NordVPN vs PureVPN
Two names often emerge as frontrunners in virtual private networks (VPNs): NordVPN and PureVPN. Both have robust features, but how do they compare? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison.
Server Network and Accessibility
PureVPN boasts a significant global presence with around 6,500 servers in more than 70 countries, offering users a wide array of options for unblocking content. NordVPN counters with over 5,800 servers across 60 countries, providing extensive coverage and specialized server types for enhanced security.
NordVPN vs PureVPN
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We made a helpful table that breaks down the comparison between NordVPN and PureVPN, but we also wanted to show a comparison to some close competitors like Proton and Surfshark.
| Feature | NordVPN | PureVPN | ProtonVPN | Surfshark VPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Server Network | Over 5,800 servers in 60+ countries | Around 6,500 servers in more than 70 countries | Around 3,000 servers across 65 countries | More than 3,200 servers in 100 countries |
| Security & Privacy | Next-gen encryption, no-logs policy, DoubleVPN, Onion Over VPN, Automatic Kill Switch, Dark Web Monitor | AES 256-bit encryption, no-logs policy, Internet Kill Switch, DNS Leak Protection, split tunneling | Swiss-protected, independently audited, strong privacy laws, kill switch, Secure Core servers | Malware protection, IP and DNS Leak protection, ad blocker, split tunneling, CleanWeb ad and tracker blocker |
| Encryption and Protocols | Robust AES-256-GCM encryption, offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 | Strong encryption standards, including AES 256-bit | Industry-standard protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and Stealth | Robust AES-256-GCM encryption, offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 |
| Unique Features | Meshnet for secure file sharing, Threat Protection anti-malware | Split tunneling feature for selective VPN use | Compliance with Swiss privacy laws and political neutrality, Proton Unlimited for additional encryption-based services | MultiHop feature for added anonymity, split tunneling (Bypasser) |
| User-Friendly Interface | Intuitive app design, easy navigation | User-friendly interface, particularly noted on Windows | Open-source VPN with a focus on balancing security and affordability | – |
| Jurisdiction | Panama-based, known for privacy-friendly laws | Hong Kong-based, outside major surveillance alliances | Switzerland-based, complying with strong privacy laws | British Virgin Islands-based, outside major surveillance alliances |
| Additional Security | Dark Web Monitor and Threat Protection | Internet Kill Switch and DNS Leak Protection | Kill switch for extra protection during outages | CleanWeb feature to block ads and trackers |
Security and Privacy Features
Regarding security, PureVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption, an Internet kill switch, and DNS Leak Protection. It emphasizes its no-logs policy and innovative features like split tunneling. NordVPN offers next-generation encryption, a strict no-logs policy, DoubleVPN, Onion Over VPN, and an Automatic Kill Switch, among other advanced security features.
Speed and Connectivity
PureVPN is known for fast speeds and reliable connections, which are suitable for various online activities, though it may experience a significant drop in upload speeds. In contrast, NordVPN is recognized as one of the fastest VPNs available, maintaining stable and quick connectivity across various applications and offering impressive upload and download speeds.
User Experience
PureVPN is praised for its intuitive application, particularly on Windows, making it user-friendly and easy to navigate. NordVPN also boasts an intuitive application design, ensuring seamless user interaction across platforms.
Pricing and Plans
| 1 Month | 1 Year | 2 Years | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $12.99 | Standard: $4.99/month, Plus: $5.99/month, Complete: $6.99/month | Standard: $3.49/month, Plus: $4.49/month, Complete: $5.99/month | Check Price |
| PureVPN | $10.95 | $3.32/month | $2.04/month | Check Price |
| ProtonVPN | Approx. $10.99 | Approx. $6.59/month | Approx. $5.49/month | Check Price |
| Surfshark VPN | $15.45 | $3.99/month | $2.49/month | Check Price |
Both PureVPN and NordVPN offer competitive pricing plans. However, unlike some competitors, NordVPN tends to be priced relatively higher and does not have a free version. PureVPN’s pricing is also competitive, often featuring significant discounts and special offers.
Meshnet and Threat Protection
A unique feature of NordVPN is its Meshnet secure file-sharing system, which allows encrypted file transfers between devices and is ideal for sensitive data. NordVPN’s Threat Protection acts as an anti-malware tool, scanning downloads and blocking malicious content.
Specialized Server Options
NordVPN offers a variety of specialized servers, including Double VPN, Obfuscated, P2P, and Dedicated IP servers, to cater to specific security and access needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NordVPN and PureVPN offer robust features and extensive server networks. NordVPN stands out for its speed, advanced security features, and specialized servers, while PureVPN is notable for its extensive server network and user-friendly interface. Your choice should depend on your specific needs: speed and advanced security (NordVPN) or a vast server network and user-friendly experience (PureVPN).