ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost
ProtonVPN and CyberGhost target different audiences. We compare speed, privacy, streaming, and pricing to help you decide.
ProtonVPN
Privacy-first VPN from the makers of ProtonMail
CyberGhost
User-friendly with dedicated streaming servers
This is a matchup between two VPNs that don't usually compete head-to-head, but they're surprisingly close in pricing. ProtonVPN appeals to the privacy-conscious crowd with its Swiss pedigree and open-source ethos. CyberGhost goes for mainstream users with its massive server network and streaming-optimized profiles. I spent time with both to figure out which one makes more sense for different types of users.
Head-to-Head: ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost
| Category | ProtonVPN | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.3/5✓ | 4.2/5 |
| Starting Price | $4.99 | $2.19✓ |
| Servers | 3,200 | 11,600✓ |
| Countries | 71 | 100✓ |
| Max Devices | 10✓ | 7 |
| Speed | 4/5 | 3.8/5✓ |
| Streaming | 0/5 platforms | 4/5 platforms✓ |
| Privacy | 6 features✓ | 6 features |
CyberGhost is the better choice for most users thanks to streaming support and lower price. ProtonVPN wins on privacy.
ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost: Pros & Cons
ProtonVPN Pros
- +Free tier with no data caps (best in class)
- +Strong privacy pedigree — based in Switzerland
- +Open-source apps and publicly audited
- +Secure Core servers protect against network attacks
CyberGhost Pros
- +Massive server network — 11,600+ servers
- +Dedicated streaming profiles for specific platforms
- +Very affordable long-term pricing
- +45-day money-back guarantee (longest in industry)
Verdict: Which Is Better?
Between these two, CyberGhost is the more practical choice for most people. It has better streaming support, faster speeds, and a lower price. ProtonVPN's main advantage is privacy — Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps, and a genuinely useful free tier. If you're a privacy enthusiast, ProtonVPN is worth the premium. If you just want a VPN that works well for streaming and browsing at a good price, CyberGhost delivers more value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtonVPN's free tier better than CyberGhost?
ProtonVPN's free tier is genuinely useful with no data cap. CyberGhost doesn't offer a free tier but has a 45-day money-back guarantee that effectively lets you try it free.
Which VPN is faster?
CyberGhost is faster in most scenarios. ProtonVPN's paid plans are adequate but don't match CyberGhost's speeds, especially on distant servers.
Does CyberGhost work with Netflix?
Yes, CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers for Netflix and other platforms. ProtonVPN's streaming support is not as reliable.