Best NordVPN Alternatives of 2026: Are Any Actually Better?

NordVPN is one of our favorite VPN services, but it won't be the best fit for everyone. You might want a lower price, unlimited device connections, a free plan, or a VPN with an even stronger focus on privacy. We've tested over 50 VPNs to find the best alternatives. Surfshark is our top pick for overall value, combining affordable plans with unlimited connections. 

Proton VPN is best for privacy, thanks to its Swiss headquarters, open-source apps, and independently audited no-logs policy. ExpressVPN is a strong choice for streaming, particularly on devices that don't support VPN apps. And Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out for affordability, with unlimited connections and servers in all 50 U.S. states.

Here's how these four NordVPN alternatives compare, including where NordVPN still has the advantage.

The best NordVPN alternatives 2026

Each of these VPNs offers something different from NordVPN. Surfshark and PIA are appealing if you want to spend less or cover more devices, Proton VPN puts privacy and transparency first, and ExpressVPN makes streaming on different devices easier.

Compare the best NordVPN alternatives

NordVPN remains a strong all-around VPN, so we've included it alongside our recommendations. Compare the starting prices, device limits, privacy features, and other benefits to see whether switching makes sense for you.

Best for	Security and performance	Value	Privacy	Streaming and device compatibility	Budgets
Starting price	$3.49/mo	$2.49/mo	$2.99/mo	$2.99/mo	$2.19/mo
Free plan
Max connected devices	10	Unlimited	10	14	Unlimited
Server network	8,400+ servers in 160+ countries	4,500+ servers in 100 countries	20,700+ servers in 149 countries	Unlisted in 112 countries, with locations in all 50 U.S. states	Unlisted in 91 countries, with locations in all 50 U.S. states
VPN protocols	NordLynx, OpenVPN, NordWhisper	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2	WireGuard, OpenVPN, Stealth, IKEv2	Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPsec
Audited no-logs policy
Ad and tracker blocking
Money-back guarantee	30 days	30 days	30 days on paid plans	30 days	30 days
Key advantage	Fast historical performance, specialty servers, and security extras	Unlimited connections and strong value	Swiss privacy protections, open-source apps, and a free plan	MediaStreamer and broad device compatibility	Low long-term pricing and servers in every U.S. state
Learn more	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review	Get Proton VPN Read Proton VPN Review	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review	Get PIA Read PIA Review

Surfshark: Best overall value

Who it's best for

Surfshark is a great choice for anyone who wants a full-featured VPN at a lower price than NordVPN, especially households with a lot of devices. Its unlimited simultaneous connections are the biggest reason to choose Surfshark over NordVPN.

With plans starting at $2.49/mo, Surfshark delivers a strong combination of affordability, security, and performance. It also includes features like CleanWeb and Alternative ID, making it more than a basic VPN.

What we liked

There's a lot to like about Surfshark. Here are some of the standout features.

• Price: Surfshark is one of the more affordable premium VPNs. Its introductory plans generally cost less than NordVPN's, making it an appealing alternative if you're trying to save money without sacrificing essential security features.
• Devices and compatibility: Surfshark lets you connect unlimited devices simultaneously, compared to NordVPN's device limit. It's compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, browsers, smart TVs, and other platforms.
• Performance: Surfshark has delivered strong results in our speed testing, with relatively little average download speed loss across multiple testing rounds. It's a good option for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
• Extra features: Surfshark includes CleanWeb for blocking ads and trackers, Camouflage Mode for obfuscation, and Alternative ID for creating an alternative online identity. Higher-tier plans can add antivirus protection and other security tools.

What we didn't like

We don't have a ton of complaints with Surfshark, but it's not perfect. Some extras, including antivirus protection, require a higher-tier subscription. That means you'll want to compare the specific plans, not just the advertised starting prices.

Surfshark is also headquartered in the Netherlands, part of the Nine Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. Its audited no-logs policy helps address privacy concerns, but people who prioritize jurisdiction may prefer Proton VPN's Swiss headquarters.

Surfshark specs

Price range	$2.49–$21.85/mo
Money-back guarantee	30 days
Number of servers	4,500+ servers in 100 countries
Number of connected devices	Unlimited
Average speed change	-8% slower
VPN protocols	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
No-logs policy	No logs; independently audited
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review

Test results

Star rating summary

NordVPN vs. Surfshark: Key differences

• Price: Surfshark generally offers a lower starting price than NordVPN, particularly on longer subscriptions.
• Device connections: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it better suited to larger households.
• Speed: Both performed well in our testing, but NordVPN has historically had a smaller average impact on download speeds.
• Security features: NordVPN offers specialty options like Double VPN and Onion over VPN, while Surfshark provides Alternative ID and unlimited connections.

Proton VPN: Best for privacy

Who it's best for

Proton VPN is our recommendation for privacy-conscious users who value transparency, open-source software, and strong legal protections. It's also a great option if you want to try a trustworthy free VPN before paying for a subscription.

Proton VPN's Swiss headquarters, independently audited no-logs policy, and open-source apps make it a compelling privacy-focused alternative to NordVPN. Its Secure Core servers add another layer of protection, while its Stealth protocol is designed to help users connect on restrictive networks.

