15 Best Proton VPN Alternatives: Faster, Safer, and More Affordable Choices

Why do people search for Proton VPN alternatives? The answer goes beyond simple comparison-it’s about finding a VPN that aligns perfectly with individual privacy needs, streaming habits, and performance expectations. Proton VPN is widely respected for its strong security and transparency, but not every user needs the same level of privacy tools or prefers its interface, pricing, or server structure. Some want faster streaming access, others need simpler apps, and many look for budget-friendly options without compromising protection.

The VPN landscape is evolving rapidly, with dozens of providers offering competitive speeds, advanced unblocking capabilities, specialized privacy features, and flexible subscriptions. Exploring Proton VPN alternatives helps users discover the exact balance of security, usability, and performance they’re looking for.

What is Proton VPN?

Proton VPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network service developed by the team behind Proton Mail, a well-known encrypted email platform. It is designed to protect users’ online anonymity by encrypting internet traffic, hiding IP addresses, and preventing third-party tracking. 

Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from strong privacy laws and operates under a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user activity is never recorded or shared. The service offers secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, along with features such as Secure Core servers, NetShield ad-blocking, and kill switch protection. 

Known for its strong security standards and transparency, Proton VPN is popular among users seeking reliable privacy, safe browsing, and unrestricted access to global content.

Quick Comparison 

Name	Pros	Cons
OpenVPN Access Server	Offers full self-hosted control, making it ideal for organizations needing complete administrative oversight.	Requires technical expertise, making it less suitable for non-technical everyday users.
PrivateVPN	Excellent streaming access across multiple global platforms despite its smaller server network.	Fewer server locations compared to larger VPN competitors.
GoodAccess	Tailored Zero Trust architecture gives businesses granular, identity-based access control.	Not optimized for streaming, torrenting, or general entertainment use.
IPVanish	Unlimited simultaneous device support makes it perfect for large households.	Inconsistent unblocking capability for some global streaming platforms.
PrivadoVPN	One of the best free VPN tiers for streaming, outperforming most freemium competitors.	Smaller server network results in occasional congestion during peak hours.
Hide.me VPN	Offers advanced privacy tools like MultiHop and Stealth Guard even on simple plans.	Free plan comes with data limitations and speed restrictions.
Windscribe VPN	Highly customizable privacy filters with R.O.B.E.R.T. make it great for ad and tracker control.	Server speeds can be inconsistent depending on region.
Private Internet Access (PIA)	Extremely customizable security settings ideal for technical power users.	Advanced interface may feel overwhelming to beginners.
CyberGhost VPN	Specialized streaming servers offer excellent unblocking with minimal effort.	Occasionally slower on long-distance connections compared to competitors.
Mullvad VPN	Anonymous, no-email registration delivers unmatched privacy for high-risk users.	Weak performance for unblocking major streaming platforms.
Ivacy VPN	Offers strong unblocking across Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more at a low price.	Interface feels outdated compared to modern competitors.
Hotspot Shield VPN	Catapult Hydra protocol delivers some of the fastest speeds among consumer VPNs.	Long-standing concerns about privacy practices still affect user trust.
ExpressVPN	Lightway protocol provides exceptionally stable, fast, and reliable performance globally.	Premium pricing makes it less accessible for budget-conscious users.
Surfshark	Unlimited device connections offer unmatched convenience for families and multi-device users.	Speeds may occasionally dip on MultiHop and obfuscated servers.
NordVPN	Robust security suite (Threat Protection, Double VPN, Dark Web Monitoring) provides all-in-one protection.	Slightly higher pricing compared to mid-range VPN competitors.

List of 15 Best Proton VPN Alternatives

1. OpenVPN Access Server

OpenVPN Access Server is a technical Proton VPN alternative that is available to individuals and companies seeking to fully control their VPN configuration. Rather than providing a hosted VPN service, OpenVPN offers server software, which can be committed to cloud instances or locally available computers. 

It is based on industry-leading OpenVPN protocol to make secure and encrypted connections and provides granular access control. It is a perfect solution in cases where businesses require internal network security as well as those individuals who desire personal privacy solutions that are self-hosted. 

