NordVPN Review 2024
Table of Contents
With lightning-fast connections, a massive server network, excellent security measures, and exceptional streaming and torrenting capabilities, NordVPN dominates its competitors. In our NordVPN review, we conducted extensive testing on this VPN and are happy to declare that it is the greatest of 2023!
You can clearly understand from this evaluation why NordVPN is the industry leader in online privacy and security and why we gave it our top ranking of 70+ VPNs.
With its 30-day money-back guarantee, NordVPN is available for risk-free trial. Additionally, there’s a time-limited deal that saves you 68% on your new plan. Avoid missing out!
NordVPN: Pros and Cons
9.3
What We Like:
- Unblocks Netflix and other streaming services
- Great speeds and performance
- Comprehensive security features keep you safe online
- Strict no-logs policy for ultimate privacy
- Dedicated Tor and P2P VPN servers for safe and easy torrenting
- Double VPN for foolproof protection in censorship-heavy regions
- Dedicated IPs available for greater security and control
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited multi-language support
- Web-based login instead of in-app login
NordVPN is an excellent VPN for novices and advanced users. We found it super easy to set up and use on different devices. It also offers plenty of customization options for those who want to do more with a VPN.
We highly recommend NordVPN whether you want to unblock Netflix, bypass censorship in restrictive regions, or improve your online privacy. Read our full NordVPN review for more details!
![NordVPN](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-png-logo-large.png)
Specifications NordVPN
📱 Operating systems | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux |
💻 Connections | 6 |
💳 Payment methods | Other, Credit card, Cryptocurrency |
🔒 Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, Wireguard |
📥 Torrent options | Torrenting allowed |
📅 Money-back guarantee | 30 Days |
📋 Logs | Zero logs |
🎬 Works with |
How Fast is NordVPN?
In our NordVPN review, we found that the service provides incredibly fast internet speeds of up to 194.18 Mbps, which is 96% of our download speed without a VPN.
We didn’t detect any appreciable speed decrease when using NordVPN, and the VPN has no speed or bandwidth restrictions.
Speed test results for NordVPN
In order to assess NordVPN’s speeds for this evaluation, we first measured the speed of our connection without a VPN before connecting to NordVPN to see any differences in performance.
Every exam is conducted from our Netherlands-based office. We repeatedly tested various NordVPN servers located all over the world. The results are summarized in the table below.
Remember to:
Your location and starting speed will determine how well a VPN performs overall, so your results may not match ours. Potential speeds are shown in the table below.
Server | Download (Mbps) | Upload (Mbps) | Ping (ms) |
---|---|---|---|
No VPN | 202.36 | 247.17 | 4 |
The fastest server (Amsterdam) | 194.18 | 232.27 | 6 |
The Netherlands (Amsterdam) | 192.76 | 236.38 | 8 |
Germany (Frankfurt) | 195.07 | 235.83 | 13 |
The UK (London) | 190.81 | 233.49 | 13 |
The US East (New York) | 181.91 | 185.42 | 95 |
The US West (Los Angeles) | 158.9 | 123.18 | 146 |
Canada (Montreal) | 170.29 | 111.98 | 111 |
Brazil (Sao Paulo) | 133.82 | 97.62 | 218 |
South Africa (Johannesburg) | 148.34 | 99.28 | 184 |
Japan (Tokyo) | 130.99 | 79.07 | 233 |
Australia (Perth) | 131.17 | 118.9 | 204 |
As you can see from our speed test results during our NordVPN review, NordVPN had a minimum impact on our internet speed. We did not run into any issues with streaming videos, even when connected to distant servers like those in the US.
We could also enjoy games like Call of Duty and Counter-Strike without lag, a testament to NordVPN’s excellent speeds. It’s one of the fastest VPNs available today.
Does NordVPN Work With Streaming?
NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming. It allowed us to access streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime, and many others.
To unlock international material, the clever SmartPlay function combines the security of a VPN with the speed of SmartDNS. This function is automatically enabled when you stream content while connected to NordVPN; no action is required on your part to activate it.
