Proton VPN Review

Our Verdict

Proton VPN Review

Proton VPN is a comprehensive VPN service known for its high security, user-friendly interface, and impressive connection speeds. The service excels in privacy, offering a proven no-logs policy, independent audits, and open-source applications. Although the premium version comes at a higher price, Proton VPN Free stands out as the best free VPN of 2024. It provides a secure, high-speed experience with no data limits, though it is not compatible with Netflix or torrenting.

More Info : Best VPN

Ranking: #9 out of 62 VPNs

Proton VPN Category Ratings:

• Streaming: 9.5/10
• Torrenting: 9.2/10
• Privacy & Logging: 9.5/10
• Speed: 8.6/10
• Server Locations: 9.7/10
• Bypassing Censorship: 6.5/10
• Security & Features: 9.0/10
• Ease of Use: 9.1/10
• Customer Support: 8.6/10
• Price & Value: 7.5/10

Proton VPN Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:

• Strict no-logs policy
• Open-source and independently audited applications
• Exceptional free version with unlimited data
• Compatibility with US Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
• Port forwarding support for efficient torrenting
• User-friendly and visually appealing apps

Disadvantages:

• Premium version is relatively expensive
• Live chat customer support is not available 24/7
• No Smart DNS for streaming on additional devices
• Limited functionality in China
• Browser extensions are only available to paid subscribers

Since its inception in 2017, Proton VPN has become a leading and highly trusted VPN service. Developed and maintained by Proton AG, a Swiss-based company known for other privacy-focused services such as Proton Mail and Proton Drive, Proton VPN offers both paid and free versions. This review will provide a detailed analysis of both versions, comparing them with other leading VPNs on the market.

Proton VPN Key Data

	Paid Add to compare	Free Add to compare
Data Cap	Unlimited	Unlimited
Download Speed	87Mbps	98Mbps
Logging Policy	No Logs	No Logs
Data Leaks	No	No
Jurisdiction	Switzerland (Privacy Haven)	Switzerland (Privacy Haven)
Servers	4,874	200
IP Addresses	4,874+	200+
Countries with Servers	91	3
US Netflix	Yes	No
Torrenting	Partially	No
Simultaneous Connections	10	1
Works In China	No	No
Support	Email & Online Resources Only	Email & Online Resources Only
Cheapest Price	$4.99/mo over 24 Months	Free
Money-Back Guarantee	30-day Money-Back Guarantee	–
Official Website	ProtonVPN.com

Privacy & Logging Policy

A Truly No-Logs VPN Service

Privacy & Logging Policy Rating: 9.5/10

Proton VPN is a highly reliable service known for its commitment to maintaining your online privacy and anonymity. Its zero-logs privacy policy has been rigorously audited and confirmed by independent third parties and real-world scenarios. Proton VPN neither collects nor sells user data, and its Swiss jurisdiction ensures compliance with stringent data protection laws, exempting it from data retention obligations.

Ranked #3 out of 62 VPNs for Privacy & Logging Policy

Summary of Proton VPN’s Logging Practices:

Proton VPN stands out as one of the few VPN services with a genuinely zero-logs policy, ensuring minimal data storage. This stringent privacy approach applies equally to both the free and premium versions of the service.

Data Type	Logged by Proton VPN
Account Information	Yes
Browsing Activity	No
Date of Last Connection	No
Device Information	No
DNS Queries	No
Individual Bandwidth Usage	No
Individual Connection Timestamps	No
ISP	No
Number of Simultaneous Connections	No
Originating IP Address	No
VPN Server IP	No
VPN Server Location	No

The sole data Proton VPN retains is the email address provided during account creation. To further protect your anonymity, you have the option to use a new, anonymous email address.

All profile data is encrypted and stored locally on Proton VPN’s servers, and it is promptly deleted upon account termination.

Proton VPN’s Logging Policy: Exceptional and Proven

Proton VPN boasts one of the most robust logging policies available, and its effectiveness has been demonstrably proven.

