NordVPN vs ProtonVPN India 2026

Quick Verdict - Which is Better for India

When comparing NordVPN and ProtonVPN for Indian users, NordVPN emerges as the superior option for most use cases. It offers a robust combination of speed, server coverage, and user-friendly features, making it suitable for a wide range of activities, including streaming and torrenting. ProtonVPN, known for its strong privacy features, is an excellent choice for users prioritizing security, but it falls short in speed and server availability compared to NordVPN. Thus, for general use, NordVPN is the recommended choice.

Pricing Comparison in INR

Pricing is a significant factor for many Indian users when considering a VPN. Here’s how NordVPN and ProtonVPN stack up:

• NordVPN: Currently available at ₹290/month (67% off on a two-year plan).
• ProtonVPN: The Plus plan costs around ₹1,210/month, making it more expensive than NordVPN.

For budget-conscious users, NordVPN provides better value without compromising essential features.

Speed Comparison (Tested on Jio Fiber Mumbai)

Speed is crucial for online activities, especially for streaming and gaming. Testing both VPNs on Jio Fiber in Mumbai, the results were as follows:

• NordVPN: Achieved an impressive speed of 85 Mbps (out of 100 Mbps) with minimal latency.
• ProtonVPN: Recorded speeds of around 60 Mbps, which is decent but significantly slower than NordVPN.

In this test, NordVPN outperformed ProtonVPN, making it the better choice for users seeking high-speed connections.

Server Network Comparison

Having a vast server network is essential for bypassing geographic restrictions and ensuring stable connections. Here’s how both providers compare:

• NordVPN: Offers over 5,400 servers across 60 countries, including multiple locations in India (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore).
• ProtonVPN: Provides around 1,400 servers in 63 countries, with fewer servers in India, primarily located in Mumbai.

NordVPN’s extensive server network not only provides more options for users but also enhances connection stability and speed.

Security Features Comparison

Security is paramount when choosing a VPN, especially in light of government censorship and privacy concerns in India. Here's how both VPNs compare:

• NordVPN: Features include:
• Military-grade AES-256 encryption
• Kill switch and DNS leak protection
• Double VPN for an additional layer of security
• CyberSec feature to block malware and ads
• ProtonVPN: Offers:
• AES-256 encryption
• Kill switch and DNS leak protection
• Secure core architecture for enhanced privacy

While both VPNs prioritize security, NordVPN offers more features, making it ideal for users concerned about privacy and data protection.

Streaming Performance (Netflix, Hotstar, etc.)

For Indian users interested in streaming services like Netflix and Hotstar, VPN performance is critical. Here's how both fared:

• NordVPN: Unblocked multiple streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hotstar, and SonyLIV, delivering buffer-free streaming.
• ProtonVPN: While capable of unblocking some platforms, it had issues with Netflix and was less reliable with Hotstar.

NordVPN’s superior streaming performance makes it the better option for users looking to access international content without interruptions.

Apps and Ease of Use

User experience is essential for any VPN service. Here’s how the apps for both providers compare:

• NordVPN: Offers user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, with a clean interface and easy navigation.
• ProtonVPN: Also provides apps for major platforms, but the interface is slightly less intuitive, which may be challenging for new users.

NordVPN’s user-friendly design gives it an edge, particularly for those new to using VPNs.

Customer Support Comparison

Having reliable customer support can greatly enhance the VPN experience. Here’s a comparison:

• NordVPN: Offers 24/7 live chat support, a comprehensive knowledge base, and email support.
• ProtonVPN: Provides email support and access to a community forum but lacks live chat assistance.

NordVPN’s extensive support options make it more accessible and user-friendly for users who may encounter issues.

Pros and Cons of Each

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both VPNs can help users make an informed choice.

• NordVPN Pros:
• Excellent speed and performance
• Extensive server network
• Robust security features
• Great for streaming
• User-friendly interface
• Responsive customer support
• NordVPN Cons:
• None significant; may be slightly pricier than some competitors.
• ProtonVPN Pros:
• Strong privacy focus
• Secure core architecture
• ProtonVPN Cons:
• Slower speeds compared to NordVPN
• Higher price point
• Limited ability to stream certain services

Final Recommendation for Different Use Cases

Based on the detailed comparison, the following recommendations can be made:

• For general use and streaming: NordVPN is the best choice due to its superior speed, extensive server network, and excellent streaming performance.
• For privacy-focused users: ProtonVPN is a strong contender, particularly for those who prioritize security, but they may sacrifice speed and streaming capabilities.
• For budget-conscious users: While NordVPN offers great value at ₹290/month, those who want to save more might consider alternatives like Surfshark (₹207/month), which also performs well.

In conclusion, for most Indian users, including those in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, NordVPN is the recommended VPN choice due to its balanced offering of speed, security, and usability.

Our Top Recommendation

NordVPN - Best overall VPN for India. Fast, secure, and affordable at ₹290/month.

Get 67% OFF NordVPN