Additionally, NordVPN excels in server diversity, having a vast network of VPN servers located in the nations with the biggest selection of streaming content. We utilized NordVPN to unblock geoblocked content from the US, UK, Canada, and other countries while doing our assessment of the VPN service.
Platform | Can NordVPN unblock it? |
---|---|
Netflix (US) | ✔ |
Netflix (UK) | ✔ |
Disney Plus (EU) | ✔ |
Hulu (US) | ✔ |
BBC iPlayer (UK) | ✔ |
Prime Video (EU) | ✔ |
HBO Max (EU)* | ✔ |
As you can see from our streaming tests above, NordVPN successfully unblocked all the popular streaming platforms we tried to access. Want to start streaming right away? You can now get 68% off your new NordVPN account and catch up with all your favorite movies and TV shows from anywhere.
NordVPN and Netflix
NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for Netflix. We enjoyed lag-free streams in full HD, no matter which regional version we tested.
With Netflix doubling down on VPN usage, the list of VPNs that can unblock Netflix grows smaller by the day. NordVPN is one of the rare VPN providers that can still reliably unblock Netflix, no matter where you are!
![Screenshot of Netflix with NordVPN app over it](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-NordVPN-connected-to-US-server-with-Netflix-in-the-background.png)
In addition to Netflix US, we could also unblock Netflix libraries from The Netherlands, UK, Canada, Mexico, Japan, France, from from several other countries.
NordVPN and Hulu
NordVPN effortlessly unblocks Hulu, and there’s no buffering or lagging. We used NordVPN to watch Hulu Originals like The Handmaid’s Tale and Castle Rock without any issues during this NordVPN review.
![Screenshot of Hulu with NordVPN over it](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/hulu_stream_nordvpn_app.jpg)
We could also stream in HD during our tests, which makes NordVPN even more impressive.
NordVPN and Prime Video
When testing the VPN service for this NordVPN review, we were impressed to find that NordVPN works like a charm to unblock Amazon Prime Video.
Moreover, when traveling around, we could easily tune in to catch Thursday Night Football on Prime when connected to a NordVPN server.
![Image shows NordVPN successfully unblocking Prime Video in the US](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/NordVPN-Unblocking-Amazon-Prime-Video-Screenshot.png)
NordVPN and HBO Max
HBO Max has some of our favorite shows, so it was great to see that NordVPN can unblock it from anywhere. During our tests, we used a VPN connection from NordVPN to watch the final episodes of Succession on HBO Max! It was a smooth experience without any speed or video quality issues.
![Screenshot showing NordVPN unblocking HBO Max](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/NordVPN-unblocks-HBO-Max.png)
Unblocking sports streams with NordVPN
NordVPN can unblock various sports streams and websites. We’ve successfully used Nord’s VPN servers to stream UFC fights, NFL and NBA games, and Formula 1 and Moto GP races.
![Screenshot of NFL sports stream with NordVPN app over it](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/NFL_stream_nordvpn_app.jpg)
While it’s increasingly difficult to access sports content from around the world — with the sports industry cracking down on VPN providers — NordVPN still stands strong. It can unblock most sports channels and streams.
Torrenting With NordVPN
NordVPN has special servers for P2P downloading. We put these specialized P2P servers to the test during our NordVPN review and found that they work optimally, delivering great speeds without any throttling.
To find NordVPN’s P2P servers, go to the Specialty servers menu and choose P2P. The app allows you to pick specific countries and individual servers. We especially like the server load indicators, which should prevent lags due to overcrowded servers.
If you want the best speed, we recommend picking the “fastest” option in both fields.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, p2p servers](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-p2p-servers-screenshot.png)
NordVPN’s fast servers with impressive download speeds make it an excellent choice for torrenting. We recommend activating NordVPN’s kill switch for safe and anonymous downloading.
We used ipleak.net to test for IP leaks when torrenting with NordVPN. The result showed the VPN IP address and not our real IP. This means that NordVPN effectively hides your IP when you’re downloading files from the internet.
If you are exposed, your internet service provider can throttle your connection, and you may be fined for copyright infringement (depending on what you’re downloading). Luckily, NordVPN is, without a doubt, one of the best VPNs for torrenting.
