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CyberGhost vs NordVPN 2024: why NordVPN is a better option


NordVPN and CyberGhost are VPN industry leaders, offering top-notch anonymous services with extensive server networks and robust security measures. However, NordVPN and CyberGhost have strengths and weaknesses regarding performance and usability.

I've thoroughly compared NordVPN and CyberGhost in terms of speed, features, security, and pricing to assist you in making an informed decision on which provider is best. After a thorough evaluation, I favor NordVPN as the superior choice due to its exceptional features and faster speeds. I go through a detailed comparison in this article, so let's jump into the showdown.

NordVPN vs CyberGhost comparison: overview

NordVPN and CyberGhost are both speedy and secure VPNs that encrypt your internet connection. NordVPN offers more security choices and extra features for virtual privacy, while CyberGhost is budget-friendly, especially with long-term plans and a larger server network. When comparing NordVPN vs CyberGhost, NordVPN shines in unblocking content and providing robust security and privacy features.

NordVPNCyberGhost VPN
⭐ Rating:
4.9
4.2
🥇 Overall rank:#1 out of #41#5 out of #41
🖥️ Servers:6,900 + servers in 111 countries11,500 + servers in 100 countries
📖 No logs policy:No logsIndependently-audited
💵 Price:From $2.99/monthFrom $2.03/month
🔥 Coupons:NordVPN coupon 74% OFFCyberGhost VPN coupon 84% OFF
🔒 VPN protocols:OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), IKEv2/IPsecWireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP)
🍿 Streaming services:Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and moreNetflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+
🖥️ Platforms:Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
📥 Simultaneous connections:107
💁🏻 Support:Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat24/7 live chat, Knowledge base, FAQs
inga_valiaugaite_author Nijole Simaitiene Copywriter Cybernews sarunas karbauskas vincentas
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Recent updates
For the October 2024 update, I reviewed, fact-checked, and updated information on CyberGhost and NordVPN. I also examined the improvements and new features implemented by these VPN services to ensure an accurate and informative comparison. I conducted new speed and feature tests for the most precise comparison and shared my updated findings.

NordVPN vs CyberGhost: key takeaways

While NordVPN is renowned for its robust security features and lightning-fast speeds, CyberGhost is more suited to specialized needs with unique server technologies designed for streaming and torrenting. As noted in the full NordVPN review, it is one of the best VPN services on the market, whereas the CyberGhost analysis showed it’s a solid choice for torrenting.

Here are some of my key takeaways comparing NordVPN vs CyberGhost:

  • Speed. Harnessing the power of WireGuard, NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx technology outshines all CyberGhost’s protocols, delivering robust speed without sacrificing stability. Whether browsing, streaming, gaming, or torrenting, NordLynx always ensures top-notch performance.
  • Security. NordVPN is the undisputed champion in the NordVPN vs CyberGhost comparison, packing a host of exclusive features that put it ahead of the competitors. With 4 independent third-party audits by PwC and Deloitte, NordVPN sets the standard for uncontested online privacy and security.
  • Pricing. While both providers offer competitive pricing, NordVPN’s 1-year subscription option steals the show with its unbeatable value. With additional features like Meshnet and Threat Protection Pro, NordVPN’s price tag is more than justified, making it the clear frontrunner regarding features and affordability.

Plans and pricing

NordVPN and CyberGhost are both reasonably priced (CyberGhost – $12.99/month, while NordVPN charges $12.99/month).

PlanCyberGhostNordVPN
1 month
$12.99/month$12.99/month
6 months$6.99/month
1 year$4.49/month
2 years$2.03/month$2.99/month
Check CyberGhost pricingCheck NordVPN pricing

Moving further, NordVPN offers a yearly plan for $4.49/month. CyberGhost doesn't provide such an option and, instead, offers a 6-month plan that costs $6.99/month. In this case, even for a year, NordVPN is cheaper than CyberGhost is for half a year.

If we look at the longest plan that NordVPN has, it costs $2.99/month for two years. CyberGhost's two-year option is $2.03/month. While the difference might not seem so big, over the two-year period, it becomes more significant.

It's also worth mentioning that both services have a money-back guarantee. NordVPN users can get their money back in 30 days after purchasing the service, while the users of CyberGhost can do this in 45 days.