Although it needs more setup knowledge than consumer VPN applications, OpenVPN Access Server is infinitely flexible, secure, and customizable to advanced users and IT settings.

Website: https://openvpn.net/

Key Features:

• Self-hosted VPN deployment for full administrative control.
• Supports granular user permissions and advanced access management.
• Strong OpenVPN protocol ensures secure encrypted network tunnels.
• Compatible with major cloud platforms for scalable deployments.
• Centralized dashboard for monitoring connections and server activity.

Pricing:

• Growth– $7/month

2. PrivateVPN

One of the alternatives to the Proton VPN that prioritizes simplicity, affordability, and good privacy protection is PrivateVPN. It is based in Sweden and provides AES-256 encryption, the OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, and a zero-logs policy. 

By having servers in 63+ countries, PrivateVPN allows streaming (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime) and P2P/torrenting authorization in most of the locations. Its apps are lightweight and can be used on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux and serve up to 10 devices at once. 

Although it does not rival the massive server systems of major brands, its value-based packages, simple installation, and high performance make it an attractive option to ordinary consumers.

Website: https://www.privatevpn.com/

Key Features:

• Military-grade AES-256 encryption safeguarding all user data. 
• Strict no-logs policy ensures no tracking of user browsing activities. 
• Stealth/VPN-obfuscation mode for bypassing firewalls in restrictive regions. 
• Supports up to 10 simultaneous devices across major platforms. 
• Global server locations spanning 60+ countries for geo-unblocking. 

Pricing:

• 1 Months– $9.90/mo
• 36 Months– $2.00/mo
• 3 Months– $6.00/mo

3. GoodAccess

GoodAccess is a business-oriented VPN and one of the top Proton VPN Alternatives, designed to provide secure access for remote teams. It offers distributed workforce-appropriate cloud-based VPN, Zero Trust controls, identity management, and threat monitoring.

GoodAccess focuses on access control, team-specific permissions, and private gateways, rather than streaming or torrents. Its intuitive dashboard allows IT teams to set up secure access policies without installing hardware.

Although not ideal for daily entertainment, GoodAccess excels in enterprise-level cybersecurity and remote access control, making it perfect for companies handling sensitive business information and cloud computing.

Website: https://www.goodaccess.com/

Key Features:

• Business-focused cloud VPN enabling secure team-based connectivity.
• Zero Trust controls managing identity and resource access.
• Private gateways securing company networks without hardware.
• Easy dashboard simplifying configuration for non-technical administrators.
• Threat monitoring provides continuous protection across remote environments.

Pricing:

• Essential– $9 per user / month
• Premium– $14 per user / month

4. IPVanish

IPVanish is a universal proton VPN that has gained popularity among streaming and fire TV users because of its high speeds and the ability to add an unlimited number of devices. It has a huge network all over the globe and has provided the facility to be regularly accessible with ease of accessibility to browse, torrent, and HD streaming. 

IPVanish has AES-256 and wireguard encryption which makes it very secure and performs well. Its advanced settings and live connection statistics are more attractive to advanced users, whereas a simple application interface is valued by the beginners. 

IPVanish is a good choice to use by a household that requires unlimited connections and good speed of multiple devices at the same time, even though it is not as powerful as the best VPNs in the market to break through some platforms.

Website: https://www.ipvanish.com/

Key Features:

• Unlimited device connections supporting entire households securely.
• WireGuard protocol provides fast, stable, high-performance connections.
• Real-time metrics for monitoring encryption and connection details.
• Large global server network optimized for streaming needs.
• AES-256 encryption protecting browsing, data transfers, and streaming activities.

Pricing:

• IPVANISH ADVANCED– $3.29/mo
• IPVANISH ESSENTIAL– $2.19/mo

5. PrivadoVPN

PrivadoVPN is a new Proton VPN Alternative that offers a great price, strong privacy standards, and impressive unblocking features, even in its free version. Located in Switzerland, it follows stringent data-protection regulations and uses secure protocols like WireGuard for high-speed and stable performance.

The free plan of PrivadoVPN includes high-quality streaming, making it an attractive option in the freemium segment. Its premium plan further expands server access, provides unlimited data, and delivers top speeds.

