Overview Summary:
This Proton VPN review covers privacy, speed, features, streaming support, and device compatibility. We add real comparisons to help you decide if Proton VPN is worth it in 2026.
Proton VPN Features Overview
Feature | Details |
Owned Company Name | Proton AG |
Geographical Location | Switzerland |
Does Privacy Policy Impose Govt Oversight | Strong no-logs policy audited independently |
Countries with Servers | |
Simultaneous Connections | |
Streaming Supported | |
Torrenting Supported | |
Works in Russia? | |
Works in China? | |
Works in the Middle East? | Yes |
Free VPN Available? | |
Customer Support Available? | Yes (priority support on paid tiers) |
Routers Supported? | |
Extensions Available? | |
AdBlocker Available? | |
Dedicated IP Available? | |
Antimalware Protection Available? |
Proton VPN – Rating Table (out of 100)
Criterion | Max Points | Score | Notes |
Jurisdiction & Privacy Policy | 10 | 10 | |
Server Network | 10 | 10 | 15,000+ servers across 120+ countries |
Offered Apps & Device Compatibility | 10 | 9 | Strong cross-platform apps, minor Linux/UI inconsistencies |
Speed | 10 | 8 | |
Protocol Selection | 10 | 10 | |
Additional Features | 10 | 9 | |
Streaming Compatibility | 10 | 9 | Works with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, iPlayer |
Refund Policy | 5 | 5 | |
Free or Trial VPN | 5 | 5 | |
Simultaneous Connections | 5 | 4 | |
Customer Support | 5 | 4 | Priority support paid, limited live chat compared to rivals |
Total Score: 93/100
(A strong, privacy-centric VPN with excellent security, large server network, and solid performance.)
In-Depth Proton VPN Review Based on Key Criteria
- Jurisdiction & Privacy Policy
Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, a strong privacy jurisdiction outside major surveillance alliances. Its strict no-logs policy has been independently audited (SOC 2 Type II in 2026) and reinforced through transparent practices. Switzerland’s strict data-protection laws mean authorities must follow due process for requests. - Server Network
Proton VPN boasts one of the largest server networks with 15,000+ servers across 120+ countries. This broad footprint ensures global access and more options for users. The network is self-managed, meaning Proton operates the hardware, reducing third-party risk. - Apps & Device Compatibility
Proton VPN supports all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux) and includes browser extensions. Recent updates improved usability with profiles and widgets. While generally polished, some advanced features on Linux/macOS can lag behind competitors. - Speed
Proton VPN delivers strong speeds with WireGuard. Independent tests show high throughput locally and adequate long-distance performance. Enabling Secure Core (double hop) provides privacy at the cost of speed. Overall, Proton’s performance competes well with Surfshark and NordVPN for everyday use. - Protocol Selection
Proton VPN offers multiple protocols:
- WireGuard – fast and efficient
- OpenVPN – high compatibility
- IKEv2/IPSec – mobile stability
- Stealth / Alternate Routing – helps bypass blocks
This flexibility supports both speed and security across scenarios.
- Additional Security Features
Proton VPN includes:
- Secure Core (multi-hop routing) for enhanced privacy
- NetShield ad, tracker, malware filtering
- Tor Over VPN access for deep anonymity
- DNS leak protection
These features place Proton among the most privacy-oriented VPNs.
- Streaming Compatibility
Proton VPN works with major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It can handle HD and 4K, though occasional server switching may be needed for geo-restrictions — similar to other premium VPNs. - Refund Policy
A 30-day money-back guarantee allows testing the full service risk-free. This is standard among top VPN providers. - Free or Trial VPN Option
Proton VPN’s free plan stands out with unlimited data and decent privacy, though limited to a few countries and smaller speeds. The free tier is more generous than most free VPNs, making it ideal for casual users. - Simultaneous Connections
Proton VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous devices. This is good but fewer than Surfshark’s unlimited connections. - Customer Support
Support includes priority channels for paid users, email, and knowledge base resources. Live chat exists but isn’t as widely available as Surfshark’s 24/7 support.
Expert Notes & Highlights
- Swiss privacy pedigree sets Proton apart.
- Massive server network with strong global reach.
- Free tier with unlimited data is rare and useful.
- Secure Core & Tor support bolster anonymity.
- Good streaming and torrenting performance.
Verdict: Where Proton VPN Excels – And Where It Falls Short
Strengths
✔ Exceptional privacy focus and audited no-logs policy
✔ Large server network with global coverage
✔ Free plan with no data caps
✔ Strong security features (Secure Core, NetShield, Tor)
Weaknesses
✖ More expensive than some competitors
✖ Secure Core can reduce speed
✖ Support less accessible than some rivals
Proton VPN vs Competitors (Quick Comparison)
Proton VPN vs NordVPN
- Proton offers a larger server network; NordVPN excels in streaming and slightly faster speeds. NordVPN includes more advanced tools like Meshnet. Privacy and transparency are strong for both.
Proton VPN vs Surfshark
- Proton provides a free plan and stronger privacy tools (Secure Core, Tor). Surfshark is cheaper and offers unlimited device support and faster unblocking for streaming.
Is Proton VPN Worth It?
- Great for users who value privacy first
- Excellent choice for streaming, torrenting, and global access
- Free plan is ideal for casual VPN users
- Not the cheapest choice for budget-focused buyers
Overall: Proton VPN is a highly recommended VPN in 2026 for privacy-centric users and anyone who wants strong security, a large server network, and the flexibility of a generous free tier.
Proton VPN 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is Proton VPN safe to use?
Yes. Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption, audited no-logs policy, Secure Core routing, and advanced protocols for strong protection. - Can I stream Netflix and other platforms with Proton VPN?
Yes. Proton VPN can unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and more with HD/4K performance. - Does Proton VPN work in China or Russia?
Yes. With Stealth and alternate routing, Proton VPN can bypass censorship in restrictive regions. - How fast is Proton VPN?
Proton VPN delivers strong WireGuard speeds, with high local throughput; double-hop Secure Core slows performance for added privacy. - How many devices can I connect simultaneously?
Up to 10 devices on paid plans. - Does Proton VPN offer a free plan?
Yes. The free tier offers unlimited data and basic security, ideal for browsing protection. - What extra security features does Proton VPN include?
Secure Core, NetShield ad and tracker blocking, Tor over VPN, DNS leak protection. - Is Proton VPN good for torrenting?
Yes. Paid plans include P2P support and port forwarding for smoother torrenting.
Pricing Plan
- 1 month $9.99 ($9.99/mo)
- 12 months $47.88 ($3.99/mo)
- 24 months $71.76 ($2.99/mo)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited Free Plan Available
- 120 countries + Unlimited devices