Payment options

NordVPN and CyberGhost both provide a wide range of payment options to ensure flexibility and privacy, making it easy for everyone to find a method that suits them best.

NordVPN offers various payment options, including major credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, JCB, and UnionPay. For those seeking enhanced privacy, NordVPN accepts cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, allowing for more anonymity.

Additionally, NordVPN supports gift card payments and convenient options like Google Pay and Apple Pay, all with refund policies similar to those of traditional card payments.

On the other hand, CyberGhost collaborates with third-party sellers for payment processing, offering standard methods like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, and Bitcoin. Like with NordVPN, you can pay for a CyberGhost subscription using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or even Amazon Pay.

And if you're looking for some better deals to save extra money, you can check out our pages for CyberGhost coupon codes and NordVPN coupon codes.

Wrapping up
While both NordVPN and CyberGhost share the same monthly pricing, NordVPN’s yearly plan at $4.49/month is more affordable than CyberGhost’s 6-month option. NordVPN’s 2-year plan is also slightly higher but justifiable, considering the wider range of payment options and features.

Security overview: NordVPN vs CyberGhost

In terms of security, CyberGhost and NordVPN go above and beyond with their robust AES-256-CBC cipher, ensuring top-notch encryption that's virtually impossible to crack.

However, there are some essential distinctions when comparing NordVPN vs CyberGhost. NordVPN utilizes the more advanced SHA-512 hash function, demonstrating dedication to providing cutting-edge security, while CyberGhost relies on SHA-256.

Another noteworthy difference is VPN protocols. While CyberGhost and NordVPN offer the same number of protocols, NordVPN's proprietary NordLynx and IPsec inclusion with IKEv2 take the win.

NordVPN currently offers NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec (available for manual connections). On the other hand, with CyberGhost, you can expect WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols.

However, NordVPN offers more security features than CyberGhost. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro, Meshnet, and dark web monitoring enhance users’ overall security beyond a VPN connection, outshining CyberGhost’s capability to provide all-around safety.

Wrapping up
While both services provide strong security foundations, NordVPN takes the lead with its advanced protocols and extra security features, making it the more versatile and secure choice.

Jurisdiction

CyberGhost and NordVPN both prioritize user data protection by operating from privacy-friendly countries.

CyberGhost is headquartered in Romania – a country with no data retention requirements. Romania’s absence from intelligence-sharing alliances like the 5, 9, and 14 -Eyes reduces the risk of government interference, enabling CyberGhost to uphold a strict no-logs policy.

In contrast, NordVPN operates under Panama’s jurisdiction, benefiting from the country’s lack of mandatory data retention laws. Plus, it’s not a member of any international surveillance alliances. This legal landscape makes it challenging for foreign governments to compel NordVPN to disclose user data. Panama’s legal landscape adds an extra layer of protection against data requests, making NordVPN particularly attractive to people who prioritize privacy.

Independent audits and transparency

CyberGhost and NordVPN are dedicated to transparency but take different approaches. CyberGhost stands out in the VPN industry by consistently publishing detailed transparency reports since 2011, covering DMCA complaints, police inquiries, and malicious activity flags. These reports provide users with a clear understanding of the frequency of potential data targeting. Additionally, Deloitte has verified CyberGhost's no-logs policy, affirming that it does not retain user data.

Similarly, NordVPN has made significant strides in transparency. By replacing its warrant canary with comprehensive transparency reports, NordVPN discloses legal request information and emphasizes that it has never shared user data with authorities.

PwC and Deloitte have independently audited NordVPN's no-logs policy, confirming its commitment to user privacy. Furthermore, NordVPN has collaborated with VerSprite to conduct penetration tests and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Logging

Both CyberGhost and NordVPN have very similar privacy policies. Both promise that they're not logging your data and have only the utmost respect for your privacy. Additionally, as mentioned before, NordVPN and CyberGhost had their privacy policies checked by third party audits. And they passed with flying colors.

Expert comment
Online privacy expert

Speed comparison: CyberGhost vs NordVPN

In the NordVPN vs CyberGhost speed comparison, NordVPN outshines its competitor with its exceptional speed and retention rates.

