NordVPN Review: The Best VPN Service for Privacy in 2024
NordVPN Review is a standout in the VPN world for those who care deeply about privacy and need secure remote access. According to experts, it’s one of the speediest services and has top-notch security at a great price. Despite not being the absolute best in terms of clearness and ease of use, it’s among the top three VPNs CNET recommends.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Nord VPN is the fastest VPN, with an average speed loss of only 11.1%
- Nord VPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol offers exceptional speed efficiency, with an average speed loss of just 3.19% on Windows and 12.56% on macOS
- Nord VPN boasts an extensive global server network, with over 6,200 servers in 111 countries
- Nord VPN’s pricing is competitive, with a monthly rate of $13 and an annual plan at $60
- Nord VPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and accepts a wide range of payment options
Lightning-Fast Speeds
NordVPN’s Speed Superiority
In a test from January 2024, Nord VPN Review was termed the quickest VPN . It showed just an 11.1% speed decrease, better than other top VPNs. For example, Surfshark had a 17% drop and ExpressVPN a 24.8% dip. So, Nord VPN is the leading choice for speed. It wins against other popular VPNs by offering the quickest service.
Minimal Speed Loss with NordLynx Protocol
Nord’s NordLynx protocol keeps speed loss very low. On Windows, speeds dipped by only 3.19%. And on macOS, the drop was 12.56%.1 This is made possible by Nord VPN’s special protocol and its whopping 6400 servers. They work together to not slow you down.4
Extensive Global Server Network
With a network of 6,200 servers across 111 countries, Nord VPN beats ExpressVPN and Surfshark in server numbers. [2] This vast network is perfect for those who travel a lot. Regular travelers will appreciate Nord’s extensive availability.3
Cost and Pricing Analysis
Nord VPN’s monthly price is $13. This is the same as many other VPN services. They offer a $60 annual plan, which is cheaper than most. This price is lower than ExpressVPN’s too.1 But, after the initial year, Nord VPN raises the price to $100 annually. This matches ExpressVPN’s rates.1
Competitive Introductory Pricing
Nord VPN’s $13 monthly fee lines up closely with competitors. Their $60 yearly plan is notably cheaper than others, even ExpressVPN.1
Renewal Price Hikes
On the Nord VPN checkout page, they do mention the future price increases. They promise to let users know by email before the renewal. However, it’s common for VPN services to up their prices after the first year. This means extra work for users to avoid bill shocks.1
Payment Options and Money-Back Guarantee
There are many ways to pay for NordVPN. These include credit cards, PayPal, and more. They also accept payment through cryptocurrencies. Additionally, they offer a 30-day risk-free trial. This lets users test the service without worry.1
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $13 | $13 | $12.95 |
| Annual Plan (Intro) | $60 | $100 | $59.76 |
| Annual Plan (Renewal) | $99 | $100 | $79.76 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | 5 | Unlimited |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
User-Friendly Apps and Compatibility
Nord VPN’s apps are simple to use while still packed with features.3 You can connect fast with Quick Connect or pick from 6,200+ servers in over 110 countries.1 Nord VPN isn’t as easy as ExpressVPN, but most users find it straightforward.
Simultaneous Connections and Device Support
You can set up Nord VPN on many devices, but only use it on 10 at a time.1 This is more than ExpressVPN’s 8 but less than VPNs that allow endless connections.1 It works on a lot of gadgets, from Windows to iOS and more.
Unblocking Streaming Services
In the US and UK, Nord VPN works well with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. Some users did face issues when trying to watch Amazon Prime Video on Windows or macOS. This happened because Amazon’s filters detected the VPN.1
Reliable Access to Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+
According to CNET, Nord VPN is reliable with Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. It lets users easily watch content from the US and UK libraries without problems.1
Apple TV App Performance
Nord VPN’s Apple TV app works well, but it’s not perfect. When checking Netflix from the U.S. and Canada, CNET had no issues.1 Yet, they found it hard to watch videos from Japan and the UK. They believe things will get better as Apple TV’s VPN support grows.1
The app does let you into Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Still, using it to watch was a bit up and down.1 Netflix worked smoothly with U.S. and Canadian servers. But, watching from Japan or the UK wasn’t always reliable.1
Nord VPN’s Global Server Network
Nord VPN now boasts 6,200 servers in 111 countries, the most tested by CNET.1 This count includes both physical and virtual servers, each serving its unique purpose. Physical ones give users an IP address within that server’s country. Virtual ones, on the other hand, can provide access from various locations, bypassing location restrictions.2 This vast network enhances your secure internet access options greatly.
With over 6,200 servers globally, Nord Vpn stands out for its extensive server network. It reaches over 111 countries, ensuring worldwide coverage.1 In all these nations, Nord Vpn combines physical and virtual servers for a balanced service mix.2
| VPN Provider | Number of Servers |
|---|---|
| Nord VPN | 6,200 |
| Surfshark | 3,200 |
| Private Internet Access | 3,200 |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000 |
| Proton VPN | 1,300 |
Nord VPN’s main office in Panama avoids global surveillance groups like Five Eyes and others. This location choice strengthens its focus on keeping users’ privacy secure.2
NordVpn Review
Nord VPN makes sure your online actions are private with its no-logs rule. This means it doesn’t remember what sites you visit or what you watch. But, it does keep your email and payment info to manage your account and offer help.
