Proton VPN Review in USA 2024

Last updated: January 19, 2024
William Sams
William Sams
William Sams is an online privacy/security advocate at BestVPN.co, who loves sharing his expert knowledge regarding the latest trends in user privacy, cyber laws, and digital affairs.

Embark on a journey of digital privacy with ProtonVPN, a powerhouse offering encrypted mail and file storage. Our comprehensive Proton VPN review in USA delves into whether it truly stands out among the best services in online security.

Boasting an impressive 2,700+ servers spread across 67 countries, ProtonVPN ensures a robust global presence for users. Its commitment to security sets it apart, with fully audited apps and a strategic base in Switzerland, shielding users from scrutiny by Five and 14 Eyes groups.

The allure of a highly regarded free VPN option further enhances the Proton package. Join us as we carefully examine Proton VPN’s features and performance, drawing comparisons with rival VPNs. Simplifying the complexities, Proton offers a user-friendly pathway to safeguarding your digital world and asserting control over your online privacy.


Proton VPN Pros & Cons

Some users ask frequently, “Is ProtonVPN good?” Well, these Pros and Cons can help them decide.

Pros
  • Impressive complimentary version
  • Unlocks various streaming platforms, such as Netflix
  • Facilitates torrenting
  • Intuitive interface
  • Provides open-source applications
  • Backed by a 30-day refund policy
  • Enhanced features in the Mac version

Cons
  • Higher premium cost
  • Delays in customer support responsiveness

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Is Proton VPN good for streaming?

For streaming needs, Proton VPN is a reliable choice, featuring personalized DNS and leak protection for seamless server connections. Additionally, it provides a substantial 2,700+ server network spanning 69 countries, ensuring a diverse and accessible service.

Nevertheless, Proton VPN excels in overcoming geo-restrictions, granting access to premium content worldwide. Unlock libraries in countries such as the USA and UK effortlessly. Moreover, seamlessly utilize Proton VPN with Amazon Firestick, Roku, Android TV, and Kodi, exploring its compatibility with various streaming platforms.

Unblocking Netflix with Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a reliable option to access the US Netflix catalog. Although the initial connection may not work, a second attempt proved successful. If Netflix displays the “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” message, simply switch to another server for seamless access.

Upon linking to the United States server, I was pleasantly surprised by the seamless experience—no buffering whatsoever.

unblock-Netflix-with-ProtonVPN-in-USA

ProtonVPN easily unblocks Netflix.

While loading times varied with libraries of other countries, the overall performance was delightful, firmly placing Proton VPN among the top choices for Netflix.

Unblocking HBO Max with Proton VPN

For HBO Max subscribers, rejoice in the fact that Proton VPN adeptly unlocks geo-restricted HBO content. Achieving success on the initial attempt using servers in USA, it’s noteworthy that Proton VPN maintains high-quality video streaming without any buffering issues.

unblock-HBO-Max-with-ProtonVPN-in-USA

ProtonVPN has strong servers for unblocking streaming platforms, including HBO Max.

Unblocking BBC iPlayer with Proton VPN

Proton VPN effortlessly unlocks additional well-known streaming platforms, including BBC iPlayer. With Proton VPN’s UK servers, enjoy your favorite shows sans commercials and stay updated on the latest BBC content. While there were occasional slight buffering issues, they didn’t escalate into a persistent problem.

unblock-BBC-iplayer-with-ProtonVPN-in-USA

ProtonVPN lets us easily stream and unblock the UK channel BBC iPlayer.


Is Proton VPN good for torrenting?

Absolutely, Proton VPN is an excellent choice for torrenting enthusiasts. It prioritizes privacy and security, ensuring robust encryption, a reliable kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. Whether you’re torrenting, streaming, or browsing, Proton VPN provides a secure and private environment for your online activities.


