Top ProtonVPN Alternatives [Paid + Free]
For free VPN alternatives to Proton VPN, consider Windscribe, Hotspot Shield, Hide.me, and TunnelBear, which offer strong privacy features and no-cost options.
Among paid alternatives, Windscribe, Mullvad, AirVPN, and Surfshark provide robust security, fast speeds, and advanced privacy protections. Each option varies in price and features, making them suitable for different needs.
Common Issues with Proton VPN
ProtonVPN is often praised for its focus on privacy and strong encryption, but it isn’t without its critics.
Common complaints about Proton VPN include connectivity and speed, with limited server options on free plans. Some users also report inconsistent performance on streaming platforms and relatively high costs compared to other VPNs. These issues impact user experience, especially for those using the free version.
Here’s a look at some of the most recurrent issues users have with ProtonVPN:
- Limited access for free users: While ProtonVPN does offer free access, users are limited to a small number of servers and can only connect on one device at a time.
- Pricing: ProtonVPN’s paid plans can seem steep for the features offered, particularly for users on a budget.
- Stability: Many users complain of frequent connection drops and slow server speeds
- Customer Support: Users frequently report that ProtonVPN’s support can be slow, with responses that sometimes lack detail.
- User Interface (UI): While functional, ProtonVPN’s UI can feel unintuitive, especially for those new to VPNs.
Take a look at what some ProtonVPN users had to say on Reddit:
For these reasons, many folks seek alternatives that offer similar or better features without the downsides. Read on for the best free and paid VPN alternatives to ProtonVPN, highlighting each one’s strengths and use cases.
Best Free Alternatives to ProtonVPN
Windscribe
Windscribe’s free plan sets it apart in the world of free VPNs, offering a generous set of features that rival some paid plans.
Generous Bandwidth and Server Options
With up to 15GB/month of data and access to multiple server locations, Windscribe’s free tier provides ample coverage for users seeking a reliable, free VPN. It’s a great option for users who need a bit more bandwidth than what ProtonVPN’s free plan provides.
Unique Features: R.O.B.E.R.T.
A standout feature of Windscribe is R.O.B.E.R.T., an advanced domain and IP blocking tool that lets you block ads, trackers, and malware. This level of ad and tracker-blocking isn’t available with ProtonVPN’s free plan, making Windscribe a more secure option for users who prioritize ad-free browsing.
Simultaneous Connections
Unlike most free VPNs that limit connections to one device, Windscribe allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously under its free plan. This makes it ideal for users with multiple devices who want to stay secure across all their gadgets.
Actually Good Marketing
Who wants to think about marketing when you subscribe to a new service? No one. Unless you’re a Windscribe customer. Customers have praised Windscribe for their hilarious videos and emails - take a look!
Windscribe is a great choice for privacy-conscious users, offering a well-rounded, generous free plan, a strict no-logs policy, and a high level of transparency. Its straightforward and easy-to-use apps make it an accessible yet powerful alternative to ProtonVPN, especially for those looking to benefit from a free VPN option without compromising on essential privacy features.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is one of the most widely recognized free VPN options, though it comes with limitations.
Data and Speed: Hotspot Shield’s free version provides unlimited monthly bandwidth. However, this is limited to one device and comes with in-app ads. Plus, the free plan limits users to a single U.S.-based virtual server and sometimes throttles speeds to encourage upgrading.
Performance and Usability: Hotspot Shield’s free plan includes decent speeds and is easy to use, making it a popular choice for users looking for straightforward, temporary VPN coverage. However, with a single server location and frequent ads, it may not be ideal for those who need a consistent, high-speed VPN.
Security and Privacy: Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol, which is designed to improve connection speed. However, users should note that the free version collects limited data for advertising purposes, which may not appeal to privacy-conscious users.
While Hotspot Shield does place some strict limitations on its free users, such as a single location and one device, it does offer unlimited bandwidth, which makes it a good choice for users with high-data needs.
Hide.me
Hide.me’s free VPN plan provides a solid experience, with unlimited data for free users. However, it only allows for 1 device to be connected at a time.
Server Variety: Provides access to 8 server locations, offering more flexibility than many free VPNs.
Steady Speeds: Maintains decent speeds without throttling on the free plan, allowing for reliable browsing and streaming performance.
Privacy Commitment: Hide.me has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy on both free and paid plans.
Single Device: With Hide.me’s free plan, you are only allowed to connect to one device at a time.
While Hide.me offers a privacy-focused, ad-free VPN experience with 8 server locations and decent speeds, it limites it’s free users to a single device connection at a time.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear’s bear-themed interface makes it a friendly choice for VPN newcomers, although its 2gb monthly data cap limits functionality for regular use.
