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Best Overall
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
Best for Browsing
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Easy-to-use interface
Smart VPN feature automatically connects when needed
We compared Avast vs. NordVPN to see which virtual private network (VPN) came out on top in terms of features, value, and privacy. NordVPN was overwhelmingly the winner in every category, though Avast does have highlights worth acknowledging.
While Nord is well-known for its top-of-the-line features, fast speeds, thrice-audited no-logs policy, and more, Avast can still do the trick if you're looking for a basic VPN when doing lightweight browsing.
Let’s dive into the details of both VPNs and see why Nord deserves its place higher on the list of the best VPNs.
After carefully assessing NordVPN and Avast SecureLine, we noted some stark differences. Avast SecureLine VPN is good for web browsing, messaging, and keeping up with social media. On the other hand, NordVPN took the limelight as a more powerful VPN that can sidestep network blocks on various streaming platforms.
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| Price | Starts at $3.39/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $4.39/mo |
| Max # of connected devices | 10 | 10 |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| # of servers | 6,400 in 111 countries | 700 in 34 countries |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, NordLynx, IKEv2/IPsec | OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | ||
| Get NordVPN | Get Avast SecureLine VPN |
We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.
Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.
After comparing both VPNs, NordVPN is truly ahead of the game with features, especially with streaming. It can bypass many restrictions on multiple streaming platforms, leaving SecureLine with no chance of catching up.
On top of that, it offers a staggering amount of servers in countries around the world and had some of the best speed tests results we've seen. All of its features passed our rigorous testing and we were hardly able to find a crack in its armor, besides pricing.
Avast SecureLine did a decent job regarding basic online activities, such as browsing the web, checking emails, sending and receiving messages, purchasing items online, and using social media. It offers bank-grade, AES 256-bit encryption, which helps secure data and online traffic from digital creeps and cybercriminals.
Avast also uses secure tunneling protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic (its proprietary protocol). Additionally, Avast VPN can be used on up to 10 devices, which is great for households with large families.
Unfortunately, it fell short in terms of its pricing, number of servers, no-logs policy, compatibility options, and failed our kill switch test.
Overall, NordVPN is the better value, thanks to its superior features topped off with a two-year option that has lower monthly rates than Avast's three-year equivalent.
Our Pick
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| Price range | $3.39–$15.99/mo | $4.39-$10.99/mo |
| Best value plan | 2-year plan for $3.39/mo (billed every two years) | 3-year plan for $4.39/mo |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 30 days |
| Get NordVPN | Get Avast SecureLine VPN |
Although NordVPN can be expensive when you select a monthly plan, its most affordable option is the two-year plan at $3.39/mo (billed every two years). Meanwhile, Avast SecureLine VPN's best value plan is the three-year plan, which costs slightly more at $4.39/mo.
Nord also has a wider price range considering it offers three different plan tiers with options to pay monthly, annually, and biennially. Avast SecureLine doesn't have an option for monthly payments, but you can purchase a one-year, two-year, or three-year subscription.
Additionally, both VPN providers offer a money-back guarantee, so you can try them risk-free.
NordVPN and Avast SecureLine offer offer various payment options, making it easy you to choose what works best for you. People who prioritize privacy can go with NordVPN and select their cryptocurrency payment options to boost privacy.
Below is a list of payment options that Avast SecureLine VPN and NordVPN offer.
NordVPN is hard to beat in this category, giving us some of the most impressive speeds we've seen during our tests. Avast's results were a bit more typical, but still good.
| Server location | Our Pick
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| US | +45% faster | +19% faster |
| UK | +32% faster | -33% slower |
| AU | +12% faster | -32% slower |
| Get NordVPN | Get Avast SecureLine VPN |
Internet speeds are crucial when assessing VPN services. A good VPN should provide quick, dependable connections without affecting browsing, gaming, or streaming.
NordVPN actually made our speeds better in all three of our test connections. This is usually because our ISP is throttling us or NordVPN was able to make our connection more efficient.
On the other hand, Avast SecureLine was able to get a bit faster while connected to a U.S. server, but got slower when connected to U.K. and Australian servers.
NordVPN is bursting at the seams with extra security features, making it the easy winner in this category.
| Feature | Our Pick
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| Number of servers | 6,400 in 111 countries | 700 in 34 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | Panama | Czech Republic |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), NordLynx (WireGuard), IKEv2/IPsec | OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | ||
| DNS leak protection | ||
| Ad blocker | ||
| Get NordVPN | Get Avast SecureLine VPN |
NordVPN and Avast SecureLine have several differences between them as far as their features. When it comes to server count, NordVPN boasts an extensive network of over 6,400 in 111 countries, whereas Avast SecureLine has over 700 in 34 countries. Having a larger server network can increase the chances of bypassing network blocks worldwide. It can improve performance, but that isn’t always the case as other factors can impact server performance.