In January 2019, Proton VPN faced a real-world test when a Swiss court requested information about a Proton VPN user. Proton VPN was unable to provide any data, as it does not store user information. This real-world validation makes Proton VPN one of the few services with a logging policy tested and confirmed under practical conditions, which we consider the ultimate measure of a VPN’s privacy assurances.

Further validation of Proton VPN’s logging policy came through an independent audit. Published in April 2022 by Securitum, the audit verified that Proton VPN does not retain any user data.

Proton VPN’s Jurisdiction: Switzerland

Proton VPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, a favorable location for a VPN service provider for several reasons:

• Switzerland has stringent privacy laws and a strong tradition of safeguarding user privacy, and it does not mandate VPN providers to retain user data.
• Switzerland is not a member of the EU, thereby avoiding compliance with EU data retention regulations, such as the Data Retention Directive (2006).
• Switzerland is not part of the 14 Eyes alliance or other intelligence-sharing coalitions, which means it does not participate in international surveillance data sharing.
• Swiss privacy laws, such as BÜPF and NDG, do not impact Proton VPN as it is not classified as a “major telecommunication operator” or “major internet service provider.”

This advantageous jurisdiction allows Proton VPN to leverage Swiss privacy protections while remaining unaffected by the potential drawbacks associated with such laws.

Comparative Privacy Analysis

The following table compares Proton VPN with five other privacy-focused VPN services, evaluating jurisdiction, data collection practices, and logging policy audits.

VPN Service	Privacy Rating	Logging Policy	Jurisdiction	Independently Verified
Proton VPN	9.5	No Logs	Switzerland	✓
PIA VPN	9.7	No Logs	United States	✓
Surfshark	8.7	No Identifying Data	Netherlands	✓
ExpressVPN	9.2	No Identifying Data	British Virgin Islands (BVI)	✓
NordVPN	8.8	No Identifying Data	Panama	✓

Speed Performance

Speed Rating: 8.6/10

Proton VPN is known for its impressive speed, with an average local download speed of 87 Mbps. However, in recent speed evaluations, it has lagged behind some of its major competitors. Despite utilizing the WireGuard protocol, Proton VPN’s local download speeds are consistently lower than those of NordVPN, IPVanish, and several other prominent VPNs. Nonetheless, Proton VPN Free remains the fastest option among free VPN services.

Ranked #13 out of 62 VPNs for Speed

For our speed tests, we connected to Proton VPN servers across six continents using a 100 Mbps internet connection, which approximates typical home internet speeds. The results are as follows:

	No VPN (New York)	US (New York)	Canada (Toronto)	US (Los Angeles)	UK (London)	Germany (Berlin)	Brazil (São Paulo)	Japan (Tokyo)	South Africa (Johannesburg)	Australia (Sydney)
Server Location
Download Speed	100Mbps	87Mbps	91Mbps	91Mbps	89Mbps	89Mbps	92Mbps	83Mbps	64Mbps	76Mbps
Upload Speed	100Mbps	90Mbps	95Mbps	83Mbps	47Mbps	94Mbps	93Mbps	11Mbps	62Mbps	91Mbps
Ping	1ms	7ms	14ms	88ms	73ms	102ms	113ms	145ms	596ms	212ms
Distance	0mi	5mi	300mi	2,500mi	3,500mi	4,000mi	4,800mi	6,700mi	8,000mi	9,900mi

Speed Performance Analysis

Interestingly, Proton VPN demonstrated faster download speeds on several test servers located farther from our location in New York, compared to its New York server.

This anomaly suggests that the New York servers might be experiencing higher traffic or congestion, and you may achieve better speeds on servers closer to your location.

Proton VPN did face challenges with download speeds on servers located at considerable distances, such as 64 Mbps in South Africa and 76 Mbps in Australia. While these speeds are respectable and surpass those of many less reputable VPNs, they still fall short compared to prominent competitors like Hotspot Shield and Ivacy VPN.

Expert Tip: To optimize speeds, ensure that the ‘VPN Accelerator’ feature is enabled in your app’s settings, which can be found under the Connection tab.