Download Torrent Files Safely With NordVPN
NordVPN Servers and Locations
NordVPN has 5,800+ servers spread across 60 countries.
![NordVPN Servers Worldwide](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-servers-worldwide.png)
Here’s an overview of locations with NordVPN IP addresses:
- America: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States
- Europe: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, The Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam
- Africa and The Middle East: Israel, South Africa, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates
While NordVPN doesn’t have as many servers as other VPN providers, like Private Internet Access (PIA), for example, its servers are way more effective at unblocking geo-restricted content.
Specialized servers
NordVPN offers three types of specialty servers:
- Specialized P2P servers: We found these great for fast and private downloading.
- Double VPN: These servers have an extra layer of security and are recommended for use in restrictive countries like China.
- Onion over VPN: These allow you to access the Onion network with increased privacy and without using the Tor browser.
Dedicated IP address
NordVPN has a dedicated IP service. Its dedicated IPs all work with the OpenVPN protocol and cost $4.19/month. You can use NordVPN’s dedicated IPs on up to two devices simultaneously. There are many benefits of using a dedicated IP. Among other things:
- You have a lesser risk of being blocked when using a VPN server to access streaming platforms and other websites.
- You won’t compete for traffic, which can result in faster speeds.
To get a dedicated IP with NordVPN, just follow these steps:
- Create a new account on the NordVPN website (alongside the normal account you already own).
- Choose a payment method.
- Click “Got a coupon?” on the payment page and add the NordVPN coupon code “norddedicatedip.” You’ll now automatically get a discount on your subscription.
- Complete the remaining steps of the process.
- Contact the NordVPN team via live chat or email and ask them to give you your dedicated IP address.
While we were conducting this NordVPN review, NordVPN offered IP addresses for servers in the following locations:
- The US
- Canada
- Germany
- The UK
- The Netherlands
- France
- Japan
- Australia
- Italy
- Sweden
NOTE:
Using a dedicated IP will increase your NordVPN annual subscription cost.
Is NordVPN Safe?
Our experts rank NordVPN as one of the safest VPN services on the market. Its location, strict no-logs policy, and ongoing efforts to improve security and privacy are unrivaled.
It’s clear that the enhanced NordVPN security features keep your personal information and browsing activity safe from prying eyes.
Browse the Web Privately With NordVPN
Can you sign up to NordVPN anonymously?
NordVPN only asked for our email address when we were signing up for this NordVPN review. Naturally, you also need to provide your billing information to subscribe.
You can also sign up with your Google or Apple account, but we don’t recommend using other services to create VPN accounts. You’d just be sharing personal information that you don’t have to.
You can boost your anonymity by using a temporary email. NordVPN is also a VPN provider that supports crypto payments, which can keep you completely anonymous.
Logging policy
NordVPN has a strict no-logging policy, which is frequently verified through independent auditing. In 2022, NordVPN made the switch to RAM-only servers: all user data is deleted with every server reset.
More importantly, NordVPN strives to have sole control and visibility over its entire in-house server system of colocated servers. To date, NordVPN already has 580 colocated servers, and there are plans for all its 5,800+ servers to follow this path.
In terms of NordVPN’s data logging policy, the company records the following user data:
- Personal info: Email address, billing information, country details (for VAT calculation purposes). All data is end-to-end encrypted.
- Technical info: NordVPN will collect your IP address and device info when you use its website or contact customer support. This data provides the requested service and prevents fraud, DDoS attacks, and similar hacking attempts. However, the information is deleted on each server reset.
We’re glad to see that NordVPN doesn’t keep any activity logs of VPN usage (the sites you visit, for example). There’s no chance of tracing your online traffic back to your device or you.
Additionally, since NordVPN is located in Panama, you run no risk of your data being shared with other countries’ intelligence services through the 14 Eyes alliance.
USER RIGHTS:
You have certain rights regarding your data. At any time, you can request access, deletion, or rectification. You can also request a copy of the collected data (portability), object to data processing, withdraw previously given consent, or lodge a complaint.