To provide some context, I utilized a Windows 11 machine with an Intel i5-13600KF processor and 32GB of RAM in my recent testing of both providers’ speeds. The tests were carefully conducted at midday ET to ensure optimal network conditions for precise and accurate results.

  • Baseline: 488Mbps download / 496Mbps uploads / 1ms ping

NordVPN’s NordLynx emerges as the clear winner in the WireGuard comparison. Although CyberGhost also demonstrated impressive download speeds, the substantial variance in the upload and ping comparisons unequivocally secured NordVPN’s victory. This solidifies NordVPN’s superiority, highlighting the remarkable performance of its proprietary NordLynx protocol.

WireGuardNordVPN (NordLynx)CyberGhost
Download470Mbps (96% retention rate)468Mbps (95% retention rate)
Upload475Mbps (95% retention rate)280Mbps upload (56% retention rate)
Ping1ms13ms ping

When comparing CyberGhost vs NordVPN with OpenVPN, NordVPN’s UDP version is the clear winner. It offers superior speed and stability, ensuring an exceptional user experience. While NordVPN’s TCP falls behind in comparison, NordVPN is transparent about potential speed reductions with this OpenVPN variation. However, you can count on improved stability in exchange for speed. CyberGhost’s OpenVPN protocol also delivers impressive download speeds, although there is room for improvement in upload speed and ping.

OpenVPN
NordVPN (OpenVPN UDP)
NordVPN (OpenVPN TCP)
CyberGhost
Download472Mbps (96% retention rate)343Mbps (70% retention rate)460Mbps (94% retention rate)
Upload474Mbps (95% retention rate)299Mbps (60% retention rate)425Mbps (85% retention rate)
Ping1ms2ms12ms ping

I also tested CyberGhost’s IKEv2, available through the app, and found that it didn’t perform as well as the other protocols. It achieved 259Mbps download speed with a 53% retention rate, 140Mbps upload speed with a 28% retention rate, and 25ms of ping. The results show that CyberGhost’s IKEv2 doesn’t compare to WireGuard and OpenVPN and that NordVPN has overall superior speed.

Wrapping up
All in all, NordVPN’s blazing-fast speed again proves why it should be your go-to provider. While CyberGhost comes close, NordVPN’s NordLynx technology delivers far superior overall performance, giving it the edge in speed.

Features overview

Regarding features, NordVPN and CyberGhost have something to offer to enhance overall security and user experience. Yet, NordVPN has more to offer, and the apps are more polished. It excels in providing a superior experience for everything you can achieve with CyberGhost, making it the clear standout choice. Let’s explore all the features of both providers in more depth.

Special servers

Both CyberGhost and NordVPN have special servers suited for particular tasks.

Here is the breakdown of CyberGhost’s specialty servers:

  • For downloading –servers specifically optimized for torrenting. While connected to these servers, users can enjoy unlimited downloads without compromising on speed. While it’s important to note that some slowdown may occur, you can maximize performance by selecting server locations closer to your own.
  • For streaming – servers optimized for streaming content and compatible with various streaming services. This ensures that you can easily bypass geo-restrictions and access content libraries worldwide.
  • For gaming – gaming-optimized servers that provide the lowest possible ping for an optimal gaming experience. With internet traffic routed through the fastest servers in CyberGhost’s network, gamers can expect top-notch performance and responsiveness.
  • NoSpy – in-house servers providing enhanced privacy, security, and performance. Located in a secure data center at the company’s Romanian headquarters, NoSpy servers significantly reduce the risk of external access or legal demands, offering users peace of mind and complete control.
cyberghost specialty servers
CyberGhost's specialty servers

Unfortunately, NoSpy servers come at an additional cost, while gaming-optimized servers are only available on the Windows app. It’s a huge drawback for me, considering NordVPN’s specialty servers are available for all users, no matter the subscription or money spent.

