Best ProtonVPN Alternatives: Top VPN Options Compared
ProtonVPN is a reputable, privacy-focused service — but its pricing, feature restrictions on lower tiers, and the need for a Proton account lead users to evaluate alternatives.
5
VPNs Compared
6
Categories
Mar 2026
Updated
Objective
Verdict
TL;DR Summary
ProtonVPN is a well-established VPN, but alternatives exist for users who want different pricing models, broader protocol support (especially Shadowsocks for censorship bypass), unlimited devices, stronger privacy documentation, or a flat monthly billing option. This guide compares five VPN services across pricing, protocols, devices, and use cases so you can make an informed decision.
Why Users Look for ProtonVPN Alternatives
Understanding why users seek alternatives helps you identify whether any of these factors apply to your situation.
Higher price point on paid plans
ProtonVPN Plus starts at $4.99/month on annual billing — higher than several comparable alternatives. For users who don't need the Proton ecosystem integration or Swiss jurisdiction premium, other services offer equivalent VPN functionality at lower cost.
Stealth protocol only on higher-tier plans
ProtonVPN's obfuscated Stealth protocol — useful in censorship-heavy regions — is not available on all subscription tiers. Users who specifically need this feature must pay for higher-tier plans.
Requires a Proton account
Unlike some alternatives, ProtonVPN requires creating a Proton account. Users who prefer anonymous or minimal-data account creation (like Mullvad's account number system) may prefer alternatives.
Free plan limitations
ProtonVPN's free tier is limited to lower-speed servers in a restricted number of locations. Users who try the free plan and find it insufficient may look for alternatives with better free options or more competitive paid pricing.
How to Choose the Right VPN
Before comparing specific services, establish your selection criteria. These are the most important factors when evaluating VPN alternatives.
Privacy jurisdiction and audit history
ProtonVPN's Swiss jurisdiction is a genuine differentiator. Alternatives based in Panama, Sweden, or other privacy-friendly locations offer similar structural privacy protections.
Open-source verification
ProtonVPN is notable for open-source client apps. If independent code verification matters to you, check whether alternatives publish their client source code.
Pricing per feature tier
Compare what each service includes at its base paid tier. Some alternatives include all features in a single plan rather than tiering them.
Protocol selection
If Stealth (obfuscation) is your primary need, verify that alternatives support equivalent obfuscation. Shadowsocks-based solutions offer similar censorship-bypass capability.
Account privacy
Consider how much identifying information is required to create an account. Mullvad requires no email; ProtonVPN requires a Proton account; most others require at minimum an email address.
Quick Comparison Table
Side-by-side overview of the five VPN services covered in this guide.
| VPN Provider | Protocols | Devices | Monthly Rate | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN One of the most recognized names in consumer VPN with a large server network. | NordLynxOpenVPNIKEv2 | 6 simultaneous | $12.99/mo | from $3.99/mo 2-year plan |
Surfshark Budget-friendly VPN with unlimited simultaneous device connections. | WireGuardOpenVPNIKEv2 | Unlimited simultaneous | $10.99/mo | from $2.49/mo 2-year plan |
ProtonVPN Privacy-first VPN from the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland. | WireGuardOpenVPNStealth | 10 simultaneous | $9.99/mo | from $4.99/mo 1-year plan |
Mullvad VPN Privacy-maximalist VPN with anonymous account numbers and no email required. | WireGuardOpenVPNShadowsocks | 5 simultaneous | €5/mo flat | €5/mo Flat monthly — no annual option |
ExpressVPN Long-established premium VPN known for reliability and streaming support. | LightwayOpenVPNIKEv2 | 8 simultaneous | $12.95/mo | from $6.67/mo 1-year plan |
CyberGhost Feature-rich VPN with dedicated streaming and torrenting servers. | WireGuardOpenVPNIKEv2 | 7 simultaneous | $12.99/mo | from $2.19/mo 2-year plan |
KloxVPNThis Site Affordable VPN with the broadest protocol support including OpenConnect and Shadowsocks. | WireGuardOpenVPNOpenConnectShadowsocks | Multiple devices | $7.99/mo | from $2.83/mo Yearly plan |
Protocol Support Matrix
Protocol availability directly affects performance, compatibility, and censorship bypass capability. Verify that your preferred protocols are available before choosing a service.
| Provider | WireGuard | OpenVPN | OpenConnect | Shadowsocks | IKEv2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | |||||
| Surfshark | |||||
| ProtonVPN | |||||
| Mullvad VPN | |||||
| ExpressVPN | |||||
| CyberGhost | |||||
| KloxVPN This Site |
Detailed Comparison: ProtonVPN and Alternatives
Each provider below is assessed on strengths, limitations, ideal use cases, and who it is not the right choice for. This detail goes beyond feature checkboxes to help you understand which service fits your situation.