Protocols and encryption
NordVPN encrypts your traffic with the AES-256 encryption cipher, which is considered military-grade and used by banks, hospitals, and other institutions.
VPN protocols ensure reliable performance when it comes to bypassing online censorship or unblocking streaming services. NordVPN offers various VPN protocols you can use to different ends:
- OpenVPN (TCP/UDP): The most popular VPN tunnel, thanks to its excellent speed/security ratio. UDP connections are faster but easily blocked. TCP is slower but more resilient against obstacles like the Chinese firewall, for example.
- NordLynx: NordVPN’s proprietary protocol is based on WireGuard, and we were impressed with this innovation. NordLynx fixes WireGuard’s privacy issues with its “custom double Network Address Translation (NAT) system.” Its small code base makes it less vulnerable than OpenVPN.
- IKEv2/IPSec: We usually avoid this protocol when OpenVPN or WireGuard are options. Mobile users and frequent travelers love it because of its reconnection capabilities. It allows you to switch between networks without ever dropping your connection but can make you vulnerable to hacking.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, protocols](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-protocols-screenshot.png)
We recommend using OpenVPN or NordLynx, as they are the fastest and most secure VPN protocols.
Kill switch
A kill switch is a necessary safety option: if your VPN connection stops working for whatever reason, a kill switch will cut off your internet connection to prevent potential data leaks.
NordVPN apps for desktop devices come with two automatic kill switches:
- Internet kill switch: It blocks your internet access completely when your VPN connection drops.
- App kill switch: This failsafe closes certain apps when your VPN stops working. You can choose what apps are added to the list, and they won’t be able to access the internet without VPN protection.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, showing the app's kill switch](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-kill-switch-screenshot.png)
When we installed the VPN for our NordVPN review, the kill switch was not activated by default. You can find it in your client under Settings > Kill Switch and activate it manually.
For each of the kill switch options, we ran a couple of tests. In both cases, NordVPN passed with flying colors.
Threat Protection
Threat Protection is a NordVPN security feature that has historically scanned files you downloaded and blocked malicious ads, protecting you against malware, phishing, and other online threats before they can even reach your device.
Moreover, this nifty tool blocks online trackers, allowing you to surf the internet without leaving a trace. You can find a weekly summary of Threat Protection, which lists all the blocked ads, malicious websites, malware, and tracers.
KEEP IN MIND:
There are two separate versions of this feature: Threat Protection (Windows and macOS) and Threat Protection Lite (all operating systems). The latter won’t delete detected malware. The Lite version also won’t let you use Threat Protection without a VPN connection, which the regular feature does.
Vulnerability Detection
NordVPN has recently announced a new feature: Vulnerability Detection. This feature scans the apps on your Windows devices for security vulnerabilities and identifies risky software flaws.
You will be notified of any risks right away and be asked to update the app. Since Nord checks approximately 150 million applications daily, it’s a great way to enhance their safety features even more!
In our opinion, this is a great addition to NordVPN’s already stellar security lineup. According to NordVPN, around 100,000 apps have known vulnerabilities – you could already be facing a risk to your Windows computer without realizing it.
The fact that NordVPN includes this Vulnerability Detection tool in every subscription means you can thwart any online danger fast and cheaply with our 68% discount.
Onion over VPN and Double VPN
NordVPN has two notable security features that can improve your online safety:
- Double VPN (multi-hop): This tool routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one. Double encryption makes you much safer and harder to attack, though it will slow down your connection. Still, it can help you bypass geo-restrictions and high-level censorship in countries like Iran.
- Onion over VPN: This feature combines the advantages of an Onion router with VPN security. Essentially, your traffic can enter the Onion network through a random relay anywhere in the world. Every point of connection is encrypted, making it very difficult to pinpoint the origin of your traffic.
Having these options at your disposal is certainly a plus in our books! If you’d like to know more, read our full guide on Onion over VPN for more information.
Does NordVPN leak your data?
During our NordVPN review, we didn’t discover any data leaks. Our ipleak.net report showed zero WebRTC and DNS leaks.