NordVPN, on the other hand, doesn't put servers into entertainment categories. You can unblock geo-restricted streaming websites or games with almost any of their standard servers. However, they do have specialized servers:

  • Double VPN – a setup that combines two separate VPN servers, passing your connection through two intermediaries before reaching the intended destination.
  • Onion over VPN – setup that uses the Tor network. It passes your connection through a VPN server and then several encrypted and randomized nodes before reaching the intended destination.
  • Obfuscated – a setup which scrambles your OpenVPN traffic to make it indistinguishable from regular browsing. This helps to avoid VPN usage alerts in restricted countries.
  • P2P – such servers will have configurations that allow them to take advantage of the best speeds and allow P2P traffic connections. You can torrent on any other server, but if P2P traffic is detected, you will automatically be assigned to this type.
nordvpn servers specialty
NordVPN's specialty servers

NordVPN has a more versatile fleet of servers than CyberGhost. Although CyberGhost has a higher number of servers and server locations, given that NordVPN’s specialty servers are available on all OS environments and do not come at an extra cost, I recommend going with NordVPN for specialized VPN connections.

Split tunneling

With NordVPN’s split tunneling, you can choose which apps or websites are routed through the VPN and which connect directly to the internet, providing a personalized browsing experience. This feature is helpful for individuals who prioritize privacy but still need access to local services or content that may be restricted while using a VPN.

In simple terms, split tunneling operates by maintaining 2 simultaneous connections, encrypting part of the traffic, and routing it through NordVPN's secure servers while leaving the rest unencrypted. You can opt for app-based split tunneling or inverse split tunneling.

To test the split tunneling functionality, I disabled the VPN connection for one browser while allowing another browser's traffic to go through the VPN tunnel. It successfully managed to split the connection. You can see the test results below.

split tunneling nordvpn
NordVPN's split tunneling test results. VPN is disabled for one of the browsers

NordVPN's browser extension also has URL-based split tunneling for those looking to split the connection for different pages.

nordvpn url split tunneling
NordVPN browser extension's URL-based split tunneling

From what I gathered on online forums and Reddit, the split tunneling feature is perfect for gamers. It optimizes performance by reducing latency and allowing access to local content without disconnecting from the VPN. Split tunneling is available on NordVPN's Windows, Android, and Android TV applications.

Dedicated IP

NordVPN and CyberGhost offer dedicated IP options for those who purchase the access separately. Let’s explore in which locations each provider has dedicated IP servers available.

Dedicated IP locationNordVPNCyberGhost
US✅ Yes✅ Yes
UK✅ Yes✅ Yes
Germany✅ Yes✅ Yes
France✅ Yes✅ Yes
Australia✅ Yes✅ Yes
Belgium✅ Yes✅ Yes
Singapore✅ Yes✅ Yes
Spain✅ Yes✅ Yes
Japan✅ Yes✅ Yes
Sweden✅ Yes✅ Yes
Canada✅ Yes✅ Yes
Netherlands✅ Yes✅ Yes
Mexico✅ Yes❌ No
South Africa✅ Yes❌ No
Hong Kong✅ Yes❌ No
South Korea✅ Yes❌ No
Austria✅ Yes❌ No
Czech Republic✅ Yes❌ No
Denmark✅ Yes❌ No
Ireland✅ Yes❌ No
Italy✅ Yes❌ No
Poland✅ Yes❌ No
Portugal✅ Yes❌ No
Switzerland✅ Yes❌ No

As you can see from the table, NordVPN excels CyberGhost and boasts a more extensive fleet of locations available for dedicated IP. However, NordVPN’s dedicated IP subscription is more expensive.

With CyberGhost, dedicated IP costs vary depending on the period you need it, and the prices start from $2.50/month. Meanwhile, NordVPN is a bit more expensive – $5.83/month. In short, with NordVPN, you can expect more locations to choose from; however, that comes at an added cost.

Web filters

NordVPN's Threat Protection offers an exceptional ad-blocking feature that eliminates malicious pop-ups, banners, and video ads. This feature is conveniently available on all OS apps and browser extensions, providing a seamless experience while safeguarding against unwanted and potentially harmful content. During testing, I was impressed to discover that it achieved an outstanding 94/100 block rate.

Additionally, for enhanced security, Windows and MacOS applications offer Threat Protection Pro, which serves as an antivirus. While this feature requires an upgrade from the Basic plan, it provides peace of mind and comprehensive protection for those seeking an extra layer of security.

threat protection pro nordvpn
NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro feature

CyberGhost also has similar technology that blocks malicious ads and malware. The ad blocker works by blocking DNS domains used for ads. Unfortunately, the feature is limited to WireGuard, which makes it less useful if you require switching to a different VPN technology.

cyberghost adblocker
CyberGhost's ad blocking feature

However, some malicious ads still appeared during the review. While testing CyberGhost’s DNS filter capabilities, I got a 72/100 score on ad blocker tester websites. Unfortunately, the CyberGhost score does not compare to NordVPN’s, making NordVPN a clear winner in this category.

