Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Proton VPN outperforms Astrill in terms of overall user ratings. It not only offers superior pricing but also provides a more extensive server network and upholds a no-logging policy, guaranteeing user privacy. Considering these factors, Proton VPN emerges as a better choice for users.
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 Astrill
| VPN Company | Proton VPN | Astrill |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Switzerland | Seychelles |
| Cheapest Price | $4.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $8.29/mo |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 | $30.00 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | – days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | OpenVPN, StealthVPN, OpenWeb, Wireguard, and Proprietary |
| Servers | 2,970 | 115 |
| Servers Countries | 68 | 57 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | No | Likely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| 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 | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: ProtonVPN Better
Proton VPN presents an appealing price point at $4.99/mo, while Astrill opts for a premium pricing strategy, starting at $8.29/mo. This leads to an intriguing evaluation of the additional value Astrill offers. Boasting military-grade encryption (AES-256), 24/7 Live Chat, and Email support, and a global network of 115 servers in 57 countries, Astrill aims to justify its higher cost. Yet, when compared to the offerings of Proton VPN, the question remains: do these enhanced features of Astrill align with the specific needs and preferences of users seeking a premium VPN experience?
Jurisdiction: Tie
Proton VPN and Astrill both offer the distinct advantage of operating outside the 14-Eye Alliance, with Proton VPN based in the privacy-conscious environment of Switzerland and Astrill in the non-alliance territory of Seychelles. 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 Astrill, 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 Astrill 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, Astrill maintains a more modest server presence, with only 115 servers across 57 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Astrill, 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.
No Logging Policy: Proton VPN Better
The privacy policies of Proton VPN and Astrill present a clear dichotomy. Proton VPN 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 Proton VPN’s dedication to preserving user privacy.
In contrast, Astrill, despite offering a range of features and being headquartered in Seychelles, does not adhere to a 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
Both Proton VPN and Astrill 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 Astrill – you have the liberty to thoroughly evaluate each service before deciding on a long-term investment.
Performance in China: Astrill Better
Proton VPN faces challenges operating reliably in China due to its stringent online restrictions. In contrast, Astrill 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 Astrill.
Bottomline
In comparing Proton VPN and Astrill, the latter has proven successful within China’s restrictive online environment but falls short with a lack of no-logging policy. Proton VPN scores higher in overall ratings, is significantly cheaper, and offers a more extensive range of servers across the globe. Each of these VPN services comes with their own unique benefits and features that cater to diverse user needs, prompting potential customers to evaluate their priorities before deciding.
About Proton VPN & Astrill
Astrill
Astrill VPN was established in 2009, focusing on providing VPN services for home users and travelers. It’s a registered company in Liechtenstein, designed to offer encrypted and unrestricted Internet access.
To learn more, read our Astrill 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.