WebRTC might leak information from your browser, while DNS servers can reveal your real location. Luckily, you don’t have to worry with NordVPN!
![Screenshot of NordVPN passing our IP leak tests](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-ip-leak-test-screenshot-redacted.png)
NordVPN prevents DNS leaks by operating proprietary DNS servers. Your DNS queries travel through an encrypted tunnel and are resolved on the VPN server you’re connected to. So you don’t have to worry about your private data getting into the wrong hands.
Our IP address checker also confirmed that NordVPN wasn’t leaking our real IP during our NordVPN review.
Additional Nord Services
To compete with other VPN providers, Nord has additional services available at an extra cost. They include:
- NordLayer: A secure VPN solution for businesses
- NordLocker: A cloud storage solution
- NordPass: A password manager
- Meshnet: A virtual networking solution
NOTE:
While these services are separate, you can get NordLocker and NordPass with the NordVPN Complete Plan or choose them as add-ons when subscribing to NordVPN.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these services below.
NordLayer: Dedicated VPN client for businesses
NordLayer is NordVPN’s network security solution for businesses. It allows organizations to use the internet safely, working seamlessly even for hybrid and distributed workforces. NordLayer protects employees from phishing, ransomware, and malware-ridden files.
Your files and sensitive data, especially in transit, are protected by AES-256 encryption. For added security, you can access virtual private gateways, which means that your organization gets a dedicated server. This lets you implement IP allowlisting and granular network segmentation.
NordLayer’s dedicated server pool covers 30+ server locations, including Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong, and the Republic of South Africa.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Nordlayer servers](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordlayer-servers-phone-screenshot.png)
You can easily integrate NordLayer with your current infrastructure as it’s a scalable, hardware-free solution. It’s also compatible with different tools, including Google Workspace, OneLogin, Azure AD, Okta, and JumpCloud. You even benefit from priority support and a dedicated account manager.
The pricing options are also flexible:
- Lite: $8/user/month
- Core: $11/user/month
- Premium: $14/user/month
- Custom: For large companies with specific requirements
Most VPNs are now launching similar services, but we’re among the many who consider NordVPN to be the pioneer. We asked our in-house VPN review analyst, Wisdom Sablah, about his thoughts on NordLayer. Here’s what he had to say:
NordLocker: A reliable encrypted cloud storage solution
NordLocker is a cloud storage service that you can use to share files with other people. It currently offers you 3GB of storage completely free of charge. If you need more space, you can pick one of the two premium packages:
- 500 GB: $2.99/month
- 2 TB: $5.99/month
All three options come with unlimited end-to-end encryption. However, premium NordVPN users have 24/7 priority support, while the free version only gets email support.
Nord also offers business-grade packages for NordLocker. Apart from the aforementioned features, they also come with an admin panel for access control, secure file management, private sharing, and access on any platform. The pricing goes as follows:
- Business 100 GB: $3.29 per user/month
- Business 500 GB: $13.29 per user/month
- Business Plus 2 TB: $15.69 per user/month
- Custom plan: A package tailored to your business
Interested in NordLocker? You can add it at the checkout when purchasing NordVPN or get it as a standalone service from NordLocker’s website by clicking the button below.
Read our in-depth NordLocker review to learn more about the features and performance of this cloud storage service.
NordPass: Our best password manager of 2023
NordPass is a feature-packed password manager that will bring your password protection to a new level. With this tool, you can:
- Create secure passwords
- Save unlimited passwords + enable autosave and autofill
- Import & export passwords
- Sync passwords, notes, and credit cards across devices
- Share items with people you trust
- Replace old, weak, and reused passwords
- Scan the internet for data leaks involving your passwords
NordPass offers a 30-day free trial, which is enough time to test it and see if it works for you. After your trial expires, you can keep using the limited free version.
NordPass is also currently our best password manager. This is the current pricing for the two premium subscriptions:
Premium plan:
- $1.29/month for the two-year plan
- $1.69/month for the one-year plan
Family plan (six users):
- $2.49/month for the two-year plan
- $2.99/month for the one-year plan
NordPass is also available to companies, priced per user.