Exclusive features

When it comes to exclusive features, CyberGhost pales in comparison to NordVPN. NordVPN delivers a far more comprehensive suite of tools that cater to privacy, security, and convenience. NordVPN’s specialty servers are optimized for P2P sharing, double encryption, and onion over VPN.

Beyond that, features like custom DNS, dark web monitoring, and the ability to appear invisible on a LAN network further enhance its appeal. With the added convenience of an Apple TV app, MFA support, and the advanced Threat Protection Pro, NordVPN is the go-to for all-around security.

NordVPN also has Meshnet, which is useful for remote access with secure device connections.

nordvpn meshnet
NordVPN's Meshnet feature

While NordVPN offers a more feature-rich experience, solidifying its position as the superior choice for users seeking cutting-edge VPN functionalities, CyberGhost doesn’t offer many exclusive features. With CyberGhost, you may change the MTU size and connect using random ports. It also has the smart rules feature, which allows you to choose how you want to optimize your connection.

cyberghost smart rules
Smart rules
Wrapping up
Unsurprisingly, NordVPN comes out on top for several reasons. While CyberGhost has a few unique security features, NordVPN's specialty servers provide more versatile options, as they are available to all users on all operating systems. Additionally, NordVPN surpasses CyberGhost in ad-blocking capabilities, with its Threat Protection feature achieving a higher success rate in blocking various ads, including pop-ups and video ads.

Server locations

NordVPN and CyberGhost both excel in providing users with extensive global network of servers. However, CyberGhost does not specify how many servers it has in the network. Given NordVPN’s transparency, it takes the win in this round in terms of the number of countries and total server count.

With its impressive coverage of 111 countries, NordVPN offers users a more comprehensive range of locations than CyberGhost’s 100-country reach. However, CyberGhost does not display the number of servers anywhere. More so, when I asked customer support about it, they also refused to specify the number of servers. Meanwhile, NordVPN is transparent about its 6900 servers in the network.

This extensive server network empowers NordVPN users with greater flexibility in accessing optimal connections and bypassing regional restrictions.

CyberGhost VPNNordVPN
ServersUnspecified6900+
Countries100111

With CyberGhost, it's important to note that specific servers may require additional payment or a Windows device. For example, CyberGhost charges extra for NoSpy servers, and gaming-optimized servers are only accessible on Windows devices. Therefore, I advise you to consider server availability with caution.

It's also worth mentioning that both providers utilize diskless and RAM-only servers, which means that no data is stored locally. Your information is automatically wiped once you disconnect, ensuring complete safety.

Wrapping up
In the NordVPN vs CyberGhost comparison, NordVPN comes out ahead in server coverage. With over 6900 servers spread across 111 countries, it is transparent about the size of its network.

Netflix and streaming performance

NordVPN and CyberGhost both stand out in their ability to unblock various websites and streaming platforms. Although CyberGhost has specialized servers for streaming, it doesn't mean it has a leading horse in this race. During my testing, I found that NordVPN could unlock more libraries worldwide and provide a seamless, lag-free streaming experience.

In fact, with NordVPN, I didn't struggle when unblocking Netflix libraries. I was especially impressed with NordVPN's capabilities to unlock the Japanese library, which I struggle with when using other VPN providers like Bitdefender VPN or Norton Secure VPN. Also, I did not notice any lag or glitching.

With NordVPN, I could also unblock geo-restrictions on Disney+ and stream American, British, and Australian content. On the contrary, CyberGhost struggled with this streaming service and could only access the American library.

See the table below for a full breakdown of the testing results.

Streaming serviceNordVPNCyberGhost
Netflix✅ Unblocked US, Canada, UK, Japan, and Australian regions✅ Unblocked US, Canada, UK, Japan, and Australian regions
Hulu✅ Unblocked US region❌ Didn’t unblock US region
Fubo✅ Unblocked US region✅ Unblocked US region
Disney+✅ Unblocked US, UK, and Australian regions❌ Unblocked only US region
Sling TV✅ Unblocked US region✅ Unblocked US region
BBC iPlayer✅ Unblocked UK region✅ Unblocked UK region
Pluto TV✅ Unblocked US region✅ Unblocked US region

Overall, NordVPN seems like a better-rounded streaming service. Thanks to NordVPN’s NordLynx VPN technology, the streaming experience is lag-free and without buffering.