Proton VPN Free: The Fastest Free VPN

The free version of Proton VPN impressed us with its performance, emerging as the fastest free VPN we have tested. You can review the speed test results for the free version in the table below:

	No VPN (New York)	US (New York)	Netherlands (Amsterdam)	Japan (Tokyo)
Server Location
Download Speed	100Mbps	98Mbps	83Mbps	83Mbps
Upload Speed	100Mbps	98Mbps	95Mbps	11Mbps
Ping	1ms	9ms	96	145ms
Distance	0mi	5mi	3,000mi	6,700mi

Performance and Streaming Capabilities

Proton VPN Free: Unmatched Upload and Download Speeds

Proton VPN Free stands out not only for its impressive raw upload and download speeds but also as the only reputable free VPN with no data cap. This means you can enjoy unlimited bandwidth for downloading, streaming, gaming, and more without running out of data.

However, be aware that the free version offers access to only 200 servers compared to the 4,874 servers available with the paid version. This limited server pool may result in less consistent speeds due to potential congestion.

Streaming Performance

Streaming Rating: 9.5/10

Proton VPN has recently enhanced its streaming capabilities, now supporting access to six Netflix regions, HBO Max, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. It excels as a streaming VPN, but this benefit is exclusive to the paid version. The free version of Proton VPN does not provide access to these streaming services.

Ranked #7 out of 62 VPNs for Streaming

Below is a table showcasing the popular streaming services accessible via Proton VPN’s premium and free versions:

Streaming Platform	Works with Proton VPN	Works with Proton VPN Free
Amazon Prime Video	Yes	No
BBC iPlayer	Yes	No
Channel 4	No	No
Disney+	Yes	No
Hotstar India	No	No
Hulu	Yes	No
ITVX	No	No
Max	Yes	No
Netflix US	Yes	No

Proton VPN’s streaming capabilities vary based on your subscription plan. While the free servers are restricted by Netflix, the Plus plan servers reliably provide access to US Netflix and five other regions.

Proton VPN claims to support Netflix access in “almost every country,” but our testing shows it successfully unblocks only six Netflix regions. While this is above average, it falls short compared to leading VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which can access 18 and 17 regions, respectively.

Additionally, Proton VPN does not unblock several major Netflix regions, including Australia, Canada, and the UK.

Proton VPN’s Compatibility with Leading Streaming Services

Proton VPN excels not only with Netflix but also with other prominent streaming platforms. It effectively unblocks Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. In our recent tests, we even found it capable of streaming the Australian Football League from abroad.

The following screenshot demonstrates Proton VPN’s performance with BBC iPlayer:

List of Proton VPN Servers That Unblock Popular Streaming Services:

Streaming Service	Server IDs
Amazon Prime Video	US-FL#36, US-CO#11, US-AZ#2
BBC iPlayer	UK#35, UK#11, UK#39
Disney+	US-TX#18, US-WA#10, US-CA#19
Hulu	US-FL#13, US-IL#40, US-IL#42
US Netflix	US-NY#11, US-CA#14, US-GA#20

While the free version of Proton VPN may have limitations, it is noteworthy that it successfully streams live F1 races on F1TV without requiring a subscription. Additionally, it is quite rare for free VPNs to provide access to streaming sites.

For those seeking the best free VPNs for Netflix, we have compiled an updated list to assist you in finding a suitable option.

Torrenting

Torrenting Rating: 9.2/10

Proton VPN is an excellent choice for secure and efficient torrenting, though it may not surpass competitors such as PIA or Mullvad. It provides P2P-optimized servers, supports port forwarding to enhance seeding speeds, and features a highly reliable kill switch. With an average bitrate of 9.7 MiB/s, Proton VPN ensures fast download speeds. However, please note that torrenting is not supported on Proton VPN Free, as it is blocked on all servers.

Ranked #4 out of 62 VPNs for Torrenting

Our tests confirm that Proton VPN offers a private, secure, and fast torrenting experience.

All Proton VPN server locations support torrenting via P2P VPN redirect, allowing your traffic to be securely routed to a nearby server for improved download speeds. Additionally, high-performance servers optimized specifically for torrenting are available and clearly marked within the app, though torrenting is permitted on any server of your choice.