Want to try out NordPass? You can add it to your cart when subscribing to NordVPN, or you can click the button below to visit the NordPass website and get it separately from NordVPN’s other tools.
Protect Your Passwords With NordPass
You can find out more about the pros and cons of this password manager in our NordPass review.
Meshnet
Meshnet grants you remote access to other devices around the world. It uses encrypted tunnels, but instead of connecting you to a VPN server, it establishes a point-to-point connection between two devices.
In March 2023, NordVPN made Meshnet free for all users. Some of Meshnet’s benefits include:
- Hosting and joining virtual LAN parties: This is especially useful for online multiplayer games. Now, you can use Meshnet to create virtual encrypted LAN connections with other players around the globe.
- Access files stored on remote devices: With Meshnet, you can remotely access files stored on your devices. Whether it’s your home or business computer, all you need is a phone with an internet connection, and you can access your shared files no matter where you are.
- Share your files securely: You can share files with your colleagues or share your projects for others to see on your local web server.
- Route your online traffic: Meshnet allows you to route your traffic through another machine. This means that you can access the internet under that other machine’s IP address.
You can’t add people to your Meshnet network without their consent. You’ll have to send them an invitation and wait for their response.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Meshnet Invite](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/meshnet-invite-screenshot.png)
Meshnet allows you to link up to 10 devices that you own and 50 external devices. All devices under the same NordVPN subscription are linked automatically.
Is NordVPN Easy to Use?
During our NordVPN review, we found that the VPN is easy to use and beginner-friendly. However, it doesn’t sacrifice any advanced options. As such, it can cater to both VPN beginners and power users alike.
You can view NordVPN’s website in 20+ languages, but its client supports only seven. While this is only a minor annoyance, we would like to see more translations added in the future to improve accessibility, especially given NordVPN’s international reach.
You can install NordVPN on up to six devices. Overall, NordVPN is super easy to install and use on any device — desktop, tablet, or mobile.
How to install NordVPN
NordVPN has one of the simplest VPN installations we’ve come across in the VPN industry.
If you’re new and don’t know where to start, however, have a look at this instruction video and let our cybersecurity team guide you through NordVPN’s installation!
You can also just follow the brief steps we’ve laid out below:
- Visit NordVPN’s official website.
- Choose a plan and set up your account – we’ve got a 68% new user discount to get you started.
- Click on “Get NordVPN” to download the installable file. NordVPN apps are available for all major operating systems.
- Double-click the downloaded file to launch the installation.
- Follow the install wizard until NordVPN is successfully installed.
Now, you can log into NordVPN with the account that you created and start enjoying best-in-class VPN security, unblocking, and connection speeds.
NordVPN on Windows
NordVPN is a breeze to download and install on Windows during our NordVPN review. The software was up and running within minutes, and we did not face any issues.
The main window features a prominent world map with the available server locations. You can also pick a server from the list on the left, which includes specialty servers as well.
The “Quick Connect” button lets the app pick a server for you automatically.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Client disconnected](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-client-disconnected-screenshot.png)
Alternatively, you can use the search bar to find a server and click on it to connect.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Client connected](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-client-connected-screenshot.png)
The NordVPN Settings menu in the bottom-left corner opens up a slew of extra options:
- General: This allows you to inspect the app version, launch at startup, launch minimized, show status notifications, pick a language, and enable CyberSec.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, General settings](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-general-settings-screenshot.png)
- Auto-connect: This allows you to enable Wi-Fi auto-connect, pick a protocol, choose a server for auto-connection, and create a list of trusted Wi-Fi networks.
- Kill switch: This lets you activate the internet/app kill switch and create a list of controlled apps.
- Split tunneling: This allows you to enable split tunneling and include/exclude specific apps.
- Advanced: With this feature, you can create a custom DNS, use obfuscation, enable LAN invisibility, allow remote access, run diagnostics, and send feedback to the company.