Both options offer the main VPN protocols you'd expect, plus a proprietary option that sets them apart. This is NordLynx for NordVPN and Mimic for Avast.
Another notable difference between Avast SecureLine VPN and NordVPN is user privacy. While both VPNs claim to protect user data, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy and has been audited by PwC to verify this claim. In contrast, Avast SecureLine's policy has not been audited, which might be a concern if you who prioritize absolute privacy.
Additionally, NordVPN offers extensive features like specialty servers like Onion over VPN and multihop, smart DNS, ad and tracker blocking, and many more that SecureLine lacks. Both VPNs support torrenting and P2P sharing, but NordVPN takes the lead with streaming support. Whether you're an ordinary internet user, remote worker, torrenter, or gamer, NordVPN has you covered.
NordVPN wins this round thanks to its superior ease of use and customer service reviews.
Our Pick
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| Windows | ||
| macOS | ||
| Android | ||
| iOS | ||
| Linux | ||
| Routers | ||
| Smart devices | ||
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Customer support options | Live chat, email, online guides | Live chat, email, phone, online guides, support forums |
| Get NordVPN | Get Avast SecureLine VPN |
Both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN have user-friendly, intuitive interfaces that make it simple to navigate, connect to servers, and use their features. Whether you're using Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, both VPNs allow you to easily connect to servers and manage your settings with only a few clicks from your fingertips.
However, NordVPN has superior compatibility, as it supports almost any device or operating system. In addition to the standard operating systems, it supports Linux, routers, gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, and smart devices like Fire Stick and Chromecast. However, Avast does offer support for smart TVs like Android TV, NVIDIA Shield TV, and Mi Box.
While neither VPN's interface presented significant challenges, NordVPN's increased platform compatibility makes it a more attractive option for those who need flexible support for multiple platforms or like to switch between different devices.
Both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine offer 24/7 live chat, email, and online guides. Avast also offers phone support and support forums. However, Avast has many reviews on Trustpilot from people disappointed with its customer service because they couldn’t reach anyone by phone or email.
In contrast, NordVPN received positive feedback on Trustpilot when it came to its customer service and was noted for being speedy with their responses. Thus, Nord comes out on top as it delivers prompt customer service.
If you’d like to learn how to cancel an Avast VPN trial, follow these steps carefully:
While NordVPN can prevent Google from seeing your IP address, it does not block Google's tracking services. Consider using privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo and browser plug-ins that prevent trackers so you can further protect your privacy.
Although you can't use Avast SecureLine VPN directly on Fire Stick because it doesn't have a VPN app for Fire Stick, you can still get Avast SecureLine on your device by using the Downloader app on Fire Stick.
By setting up a VPN connection on your router, you can receive Avast SecureLine’s security and privacy on your Fire Stick and the other devices connected to your router.
NordVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for avoiding Netflix’s detection measures. NordVPN has a huge network of servers, offering static IP addresses and dedicated IP addresses. Because of its wide selection of servers and IP addresses, it helps them prevent detection from streaming services like Netflix that block VPNs.
During our testing, NordVPN could unblock all streaming services, unlike Avast SecureLine VPN, which could only access Netflix from its domestic server in Phoenix, Arizona.
NordVPN is the more comprehensive service provider with a wider range of features, such as better streaming support, faster speeds, lower latency, compatibility with a wider range of devices, better customer service, and advanced VPN features.
That said, Avast SecureLine VPN has an easy-to-use interface and speeds good enough for basic tasks like browsing the web, sending and receiving messages, and checking social media. Its two-year plan is a little more expensive than NordVPN's two-year plan, and Netflix is the only major streaming service it can unblock.
Taking everything into account, NordVPN stands out as a well-rounded VPN, making it the clear winner at the finish line.
If you want to see how these two VPNs stand up against some of the other best VPNs available, check out your top three alternatives:
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| Price | $2.19–$17.95/mo | $2.03–$12.99/mo | $6.67–$12.95/mo |
| Free version | |||
| Max # of connected devices | Unlimited | 7 | 8 |
| # of servers | 3,200 in 100 countries | Servers in 100 countries | Servers in 105 countries |
| VPN protocol | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs | No logs |
| Headquarters | The Netherlands | Romania | British Virgin Islands |
| Netflix access | |||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark | Get CyberGhost | Get ExpressVPN |
Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
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