With easy-to-use and user-friendly applications, PrivadoVPN is ideal for beginners. It stands out as one of the best Proton VPN Alternatives for users on a budget who want reliable privacy, streaming access, and overall functionality.

Website: https://privadovpn.com/

Key Features:

• Switzerland jurisdiction offers strong legal privacy protection.
• High-quality free tier supporting streaming on key platforms.
• WireGuard protocol delivers fast and reliable encrypted performance.
• Zero-logs policy ensures no tracking of user activity.
• Simple, beginner-friendly apps across all major devices.

Pricing:

• 24 Month Plan– $1.11/mo
• 12 Month Plan– $1.33/mo
• 1 Month Plan– $10.99/mo

Also Read: VPN for Linux

6. Hide.me VPN

Hide.me is an easy to use Proton VPN alternative, which provides good privacy and a vast amount of free services to light users. Its no-logs policy, as well as the ability to support some of the latest protocols, such as WireGuard and IKEv2, provide a safe and reliable connection. 

The service offers decent streaming and browsing speeds and its applications have a feature such as Stealth Guard and MultiHop to provide greater anonymity. The free version of the application has restrictions but the premium version opens up to a broader network of servers and faster speeds. 

Hide.me could be a good option to users who want to be simple, have some free options, and have privacy that they can trust without spending much time learning how to work the program and high subscription fees.

Website: https://hide.me/en/

Key Features:

• Strict no-logs policy audited for strong privacy compliance.
• WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols ensure secure, stable connections.
• Stealth Guard preventing leaks outside protected VPN tunnels.
• MultiHop routing adds layered anonymity for sensitive activities.
• Generous free plan offering essential features without cost.

Pricing:

• 29 Months– $ 2.07/mo
• 12 Months– $ 3.49/mo
• 1 Month– $ 9.95/mo

7. Windscribe VPN

Windscribe is a versatile Proton VPN alternative with a very generous free option, powerful privacy features, and good performance to work with on a daily basis. Its freemium version lets users access a variety of server locations with bandwidth limits, and the paid version lets users unlimited bandwidth and higher speeds. 

One of the most outstanding features of Windscribe is the R.O.B.E.R.T. (advanced filtering system), Double Hop, and customizable firewall rules. It is good to use in casual streaming, browsing and torrent, but the speed may fluctuate depending on the server. 

Windscribe is equipped with transparent and innovative aspects, which makes it the best choice when a user desires a secure and customizable VPN with a powerful free version.

Website: https://windscribe.com/

Key Features:

• R.O.B.E.R.T. filtering system blocking ads, trackers, and malware.
• Generous free plan providing multiple global locations access.
• Double Hop option routing traffic through two countries.
• Configurable firewall offering strong leak protection and control.
• Open-source transparency ensures trustworthy, security-focused operations.

Pricing:

• Monthly Plan– $9.00 per month
• Yearly Plan– $5.75 per month

8. Private Internet Access (PIA)

A privacy-conscious power user would prefer Private Internet Access, which is a feature-rich alternative to Proton VPN. PIA has a reputation of having open-source applications and extremely customizable security features, including variable encryption, SOCKS5 proxy, and port forwarding. 

It offers good speeds which are appropriate in the browsing, torrenting and streaming of information through thousands of servers globally. Its no-logs policy has been tested in court and proved several times, boosting its credibility. 

Although the interface can be rather technical at the beginning, PIA is transparent and flexible. It is best suited to users who prefer greater control of VPN systems and long-term functionality and reliability at reasonable prices.

Website: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com/

Key Features:

• Open-source apps offering complete transparency and community oversight.
• Adjustable encryption settings tailoring security to performance needs.
• SOCKS5 proxy support enhancing torrenting speed and flexibility.
• Large global server count improving performance and stability.
• Court-proven no-logs policy reinforcing long-term user trust.

Pricing:

• 3 Years– ₹ 150.08/mo
• 1 Year– ₹250.83/mo
• 1 Month– ₹900.79/mo

9. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost is an easy-to-use Proton VPN alternative offering dedicated servers optimized for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. With a massive global network and user-friendly apps, it helps beginners access geo-restricted content effortlessly. 

