Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy are both reliable VPN services, each with its unique strengths. NordVPN scores a higher overall rating of 83.5% compared to Smart DNS Proxy’s 62.8%. While Smart DNS Proxy offers a slightly lower monthly price and is likely to work in China, NordVPN significantly outperforms in key areas. It is based in Panama, a country known for its robust privacy laws, offers a larger range of servers in more countries, and, importantly, maintains a strict no-logging policy verified by external audits. NordVPN also offers additional features such as Double VPN for enhanced security. Hence, from a user’s perspective, NordVPN emerges as the superior choice for its broad server coverage, superior privacy commitment, and additional security features.
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 Smart DNS Proxy
VPN Company | NordVPN | Smart DNS Proxy |
---|---|---|
Jurisdiction Country | Panama | Turkey |
Cheapest Price | $2.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $2.48/mo |
Monthly Price | $12.99 | $5.90 |
Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-128, AES-256, and 2048-bit |
Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, PPTP, and SSTP |
Servers | 5,000 | 38 |
Servers Countries | 59 | 24 |
Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | 5 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 | No |
Third Party Audit | Deloitte | – |
Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email | 24/7 Email |
Android App | Yes | Yes |
iOS App | Yes | Yes |
Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix |
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 Smart DNS Proxy are standout choices. NordVPN comes in at an appealing $2.99/mo, while Smart DNS Proxy begins at just $2.48/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.
Smart DNS Proxy Plans
NordVPN Plans
Jurisdiction: Tie
Catering to the privacy-focused, both NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy have strategically established their headquarters outside the jurisdiction of the 14-Eyes Alliance. NordVPN takes advantage of the robust privacy laws of Panama; while Smart DNS Proxy is based in Turkey, 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 Smart DNS Proxy, 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 Smart DNS Proxy differ substantially in their server fleet sizes. While NordVPN boasts a vast network of 5,000 servers globally, Smart DNS Proxy operates with a much smaller server fleet, consisting of just 38 servers in 24 countries. This difference might affect the performance and speed – especially for users in less covered regions.
No Logging Policy: NordVPN Better
The privacy policies of NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy present a clear dichotomy. NordVPN stands out by not only maintaining a strict no-logging policy but also reinforcing this commitment through regular audits conducted by Deloitte. These audits serve as validation of NordVPN’s dedication to preserving user privacy.
In contrast, Smart DNS Proxy, despite offering a range of features and being headquartered in Turkey, does not adhere to a clear no-logging policy. This implies that it might retain certain records of user activities, a matter of considerable concern for individuals who prioritize anonymity and data security.
For users who prioritize robust privacy standards and seek external verification of security claims, these distinctions may prove pivotal in selecting the most suitable VPN service.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
A standout aspect of both NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy 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 Smart DNS Proxy, customers can explore these services in depth before making a long-term commitment.
Performance in China: Smart DNS Proxy Better
NordVPN faces challenges operating reliably in China due to its stringent online restrictions. In contrast, Smart DNS Proxy 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 Smart DNS Proxy.
Double VPN Feature: NordVPN Better
One of the notable differences between NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy 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, Smart DNS Proxy does not provide a double VPN option.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both NordVPN and Smart DNS Proxy provide thorough coverage for your security needs, with NordVPN excelling in areas like server count and adherence to a no-logging policy. Importantly, these services offer the ability for users to securely navigate the virtual space, via competitive price points and advanced protection features, while upholding core privacy standards.
About NordVPN & Smart DNS Proxy
Smart DNS Proxy
Smart DNS Proxy, a service provided by Global Stealth Inc., has been operational since 2013. While specific details about the founders are not widely publicized, the service is security features and supports a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and various smart TVs. The company is headquartered in the Turkey.
To learn more, read our Smart DNS Proxy 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.