Quick answer: The strongest Proton VPN alternatives are NordVPN, ExpressVPN and Surfshark. NordVPN is the closest match for most users; the others trade off on price, features or focus. All 6 are compared below on pricing, strengths and best use case.
Proton VPN is a solid vpn tool — Swiss-based, open-source audited apps, genuinely usable free tier and Secure Core multi-hop routing. But maybe the pricing no longer fits, or you want a feature Proton VPN doesn't prioritise. Here are the strongest alternatives worth a look, with what sets each apart.
Each option below works in the same broad space as Proton VPN; the right swap depends on which trade-off matters most to you.
| Alternative | Pricing | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | ~$3-5/mo on 2-year plan, ~$12.99/mo monthly | streaming |
| ExpressVPN | ~$6.67/mo on annual plan, ~$12.95/mo monthly | streaming |
| Surfshark | ~$2.19-2.99/mo on 2-year plan, ~$15.45/mo monthly | budget |
| CyberGhost | ~$2.03/mo on 2-year plan, ~$12.99/mo monthly | streaming |
| Private Internet Access | ~$2.03/mo on multi-year plan, ~$11.95/mo monthly | torrenting |
| IPVanish | ~$2.19/mo on 2-year plan, ~$13.99/mo monthly | torrenting |
Largest server network with NordLynx (WireGuard) speeds, Threat Protection malware blocking and audited no-logs policy. Worth a look for streaming.
One of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds.
Premium speeds, Lightway protocol, TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure and strong unblocking reputation. Consider it if streaming is your priority.
The most audited consumer VPN, with every server running diskless RAM-only via TrustedServer.
Unlimited simultaneous devices on one subscription, low long-term price and CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking. Worth a look for budget.
Unlimited simultaneous connections at a budget long-term price.
Streaming/torrenting-optimized servers, beginner-friendly apps and a long 45-day money-back guarantee. Worth a look for streaming.
Purpose-built streaming and torrenting server profiles with an unusually long 45-day refund window.
Huge US server footprint, fully open-source apps, proven no-logs in court and deep configurability. Worth a look for torrenting.
The most court-tested no-logs VPN, with 100% open-source apps and deep configurability.
Owns its server network, unlimited connections and torrent-friendly with no connection caps. A good swap when you care most about torrenting.
Unlimited connections on a largely self-owned network, now backed by repeat no-logs audits.
NordVPN is our pick for most users looking to move on from Proton VPN, though the best fit depends on your needs.
Several alternatives above offer a free tier or trial, so you can test them without upfront cost.
Common reasons are pricing, a specific feature, or a workflow that another tool handles more naturally.