Wrapping up
I was impressed by NordVPN's ability to bypass geo-restrictions on numerous streaming services effortlessly. I also experienced seamless streaming without any buffering or lag. NordVPN outperforms CyberGhost in terms of streaming despite CyberGhost having streaming-optimized servers. After considering everything, NordVPN takes the lead in this round.

Torrenting

NordVPN and CyberGhost offer specialized servers for P2P connections, catering to various user preferences.

With NordVPN, dedicated P2P servers are available in most countries, providing users with a diverse selection and the option to choose the server closest to them. Furthermore, NordVPN seamlessly switches users to a P2P-compatible server when torrent traffic is detected, even allowing torrent connections on standard servers. This ensures a hassle-free and intuitive experience for all P2P users.

nordvpn p2p
NordVPN's P2P servers

CyberGhost has a separate tab for torrenting servers, where you can filter them according to the distance to your location. It's pretty intuitive to use, so most users can quickly find their way around the app.

cyberghost p2p
CyberGhost's torrenting servers

Having personally tested the torrenting capabilities of CyberGhost and NordVPN, I downloaded a 5.7GB Ubuntu 22 client while connected to NordVPN's P2P servers. The download was completed in just 2 minutes, reaching a peak speed of 54Mbps. Similarly, CyberGhost delivered a commendable performance, with the file downloading in 2 minutes at a speed of 51Mbps. These results showcase impressive performances from both services, providing users with efficient and reliable P2P connections.

Wrapping up
CyberGhost and NordVPN performed similarly when torrenting. Both services have impeccable P2P torrenting solutions, which showed during my testing. Since the results are similar and it’s too close to call the winner, I must call a draw.

Platforms, interface, and ease of use

In terms of compatibility, NordVPN and CyberGhost are available in many forms on many platforms. So, no matter what devices you own, you'll be able to use both services. However, the fact that they are available doesn't mean that your experience will be just as good.

NordVPNCyberGhost
Supported OSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Other software and devicesKodi, Android TVs, Fire devices, Apple TVsAndroid TVs, Fire TV Stick
Browser extensionsChrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge
Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave
Simultaneous connections107

Simultaneous connections

When it comes to simultaneous connections, NordVPN outshines CyberGhost by offering a more generous limit. NordVPN allows users to connect up to 10 devices with a single account, compared to CyberGhost’s support for up to 7 devices. While the number of simultaneous connections allowed is pretty generous, NordVPN and CyberGhost do not compare to Surfshark or IPVanish, which do not limit the connections.

NordVPN’s 10-device limit is especially advantageous for individuals juggling various devices across different platforms. Moreover, suppose more than 10 connections are required. In that case, NordVPN can be easily set up on a router, extending VPN protection to all devices connected to that router without adding to the connection limit. Luckily, NordVPN also allows account sharing with others.

nordvpn account sharing
NordVPN's stance on account sharing

The same goes for CyberGhost, which has explicitly stated that sharing the account is allowed with friends or family members.

cyberghost account sharing
CyberGhost's stance on account sharing

All in all, NordVPN outshines CyberGhost, which allows 10 simultaneous connections at once.

Desktop apps

On desktop, NordVPN Windows and macOS versions are functional and streamlined. They give you the option to use a map, presets, or country list to connect, making your VPN experience effortless.

nordvpn desktop app
NordVPN desktop app interface

CyberGhost clients are nicely designed and intuitive, but they could use polish in some senses.

cyberghost desktop app
CyberGhost desktop app interface

Although both providers' Linux versions aren't spectacular, NordVPN provided much better support for more distributions. CyberGhost's official website didn't have up-to-date guides or setups.

