ProtonVPN Review
Detailed analysis of a privacy-focused VPN from the makers of ProtonMail
Overview
ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service created by the same team behind ProtonMail, the encrypted email provider. Based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from strong privacy laws and operates with a transparent, security-first approach. The service is distinguished by its Secure Core architecture, which routes traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy, and its commitment to open-source software and independent audits. With a generous free tier and a range of premium plans, ProtonVPN appeals to both casual users and privacy enthusiasts.
Key Features
- 1,900+ servers in 67 countries
- Secure Core VPN architecture (multi-hop routing)
- Open-source apps with independent security audits
- NetShield ad-blocker and malware protection
- Strict no-logs policy
- TOR over VPN functionality
- Up to 10 simultaneous connections
- Free tier available with no data limits
- Strong focus on physical security of servers
Pricing
Free Plan
- Servers in 3 countries
- Medium speeds
- 1 device connection
- No data limits
- No credit card required
Plus Plan
- All countries (67+)
- High speeds
- 10 device connections
- NetShield ad-blocker
- Secure Core VPN
- Streaming & P2P support
Proton Unlimited
- All VPN features
- ProtonMail
- ProtonDrive
- ProtonCalendar
- Priority support
- Multiple email addresses
Security & Privacy
- Encryption: AES-256, ChaCha20
- Protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard
- Secure Core: Routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries
- Kill Switch: Yes, both system-wide and per-app
- DNS: Private DNS with leak protection
- Open Source: All apps are open-source and independently audited
- Headquarters: Switzerland (strong privacy laws, outside 14-eyes)
- Logging: Strict no-logs policy, verified through audits
- Extra Features: Tor over VPN, split tunneling, NetShield protection
Pros
- Exceptional privacy focus and Swiss jurisdiction
- Secure Core technology for enhanced security
- Open-source applications with regular audits
- Free tier with no data caps
- Reliable access to streaming services
- Built-in ad and malware blocker
- Strong integration with other Proton services
- Transparency reports and warrant canary
Cons
- Free tier limited to three countries
- Not the fastest VPN for all locations
- More expensive than some competitors
- Secure Core can significantly reduce speeds
- Less intuitive interface than some competitors
- P2P support limited to specific servers
User Reviews
Trustpilot
Based on 1,250+ reviews
"As a privacy advocate, I've tried many VPNs, but ProtonVPN stands out for its commitment to security. The Secure Core feature gives me peace of mind when handling sensitive information, and the fact that all their apps are open-source allows for community verification. Their free tier is genuinely useful too - no data caps is unheard of!"
"I started with the free version and eventually upgraded to Plus. The service is reliable and I appreciate their principled stance on privacy. The NetShield feature has noticeably reduced ads and improved page loading times. My only complaint is that connection speeds can be inconsistent sometimes, especially with Secure Core enabled."
"ProtonVPN offers solid security features and works well for basic browsing. However, I've had issues with streaming services detecting it, and the app interface could be more intuitive. Customer support response times can be slow unless you're on the highest tier plan. Good privacy practices but room for improvement in usability."