Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Proton VPN and Atlas VPN vary significantly in overall ratings, jurisdiction, server count, and features. Proton VPN has a higher overall rating (80.8%) compared to Atlas VPN (60.5%) and is based in Switzerland, known for strict privacy regulations, while Atlas VPN is based in the United States. Though Atlas VPN offers unlimited simultaneous connections and is likely functional in China, Proton VPN outperforms with a larger server count, and features like ad blocking and effective unblocking of streaming services, thus making it the preferred choice from a user’s perspective.
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 Atlas VPN
| VPN Company | Proton VPN | Atlas VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Switzerland | United States |
| Cheapest Price | $4.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $1.70/mo |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 | $11.99 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256, and ChaCha20 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard |
| Servers | 2,970 | 1,000 |
| Servers Countries | 68 | 42 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | Unlimited devices |
| Works in China? | No | Likely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| Double VPN | No | Yes |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | Securitum | VerSprite |
| 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 | 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 Atlas VPN are priced affordably. Proton VPN costs $4.99/mo for its 24-month plan; while Atlas VPN cheapest 36-month plan starts at $1.70/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: Proton VPN Better
For those prioritizing online privacy, the jurisdiction of their VPN provider is a critical consideration. Proton VPN, with its base in Switzerland, offers a substantial privacy edge over United States-based Atlas VPN. Not part of the EU or US jurisdiction, Switzerland is known for its neutrality and strict privacy regulations. This provides a robust legal framework that benefits ProtonVPN users.
On the other hand, Atlas VPN is based in United States, a member of the 14-Eyes Alliance. The 14-Eyes Alliance, an expansion of the Five- and Nine-Eyes intelligence collaborations, includes countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and several European nations. These member states are known for their extensive surveillance activities, as highlighted by disclosures from figures like Edward Snowden (watch video below). Such surveillance extends to the sharing of collected data among member countries. In other words, company like Atlas VPN could be legally obligated to comply with government requests for user data, with the potential for this data to circulate among the alliance members. This surveillance culture not only compromises personal privacy but also raises concerns about digital security.
Comparing the two, ProtonVPN’s Swiss base generally offers a higher level of privacy protection. However, it’s important to consider other factors such as the VPN’s own privacy policy, encryption standards, and track record in handling user data. Both VPNs have their own merits, but for strict privacy considerations, being based in Switzerland gives ProtonVPN an edge.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: Proton VPN Better
The server fleet size of Proton VPN and Atlas 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, Atlas VPN maintains a more modest server presence, with only 1,000 servers across 42 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Atlas 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 Atlas 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 Atlas VPN – you have the liberty to thoroughly evaluate each service before deciding on a long-term investment.
Simultaneous Connections: Atlas VPN Better
Proton VPN offers a respectable number of simultaneous connections, capped at 10. This limit typically caters well to individual users or small families.
On the flip side, Atlas VPN stands out with its offer of unlimited simultaneous connections. This feature is a significant boon for larger households or business environments, where the number of devices needing VPN protection far exceeds half a dozen. The ability to connect an unrestricted number of devices under a single account with Atlas VPN not only offers greater flexibility but also ensures comprehensive coverage for all online activities.
For those managing multiple devices, this unlimited access provided by Atlas VPN could be a compelling reason to prefer it over Proton VPN.
Performance in China: Atlas VPN Better
Proton VPN faces challenges operating reliably in China due to its stringent online restrictions. In contrast, Atlas 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 Atlas VPN.
Double VPN Feature: Atlas VPN Better
One of the notable differences between Atlas VPN and Proton VPN is the inclusion of a double VPN feature. Atlas VPN 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, Proton VPN does not provide a double VPN option.
Ad Blocking Feature: Proton VPN Better
A significant differentiator between Proton VPN and Atlas VPN lies in their performance in unblocking popular streaming platforms. Proton VPN 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, Atlas VPN faces challenges when it comes to this aspect. Despite having servers in 42 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
In conclusion, both Proton VPN and Atlas VPN offer competitive features and pricing, but their appeal may vary based on user priorities. Proton VPN’s Swiss jurisdiction and larger server presence may be appealing to privacy-focused users, while Atlas VPN’s unlimited device connections and likelihood to work in China add to its advantages. Ultimately, user needs should guide the selection between these two capable VPN services.
About Proton VPN & Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN, established in 2019, is a dynamic player in the cybersecurity sphere, offering a highly secure freemium VPN service. With the primary mission of making a safe and open internet accessible to everyone, Atlas VPN has quickly gained the trust of over 6 million users worldwide. This growth was further bolstered when, in 2021, it became a part of Nord Security, a renowned leader in digital security and privacy solutions. Headquartered in the Greater New York Area, Atlas VPN operates under Peakstar Technologies Inc. and serves as a testament to the rapidly evolving landscape of internet privacy and security solutions.
To learn more, read our Atlas 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.