Bitdefender VPN vs. NordVPN 2025: Budget-Friendly vs. Feature-Rich

While Bitdefender is impressive for a VPN that comes bundled with an antivirus, it's hard to compare against the juggernaut that is NordVPN. When comparing head-to-head, NordVPN comes out way on top.

Bitdefender VPN is a straightforward, budget-friendly virtual private network (VPN), particularly beneficial for users already in the Bitdefender ecosystem. It offers a decent server network, a no-logs policy, and essential security features like AES-256 encryption.

NordVPN is a comprehensive VPN solution with a broader range of features. It boasts a larger server network, advanced security protocols like NordLynx, and superior performance in streaming and speed tests, justifying its slightly higher price range.

We'll go over both VPNs in detail so you can decide which is the best VPN service for you.

Bitdefender VPN vs. NordVPN at a glance

The choice between Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN ultimately hinges on individual needs — whether you want Bitdefender VPN’s affordability and ease of use or NordVPN’s enhanced versatility and robust features.

• Bitdefender VPN: Best for a user-friendly, affordable VPN
• NordVPN: Best for a comprehensive VPN 

		Our Pick
Starting price	$2.92/mo	$2.99/mo
Star rating	4.6 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	5.0 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Max # of connected devices	10	10
24/7 customer support
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Firefox
# of servers	3,000+ servers in 100+ countries	8,600+ servers in 120+ countries
VPN protocol	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2	OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard), IKEv2/IPsec
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?
Learn more	Get Bitdefender VPN Read Bitdefender VPN Review	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

Bitdefender VPN pros and cons

Bitdefender VPN is included with all Bitdefender antivirus plans. The basic antivirus plans offer Bitdefender VPN with a 200 MB traffic limit, while the Bitdefender all-in-one plans offer the VPN with unlimited traffic.

You can also purchase Bitdefender VPN on its own, with an affordable starting price of $2.92/mo for an annual plan. Although some antivirus VPNs can be limited with their server networks and features, Bitdefender VPN has impressive offerings. Its has thousands of servers in its network with 100+ countries countries to choose from. 

We also like that Bitdefender VPN has had its no-logs policy audited, so you can ensure your data remains private.

NordVPN pros and cons

NordVPN stands out because it does just about everything right. Its network has quickly expanded to 8,600+ servers in 120+ countries, which should cover all your server needs. Its pricing is still affordable, with a starting price of $2.99/mo. 

NordVPN is also dedicated to user privacy, with a privacy-friendly headquarters in Panama, an audited no-logs policy, and useful features like double VPN servers and dark web monitoring. 

Although Bitdefender VPN is a fanastic additions for Bitdefender antivirus users, NordVPN caters to a broader audience. It provides extensive device compatibility, stronger streaming support, and overall better performance in speed tests.

Which VPN is the better value?

While Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN have very similar pricing structures, NordVPN wins this section because of the sheer amount of features you get to elevate your VPN experience.

		Our Pick
Price range	$2.92–$6.99/mo	$2.99–$17.99/mo
Best value plan	1-year plan for $2.92/mo	2-year plan for $2.99/mo
Money-back guarantee	Yes — 30 days	Yes — 30 days
Learn more	Get Bitdefender VPN Read Bitdefender VPN Review	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

Bitdefender VPN has an affordable pricing range, and its most cost-effective option is the annual plan. This plan is particularly appealing due to its balance of affordability and feature inclusivity. 

On the other hand, NordVPN's price range is slightly broader. Its best value lies in the two-year plan. It’s an attractive offer for users seeking a longer-term commitment with a reputable VPN provider known for its extensive features and robust security measures.

Both VPNs also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. This provides a risk-free opportunity for users to test their services.

Bitdefender VPN vs. NordVPN: Payment options

Flexible, secure payment options for a VPN service are crucial. Both Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN accommodate various preferences like credit cards and online payment processors. Nord also allows you to pay with cryptocurrencies, which enhances privacy, enabling transactions without linking to personal banking details.

Bitdefender VPN payment options

• Credit card
• Debit card
• Paypal
• Wire transfer

NordVPN payment options

• Credit or debit cards
• PayPal
• Google Pay
  
• Cryptocurrencies (bitcoin, ethereum, and more)
  

Which VPN is faster?

We've been testing both VPNs regularly for years, and NordVPN has consistently come out on top — sometimes even increasing our internet speeds.