Proton VPN has recently expanded its network of P2P-optimized servers, now offering these specialized servers in 85 countries, up from just 20 previously.

More Info : Best VPN

Despite this improvement, our tests revealed minimal differences in download bitrates between P2P-labeled servers and regular servers. Regardless of the server you select or your location, Proton VPN remains an excellent choice for torrenting. However, it is worth noting that the free version does not support torrenting.

Proton VPN and Port Forwarding

Proton VPN is among the few VPN services that offer port forwarding. This feature allows you to bypass the NAT firewall on your router, enabling faster file transfers.

Payment & Refund Options

Proton VPN supports the following payment methods:

• American Express
• Bank Wire / Direct Transfer
• Bitcoin
• Cash
• Mastercard
• PayPal
• Visa

The inclusion of cryptocurrency and cash payment options is advantageous for users who prefer not to link their Proton VPN account to their bank account, a feature not commonly offered by many VPN providers. However, there are no international payment options, such as AliPay, for users residing outside of America or Europe.

Proton VPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee with no restrictions on data usage. To request a refund, simply contact the support team via email, and the refund will be processed within 14 days.

The free version of Proton VPN does not require any payment information; users can begin using the service immediately after creating an account. This approach enhances privacy and offers greater peace of mind, which is a highly favorable aspect of the service.

Security & Technical Features

Rating: 9.0/10

Proton VPN boasts exceptional security credentials, which have been validated through third-party audits. Its open-source applications utilize industry-standard VPN protocols and AES-256 encryption, ensuring robust protection. The service successfully passed our IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests across all platforms. Users can rely on Proton VPN to effectively mask their IP address and safeguard their data.

Ranked #13 out of 62 VPNs for Security & Technical Features

The table below provides a comprehensive overview of the VPN protocols, encryption ciphers, and technical features offered by Proton VPN:

Protocols

Protocols	Available in Proton VPN
IKEv2/IPSec	Yes
OpenVPN (TCP/UDP)	Yes
WireGuard	Yes

Encryption

Protocols	Available in Proton VPN
IKEv2/IPSec	Yes
OpenVPN (TCP/UDP)	Yes
WireGuard	Yes

Security

Encryption	Available in Proton VPN
AES-128	No
AES-192	No
AES-256	Yes
Blowfish	No
ChaCha20	Yes

Advanced Features

Advanced Features	Available in Proton VPN
Ad Blocker	Yes
Dedicated IP	No
Double VPN	No
SOCKS	No
Split Tunneling	Yes
Static IP	No
Tor over VPN Server	Yes
Tracker Blocker	No

Proton VPN Security & Technical Features

Proton VPN distinguishes itself with both open-source applications and a published third-party security audit.

The VPN’s apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS are all open-source, with the source code available on GitHub. All identified vulnerabilities have been addressed, underscoring Proton VPN’s commitment to transparency and security. Open-source development allows for community scrutiny and contributions, enhancing the overall security of the applications. This level of transparency and dedication to security is notable and sets Proton VPN apart from many competitors.

Highly Encrypted Connections

During our security evaluations, we assessed Proton VPN’s encryption protocols and were impressed by the results. The encryption specifications are as follows:

• Encryption Cipher: AES-256
• Handshake: RSA-2048
• Forward Secrecy: ECDH key exchange
• Authentication: SHA-384 hash

These encryption standards surpass the security needs of most users, effectively protecting and concealing your data from ISPs and potential attackers.

Advanced Security Settings

Proton VPN’s applications offer a range of advanced security and privacy features. Key among these is the Kill Switch:

Kill Switch:

This feature is crucial for maintaining anonymity if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. Proton VPN includes a kill switch in its Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android apps. It is not enabled by default, so users should activate it via the ‘Connection’ tab in the Preferences menu. Our tests confirmed that the kill switch functioned reliably, preventing exposure of our IP address during disconnections.

Split Tunneling

Split tunneling enables your VPN to create a separate connection that bypasses the VPN, allowing traffic to flow directly through your ISP. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining compatibility with devices and services that require a local IP address, such as wireless printers.

