Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
NordVPN and AdGuard VPN are both prominent services, offering high-quality VPN protection. NordVPN, with an overall rating of 83.5%, slightly outranks AdGuard VPN which stands at 81.3%. Both are headquartered outside 14-Eyes Alliance jurisdiction. NordVPN in Panama and AdGuard VPN in Cyprus, providing users with added privacy. NordVPN also exceeds AdGuard VPN in server count, with 5,000 servers across 59 countries compared to AdGuard VPN’s 1,000 servers across 50 countries. However, it’s worth noting that AdGuard VPN offers a longer money-back guarantee of 60 days, compared to NordVPN’s 30 days. AdGuard VPN is also likely to perform better in China and allows a larger number of simultaneous connections (10 devices). Nevertheless, NordVPN offers the double VPN feature for extra security which AdGuard VPN does not support. From user’s POV, making the final decision depends on their specific needs and priorities, but NordVPN’s extra features and slightly higher score make it the preferable option.
About Our VPN Rating Systems
Our reviews delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Ratings are based on our comprehensive research of 96 VPN companies. Out of 96 VPNs we reviewed, only 11 surpass the 75% threshold in our evaluation, while half of the reviewed services score below average (54.1%).
Why Read Our VPN Guide?
- Our VPN reviews are unbiased and data-driven. We are not affiliated to any of the VPN companies listed on this website.
- Our rating system covers diverse user needs. We delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Specifications: NordVPN vs AdGuard VPN
| VPN Company | NordVPN | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Panama | Cyprus |
| Cheapest Price | $2.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $1.80/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.99 | $11.99 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 60 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | AdGuard VPN protocol |
| Servers | 5,000 | 1,000 |
| Servers Countries | 59 | 50 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | 10 devices |
| Works in China? | Yes, but unreliable | Likely |
| Smart DNS | Yes | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | Yes | No |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | Deloitte | – |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email | |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: Tie
For those on the hunt for a VPN that delivers both in terms of value and functionality, NordVPN and AdGuard VPN are standout choices. NordVPN comes in at an appealing $2.99/mo, while AdGuard VPN begins at just $1.80/mo. This pricing structure from both VPN services proves that securing top-notch online privacy and security does not necessitate a large expense. It’s clear that with these VPNs, affordability aligns seamlessly with quality.
AdGuard VPN Plans
NordVPN Plans
Jurisdiction: Tie
Catering to the privacy-focused, both NordVPN and AdGuard VPN have strategically established their headquarters outside the jurisdiction of the 14-Eyes Alliance. NordVPN takes advantage of the robust privacy laws of Panama; while AdGuard VPN is based in Cyprus, another location known for its commitment to user privacy.
This geographical aspect distinctly sets them apart from VPN providers operating within countries deeply involved in intelligence-sharing networks.
Understanding the 14-Eyes Alliance
Originating from the Five-Eyes and expanding to the Nine-Eyes, the 14-Eyes Alliance includes major global players like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries. In these territories, VPN services may be legally bound to hand over user data, potentially undermining their promises of no logs.
By opting for NordVPN or AdGuard VPN, both located beyond the reach of this alliance, users gain an additional shield of protection against such governmental intrusions. This positions these VPN services as preferred choices for those who prioritize utmost confidentiality.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: NordVPN Better
NordVPN and AdGuard VPN differ substantially in their server fleet sizes. While NordVPN boasts a vast network of 5,000 servers globally, AdGuard VPN operates with a much smaller server fleet, consisting of just 1,000 servers in 50 countries. This difference might affect the performance and speed – especially for users in less covered regions.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
A standout aspect of both NordVPN and AdGuard VPN is their dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction – which clearly reflected in their extensive money-back guarantees. Such policies are a bold testament to their confidence in the quality of their services, offering users a no-risk chance to fully engage with each VPN’s array of features. Whether it’s the extensive server network of NordVPN or the robust security features of AdGuard VPN, customers can explore these services in depth before making a long-term commitment.
Performance in China: AdGuard VPN Better
NordVPN faces challenges operating reliably in China due to its stringent online restrictions. In contrast, AdGuard VPN currently demonstrates a higher likelihood of functioning effectively within China. However, given the dynamic nature of China’s firewall policies, this advantage may not be sustainable in the long term. Users requiring consistent VPN access in China should consider these changing variables when choosing between NordVPN and AdGuard VPN.
Double VPN Feature: NordVPN Better
One of the notable differences between NordVPN and AdGuard VPN is the inclusion of a double VPN feature. NordVPN offers this advanced feature, which routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of security and privacy. On the other hand, AdGuard VPN does not provide a double VPN option.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both NordVPN and AdGuard VPN offer robust features, excellent pricing, strict privacy policies, and strong commitment to user satisfaction. NordVPN’s extraordinary server count, double VPN feature, and established reputation make it a strong choice, while AdGuard VPN’s potential suitability for users in China alongside competitive pricing make it a worthy contender in the VPN market.
About NordVPN & AdGuard VPN
AdGuard VPN
AdGuard VPN, known for its commitment to user privacy and security, offers 3 GB of free VPN traffic monthly, with options for more. It enables users to access content from anywhere in the world, with over 65 locations available, and includes a unique VPN protocol for enhanced speed and disguise. AdGuard, established over 14 years ago, boasts over 70 million users and adheres to strict privacy policies in line with EU law, ensuring no data recording or sharing with third parties.
To learn more, read our AdGuard VPN review.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service provider that has been in operation since 2012. The company has its headquarters in Panama, which is outside the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes intelligence alliances. NordVPN is the flagship product of Tefincom & Co. S.A., a company that focuses on providing internet privacy and security solutions.
NordVPN offers several features that make it a popular VPN choice for individuals and businesses alike. The company has over 5,000 servers in over 59 countries, which makes it easy for users to connect to the internet from almost anywhere in the world. NordVPN also offers its users unlimited bandwidth, which means that they can browse and download content without worrying about data caps.
NordVPN places a strong emphasis on security and privacy. The company uses military-grade encryption to protect user data, and it allows users to browse the internet anonymously by masking their IP addresses. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, which means that it does not store any information about its users’ online activities.
To learn more, read our NordVPN review.