The service has faced tests from outside experts to check its promises. From 2018 to 2023, firms like PricewaterhouseCoopers and Deloitte have reviewed NordVPN. NordVPN shares these reviews, proving they’re serious about your privacy and security.
Top-Notch Security Features
NordVPN’s top-notch security features start with its 256-bit AES encryption. This tech is like what the U.S. government uses for secret messages. It makes sure your online stuff stays just for you.
Secure VPN Protocols
NordVPN uses top VPN protocols for quick and safe web use. It has OpenVPN, WireGuard, and its own NordLynx. NordLynx combines security and speed.2
Tests by CNET show NordLynx is very quick. On Windows, internet speed just dips by 3.19%. Mac speed drops 12.56%. Using OpenVPN, Mac speed drops 10.08%, and Windows goes down by 18.57%.
With different VPN protocols, NordVPN lets users pick what matters most. You can go for speed or put security first.
Headquarters in Privacy-Friendly Panama
NordVPN’s headquarters are in Panama. This is important because Panama is not part of some big surveillance groups.2 These groups are called Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes. This setup helps NordVPN protect users’ privacy and security well.
Kill Switch and Split Tunneling
NordVPN has top-notch security features. It includes a kill switch that blocks internet traffic if the VPN disconnects. This keeps your IP address and online actions hidden.6 If a VPN connection drops, NordVPN’s kill switch stops internet access. This keeps your data secure even if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.6
NordVPN also offers split tunneling. This feature lets you decide which apps use the VPN. For example, you can have some apps go through the VPN while others don’t, like games.6 It’s useful when you want faster internet for some tasks but still want VPN protection for other things.
| VPN Provider | Number of Servers | Number of Countries |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 6,200+ | 111 |
| Surfshark | 3,200+ | 100 |
| Private Internet Access | 3,200+ | N/A |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000+ | 105 |
| Proton VPN | 1,300+ | N/A |
NordVPN’s kill switch and split tunneling are great for privacy and security. These features help protect you online, even if the VPN breaks or for specific apps that don’t need the VPN.26
Unlimited Data Usage
NordVPN lets users send as much data as they like with no caps.1 People can surf, download, and watch videos freely. There’s no worry about extra fees. The service is fast and has many servers worldwide,1 making it a top pick for those wanting limitless online access.
VPN use normally bumps up data needs by 5-15% due to encryption.7 However, NordVPN’s advanced encryption doesn’t use too much extra data.7 For less data use, try split tunneling and turning off the VPN when it’s not essential. Also, aim for networks with no data caps.7
NordVPN also beats ISP slowing, which can improve browsing and add security.7 Keeping the VPN running for privacy is smart, but it’s important to balance data use.7
Conclusion
NordVPN stands out for its fast speeds and huge server network. It has over 6,000 servers in 111 countries. This makes it a top pick for many.8 The service is also big on keeping your privacy safe. It follows a strict no-logs policy, checked by outside firms like Deloitte in 2023.8
There are a few cons, like pricier renewals and some issues with streaming access. But NordVPN’s focus on security and privacy shines. That’s why many consider it among the best VPNs out there.8 It uses strong encryption and its own NordLynx protocol to keep you safe online.9
In the end, NordVPN offers a wide range of features, great global reach, and a strong privacy and security commitment. For anyone looking for a trusted and safe internet browsing, it’s a leading choice.8109
FAQ
What are the key features and performance of NordVPN?
NordVPN shines with its fast and stable speeds, which CNET found to be better than most. It doesn’t slow down your internet much. Plus, it’s safe, affordable, and easy to use.
How fast is NordVPN?
NordVPN was tested by CNET in January 2024 and topped the charts, losing only 11.1% in speed. It got the title of CNET’s fastest VPN. With the special NordLynx, it only slowed down by 3.19% on Windows and 12.56% on macOS.
How does NordVPN’s pricing compare to competitors?
At $13 per month, NordVPN is about average in price. Its yearly plan at $60 starts off cheaper than many others. After the first year, the plan renews at a higher price of $100 annually.
How user-friendly are NordVPN’s apps?
The NordVPN apps are straightforward and easy to use. You can click to connect to the best server or choose from over 6,200 servers in 110+ countries.
How well does NordVPN unblock streaming services?
NordVPN is good at unblocking Netflix, Amazon, and Disney+ in the US and UK. But, it may struggle with Amazon Prime Video on Windows or macOS. Apple TV might have some issues, too.
What is the size of NordVPN’s global server network?
NordVPN has a huge network with over 6,200 servers in 111 countries. It’s more than what its top competitors have. This many servers mean more choices for users to stay safe online.
How private and secure is NordVPN?
NordVPN is serious about privacy. It doesn’t keep logs and has been checked by third parties to prove it’s safe. The service uses top-notch encryption and secure protocols for its VPNs.
Where is NordVPN headquartered?
NordVPN is based in Panama. This choice means it’s not part of big surveillance groups. It keeps its focus on protecting users’ privacy and security.
What additional security features does NordVPN offer?
NordVPN includes a feature called a kill switch. It halts all internet if the VPN disconnects, for added security. Plus, it offers split tunneling to manage your traffic better.
Does NordVPN have any data usage limits?
No, there are no data limits with Nord VPN. You can use it as much as you like for browsing, downloading, or streaming. There are no caps and no hidden charges.