Based in Romania, CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy and uses secure protocols such as WireGuard and OpenVPN. Its specialized streaming servers consistently unblock popular services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. 

While speeds can vary, CyberGhost provides excellent value with long-term plans, 24/7 support, and customizable privacy features. It’s a great choice for users seeking simplicity, affordability, and optimized performance for everyday online activities.

Website: https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/

Key Features:

• Dedicated streaming servers optimized for consistent platform unblocking.
• Massive global network supporting fast and stable connectivity.
• No-logs policy backed by Romania’s privacy-friendly jurisdiction.
• User-friendly apps ideal for beginners seeking simplicity.
• Custom privacy profiles tailored for torrenting and browsing needs.

Pricing:

• 2 Years– ₹175/mo
• 6 Months– ₹560/mo
• 1 Month– ₹965/mo

10. Mullvad VPN

Mullvad is a highly privacy-focused Proton VPN alternative designed for users who prioritize anonymity over flashy features. It avoids email-based accounts entirely, instead assigning random account numbers to maintain user privacy. 

Based in Sweden with a proven no-logs policy, Mullvad offers secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN for fast, reliable performance. It doesn’t push marketing gimmicks but focuses on transparency, open-source apps, and robust encryption. 

While not the best for streaming access, Mullvad excels in privacy consistency, affordability, and straightforward usage. It’s ideal for cybersecurity professionals and privacy activists seeking maximum anonymity.

Website: https://mullvad.net/en

Key Features:

• Anonymous account system requiring no email for registration.
• Proven no-logs policy emphasizing uncompromised user confidentiality.
• Open-source apps with fully transparent security implementation.
• Strong WireGuard protocol delivering efficient, reliable performance.
• Flat-fee pricing provides simple and predictable subscription costs.

Pricing:

• 1 month– €5 per month
• 1 year– €5 per month
• 1 decade– €5 per month

11. Ivacy VPN

Ivacy VPN is an affordable and feature-rich Proton VPN alternative offering strong security, fast speeds, and excellent unblocking capabilities. With 5,700+ servers in 100+ locations, it provides reliable global coverage for streaming, browsing, and torrenting. 

Ivacy includes essential features like AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, split tunneling, kill switch, and dedicated IP options. It’s particularly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. 

The apps are intuitive and available across all major devices, making it suitable for beginners and experienced users. Overall, Ivacy delivers impressive value, robust performance, and dependable privacy protection.

Website: https://www.ivacy.com/ 

Key Features:

• 6,500+ global servers across 80+ locations. 
• Military-grade AES-256 encryption plus WireGuard protocol. 
• Split tunnelling and kill-switch support for advanced control. 
• Support for up to 10 devices under one subscription. 
• Strict no-logs policy with dedicated IP & P2P optimized servers. 

Pricing:

• 5 Year– $1.69/mo
• 2 Year– $2.14/mo
• 1 Month– $12.95/mo

12. Hotspot Shield VPN

Hotspot Shield is a Proton VPN alternative known for its high-speed performance powered by its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol. It offers a free plan with daily data allowances, making it accessible for casual browsing. 

The premium version improves speeds, removes ads, and unlocks a broader server range suitable for streaming and gaming. Although historically criticized for privacy practices, Hotspot Shield has improved transparency and remains popular among users seeking fast, simple VPN solutions. 

It’s especially useful for streaming unblocking, but privacy-focused users may prefer other alternatives. Overall, it delivers strong performance with minimal setup.

Website: https://www.hotspotshield.com/

Key Features:

• Catapult Hydra protocol offers extremely fast connection speeds.
• Free plan providing limited daily data for browsing.
• Large server network enabling smooth HD streaming access.
• VPN apps designed for easy setup across devices.
• Improved privacy framework after several transparency updates.

Pricing:

• Monthly Premium Subscription– $12.99/mo
• Yearly Premium Subscription– $7.99/mo

13. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a premium Proton VPN alternative known for unmatched stability, speed, and global reach. Powered by its proprietary Lightway protocol, it delivers blazing-fast performance for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing. 