Mobile apps

Mobile apps port the best practices of the desktop experience to Android and iOS clients. This means that since NordVPN had pretty good desktop clients, this translates well into their mobile counterparts. They are even pushing the envelope with what's possible, introducing features such as split tunneling and a configurable kill switch on Android.

nordvpn app mobile
NordVPN mobile app interface

Meanwhile, CyberGhost provides a basic version that doesn't include a kill switch toggle. Which is a big disappointment.

cyberghost mobile app
CyberGhost mobile app interface

All things considered, CyberGhost and NordVPN apps are different one has a map, while the other is more minimal. CyberGhost is missing some features on mobile clients that can be a gamechanger. So, if you want a wide suite of clients that are not only full of features but convenient to use, you'll have to stick with NordVPN.

Wrapping up
NordVPN also wins this round with applications available for Apple TVs and more sleek and intuitive designs on desktop and mobile devices. Additionally, NordVPN outshines CyberGhost's device number limit, offering 10 simultaneous connections compared to CyberGhost's 7.

Customer support

NordVPN and CyberGhost rely on the same customer support tools. They both have a knowledge base with guides and tips, and there's a FAQ section with relevant questions.

NordVPNCyberGhost
24/7 live chat✅ Yes✅ Yes
Chatbot✅ Yes❌ No
Phone line❌ No❌ No
Email✅ Yes✅ Yes
Guides✅ Yes✅ Yes

For contact with customer support representatives, both CyberGhost, and NordVPN primarily rely on their live chat feature. Both providers have improved their customer support service quality, and it doesn't take too long to get in touch with an agent. Similarly, when the question is more complex, a ticket gets created, and you are contacted via email.

For instance, NordVPN has a chatbot feature that provides extensive knowledge and quick assistance. I understand that in some cases you may wish to speak to a support agent immediately. Thankfully, NordVPN allows bypassing the chatbot and going straight to the agent.

However, I tried testing the chatbot’s capabilities of resolving my issue, and, to my surprise, it offered solutions that quickly helped me get around my trouble.

NordVPN’s support agent was also kind and helpful, showcasing excellent knowledge while keeping it simple and explaining complex concepts in relatively simple terms.

nordvpn customer support
NordVPN's chatbot and live chat

CyberGhost’s customer support was also kind and helpful. However, I felt like it took too long to get to the point. For instance, I was having trouble connecting to the VPN on a public network. It took around 7 minutes for CyberGhost’s support agent to offer me a suggestion and line of action, as I had to go through providing context and sending application diagnostics.

cyberghost customer support
CyberGhost's live chat
Wrapping up
In short, based on my experience, this category is tied between the two providers. CyberGhost and NordVPN have extensive resources for troubleshooting and provide excellent support in case of trouble.

Comparison methodology: NordVPN vs CyberGhost

To compare NordVPN vs CyberGhost, I delved deep into comprehensive testing to carefully evaluate various factors and determine which VPN service stood out. I dedicated thorough attention to the following key aspects during my evaluation process:

  • Security. I meticulously researched and scrutinized the security practices of both providers, thoroughly examining encryption protocols, privacy policies, and third-party audit findings to ensure a robust level of security.
  • Usability and user-friendliness. Taking a hands-on approach, I immersed myself in real-life scenarios to gauge the practicality and ease of use of VPN services. I also assessed the applications' usability and setup process to provide an insightful overview.
  • Features and performance. I tested all available features to ascertain their value in enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, I examined their capabilities to ensure they delivered on the promises made by the VPN providers. Finally, I tried a variety of servers and locations to check the speed and overall performance.
  • Customer service. I engaged with customer support representatives and evaluated their level of attentiveness and assistance in real time, covering a wide range of inquiries to gauge their ability to effectively support both novice and advanced users.

NordVPN vs CyberGhost – which one wins?

In the battle between NordVPN vs CyberGhost, there are a few surprises.

CategoryNordVPNCyberGhost
Speed
Features
Protection
Streaming
Torrenting
Servers
Price
Ease of use
Customer support

NordVPN is significantly faster and ran into fewer issues in the process. Although both services have comparable safety measures, NordVPN has more of them. CyberGhost does have its uses for torrenting and streaming, but NordVPN is also great in those areas.

The global server fleet may be the only area where NordVPN just doesn't have a good counterpunch. That said, all types of NordVPN’s specialty servers are available at no extra cost. One could argue that CyberGhost is a more newbie-friendly VPN service, but that does come at the cost of more advanced features.

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