Proton VPN Compared to other VPNs

Here is a comparison of Proton VPN with some other amazing VPNs:

 Brands ProtonVPN logo  1tiny-expressvpn-noback  3tiny-surfshark-noback  NordVPN-logo-1
 Review  ProtonVPN   Review  ExpressVPN   Review  Surfshark   Review  NordVPN   Review
 Ratings  4  4.9  4.6  4.3
 Price  $3.39/month US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend
 Free   Version  Yes  7 day  7 days  7 day
 Server   locations  2700+   servers in 67   countries 3000   servers in  105  countries 3200   servers in  100  countries 6000   servers in  61  countries
 WireGuard  Yes  Yes  Yes  Yes
 Streaming  Netflix,   HBO  Max,   Amazon   Prime Video   and more  Netflix,   HBO Max,   Amazon   Prime Video   and more  Netflix,   HBO  Max,   Amazon   Prime Video   and more  Netflix,   HBO  Max,   Amazon   Prime Video   and more
 AES 256   encryption  Yes  Yes  Yes  Yes
 No-Log   policy  No-log,   independent   audit  No-log,   independent   audit  No-log,   independent   audit  No-log,   independent   audit
Simultaneous   connections  10  8  Unlimited  5

Plans & Pricing of Proton VPN

Proton VPN is available in two versions: Proton VPN Free and Proton VPN Plus. Although the free option may seem appealing, it has significant limitations. On the other hand, the Proton VPN Plus version encompasses all the features the service provides.

Explore the Proton VPN Plus subscription options and their corresponding prices:

  • Monthly plan: $9.99/month (equivalent to $119.88 annually if purchased monthly).
  • Yearly plan: $4.99/month (or $71.88/year).
  • Two-year plan: $4.99/month (or $119.76/year).

It’s well-known that VPNs offer the most cost-effective deals on extended plans. To maximize your investment, consider the 2-year plan at just $4.99/month or $119.76/year for comprehensive protection. For a clearer comparison, here’s how Proton VPN’s plans stack up against each other:

 Features  Free  Plus
 Interconnected Connections  1  10
 Server locations  3  69
 Kill switch  Available  Available
 Double VPN  Available  Available
 Tor over VPN  No  Available
 NetShield ad blocker  No  Available
 Speed  Medium  High
 Price  N/A  $4.99/month

The Proton VPN Plus plan surpasses the free version with additional features like the NetShield ad blocker, Tor over VPN, optimized speeds, and a 10-device allowance per account, answering the most asked question, “Is ProtonVPN safe?”

Payment options include credit/debit cards, cash, bank transfers, and even cryptocurrency for those seeking complete anonymity.

Can you get Proton VPN for free?

Proton VPN’s exceptional free edition, with unlimited data usage, stands out as an Editors’ Choice and ranks among the finest VPNs available. Boasting one of the most appealing free packages, Proton VPN provides an ad-free experience with no data tracking or bandwidth constraints, all without any cost.


Server and Locations

Proton VPN operates in over 3000+ servers across 69 countries. It’s essential to note that the plan you choose determines the available server options for connection.

Users on the free plan are limited to connecting only to servers in Japan, The Netherlands, and the United States. While this offers some coverage, all choices are equally limited for users in South Africa. Additionally, this is the sole plan without P2P servers.

The Proton VPN Plus subscription unlocks access to servers across all 69 countries, including exclusive features like Secure Core VPN and TOR over VPN. Plus plan subscribers also benefit from virtual servers or Smart Routing, a proprietary technology by Proton VPN that provides virtual VPN servers not physically located in specific countries.

How to connect to Proton VPN?

Establishing a connection with Proton VPN is a straightforward process, akin to most VPN services. Simply follow these steps:

  • Log in to your Proton VPN app account.ProtonVPN-login-
  • Opt for the “Quick connect” button on the left side for the fastest connection, or select a specific country and click “Connect” for a random server.how-to-connect-
  • To choose a particular server, click on your desired country to view available servers.click-on-the-country-
  • Evaluate server load and features by the green, yellow, or red circles next to each server.Evaluate-server-load-
  • After selecting a server, click “Connect.”click-Connect-button-

Quick Tip: Try connecting to another server if the one you’re on seems particularly slow; it might be overloaded.

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Interface and ease of use

Proton VPN provides diverse apps for desktop and mobile users, catering to Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android platforms. Although the desktop versions share a cohesive and uncluttered design, the Windows version stands out with superior security features.

