Alternatives guide

Best Proton VPN Alternatives

Updated Sep 23, 2026 2 alternatives compared

Proton VPN

The one you're replacing Freemium

Privacy-conscious users reach for Proton VPN for its usable free tier, open-source apps, and paid network built for everyday browsing, streaming, and file sharing.

Windows macOS Linux Android iOS

The essentials

All 2 at a glance

Proton VPN included for comparison — click any alternative to jump to its full breakdown below.

Alternative	Pricing	License	Built for	Founded	Best for
Proton VPN Current	$4.49Freemium	Open source	Small Business Remote Teams	2017	The one you're replacing
NordVPN	$0.00Paid	Proprietary	Remote Teams Everyday Users	2012	Fast streaming and broad support
ExpressVPN	$0.00Paid	Proprietary	Remote Teams Everyday Users	2009	Simple apps for travelers

The shortlist

Every alternative, ranked

Filter by pricing model or license — every entry is one we’d consider a real replacement.

Filters

Pricing

Paid 2

License

Proprietary 2

Showing 2 alternatives

Sort

Top alternative

NordVPN

Paid Proprietary

NordVPN is a paid consumer VPN known for quick NordLynx connections, broad device support, and reliable access to overseas streaming catalogs.

Connect using NordLynx Route apps separately Link devices privately Filter dangerous traffic

Explore alternatives

ExpressVPN

Paid Proprietary

Everyday users and travelers reach for ExpressVPN when they want dependable VPN apps, quick location changes, and little setup work.

Lightway protocol Network Lock Split tunneling Threat Manager

Explore alternatives

Nothing matches those filters. Try removing one.

Before you switch

Should you replace Proton VPN?

Why people stay 3

The free servers do not impose a monthly bandwidth ceiling.
Published client code and independent audits make its privacy claims easier to scrutinize.
Paid connections are dependable enough for video calls, HD streaming, and large downloads.

Why people switch 5

Promotional discounts make the substantially higher month-to-month and renewal costs easy to miss.
The Linux client trails Windows and macOS in polish and available controls.
Free accounts have limited location choice and may be assigned servers automatically.
Port forwarding is platform-dependent, and the assigned port can change after reconnecting.
Support is more ticket-led than VPNs offering dependable round-the-clock live chat.

Proton VPN alternatives — discussion 0

Keep exploring

Popular categories

News & Reading Marketing Development Automation & Workflows Productivity & notes Video & Animation Shopping & Marketplaces Analytics & Data Design All categories