfect for families or tech-savvy users with many gadgets. Besides broad compatibility, a clean, simple app interface makes daily use hassle-free.

Conclusion

Choosing the right NordVPN Alternative depends on your personal online needs and habits. Whether you value speed, privacy, affordability, or simplicity, focus on essential factors like strong security, reliable performance, and multi-device support. The right VPN will keep your data safe, maintain your anonymity, and allow unrestricted access to content. Consider encryption strength, server locations, streaming capabilities, and user-friendliness when making your choice. By selecting the best NordVPN Alternatives for your lifestyle, you ensure a smooth, secure, and private online experience, whether browsing, streaming, or gaming, giving you peace of mind and optimal performance wherever you are.

FAQs

Are NordVPN Alternatives As Fast As NordVPN?

  Multiple VPNs deliver NordVPN-like service or higher speeds. ExpressVPN and Proton VPN, for example, integrate innovative streaming and browsing technology that eliminates buffering and uses advanced protocols such as Lightway, Hydra, and VPN Accelerator.

Do These VPNs Provide The Same Level Of Security?

Yes, and these alternatives might even offer better security and privacy through transparent audits and other ‘privacy-friendly’ jurisdictions. All the top alternatives use the same AES-256-bit encryption, kill switches, and DNS leak protection as NordVPN. Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN go even further with transparent audits and privacy-friendly jurisdictions, which further strengthen their position in the market.

Can I Use These VPNs On Multiple Devices?

 Most VPNs allow multiple devices to be connected at the same time, and Surfshark and IPVanish allow unlimited devices on the same account, which is great for families or users with multiple devices.

Are these VPNs suitable For Streaming And Torrenting?

Yes, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN even have specific servers for Netflix and Hulu that allow torrenting and bypassing geo-blocks, all while keeping your identity hidden during torrenting.