ProtonVPN Review
Privacy-first VPN from the makers of ProtonMail
ProtonVPN stands out as the most privacy-focused VPN on this list, built by the same team behind ProtonMail. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from some of the world's strongest privacy laws. Its free tier is genuinely useful — no data caps, no ads, no tracking — making it an excellent entry point for privacy-conscious users.
Speed Performance
ProtonVPN uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols for optimal performance. In our tests, speeds were good for most everyday use cases.
Streaming Support
Security & Privacy
- AES-256 encryption
- OpenVPN & IKEv2 protocols
- Secure Core (defends against network attacks)
- Tor over VPN
- No-logs policy (Swiss law)
- NetShield ad/malware blocker
Pros & Cons
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
- +Ad blocker (NetShield) included
Cons
- −Free servers are slower and more crowded
- −Smaller server network than top competitors
- −No live chat support on free plan
Verdict
ProtonVPN is a solid choice for most users. It leads the pack in privacy and transparency. Its free tier is genuinely useful, and the Swiss jurisdiction provides strong legal protection for user data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtonVPN safe to use?
Yes. ProtonVPN uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption and maintains a strict no-logs policy. Its apps are regularly audited and open to security research.
Does ProtonVPN work with Netflix?
ProtonVPN has limited streaming support and may not reliably unblock Netflix.
How much does ProtonVPN cost?
ProtonVPN is priced at $4.99/month (annual plan). Long-term plans offer the best value, and there is typically a money-back guarantee.
How many devices can I use with ProtonVPN?
ProtonVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections on a single subscription.