NordVPN
One of the most recognized names in consumer VPN with a large server network.
from $3.99/mo
2-year plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
6 simultaneous
Server Network
5,800+ servers in 60 countries
Strengths
- Large, well-maintained server network
- Threat Protection ad/malware blocker
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN options
- Fast speeds on NordLynx protocol
- Independently audited no-logs policy
Limitations
- Best pricing requires a 2-year commitment
- Monthly and 1-year rates are notably higher
- Feature set may be more than casual users need
- Devices limited to 6 per subscription
Best for
Users who want a trusted, feature-rich VPN with a proven track record and don't mind committing to a 2-year term for the best price.
Not ideal for
Users looking for flexible monthly billing at a low rate, Shadowsocks/censorship-bypass protocol support, or white label VPN infrastructure.
Surfshark
Budget-friendly VPN with unlimited simultaneous device connections.
from $2.49/mo
2-year plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
Unlimited simultaneous
Server Network
3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Strengths
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- CleanWeb ad and tracker blocker
- Wide country coverage (100+ countries)
- Camouflage and NoBorders obfuscation modes
- Affordable 2-year pricing
Limitations
- Best price tied to 2-year commitment
- Newer brand than NordVPN or ExpressVPN
- Speeds can vary by server location
- No built-in split tunneling on all platforms
Best for
Families or households with many devices who want broad coverage under one affordable subscription without worrying about device limits.
Not ideal for
Users who need OpenConnect protocol for enterprise firewall traversal, Shadowsocks for censorship bypass, or a white label VPN business platform.
ProtonVPNPrimary Comparison
Privacy-first VPN from the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland.
from $4.99/mo
1-year plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
10 simultaneous
Server Network
7,000+ servers in 110+ countries
Strengths
- Swiss-based jurisdiction with strong privacy laws
- Open-source client apps
- Verified no-logs policy
- Stealth protocol for censorship-heavy regions
- Free tier available for basic use
Limitations
- Higher price point compared to alternatives
- Free plan limited to slower servers and one device
- Stealth protocol available on higher-tier plans only
- No white label or B2B platform
Best for
Privacy-conscious users who prioritize audited open-source apps, Swiss jurisdiction, and are willing to pay a premium for verified privacy guarantees.
Not ideal for
Budget users who want strong value for money, those needing OpenConnect, or businesses looking for white label VPN infrastructure.
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-maximalist VPN with anonymous account numbers and no email required.
€5/mo
Flat monthly — no annual option
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
5 simultaneous
Server Network
700+ servers in 45 countries
Strengths
- No email or personal data required to sign up
- Anonymous account number system
- Flat monthly pricing with no lock-in
- Strong privacy reputation
- Accepts cash and cryptocurrency
Limitations
- No annual pricing discount
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Less beginner-friendly UI
- Limited streaming server optimization
- Smaller brand with less community support
Best for
Privacy maximalists who want anonymous sign-up, no personal data collection, cash/crypto payment, and flat monthly pricing with no commitment.
Not ideal for
Users who want a discounted annual plan, a large streaming-optimized server network, easy onboarding, or OpenConnect enterprise protocol support.
ExpressVPN
Long-established premium VPN known for reliability and streaming support.
from $6.67/mo
1-year plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
8 simultaneous
Server Network
3,000+ servers in 105 countries
Strengths
- Strong reputation and long track record
- Reliable streaming and global coverage
- Lightway protocol for speed
- Good customer support
- Router and browser extensions
Limitations
- Among the most expensive consumer VPNs
- No Shadowsocks or OpenConnect
- Owned by Kape Technologies (same as CyberGhost)
- No open-source client apps
Best for
Users who want a well-known brand and are willing to pay a premium for reliability and streaming.
Not ideal for
Budget-conscious users, those needing Shadowsocks for censorship bypass or OpenConnect for enterprise, or users who prefer open-source or audited apps.
CyberGhost
Feature-rich VPN with dedicated streaming and torrenting servers.
from $2.19/mo
2-year plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
7 simultaneous
Server Network
9,000+ servers in 100+ countries
Strengths
- Large server network
- Dedicated streaming and torrenting server lists
- NoSpy servers in Romania
- Competitive long-term pricing
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Limitations
- Best price requires 2-year commitment
- No Shadowsocks or OpenConnect
- Owned by Kape Technologies
- Some features only on higher-tier plans
Best for
Users who want a large server list and streaming/torrenting presets and are comfortable with a 2-year plan for the best rate.
Not ideal for
Users who need monthly flexibility, Shadowsocks for restricted regions, or OpenConnect for corporate networks.
