NordVPN vs Proton VPN: which VPN wins in 2026?
We tested NordVPN and Proton VPN head-to-head on every criterion in our vpn methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Proton VPN wins overall
Based on 6 vpn criteria: NordVPN wins 1, Proton VPN wins 2, 3 tied.
NordVPN
1
criteria won
Proton VPN
Winner2
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | NordVPN | Proton VPN | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Published audits | 6 | 4 | NordVPN |
| Most recent audit (year) | 2025 | 2025 | โ |
| Eyes status | Panama (none) | Switzerland (none) | โ |
| 2-year price ($/mo) | $3.39 | $2.99 | Proton VPN |
| Refund window (days) | 30 | 30 | โ |
| Open-source apps | No | Yes | Proton VPN |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | NordVPN | Proton VPN | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 months | $3 | $3 | Proton VPN |
| 12 months | $41 | $36 | Proton VPN |
| 24 months | $81 | $72 | Proton VPN |