Data Allowance: Users receive 2GB of data each month, with the option to gain an additional 1GB by tweeting about TunnelBear.
Easy-to-Use Interface: The fun and intuitive design is ideal for beginners, offering straightforward setup and use.
Global Server Access: Unlike many free VPNs, TunnelBear’s free plan allows access to multiple global server locations, adding flexibility.
Limited Usage: The low data cap is only sufficient for minimal browsing and occasional use, making it less practical for frequent VPN needs.
TunnelBear’s approachable, beginner-friendly VPN provides access to multiple global servers, though its 2gB data cap makes it ideal for occasional use.
Best Paid Alternatives to ProtonVPN
Windscribe
For those looking to invest in a paid VPN, Windscribe offers a flexible pricing structure that can save users money by letting them choose the features they need.
Flexible and Transparent Pricing
Windscribe’s paid plans are known for their value and flexibility. Users can even build a custom plan by selecting individual server locations for $1 per location. This lets users pay only for what they need, rather than subscribing to an all-inclusive plan with unused features.
If you choose a yearly plan, access to all server locations is only $5.75/month. Plus, all plans, even yearly subscriptions purchased at a discount, will rebill at the same price, no sneaky up-sells. While ProntoVPN may offer a slightly cheaper entry price, you will be billed a new price upon renewal:
Advanced Features and Easy-to-Use App
Windscribe offers Static IPs (for an additional cost) to all pro users, while ProtonVPN only offers this service to professional/business accounts.
Windscribe also offers a standalone browser extension with a suite of advanced privacy features designed to protect against tracking and fingerprinting.
Even with Windscribe’s suite of advanced features, their apps are easy to use, making them ideal for both new and seasoned VPN users.
Responsive Customer Support and Active Online Community
With a comprehensive Help Center, a super-powered AI Chatbot and an active community on Discord and Reddit, help is only a click away for Windscribe users.
Transparency and Ethics
Windscribe takes a strong stance on user privacy, with a clear no-logs policy and ethical practices around data usage. Its transparency, combined with fair pricing, makes it an appealing choice for users concerned about the ethical implications of using a VPN.
ProtonVPN is part of the Proton suite, alongside ProtonMail, ProtonCalendar, and ProtonDrive. In 2021, ProtonMail faced backlash for complying with a Swiss legal order to log the IP address of a French climate activist, highlighting that while ProtonMail enforces a strict no-logs policy, Swiss law can compel compliance, raising questions about privacy under legal pressure.
Mullvad
Mullvad is a VPN designed for users who prioritize privacy and anonymity above all else, and its unique approach sets it apart from most competitors.
Anonymous Signup: Offers an anonymous account creation process without requiring personal information, enhancing user privacy.
Flat-Fee Pricing: Maintains a single, flat monthly rate, avoiding complicated pricing tiers and hidden fees.
Reliable Security: Open-source software with strong encryption protocols appeals to those looking for a transparent and secure VPN.
Limited Device Support: Mullvad supports fewer devices than some competitors, which may restrict flexibility for users with diverse tech setups.
Mullvad’s straightforward, privacy-first approach with anonymous signup and flat-rate pricing makes it perfect for users seeking simplicity and strong anonymity.
AirVPN
AirVPN is a VPN designed for tech-savvy users who want complete control over their VPN settings.
High Customizability: Offers detailed control over network settings, ports, and encryption, appealing to tech-savvy users.
Open-Source and Transparent: AirVPN’s open-source platform and real-time network statistics enhance its commitment to transparency and privacy.
Tor Compatibility: Allows integration with Tor for users who need an extra layer of security and anonymity.
Complex Interface: The advanced interface may be overwhelming for beginners, making it better suited for experienced VPN users
AirVPN is a powerful, open-source VPN that offers extensive customization and Tor support, ideal for advanced users who want complete control over their VPN settings.
Surfshark
Surfshark is known for its affordable pricing and unlimited simultaneous connections, which makes it an attractive alternative to ProtonVPN.
Budget-Friendly: Surfshark’s affordable plans provide access to features like CleanWeb (ad-blocking), MultiHop (double VPN), and split tunneling.
Unlimited Connections: Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for families or users with many devices.
Strong Security and Privacy: Based in the British Virgin Islands with a strict no-logs policy, Surfshark ensures robust privacy protection.
Minor Glitches on Some Devices: Some users report occasional app issues on certain platforms, such as smart TVs or older operating systems.
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN with unlimited device connections and robust privacy features, ideal for users with multiple devices and security needs.
Conclusion
Finding the right alternative to ProtonVPN is all about what suits you best. From the accessible free plan at Windscribe to AirVPN’s highly customizable offering, you’re bound to find a match.