Proton VPN offers split tunneling on its Windows and Android apps but does not provide this feature on macOS or iOS. To utilize split tunneling, simply select the apps you wish to exclude from the encrypted VPN tunnel.

Our testing confirmed that split tunneling allows access to local network devices while simultaneously using a VPN server in the Netherlands for secure torrent downloads.

Expert Advice: Be aware that any apps excluded from the VPN tunnel will use your real IP address. Avoid using split tunneling for sensitive activities, especially when connected to free public WiFi.

Proton VPN IP & DNS Leak Test Results

Before entrusting a VPN with your sensitive information, it is crucial to perform real-world IP and DNS leak tests to ensure the VPN operates effectively.

Proton VPN’s apps are equipped with IPv6 and DNS leak protection features. To verify their functionality, we conducted tests using Proton VPN on both macOS and Android platforms.

We tested for IP address leaks by connecting to various Proton VPN servers in the US, South Africa, Germany, and Australia. Proton VPN successfully prevented any leakage of our true IP address across all tested servers.

Additionally, we employed an IP and DNS leak testing tool to check for DNS leaks, which occur when DNS requests are routed through your ISP instead of the VPN. Proton VPN showed no DNS leaks during our tests. This outcome is expected, as Proton VPN operates its own DNS servers, thereby directly managing DNS requests and mitigating the risk of third-party leaks.

NetShield: Limited Ad Blocking Capabilities

Proton VPN Plus and Unlimited subscribers have access to NetShield, which functions as an ad, malware, and tracker blocker. You can activate NetShield by clicking on the shield icon on the app’s home screen.

While NetShield is effective in blocking malware and trackers, it falls short as an ad blocker. Instead of completely eliminating ads, NetShield replaces them with a gray box, which can be visually disruptive.

Additionally, NetShield is only operational while connected to a Proton VPN server. This means you must maintain a constant connection to Proton VPN to prevent ads from appearing.

Proton VPN’s Secure Core Servers

Proton VPN operates servers in 67 locations, which form its Secure Core network. This feature, available exclusively to Plus and Unlimited plan subscribers, routes your traffic through a Secure Core server before it reaches another Proton VPN server.

This configuration, known as Double VPN or Multi-Hop, enhances security by channeling your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one. Proton VPN’s Secure Core is more secure than similar offerings from other providers, such as NordVPN’s or Surfshark’s Double VPN, due to Proton VPN’s exclusive control over its servers.

The Secure Core feature has significantly expanded from its initial availability in just three countries, reflecting Proton VPN’s ongoing commitment to enhancing security.

Performance Impact of Secure Core Servers

Using Secure Core servers can significantly reduce your internet speed. Below is a comparison of download speeds when connecting from the UK to both standard and Secure Core servers:

Normal Server:

• US: 87 Mbps (13% reduction)
• UK: 89 Mbps (11% reduction)

Secure Core Server:

• US: 30 Mbps (70% reduction)
• UK: 18 Mbps (82% reduction)

The decrease in download speeds with Secure Core servers is attributable to the increased encryption overhead and the additional distance that data must travel.

Additional Security Features for Improvement

1. Enhanced Ad Blocker: While NetShield provides basic ad, malware, and tracker blocking, it is currently inadequate in blocking ads effectively. Proton VPN should focus on developing a more robust ad-blocking feature.
2. Improved Stealth Protocol: Despite offering a Stealth protocol, Proton VPN does not consistently perform well in China. We recommend enhancing this protocol to ensure reliable access through the Great Firewall.
3. Advanced Kill Switch: Proton VPN’s current kill switch disconnects you from both the VPN and your local network. An advanced kill switch with customizable options would allow for more flexibility and retain access to local network devices while maintaining VPN protection.

Server Locations

Rating: 9.7/10

Proton VPN boasts an extensive network with 4,874 servers spread across 91 countries. This broad coverage positions it favorably against leading VPNs like ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access.

