Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Both Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN scored similarly (80.8% and 81.3% respectively), indicating their comparable overall quality. However, Proton VPN outperforms AdGuard in terms of server counts and geographical coverage with 2,970 servers in 68 countries. Yet, AdGuard VPN is the better choice for users needing consistent VPN access in China.
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: Proton VPN vs AdGuard VPN
| VPN Company | Proton VPN | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Switzerland | Cyprus |
| Cheapest Price | $4.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $1.80/mo |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 | $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 | 2,970 | 1,000 |
| Servers Countries | 68 | 50 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | 10 devices |
| Works in China? | No | Likely |
| Smart DNS | No | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | Securitum | 0 |
| 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
Searching for a VPN that marries cost-effectiveness with reliable performance? Both Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN are priced affordably. Proton VPN costs $4.99/mo for its 24-month plan; while AdGuard VPN cheapest 24-month plan starts at $1.80/mo. These VPNs exemplify the possibility of obtaining superior online security and privacy without a significant financial outlay. Both services highlight that accessing top-tier VPN features can indeed be budget-friendly
Jurisdiction: Tie
Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN both offer the distinct advantage of operating outside the 14-Eye Alliance, with Proton VPN based in the privacy-conscious environment of Switzerland and AdGuard VPN in the non-alliance territory of Cyprus. Their non-14-Eyes bases ensure a higher degree of privacy from global surveillance networks.
The Impact of the 14-Eye Alliance on VPN Services
Originating from the Five-Eyes and expanding to Nine-Eyes, the 14-Eyes Alliance encompasses a broad group of countries, including powerhouses like the US, UK, and various European nations. VPN providers in these countries might face legal pressures to hand over user information, contradicting their no-logs claims. By choosing a VPN service like Proton VPN or AdGuard VPN, both located outside these surveillance-intensive areas, users gain an extra layer of security against potential government interceptions and data monitoring, making them a preferred choice for users who value their digital privacy and security.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: Proton VPN Better
The server fleet size of Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN is a critical aspect where these two VPN providers diverge significantly. Proton VPN stands out with its impressive network, hosting over 2,970 servers in 68 countries worldwide. This extensive coverage ensures that users almost anywhere can find a reliable and fast server connection.
In contrast, AdGuard VPN maintains a more modest server presence, with only 1,000 servers across 50 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from AdGuard VPN, this might translate to slower speeds and potentially less stable connections. The vast server network of Proton VPN not only provides broader geographic reach but also typically allows for better performance and lower latency.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
Both Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN reassures its users with a lengthy money-back guarantee, allowing ample time to test their services thoroughly. These guarantees are more than just policies; they are strong indicators of the confidence that both services have in the quality they offer. This assurance provides users with a risk-free opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse features of each VPN. From the vast server network of Proton VPN to the advanced security protocols of AdGuard VPN – you have the liberty to thoroughly evaluate each service before deciding on a long-term investment.
Performance in China: AdGuard VPN Better
Proton VPN 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 Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both Proton VPN and AdGuard VPN offer robust security, privacy, and affordability, scoring within the 80%; however, their unique features can sway users based on their specific needs. With Proton VPN’s extensive server network and advanced encryption, it excels in providing a reliable, low-latency connection. On the other hand, AdGuard VPN’s potential to operate in restrictive regions like China, along with its unique VPN protocol for enhanced speed, serves as a compelling choice for users in such locations.
About Proton VPN & 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.
Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a virtual private network service operated by Proton AG, a Swiss company renowned for their secure email service – Proton Mail.
Proton VPN and Proton Mail share the same management team, offices, and technical resources, and are operated from Switzerland. The VPN service currently has 2,970 servers in 68 countries. Although ProtonVPN owns and operates some of its servers, the majority are operated by ASNs such as Datacamp Limited. The service is available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as ChromeOS and can be used on smartphones, personal computers, and even installed on a wireless router.
Proton VPN is one of the most secure VPN services available in the market. It utilizes OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols with AES-256 encryption. In addition to this, Proton VPN has a no-logs policy that has been independently audited by Securitum, a European security auditing company. In October 2022, Proton VPN released their Stealth Protocol that disguises VPN traffic as HTTPS traffic.
To learn more, read our Proton VPN review.