In today’s digital age, protecting your online privacy and security is essential. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are tools that help safeguard your internet activities by encrypting your connection and masking your IP address. Two popular VPN services are Proton VPN and PrivateVPN. This article will compare these two services to help you determine which one might be better for your needs.
What is Proton VPN and PrivateVPN
Proton VPN is operated by Proton AG, the company behind Proton Mail. Launched in 2017, it is based in Switzerland, a country known for its strong privacy laws. Proton VPN offers both free and paid plans, with features like Secure Core servers that route traffic through privacy-friendly countries to enhance security.
PrivateVPN, on the other hand, is a Swedish VPN provider known for its user-friendly interface and robust security features. Despite being a smaller provider, PrivateVPN offers a range of servers and supports multiple platforms, making it a popular choice among users seeking reliable VPN services.
Privacy and Security
When choosing a VPN, privacy and security are paramount.
Proton VPN is headquartered in Switzerland, which is outside the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance, offering a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track or record your internet activity. This policy has been independently audited, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy.
PrivateVPN is based in Sweden, a member of the 14 Eyes alliance, which may raise concerns about data sharing among countries. However, it also upholds a no-logs policy, stating that it does not store information about your online activities. While this policy is reassuring, it has not undergone independent audits, so users must take it at its word.
Server Network and Performance
A vast server network can enhance your VPN experience by providing better speeds and access to content worldwide.
Proton VPN boasts over 12,000 servers in 117 countries as of March 2025. This extensive network ensures users can find a server close to their location, improving connection speeds and reliability.
PrivateVPN offers servers in over 60 countries. While this is fewer than Proton VPN, it still provides a broad coverage that caters to most users’ needs.
Streaming and Torrenting
Accessing streaming services and engaging in torrenting are common uses for VPNs.
Proton VPN supports streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. Its free plan allows access to servers in countries like the US, Japan, the Netherlands, Romania, and Poland, facilitating streaming on these platforms.
PrivateVPN also supports streaming on services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. It offers specialized servers optimized for streaming, ensuring users can enjoy content without interruptions.
Both VPNs allow torrenting, but Proton VPN offers specialized servers for this purpose, enhancing the experience for users who engage in peer-to-peer sharing.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections
Ensuring your VPN works across all your devices is crucial.
Proton VPN provides applications for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS. It allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, enabling you to protect multiple devices with a single account.
PrivateVPN supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It permits up to six simultaneous connections, which is sufficient for most users but fewer compared to Proton VPN.
Pricing
Cost is always a factor when selecting a VPN service.
Proton VPN offers a free plan with limited features and several paid tiers. The paid plans start at $4 per month for a one-year subscription, offering additional features like Secure Core servers and higher connection speeds.
PrivateVPN provides competitive pricing, with plans starting at $2 per month for a one-year subscription. Despite its lower price, it does not compromise on essential features, making it a budget-friendly option for users seeking reliable VPN services.
Customer Support
Responsive customer support can significantly enhance your VPN experience.
Proton VPN offers customer support through email and online resources. It provides a comprehensive knowledge base to assist users with setup and troubleshooting.
PrivateVPN excels in customer support, offering 24/7 live chat assistance. This feature ensures that users can get timely help whenever needed, enhancing the overall user experience.
Conclusion
Both Proton VPN and PrivateVPN offer robust features that cater to different user needs.
Choose Proton VPN if:
- You prioritize a VPN based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with a strict no-logs policy.
- You require access to a vast server network for global connectivity.
- You need to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
Opt for PrivateVPN if:
- You seek a budget-friendly VPN without compromising essential features.
- You value responsive customer support with 24/7 live chat.
- You are comfortable with a smaller server network but still desire global coverage.
Ultimately, the choice between Proton VPN and PrivateVPN depends on your specific requirements and preferences. Assess your priorities regarding privacy, server coverage, device compatibility, and budget to determine which VPN service aligns best with your needs.