Ranked #7 out of 62 VPNs for Server Locations

• 91 Countries
• 92 Cities
• 4,874+ IP Addresses

Continent	Countries with Servers
Europe	40
Asia	21
Africa	14
South America	8
North America	6
Oceania	2

The majority of Proton VPN’s servers are physical, bare-metal servers located in their respective countries, which is commendable. This approach enhances the reliability and authenticity of its server locations.

However, most of Proton VPN’s servers are rented from third-party data centers. While we generally prefer VPN services that own their servers to minimize the risk of compromise or interference, Proton VPN has taken additional measures to secure its rented servers and ensure they do not log any information. This aligns with Proton VPN’s strong commitment to user privacy and security.

Proton VPN also owns a select number of servers as part of its Secure Core network, further enhancing its security infrastructure.

Proton VPN Free Version

Proton VPN Free offers a limited selection of servers, with access to locations in Japan, the Netherlands, and the US. Although this is a reduced selection compared to the premium version, it reflects Proton VPN’s effort to cater to a global audience with well-distributed server options.

Bypassing Web Censorship

Bypasses Internet Filters in Russia & Iran, but Doesn’t Work in China

Rating: 6.5/10

Proton VPN’s proprietary Stealth protocol is designed to circumvent internet censorship in regions like Russia and Iran. However, it is less effective in China. We recommend that Proton VPN consider adopting established methods, such as Shadowsocks, to improve its performance in China.

Ranked #26 out of 62 VPNs for Bypassing Web Censorship

Stealth, Proton VPN’s custom obfuscation protocol, was introduced in late 2022 to overcome web blocks in censored regions. It is available on both the free and premium versions of the app. Stealth has proven effective at accessing restricted websites and applications in countries like Russia and Iran, receiving positive feedback from users on forums and Reddit.

More Info : Best VPN

Unfortunately, Stealth is only accessible on Proton VPN’s Android, iOS, and macOS apps, making it impossible to test on Windows servers located in Shanghai, China.

Challenges in China

Despite its success in less restrictive areas, Proton VPN’s Stealth protocol is reportedly ineffective in China. Both the free and paid versions of the app face challenges due to the Great Firewall’s ability to block TLS-based obfuscation tools.

Our analysis of Stealth’s open-source code indicates that it functions as WireGuard over TLS, encrypting traffic twice. While this theoretically makes it harder for Deep Packet Inspection tools to block, the Great Firewall’s efficacy in blocking TLS-based tools makes Stealth unlikely to succeed in China.

We suggest that Proton VPN explore alternative obfuscation methods, such as implementing a Shadowsocks proxy.

Occasionally, Proton VPN’s ‘TOR via VPN Server’ feature may work in China, but it is generally slow and unreliable. For consistent access in China, consider using a VPN known for reliable performance in the region.

Device & OS Compatibility

Device Compatibility

Proton VPN supports a wide range of devices and platforms:

• Windows
• macOS
• iOS
• Android
• Linux
• Router

The service allows up to 10 simultaneous connections on its paid plan and three on its free plan. For routers supporting OpenVPN, Proton VPN can be installed, though this may lead to reduced speeds.

Games Consoles & Streaming Devices

Proton VPN is compatible with:

• Amazon Fire TV
• Android TV
• Chromecast

However, it does not offer a Smart DNS feature for devices like Apple TV or PlayStation, which complicates its use for streaming. Installing Proton VPN on a compatible router is a workaround, but not all routers are supported. A list of compatible router models is available on Proton VPN’s website. Compatible firmware includes:

• AsusWRT
• DD-WRT
• OpenWRT
• pfSense
• Tomato
• FreshTomato
• Vilfo

Alternatively, pre-flashed routers with Proton VPN can be purchased, though they are relatively expensive. For streaming on games consoles and other devices, a VPN with a robust Smart DNS service, such as CyberGhost or ExpressVPN, may be a better option.

Browser Extensions

Proton VPN offers extensions for:

• Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Firefox
• Opera

The recent launch of Proton VPN’s web browser extension extends support to Chromium-based browsers, including Edge and Opera. The extensions performed well in testing, avoiding common issues seen with similar offerings.

Browser Extensions

It is important to note that Proton VPN’s browser extensions are exclusively available to paid subscribers. Free users cannot access these extensions and will need to log in with a paid account once installed.

