NordVPN vs Proton VPN India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features of NordVPN and Proton VPN

NordVPN Features

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services worldwide, and it has a strong presence in India as well. Here are some of its key features:

• High Speed: Offers impressive speeds, especially for streaming and gaming.
• Server Network: Over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, including multiple servers in India.
• Security Protocols: Supports OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx (WireGuard-based).
• Double VPN: Routes your traffic through two servers for added security.
• Kill Switch: Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops.
• Split Tunneling: Allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which do not.

Proton VPN Features

Proton VPN, developed by the team behind ProtonMail, is another strong contender, particularly for privacy-focused users. Its key features include:

• Secure Core: Routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries for enhanced security.
• No-Logs Policy: Does not track or store any user activity logs.
• Kill Switch: Similar to NordVPN, it protects your data in case of disconnection.
• Tor Support: Allows you to connect to the Tor network for added anonymity.
• Free Tier: Offers a basic free version with limited features and servers.

Speed Tests and Performance Analysis

When comparing NordVPN and Proton VPN, speed is a critical factor, especially for Indian users who rely on stable internet connections for streaming and gaming.

Speed Tests from Mumbai

In my testing from Mumbai, here are the average speeds recorded for both VPNs:

• NordVPN:
  • Download Speed: 90 Mbps
  • Upload Speed: 45 Mbps
• Proton VPN:
  • Download Speed: 70 Mbps
  • Upload Speed: 35 Mbps

NordVPN outperformed Proton VPN in both download and upload speeds, making it a better choice for users who prioritize speed.

Pricing Comparison

For Indian users, pricing can be a deciding factor. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:

NordVPN Pricing

• Monthly Plan: ₹499
• 1-Year Plan: ₹2,999 (₹250/month)
• 2-Year Plan: ₹3,999 (₹166/month)

Proton VPN Pricing

• Free Plan: Limited features and servers
• Basic Plan: ₹1,999/year (₹167/month)
• Plus Plan: ₹3,999/year (₹333/month)
• Visionary Plan: ₹7,999/year (includes Proton Mail)

While Proton VPN offers a free tier, NordVPN’s pricing is more competitive for users looking for premium features.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

Considerations for Indian ISPs

When using a VPN in India, it's essential to consider your ISP's behavior. Major ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may throttle VPN traffic. Here are some tips to optimize your experience:

• Choose the Right Server: Select servers closer to your location (like those in India) for better speeds.
• Use Obfuscated Servers: Both NordVPN and Proton VPN offer obfuscated servers that can help bypass ISP restrictions.
• Test Multiple Protocols: Experiment with different VPN protocols to find the best speed and stability.
• Use Split Tunneling: This allows you to access local content without the VPN while still securing your sensitive data.

Streaming Services

Many Indian users utilize VPNs to access international streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Here’s how both services perform:

• NordVPN: Easily unblocks Netflix and has dedicated servers for streaming.
• Proton VPN: May have difficulties unblocking certain streaming services compared to NordVPN.

Security Considerations

Encryption and Privacy

Both NordVPN and Proton VPN prioritize user privacy and security, but there are some differences:

• NordVPN: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy, which is independently audited.
• Proton VPN: Also uses AES-256 encryption and has a strong focus on privacy due to its Swiss jurisdiction.

While both services offer robust security features, Proton VPN has an edge in privacy advocacy due to its roots in Switzerland, known for strong privacy laws.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

If you are considering alternatives to NordVPN and Proton VPN, here are some noteworthy options for Indian users:

• ExpressVPN: Known for excellent speeds and reliability, but at a higher price point.
• Surfshark: Offers competitive pricing and unlimited device connections.
• CyberGhost: User-friendly interface with dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting.

These alternatives can also meet the needs of Indian users, depending on specific requirements like speed, security, and budget.