Operating from the British Virgin Islands with a strong no-logs policy, ExpressVPN uses RAM-only TrustedServer technology to ensure no data is ever stored. Its app ecosystem covers all major platforms, including routers, smart TVs, consoles, and browsers. 

With excellent unblocking capabilities for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, it is a top choice for content access. Though more expensive, its reliability, security, and ease of use justify the price.

Website: https://www.expressvpn.com/

Key Features:

• Lightway protocol delivers exceptionally fast and stable connections.
• TrustedServer RAM-only technology ensures zero persistent data storage.
• Strong global unblocking for major streaming platforms worldwide.
• Broad device support including routers, consoles, smart TVs.
• Independently audited no-logs policy reinforcing user privacy.

Pricing:

• 2 Years– $ 4.99/ month
• 12 Months– $6.67/ month
• 1 Month– $ 12.95/ month

14. Surfshark

Surfshark is a budget-friendly Proton VPN alternative offering excellent value with unlimited device connections and strong privacy features. Operating under a strict no-logs policy, it uses secure protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 to maintain fast, stable connections. 

MultiHop, Camouflage Mode, CleanWeb, and GPS Spoofing further enhance anonymity and bypass censorship. Surfshark performs well for streaming platforms, torrenting, and gaming with consistently good speeds. 

Its easy-to-use interface suits both beginners and advanced users. Despite being affordable, it includes premium-grade features often found in higher-priced VPNs. Surfshark is ideal for families or multi-device users needing strong performance at a great price.

Website: https://surfshark.com/

Key Features:

• Unlimited device connections supporting entire families securely.
• MultiHop servers provide layered privacy and traffic obfuscation.
• Camouflage Mode hiding VPN usage from restrictive networks.
• GPS Spoofing enabling modified physical location on devices.
• CleanWeb filtering system blocking ads, trackers, and malware.

Pricing:

• Surfshark Starter– $2.19/mo
• Surfshark One– $2.69/mo
• Surfshark One+– $4.29/mo

15. NordVPN

NordVPN is a leading Proton VPN alternative known for its strong privacy framework, Panama jurisdiction, and independently audited no-logs policy. It offers a massive global network of 6,000+ servers, ensuring fast speeds for streaming, torrenting, and secure browsing. 

Its NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, boosts performance while maintaining robust encryption. Features like Double VPN, Threat Protection, CyberSec, and Dark Web Monitoring enhance security. 

The app is user-friendly across platforms, including Android TV, routers, and desktops. Although slightly premium-priced, NordVPN delivers exceptional value through reliability, speed consistency, and advanced security capabilities suitable for both casual and power users.

Website: https://nordvpn.com/

Key Features:

• NordLynx protocol offers extremely fast, secure performance globally.
• Double VPN servers adding extra encryption for sensitive tasks.
• Threat Protection blocking malware, ads, and malicious trackers.
• Dark Web Monitoring alerting users about compromised credentials.
• Large server network ensuring stable speeds across continents.

Pricing:

• Complete– $5.39/mo
• Plus– $4.39/mo
• Basic– $3.39/mo

Ending Thoughts 

In conclusion, Proton VPN stands out as a highly trusted and secure VPN service for users who prioritize privacy, online freedom, and reliable performance. Powered by strong encryption, transparent security practices, and Switzerland’s strict data-protection laws, it offers a safe environment for browsing, streaming, and accessing restricted content. Features like Secure Core servers, NetShield, and a strict no-logs policy make it especially appealing for privacy-conscious individuals. 

While many alternatives exist—ranging from enterprise solutions to budget-friendly consumer VPNs—Proton VPN remains a well-rounded choice for most users. Its combination of speed, security, and usability ensures dependable protection, making it one of the top VPN services for both beginners and advanced users alike.

FAQs

Is Proton VPN Safe to Use?

Yes. Proton VPN is considered one of the safest VPNs available, thanks to its strict no-logs policy, Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps, and strong encryption protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN.

Does Proton VPN work for Streaming?

Yes. Proton VPN reliably unblocks major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, especially on its Plus plan, which offers optimized high-speed servers.

Is Proton VPN Free?

Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, making it one of the best free VPN options. However, the free tier has fewer server locations and slower speeds compared to its premium Plus plan.