The mobile apps maintain a user-friendly interface, yet it’s crucial to note that certain functionalities may vary. Now, let’s explore the offerings of each option.

Windows

The Windows application offers protocols like IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard, and both TCP and UDP versions of OpenVPN. Upon Proton VPN installation on Windows, a TAP-Proton VPN Windows Adapter is added to Programs and Features, a standard procedure facilitating the OpenVPN package for connectivity.

Among all clients, the Windows app boasts the most settings, encompassing features like Alternate routing, Split tunneling, and Custom DNS servers.

Mac

Proton VPN extends its secure and private experience to macOS through an open-source, audited app. It incorporates crucial security features such as a kill switch, ad-blocker (NetShield), robust encryption, and more. The app is user-friendly, encompassing essential design elements.

Notably, Windows-exclusive features like IPv6 Leak Protection, Alternate Routing, Split Tunneling, and Custom DNS Servers are absent on Mac. Conversely, the Mac client introduces a unique feature, “Notify Unprotected Networks,” providing notifications when connecting to an insecure network—something not found in the Windows version.

Linux

For Linux enthusiasts, Proton VPN offers a well-suited solution with its user-friendly and trusted Linux app, equipped with robust security features. To initiate Proton VPN on Linux, simply go for ProtonVPN download and acquire its DEB package, install the Proton VPN repository, update the apt-get package list, and install the application.

Detailed guides for various Linux distros are available on Proton VPN’s website. The app installation process is straightforward; scroll past the article’s three steps, select the relevant distribution, and follow the provided tutorials. Notably, the Linux app features a full GUI, eliminating the need for terminal-based operations.

Proton VPN mobile apps

Proton VPN provides mobile apps for both iOS and Android, maintaining a consistent experience, which is advantageous. Unlike many cases where iOS versions lack features present in Android, here, both are comparable.

Apple users can even add the Proton VPN Widget to their screen, though its functionality has evolved from a one-click connection to opening, connecting, and closing the app. While the iOS app lacks split tunneling and alternate routing, it closely mirrors the Android version, offering OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols.

Noteworthy UI enhancements include the ability to view server loads directly from the country list. Surprisingly, Proton VPN’s mobile apps can compete with their desktop counterparts.


Video Review

Here is the video review for ProtonVPN:


Proton VPN Review in USA Summary: Is Proton VPN Good?

Proton VPN stands out as a commendable VPN service, ranking among the best. Ideal for streaming, its free version effortlessly unblocks Netflix, while the paid plans extend this capability to HBO Max and other popular services.

Proton VPN also proves to be a reliable choice for torrenting, with every paid plan supporting P2P file sharing. As a no-logs and open-source service, it’s a trustworthy provider that ensures high-quality services, making it an excellent option for those seeking complete privacy, particularly if a free VPN is on the agenda.


FAQs: Proton VPN Review in USA

Proton VPN is a trustworthy choice, providing a reliable, fast, and secure VPN service. With servers primarily located in military-grade shelters, it adds a physical layer of security. While it offers a free service, the most robust features are available in its paid plans.

No, Proton VPN does not work in China as it was banned by the Chinese government on September 18, 2019. The government employs sophisticated tools, including Deep Packet Inspection and filtering methods, to detect and block VPNs in the country.

ProtonVPN is a secure choice with a stringent no-data logging policy, ensuring they have no information to share if requested. Additionally, it offers Tor integration and SecureCore servers for extra security when necessary.

For Netflix compatibility, a ProtonVPN Plus subscription is necessary, as the Free and Basic plans do not allow access to Netflix.


Proton VPN Review in USA: Conclusion

Concluding the article, I highly recommend ProtonVPN. It’s rare to find a free VPN that ensures privacy and provides unlimited bandwidth, but ProtonVPN’s Free version accomplishes this. I appreciate the transparent privacy policy and the company’s overall transparency.

Get a hold of our Proton VPN Review in USA, and If you’re wondering whether ProtonVPN is the right fit for you, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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