Not as fast or cheap as some alternatives, but Proton VPN stands out for its superb privacy and security features.
Proton VPN, based in Switzerland, is a privacy-focused VPN service that offers a range of privacy-first services, including encrypted Proton Mail, secure calendar, and cloud-storage offerings. In this Proton VPN review, we will discuss the service’s pricing, user experience, privacy and security, performance, torrenting and streaming capabilities, and customer support.
Pros and Cons of Proton VPN:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superb privacy and security features | No 24/7 live chat support |
| Good overall connection speeds | Not the cheapest VPN around |
| Straightforward user interface |
Contents
I. Proton VPN Pricing and Competition:
Proton VPN offers a free version with no data caps, allowing users to connect to servers in Japan, the Netherlands, and the US. However, this version restricts streaming video and file-sharing via BitTorrent. Paid subscriptions unlock these services and provide access to servers in 63 countries, supporting up to ten simultaneous connections. Monthly subscriptions cost £8.53, while annual and two-year packages are priced at £61.40 and £102.29, respectively.
II. User Experience with Proton VPN:
Proton VPN’s Windows app features a sci-fi-style dashboard with a scrollable, zoomable map view and a scrolling list of servers. Additional controls include the Secure Core mode, NetShield filter, kill switch, and port forwarding features. Although the interface may initially seem overwhelming, it is quite user-friendly. The Android app provides a more simplified experience with all the key features available.
III. Privacy and Security of Proton VPN:
Proton VPN benefits from Switzerland’s strong privacy laws, and its privacy policy prohibits the storage of user identities or activity logs. Independent auditor Securitum has confirmed Proton VPN’s adherence to its privacy policy. The service also offers unique features such as Secure Core connections, Tor network routing, and session-specific encryption keys. The physical locations of Proton VPN’s core data centers emphasize security as well.
IV. Performance and Speed of Proton VPN:
Proton VPN claims to boost download speeds with its VPN accelerator. In tests on a Windows 11 laptop, download speeds dropped from 214 Mbps to 137 Mbps when connected to a London-based server, while connecting to a New York server resulted in speeds of 188 Mbps. The Android app also performed well, with download speeds of 187 Mbps (UK server) and 110 Mbps (New York server).
V. Torrenting and Streaming with Proton VPN:
Proton VPN supports file sharing and unblocks various streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, BritBox, and Now TV. However, some region-restricted content may remain unavailable, such as certain Netflix and Disney+ titles on Android devices.
VI. Customer Support for Proton VPN:
Proton VPN’s website features an online knowledge base and a Reddit forum for user support. Live chat is available on weekdays between 10 am and 6 pm UK time. Users can also submit email inquiries, though response times may range from one to two days.
VII. Conclusion:
Proton VPN may not be the best choice for those solely interested in unblocking region-restricted video content, as other VPNs offer similar services at lower prices. However, for users who prioritize privacy protection, Proton VPN is an excellent choice, offering unparalleled privacy features, ease of use, and satisfactory performance.