- Dark web monitor: Enable this option to monitor the dark web for leaked info linked to your email address.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Dark Web monitoring](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-dark-web-monitoring-screenshot.png)
NordVPN on Mac
The NordVPN client is optimized for Mac and does not compromise on any features. We did not run into any issues using it on macOS.
![NordVPN app interface](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-NordVPN-App-Interface-on-Mac-June-2023.png)
NordVPN on Android
NordVPN is a perfect VPN to have on the go because it performs exceptionally well on Android, as we discovered during our NordVPN review. NordVPN is, in fact, one of the best VPNs for Android. It was super easy to download from the Google Play Store, and we could sign into our account without any issues.
The NordVPN Android app has a nice interface on mobile, too, and works effectively without impacting device performance.
![Screenshot of NordVPN app on Android](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-android.png)
NordVPN on iPhone
NordVPN is our top VPN for iPhone. The NordVPN iOS app is easy to use and creates a stable connection. You’ll have to allow the app access to your device, but it’s a trusted application. From here, the app can manage your connections.
Establishing a connection on mobile is straightforward, as is picking a country and server. We also paid close attention to our battery while running NordVPN in the background, and it didn’t appear to have a significant effect on our battery life.
![NordVPN iPhone Screenshots](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-iphone-screenshots.png)
Customer Service
NordVPN provides excellent customer service, as we discovered during our NordVPN review. Our interactions with customer support were fast and efficient, and the agents were enthusiastic and polite.
The website features a rich knowledge base packed with tutorials, FAQs, troubleshooting manuals, and everything else you can imagine.
![Screenshot of NordVPN website, support options](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/NordVPN-support-options-screenshot.png)
Each category on the Support page dives deeper into various troubleshooting and guidance articles. If you can’t find your answers there, you can use their live chat option as well.
Before getting human support, you’ll have to go through the NordVPN chatbot, which is not very helpful. It can provide you with some simple answers but can’t solve any complex problems.
![Screenshot of NordVPN, Chatbox](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/nordvpn-provider-chatbot-screenshot.png)
However, you can request communication with a live agent by typing “live agent” or something along those lines, and the chatbot will queue you in. Note that you’ll have to provide a valid email address before talking to a support agent.
During our tests for this NordVPN review, we got our answers from the live support team in minutes. They were very knowledgeable and ready to help. If the live chat is unavailable, you can also contact the support team via email.
How Much Does NordVPN Cost?
NordVPN is incredibly affordable, especially when you opt for a long-term subscription. You pay just $ 2.99 per month for a two-year subscription! This is a fantastic deal, considering the comprehensive security and privacy features it offers.
Every purchase also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test the service hands-on and decide if it’s worth the price.
Besides the two-year plan, NordVPN also has monthly and annual plans. The NordVPN cost for these subscription plans is indicated below.
Pricing plans
NordVPN accepts the following payment methods:
- Credit or debit card
- PayPal
- Google Pay
- Sofort
- Cryptocurrencies
EDITOR’S PRO TIP:
Pay with crypto to stay completely anonymous. Crypto payments cannot be traced back to you, and you won’t need to provide any personal information like you do when paying with other methods.
Which NordVPN plan is the best?
The answer to this question depends on your personal needs. However, you get the most value for money if you purchase NordVPN Plus. This plan provides you access to all VPN features, as well as the password manager, for a very affordable price!
If you’re serious about optimizing your online privacy, NordVPN Plus is the way to go. Only here for the VPN? In that case, choose NordVPN Standard.
Features | NordVPN Standard | NordVPN Plus | NordVPN Complete |
---|---|---|---|
Secure, high-speed VPN | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Malware protection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tracker and ad blocker | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Password manager | ✖ | ✔ | ✔ |
Data breach scanner | ✖ | ✔ | ✔ |
1 TB cloud storage | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ |
Next-generation file encryption | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ |
Plan | Get NordVPN Standard | Get NordVPN Plus | Get NordVPN Complete |
Do you get your money’s worth with NordVPN?
Yes, absolutely! Considering its speed, privacy features, unblocking capabilities, and price, NordVPN provides good value for money!