One of the key advantages of Proton VPN’s browser extensions is that they provide access to the full range of 91 server locations. In contrast, many other popular VPN extensions, such as those from CyberGhost and TunnelBear, offer a significantly reduced selection.

The extensions function as a true VPN, encrypting all your web traffic similarly to the desktop application. However, unlike the desktop app, these extensions only secure traffic within your browser. To ensure comprehensive protection for all traffic on your computer or laptop, it is recommended to use the full desktop application.

Ease of Use

Rating: 9.1/10

Proton VPN delivers an intuitive user experience across all platforms. The application is designed for ease of use, whether you prefer a simple “set and forget” approach or wish to explore its advanced features. The app is well-structured, with clear labels and tooltips explaining each feature, although some aspects could benefit from further clarification. Overall, Proton VPN is user-friendly and minimizes the likelihood of encountering major issues.

Ranked #7 out of 62 VPNs for Ease of Use

A detailed comparison of Proton VPN’s app features is provided in the table below:

Platform	VPN Protocol	Kill Switch	Split Tunneling	Alternative Routing
Windows	WireGuard, OpenVPN & IKEv2	✓	✓	✓
MacOS	WireGuard, OpenVPN & IKEv2	✓	✗	✓
iOS	WireGuard, OpenVPN & IKEv2	✗	✗	✗
Android	WireGuard, OpenVPN & IKEv2	✗	✓	✓

Desktop & Laptop (Windows & Mac)

Proton VPN offers a visually appealing and functional interface on both Windows and macOS platforms. The Windows application features a prominent world map, allowing users to explore server locations and establish connections easily.

For users who prefer a more streamlined interface, the app can be resized to a narrow window, similar to its mobile counterpart. However, the Windows client remains the most comprehensive, encompassing advanced features such as a VPN kill switch, split tunneling, and ‘alternative routing,’ which helps circumvent blocked websites by routing connections through different Proton VPN servers.

The macOS client has recently been updated to include support for OpenVPN, WireGuard, and alternative network routing, significantly enhancing its functionality compared to previous versions. However, it currently lacks support for split tunneling.

Proton VPN’s applications are designed to offer a premium user experience, with the free version maintaining the same high-quality interface and features.

Mobile (iPhone & Android)

The Android app is the most feature-rich among Proton VPN’s mobile offerings, mirroring the functionality of the Windows version. It includes an ‘Always-on’ feature that automatically reconnects the VPN if the connection drops, though our tests revealed it activated slightly late, occasionally leaving the IP address exposed.

The iOS app is more limited in comparison, lacking features like split tunneling and alternative network routing. Despite this, it includes the ‘Always-on’ feature and remains user-friendly.

Linux

Proton VPN stands out with its native Linux software, featuring a full graphical user interface (GUI). This is relatively uncommon among VPN services and is commendable for its usability compared to command-line VPNs like ExpressVPN. The Linux client is compatible with the following distributions:

• Debian 10+
• Ubuntu 20.04 (LTS)+
• Mint 20+
• MX Linux 19+
• Kali Linux
• Elementary OS 6.0+
• Fedora 34+
• Arch Linux/Manjaro

Android TV & Fire TV

Proton VPN provides well-designed and intuitive applications for Android TV and Fire TV. Server locations are organized by continent, facilitating quick and easy access.

The login process requires manually entering a URL on a device where the app is already in use, which is less convenient than methods employed by other VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which offer QR code scanning.

Both applications use WireGuard and ChaCha20 encryption, but they lack a kill switch. This means that if the connection drops while torrenting or streaming, there is a risk of exposing your IP address.

More Info : Best VPN

Profiles Feature

A standout feature of Proton VPN is its ‘Profiles’ functionality. This allows users to create customized VPN connections tailored to their specific needs by selecting server types, locations, and individual servers. For instance, users can create a profile for a server that reliably accesses US Netflix, pinning it for easy future access. This advanced feature is particularly beneficial for power users and highlights Proton VPN’s commitment to providing versatile solutions.