		Our Pick
Average download speed difference	23% slower	13% slower
Learn more	Get Bitdefender VPN Read Bitdefender VPN Review	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

Understanding how a VPN server affects internet speed is crucial, as it can impact streaming, gaming, or downloading large files. Typically, VPNs slow down your speeds because they're routing your internet traffic through a server. Our testing methodology involved connecting the two VPNs in various locations (U.S., Canada, U.K., and Australia) and measuring the percentage change in download speed compared to a non-VPN connection.

While Bitdefender VPN slows down our speeds, NordVPN has actually increased our speed in the past. Our speeds nearly doubled with the U.S. and U.K. servers, while the U.K. and Australian servers still decently increased our speeds.

Which VPN is more secure?

While both VPNs are safe, NordVPN pulls ahead thanks to its extra security features.

Feature		Our Pick
Number of servers	3,000+ servers in 100+ countries	8,600+ servers in 120+ countries
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs
VPN headquarters	Romania and the United States	Panama
Encryption	AES-256	AES-256-GCM
VPN protocol	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2	OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard), IKEv2/IPsec
Kill switch
Split tunneling
DNS leak protection
Ad blocker
Learn more	Get Bitdefender VPN Read Bitdefender VPN Review	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

Bitdefender VPN offers a great network with 3,000+ servers in 100+ countries. This is impressive but falls short of NordVPN's more expansive network of over 8,600+ servers in 120+ countries. This larger network can provide NordVPN users with more options for global connectivity and potentially better speeds.

Both VPNs adhere to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy. It's essential to note that Bitdefender VPN's no-logs policy, backed by Pango, was audited by Aon Cyber Solutions, while NordVPN's claim has been independently audited by Deloitte, adding an extra layer of trust and transparency.

Both VPNs utilize AES-256 encryption, which is considered military-grade. However, in terms of VPN protocols, NordVPN offers a slightly wider range with OpenVPN, NordLynx (based on WireGuard), and IKEv2/IPsec, compared to Bitdefender's WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. 

NordLynx is Nord's tech built around WireGuard for faster connections.

Both also have other features that ensure a baseline of functionality important for most VPN users:

• Kill switch
• Split tunneling
• Netflix support

These features are crucial for maintaining security and flexibility in various use scenarios, like secure browsing, streaming geo-restricted content, and safe torrenting.

Which VPN has better compatibility and customer support?

Both VPNs perform well in this category, but NordVPN edges ahead.

		Our Pick
Windows
macOS
Android
iOS
Linux
Routers
Smart devices
Browser extensions		Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge
24/7 customer support
Customer support options	Live chat, phone, email, forums, online guides	Live chat, email, online guides
Learn more	Get Bitdefender VPN Read Bitdefender VPN Review	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

In terms of user experience, both Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN boast interfaces that are easy to navigate and intuitive, even for those who might be new to using VPNs.

Bitdefender VPN's integration is seamless, particularly for users already within the Bitdefender ecosystem. The VPN setup process is straightforward, requiring minimal system settings adjustments to start. 

Once installed, the VPN functions smoothly, with essential settings and options readily accessible. This user-friendliness aligns well with Bitdefender's general approach of providing uncomplicated, effective security solutions.

Similarly, NordVPN stands out with its exceptionally user-friendly interface, often cited as one of the best in the market. Its clean and intuitive design makes it easy for users to select servers, adjust settings, and understand their connection status at a glance. This ease of use significantly affects NordVPN's popularity and user satisfaction.

Regarding customer support, both Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN offer 24/7 support, ensuring users can receive assistance at any time. This is especially beneficial for those who rely on VPNs for critical tasks or encounter issues outside standard business hours. Both services provide a range of support options, including live chat, email, forums, and online guides.

Top alternatives

If these options don't quite meet your needs, here are a few Bitdefender VPN and NordVPN alternatives worth considering, each with its unique set of features and benefits:

FAQs

Bitdefender VPN vs. NordVPN: Which is better?

For a feature-rich VPN with wide compatibility, advanced security, and reliable streaming support, NordVPN is the recommended choice. Despite the slightly higher cost, its comprehensive offerings and proven track record make it one of the best VPNs available on the market. 

Bitdefender VPN stands out for its affordability and ease of use, making it a straightforward VPN solution for those already in the Bitdefender ecosystem. However, its smaller server network and limited compatibility with Linux and routers may restrict those needing more comprehensive coverage.