KloxVPNThis Site
Affordable VPN with the broadest protocol support including OpenConnect and Shadowsocks.
from $2.83/mo
Yearly plan
Protocols
Simultaneous Devices
Multiple devices
Server Network
Global VPN server infrastructure
Strengths
- 4 protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, OpenConnect, Shadowsocks
- OpenConnect for enterprise firewall traversal
- Shadowsocks for censorship bypass (China, Iran, UAE)
- Competitive yearly pricing
- White label VPN platform for businesses
Limitations
- Smaller brand recognition than NordVPN or Surfshark
- Newer service vs decade-old competitors
- No free tier
Best for
Users wanting competitive pricing, the widest protocol support (especially Shadowsocks for censorship bypass or OpenConnect for enterprise networks), or businesses exploring white label VPN.
Not ideal for
Users who specifically want cash/anonymous payment (Mullvad), or the most established brand name in the market.
Pricing Comparison
VPN pricing varies significantly by billing term. Monthly rates are often 3–5x the annual rate for the same service.
| Provider | Monthly Rate | Best Annual Rate | Commitment Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $12.99/mo | from $3.99/mo | 2-year plan |
| Surfshark | $10.99/mo | from $2.49/mo | 2-year plan |
| ProtonVPN | $9.99/mo | from $4.99/mo | 1-year plan |
| Mullvad VPN | €5/mo flat | €5/mo | Flat monthly — no annual option |
| ExpressVPN | $12.95/mo | from $6.67/mo | 1-year plan |
| CyberGhost | $12.99/mo | from $2.19/mo | 2-year plan |
| KloxVPN This Site | $7.99/mo | from $2.83/mo | Yearly plan |
When KloxVPN Is a Solid ProtonVPN Alternative
KloxVPN addresses the most common pricing objection to ProtonVPN while expanding protocol options. It offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, OpenConnect, and Shadowsocks — a broader protocol stack than ProtonVPN's Stealth approach.
- You want Shadowsocks for censorship bypass without paying for a higher-tier plan
- You prefer competitive yearly pricing without the ProtonVPN Plus premium
- You need OpenConnect for enterprise firewall compatibility
- You don't require Swiss jurisdiction specifically and want equivalent functionality at lower cost
- You are interested in white label VPN for a business use case
Who Each VPN Is Best For
Choose the VPN that matches your actual priorities — not just the most recognized name.
NordVPN
Users who want a trusted, feature-rich VPN with a proven track record and don't mind committing to a 2-year term for the best price.
Not ideal for: Users looking for flexible monthly billing at a low rate, Shadowsocks/censorship-bypass protocol support, or white label VPN infrastructure.
Surfshark
Families or households with many devices who want broad coverage under one affordable subscription without worrying about device limits.
Not ideal for: Users who need OpenConnect protocol for enterprise firewall traversal, Shadowsocks for censorship bypass, or a white label VPN business platform.
ProtonVPN
Privacy-conscious users who prioritize audited open-source apps, Swiss jurisdiction, and are willing to pay a premium for verified privacy guarantees.
Not ideal for: Budget users who want strong value for money, those needing OpenConnect, or businesses looking for white label VPN infrastructure.
Mullvad VPN
Privacy maximalists who want anonymous sign-up, no personal data collection, cash/crypto payment, and flat monthly pricing with no commitment.
Not ideal for: Users who want a discounted annual plan, a large streaming-optimized server network, easy onboarding, or OpenConnect enterprise protocol support.
ExpressVPN
Users who want a well-known brand and are willing to pay a premium for reliability and streaming.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users, those needing Shadowsocks for censorship bypass or OpenConnect for enterprise, or users who prefer open-source or audited apps.
CyberGhost
Users who want a large server list and streaming/torrenting presets and are comfortable with a 2-year plan for the best rate.
Not ideal for: Users who need monthly flexibility, Shadowsocks for restricted regions, or OpenConnect for corporate networks.
KloxVPN This Site
Users wanting competitive pricing, the widest protocol support (especially Shadowsocks for censorship bypass or OpenConnect for enterprise networks), or businesses exploring white label VPN.
Not ideal for: Users who specifically want cash/anonymous payment (Mullvad), or the most established brand name in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions About ProtonVPN Alternatives
Conclusion: Which VPN Should You Choose?
The right VPN depends entirely on your specific requirements. ProtonVPN is a capable service — but it is not the only option, and it is not the best fit for every user.
For anonymous sign-up and flat monthly pricing
→ Mullvad VPN
For Swiss jurisdiction and open-source apps
→ ProtonVPN
For unlimited simultaneous devices
→ Surfshark
For the largest server network
→ NordVPN
For Shadowsocks, OpenConnect, and competitive yearly pricing
→ KloxVPN
For white label VPN as a business
→ KloxVPN
Looking for a ProtonVPN alternative?
Try KloxVPN — Competitive Pricing, Broader Protocols
WireGuard, OpenVPN, OpenConnect, and Shadowsocks in one subscription. Apps for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Router.