What we liked

• Privacy and transparency: Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, outside the major intelligence-sharing alliances. Its apps are open source, and its no-logs policy has undergone independent auditing, including a September 2025 assessment by Securitum.
• Free plan: Unlike NordVPN, Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data. It's more limited than Proton's paid subscriptions, but it's a useful option if you don't need premium streaming, server selection, or multiple simultaneous connections.
• Advanced privacy features: Secure Core routes traffic through additional privacy-focused servers, while Stealth disguises VPN traffic to help bypass network restrictions.
• Streaming and security testing: Proton VPN unblocked all four Netflix regions in our September 2026 tests and passed our DNS leak, WebRTC leak, and kill switch tests.

What we didn't like

Proton VPN can cost more than Surfshark and PIA, particularly on longer-term plans. Its free version also comes with limitations, including fewer server choices and one device connection. You'll need a paid plan for the full set of features.

And while Proton VPN performed well in our most recent U.S. server tests, its historical average download speed impact is greater than NordVPN's. If speed is your top priority, NordVPN remains difficult to beat.

Proton VPN specs

Price range	$2.99–$9.99/mo
Free plan	Yes; unlimited data
Money-back guarantee	30 days on paid plans
Number of servers	20,700+ servers in 149 countries
Number of connected devices	10 on paid plans
Average speed change	-13% slower
VPN protocols	WireGuard, OpenVPN, Stealth, IKEv2
No-logs policy	No logs; independently audited
Headquarters	Switzerland
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes, on supported paid servers
Learn more	Get Proton VPN Read Proton VPN Review

Test results

Star rating summary

NordVPN vs. Proton VPN: Key differences

• Privacy: Both VPNs have independently audited no-logs policies. Proton VPN adds Swiss jurisdiction and open-source apps, while NordVPN operates from Panama and has a long record of third-party audits.
• Free plan: Proton VPN offers a free tier with unlimited data; NordVPN doesn't have a free plan.
• Advanced features: Proton VPN offers Secure Core and Stealth, while NordVPN has Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and NordWhisper.
• Performance: NordVPN has maintained a smaller historical average speed loss, although Proton VPN performed strongly in its September 2026 tests.

ExpressVPN: Best for streaming

Who it's best for

ExpressVPN is ideal for people who want a straightforward VPN that works across a wide range of devices and streaming services. It's especially useful if you watch content on smart TVs, gaming consoles, or other devices that don't support traditional VPN apps.

ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer Smart DNS feature is one of its biggest advantages for streaming compatibility. While NordVPN also supports streaming on many platforms, ExpressVPN makes it easier to use supported streaming devices that can't install a VPN directly.

What we liked

Here are our favorite ExpressVPN features.

• Device compatibility: ExpressVPN works with Windows, Mac, smartphones, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Its MediaStreamer feature extends streaming support to devices that can't run a VPN app, although it doesn't encrypt traffic like a VPN connection.
• Strong privacy: ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology, which runs its VPN servers on RAM rather than traditional hard drives. Its no-logs policy has also undergone independent verification.
• Streaming support: ExpressVPN works with popular platforms like Netflix and other streaming services. Our testing has found it effective for accessing regional content, making it a strong choice for frequent streamers.
• Ease of use: ExpressVPN's apps are straightforward to navigate, and its Lightway protocol is designed to provide fast, reliable connections without requiring much configuration.

What we didn't like

ExpressVPN isn't the best choice if you're trying to get the most features for the lowest price. Its Basic plan has a lower starting price than ExpressVPN previously offered, but some extras are reserved for higher subscription tiers.

That means you'll need to compare plans carefully if you want more simultaneous device connections, additional protection features, or the full suite of ExpressVPN tools. Surfshark and PIA also offer unlimited connections, making them more flexible for large households.

ExpressVPN specs

Price range	$2.99–$22.99/mo
Money-back guarantee	30 days
Number of servers	Unlisted in 112 countries
Number of connected devices	Varies by plan
Average speed change	-12% slower
VPN protocols	Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard
No-logs policy	No logs; independently audited
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review

Test results

Star rating summary

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN: Key differences

• Streaming devices: ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer feature is useful for streaming on devices that can't run VPN apps. It doesn't provide the encryption of a regular VPN connection.
• Ease of use: ExpressVPN emphasizes straightforward apps and setup, while NordVPN offers more specialty servers and advanced security configurations.
• Speed: NordVPN has historically had a smaller average impact on download speeds in our testing.
• Value: ExpressVPN's newer subscription tiers offer more pricing choices, but Surfshark and PIA are generally more attractive if unlimited connections are a priority.

Private Internet Access: Best for affordability

Who it's best for

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the most affordable VPNs available, especially if you're comfortable signing up for a longer subscription. It's also a good choice for people who want unlimited simultaneous connections or access to VPN servers in specific U.S. states.

PIA's low introductory price and unlimited device coverage make it an appealing budget alternative to NordVPN. It also has servers in all 50 U.S. states, which can be particularly useful for accessing region-specific services.

