Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect differ notably in privacy, servers, and features. Proton VPN, scoring 80.8% in our rating, guarantees better privacy with a strict no-logging policy and a broad server network. Considering effectiveness in unblocking streaming platforms, security features such as a kill switch, and ad-blocking, Proton VPN outperforms McAfee Safe Connect, making it the preferable choice for users prioritizing privacy, security, and access to varied content.
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 McAfee Safe Connect
| VPN Company | Proton VPN | McAfee Safe Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Switzerland | United States |
| Cheapest Price | $4.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $3.33/mo |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 | $3.33 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | IKEv2/IPSec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard |
| Servers | 2,970 | (not stated) |
| Servers Countries | 68 | 23 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | No | Unlikely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | No |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| 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 | – |
| 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 McAfee Safe Connect are priced affordably. Proton VPN costs $4.99/mo for its 24-month plan; while McAfee Safe Connect cheapest 12-month plan starts at $3.33/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 McAfee Safe Connect. 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, McAfee Safe Connect 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 McAfee Safe Connect 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: Tie
Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect are both noteworthy for their extensive networks. With Proton VPN, users benefit from an expansive server network, facilitating connections from 68 countries and ensuring a smooth and speedy online experience. McAfee Safe Connect mirrors this capability, boasting a sizeable server fleet of (not stated) servers spread over 23 countries.
The broad reach of both Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect means that they are capable of providing dependable and swift connections for users globally, making them top contenders for those in search of a VPN with extensive worldwide coverage.
No Logging Policy: Proton VPN Better
The privacy policies of Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect 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, McAfee Safe Connect, despite offering a range of features and being headquartered in United States, 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 McAfee Safe Connect 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 McAfee Safe Connect – you have the liberty to thoroughly evaluate each service before deciding on a long-term investment.
Unblock Streaming Platforms: Proton VPN Better
One noteworthy distinction between Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect lies in their performance regarding the unblocking of popular streaming platforms. Proton VPN excels in this regard, consistently providing access to a wide range of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Nord users can reliably enjoy their preferred shows and movies from various locations.
However, it’s important to note that McAfee Safe Connect encounters difficulties in this aspect. Despite having servers in 23 countries, the VPN struggles to consistently unblock major streaming platforms. This limitation is a crucial factor for users who prioritize access to streaming content and are seeking a VPN service that can effectively bypass geo-restrictions.
Kill Switch Feature: Proton VPN Better
Proton VPN provides users with this essential security feature, which automatically disconnects the internet connection if the VPN drops, ensuring your data remains protected. Conversely, McAfee Safe Connect, lacking a kill switch, might pose a risk for users who require uninterrupted protection, especially in unstable network environments. This contrast in security offerings is vital for users who prioritize their online privacy and data security.
Ad Blocking Feature: Proton VPN Better
A significant differentiator between Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect 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, McAfee Safe Connect faces challenges when it comes to this aspect. Despite having servers in 23 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, the choice between Proton VPN and McAfee Safe Connect primarily hinges on personal preferences and specific user needs. Proton VPN seems to outshine McAfee Safe Connect in terms of privacy, unblocking capabilities, and additional security features. However, both services maintain competitive prices and wide server networks, ensuring a quality VPN experience.
About Proton VPN & McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee, a well-established name in the cybersecurity industry, offers McAfee Safe Connect VPN. Founded in 1987 by John McAfee, the company is headquartered in San Jose, California, USA. McAfee Safe Connect VPN focuses on providing secure Wi-Fi connections and protecting user privacy. The service is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
To learn more, read our McAfee Safe Connect 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.