Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
NordVPN and WideVPN are two prominent VPN services offering varying advantages. Despite being based in Panama and Romania respectively, both operate outside the 14-Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, strengthening user privacy. While NordVPN wins in aspects like server count, no-logging policy, a longer money-back guarantee, and ad blocking, WideVPN leads regarding affordability and performance in China. NordVPN’s ratings (83.5%) surpass that of WideVPN (58.0%), painting a clear difference in user preference. Considering factors like protocol options, server availability, customer support, streaming unblocking capabilities, and most importantly, privacy and no-log policy, NordVPN edges ahead as a better choice from a user’s perspective. Despite WideVPN’s slightly wider device support and better affordability, NordVPN’s more comprehensive security features notch it a definitive lead.
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 WideVPN
| VPN Company | NordVPN | WideVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Panama | Romania |
| Cheapest Price | $2.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $0.83/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.99 | $4.99 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 3 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, SSTP, PPTP, and WireGuard |
| Servers | 5,000 | 50 |
| Servers Countries | 59 | 32 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | 7 devices |
| Works in China? | Yes, but unreliable | Likely |
| Smart DNS | Yes | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | No |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| Double VPN | Yes | Yes |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| Third Party Audit | Deloitte | – |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email | Submit form, WhatsApp, and Telegram |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | No |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | 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 WideVPN are standout choices. NordVPN comes in at an appealing $2.99/mo, while WideVPN begins at just $0.83/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.
WideVPN Plans
NordVPN Plans
Jurisdiction: Tie
Catering to the privacy-focused, both NordVPN and WideVPN have strategically established their headquarters outside the jurisdiction of the 14-Eyes Alliance. NordVPN takes advantage of the robust privacy laws of Panama; while WideVPN is based in Romania, 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 WideVPN, 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 WideVPN differ substantially in their server fleet sizes. While NordVPN boasts a vast network of 5,000 servers globally, WideVPN operates with a much smaller server fleet, consisting of just 50 servers in 32 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 WideVPN 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, WideVPN, despite offering a range of features and being headquartered in Romania, 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: NordVPN Better
With NordVPN, users benefit from a comforting 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing a thorough testing period of its services. On the flip side, WideVPN presents a comparatively shorter money-back guarantee. This limited period, though adequate for a basic evaluation, may be a noteworthy aspect for users desiring a more extended trial phase to fully determine how well the VPN aligns with their specific requirements.
Performance in China: WideVPN Better
NordVPN faces challenges operating reliably in China due to its stringent online restrictions. In contrast, WideVPN 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 WideVPN.
Kill Switch Feature: NordVPN Better
The presence of a kill switch in a VPN service is a critical factor for many users. NordVPN includes this feature, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks. In contrast, WideVPN does not offer a kill switch. This could be a significant drawback for users who require an assurance of continuous privacy protection. While WideVPN compensates with other features such as 50 servers spread across 32 countries and various support options like Submit form, WhatsApp, and Telegram, the lack of a kill switch might deter users who prioritize uninterrupted security in their VPN service.
Ad Blocking Feature: NordVPN Better
A significant differentiator between NordVPN and WideVPN lies in their performance in unblocking popular streaming platforms. NordVPN excels in this regard, consistently providing users with access to a broad spectrum of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Nord users can reliably enjoy their preferred shows and movies from virtually any location.
Conversely, WideVPN faces challenges when it comes to this aspect. Despite having servers in 32 countries, the VPN frequently encounters difficulties in reliably unblocking major streaming platforms. This limitation is of paramount importance for users who prioritize seamless access to streaming content and are in search of a VPN service capable of effectively circumventing geo-restrictions.
Bottomline
NordVPN shines through with robust privacy measures, remarkable server count, and a vast array of advanced features, justifying its higher price compared to WideVPN. While WideVPN also brings reliable and affordable services to the table, its limitations in certain privacy aspects and fewer server offerings should be considered before making a decision.
About NordVPN & WideVPN
WideVPN
Operated by Amplusnet SRL and based in Romania, WideVPN has a network of 40 servers across 32 countries. The service maintains a clear no-logging policy and is transparent about its terms, including storing account information and web cookies. WideVPN supports multiple platforms such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iPhones, iPads, and Android-based devices. However, it does not offer its own VPN client, requiring manual setup. Guides are provided for setup on various operating systems.
To learn more, read our WideVPN 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.