What we liked

Although affordability is its main selling point, PIA has a lot more going for it. Here's what we like about this VPN.

• Price: PIA's longer-term subscriptions are among the most affordable we've seen, with plans starting at $2.19/mo. That makes it an appealing option if your main reason for leaving NordVPN is cost.
• Unlimited devices: Like Surfshark, PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect your household's devices without worrying about NordVPN's connection limit.
• U.S. server coverage: PIA has server locations in all 50 states. That's useful if you need to connect through a particular state for regional streaming or other location-dependent services.
• Privacy and security: PIA has an independently audited no-logs policy and passed our DNS leak, WebRTC leak, and kill switch tests. It also successfully unblocked the four Netflix regions we tested in February 2026.

What we didn't like

PIA's biggest drawback in our latest testing was speed. During our February 2026 tests, connecting to a U.S. server reduced download speeds by approximately 34%, and more distant connections produced even larger slowdowns. Its historical average also trails NordVPN's.

PIA is also headquartered in the United States, which is part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. Its independently audited no-logs policy helps address privacy concerns, but users who prioritize jurisdiction may prefer Proton VPN or NordVPN.

Finally, PIA's lowest advertised price generally requires a longer subscription commitment. If you don't want to commit for multiple years, compare its shorter-term plans before signing up.

PIA specs

Price range	$2.19–$11.95/mo
Money-back guarantee	30 days
Number of server locations	Locations in all 50 U.S. states and 91 countries
Number of connected devices	Unlimited
Average speed change	-42% slower
VPN protocols	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPsec
No-logs policy	No logs; independently audited
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get PIA Read PIA Review

Test results

Star rating summary

NordVPN vs. PIA: Key differences

• Price: PIA typically offers a lower starting price than NordVPN, especially on its longest subscription.
• Device connections: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections, while NordVPN has a device limit.
• U.S. coverage: PIA offers server locations in all 50 U.S. states, making it especially useful for state-specific connections.
• Speed: NordVPN has performed substantially better in our historical speed testing. PIA's latest results also showed noticeable slowdowns, particularly on distant servers.
• Jurisdiction: NordVPN is based in Panama, while PIA operates from the United States. Both maintain independently audited no-logs policies.

Speed tests

VPNs route your traffic through additional servers, which can affect your internet speed. The size of that change depends on the server location, your original connection, and other network conditions.

We measure download speeds without a VPN and then compare them with results from VPN servers in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia. Instead of relying on a single U.S. server test, the table below uses each VPN's historical average download speed change from our testing.

	Average download speed change
	-2% slower
	-8% slower
	-13% slower
	-12% slower
	-42% slower

Based on our historical testing, NordVPN has had the smallest average impact on download speeds, with Surfshark and ExpressVPN also performing well. Proton VPN has generally maintained usable speeds, although results vary by server location.

PIA has shown larger average slowdowns, so it may be less appealing if you're regularly downloading large files or connecting to distant servers. However, all VPN speed results depend on your own connection and the server you choose.

Why look for an alternative to NordVPN?

NordVPN remains one of the most secure VPNs available. It combines strong security features, specialty servers, and excellent performance. But that doesn't mean it's the right choice for every household or budget.

If you're looking to switch, the most compelling reasons are:

• You want unlimited connections: Surfshark and PIA let you connect as many devices as you need under one subscription, which can be more convenient for families and larger households.
• You want a free VPN: Proton VPN offers a genuinely useful free plan with unlimited data. NordVPN doesn't offer a permanent free tier.
• You prioritize privacy transparency: Proton VPN's Swiss headquarters, open-source apps, and audited no-logs policy make it an attractive choice for privacy-focused users.
• You stream on devices without VPN apps: ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer feature can help with streaming compatibility on supported smart TVs and gaming consoles.
• You want to pay less: Surfshark offers strong overall value, while PIA's longer-term plans can be particularly inexpensive.

That said, NordVPN may still be worth keeping if you're happy with its performance and regularly use features like Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection Pro, or NordWhisper. Learn more in our guide to whether NordVPN is worth the price.

Bottom line: The best NordVPN alternatives

Surfshark is our top NordVPN alternative for most people because it combines affordable pricing, strong security, and unlimited simultaneous connections. It's particularly appealing if you want to protect more devices without paying for multiple subscriptions.

Proton VPN is our pick for privacy. Its Swiss headquarters, open-source apps, audited no-logs policy, and Secure Core features give privacy-conscious users compelling reasons to choose it over NordVPN. It's also the only alternative on our list with a permanent free plan.

ExpressVPN is worth considering if streaming compatibility and straightforward apps are your priorities. Its MediaStreamer feature is particularly useful on devices that can't install VPN software directly.

Private Internet Access is the budget pick, offering low long-term prices, unlimited connections, and server locations across all 50 U.S. states. Just keep in mind that its speed results haven't been as strong as NordVPN's.

NordVPN remains an excellent all-around choice, but the best alternative depends on which features matter most to you. See our full best VPNs roundup for more recommendations and testing results.

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