Going for the two-year plan gives you the most bang for your buck. And, if you don’t like this VPN, you can always get a refund with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
NordVPN’s money-back guarantee: How to get a refund
You can cancel your NordVPN subscription anytime within 30 days of purchasing it, and you’ll get a full refund, no questions asked.
You can do so in two different ways:
- Email: Simply send an email to support@nordvpn.com with the subject line, “Request for Refund.”
- Live chat: Contact a customer support agent directly about canceling your subscription.
When we canceled our subscription via email, we got a response within the hour and were refunded immediately.
Crypto-users can also get a NordVPN refund. Just keep in mind that the amount may be different from what you paid due to fluctuations in the cryptocurrency market.
Comparisons With Other VPNs
Want to see how NordVPN holds up against its toughest competitors? Have a look at the VPN comparison table below!
VPN | |||||
Operating systems | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux |
Price | $ 2.99 | $ 1.99 | $ 2.03 | $ 6.67 | $ 2.03 |
Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 7 | 8 | Unlimited |
Payment methods | Other, Credit card, Cryptocurrency | PayPal, Other, Credit card, Cryptocurrency | PayPal, Other, Credit card, Cryptocurrency | PayPal, Credit card, Cryptocurrency, iDeal, Bitcoin, Sofort, UnionPay, MINT | PayPal, Other, Credit card, Cryptocurrency |
Torrent options | Torrenting allowed | Torrenting allowed | Torrenting allowed | Torrenting allowed | Torrenting allowed |
Netflix | Works with Netflix | Works with Netflix | Works with Netflix | Works with Netflix | Works with Netflix |
Logs | Zero logs | Zero logs | Zero logs | Zero logs | Zero logs |
Visit NordVPN | Visit Surfshark | Visit CyberGhost | Visit ExpressVPN | Visit Private Internet Access (PIA) |
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What Reddit Users Think About NordVPN
Reddit is an interesting place to discover what other users think of services like NordVPN. Truth be told, the Reddit community can be quite critical. We analyzed hundreds of NordVPN threads and their comments to see how Redditors feel about NordVPN.
One Reddit user said they started facing difficulties with NordVPN’s speed over the past months, as seen in the screenshot below.
![Screenshot of Reddit post on r/nordvpn](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/hundred_year_war_reddit_comment_nordvpn.png)
But many other Redditors replied to that thread saying that NordVPN works perfectly fine for them.
![Screenshot of Reddit comments on r/nordvpn talking about how NordVPN works for the users](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/Various_redditors_commenting_nordvpn.png)
In another thread, one Redditor said their connection speeds have skyrocketed after switching from OpenVPN to NordLynx. They claimed NordLynx is key to a smooth NordVPN experience. Such comments are the reason NordVPN is our best VPN according to Reddit users.
![Screenshot of Reddit comments on r/nordvpn talking about switching from OpenVPN to NordLynx](https://vpnoverview.com/wp-content/uploads/goochockipar_reddit_comment_nordvpn.png)
After scanning through hundreds of threads on subreddits like r/nordvpn, r/vpnreviews, r/VPNTorrents, and many more during our NordVPN review, these are our conclusions:
- Reddit users are divided when it comes to liking or disliking NordVPN. Many users love NordVPN, just as many seem to not like it.
- Other VPN services face similar or even harsher criticism — Reddit is a tough crowd!
- NordVPN is generally praised for its speed and ease of use.
- NordLynx is widely loved by the Reddit community, and NordVPN is seen as innovative.
- Some users dislike NordVPN’s marketing strategy and the fact that NordVPN seems to pop up everywhere — in TV ads, as a sponsor on podcasts, in Twitch live streams, etc.
Do We Recommend NordVPN?
As you may have gathered from our NordVPN review, this provider is easily up there among the best VPNs you can find right now. In fact, out of 70+ VPNs, NordVPN ranks #1 in our overall list as the best VPN of 2023.
This VPN provider excels at speed and security, two primary concerns when choosing a VPN. Combine these factors with NordVPN’s feature-packed and user-friendly software, and it’s easy to see why this VPN is a top choice across the board.
We had a hard time finding fault with the service, aside from a need for greater language accessibility.