NordVPN review in 2025
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NordVPN is one of the undisputed leaders of the VPN market and has been firmly holding this title for around a decade. It is incredibly effective in many areas and offers exceptional features like Meshnet and Threat Protection Pro, making it more appealing than many of its competitors.
However, NordVPN also has some minor flaws, which could make it less favorable for certain customers. For example, one NordVPN account supports 10 simultaneous device connections, while cheaper providers like Surfshark and IPVanish allow unlimited connections. Its multiple subscription tiers also mean you’ll have to pay a pretty penny if you want all of the provider’s features.
Despite these minor issues, I think NordVPN is a service you should strongly consider. It has everything you could possibly need from a VPN provider. Read the entire review below to see what the Cybernews research team and I uncovered about this VPN during our tests.




We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
NordVPN review – at a glance
Best for: | Streaming, torrenting, gaming, bypassing geo-restrictions |
Jurisdiction: | Panama |
Logging policy: | No logs |
Speed retention rate: | 90% |
Server network: | 7600+ servers in 118 countries |
Encryption: | AES-256 or ChaCha20 |
VPN protocol: | OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), NordWhisper |
Third-party audit: | Independently audited |
Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
Compatible with: | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
Supported browser extensions: | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
Support: | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat |
Price: | From $3.39/month |
Best deal: | Get 76% OFF NordVPN + free eSIM data |

I use NordVPN as my daily VPN for online security on my mobile phone and home computer. I particularly enjoy its ease of use and effectiveness in practically every situation I come across. Most importantly, I usually don’t even notice that it’s running in the background since there’s no noticeable difference in loading times when browsing the web and using various apps on my smartphone.
At home, I use NordVPN to unblock foreign movies and TV shows on my favorite streaming services – Netflix and Disney+. The process is smooth and straightforward every time, meaning I don’t have to spend loads of time frustrated while troubleshooting issues. Plus, since NordVPN supports 10 simultaneous connections, my family members can use the same account to protect their personal devices, saving me some money while granting peace of mind.
Our opinion about NordVPN
NordVPN is one of my favorite VPNs because of its reliability and top-tier performance in many categories. It works well in practically any situation, and its innovative features, like Meshnet and Threat Protection Pro, add a level of excitement that’s uncommon with other providers. Even so, the VPN might not be to everyone’s tastes because of its certain drawbacks.
Hands on experience with NordVPN
The Cybernews research team and I had to get our hands dirty and test NordVPN in various areas to see if it performs well in everyday situations. We used a variety of devices that are appropriate for each use case to best simulate a real-life situation. For example, we used a laptop to test the provider’s impact on online gaming, while public Wi-Fi performance involved using a tablet. All the specific details are outlined below.

Our tests showed that NordVPN is an excellent VPN for streaming. Its fleet of 7600+ servers across 118 countries allowed us to easily access regional content on streaming services with geographical restrictions on various movies and TV shows. This includes platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more. Moreover, the service worked well even without specialized streaming servers that are included with VPNs like CyberGhost and Proton VPN.
One of the key factors behind NordVPN’s superb performance is the unique SmartPlay feature. It’s integrated into the provider’s apps and adjusts your DNS settings to unblock content more easily. The feature works automatically and doesn’t need to be enabled, making it very convenient.
Secondly, there’s the Smart DNS feature if you want to unblock content on devices that don’t directly support VPN software. This applies to various smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other home entertainment devices. However, this feature has some limitations, too. Namely, it can only unblock US content and lacks encryption to protect your connections.

NordVPN has many features that make it a robust VPN for torrenting. Firstly, it offers specialized P2P servers to improve performance, although you can use any server you like for torrenting. Secondly, thanks to its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, the VPN ensures lightning-fast speeds that will download large torrent files in just a few minutes.
What sets NordVPN apart from other torrenting VPNs is its Threat Protection Pro feature. This feature benefits torrenting by scanning downloaded files for malware, which is crucial if you’re downloading something from questionable sources. Lastly, the provider offers a SOCKS5 proxy to secure your IP address, but I wouldn’t recommend using it since it’s not as secure as a VPN connection.

You can totally use NordVPN to protect yourself while gaming online. The provider doesn’t offer any server categories specifically for gaming (like CyberGhost), but that didn’t have a negative impact on our tests. After all, NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs available, and that’s basically all you need for lag-free gaming.
We tested the service with popular online multiplayer games like Fortnite, Counter-Strike 2, Deadlock, and Valorant. We tried both nearby servers for optimal speeds and some distant ones to see if there was a noticeable difference. The performance overall was excellent, with ping averaging around 50ms with nearby servers and around 150-170ms with US servers.

I installed NordVPN on a tablet to test its protection capabilities on public Wi-Fi networks. I then went to a nearby cafe in Vilnius and used the NordVPN-empowered tablet to do everyday things like browsing social media while using their free Wi-Fi.
Normally, this would be pretty dangerous since my online activities would be exposed to possible threat actors on the public network. But that wasn’t the case this time since NordVPN maintained a fast and stable connection without slowing me down too much. I felt especially safe since the app has invisibility on LAN and Threat Protection features.
NordVPN pricing and plans
NordVPN has multiple subscription plans, which differ by price and included features. You can pay for the service on a monthly basis, but that would be the most expensive option. Instead, you’re better off signing up for an annual or two-year plan, which comes with an excellent discount, although you have to pay for the entire period upfront. Below is a breakdown of NordVPN’s subscription options and their prices:
NordVPN cost | Basic plan | Plus plan | Complete plan | Prime plan |
1-month | $12.99/month | $13.99/month | $13.99/month | $17.99/month |
1-year | $4.99/month | $5.99/month | $5.99/month | $8.99/month |
2-years | $3.39/month | $4.39/month | $4.99/month | $7.39/month |
Get Basic | Get Plus | Get Complete | Get Prime |
Note: These prices apply to the US market and are subject to change based on seasonal offers, discounts, or existing subscription extensions.
As you can see, NordVPN offers four subscription plans with different feature packages. The Basic plan is the most affordable option but lacks most of the provider’s unique security benefits like Threat Protection Pro and NordPass. As such, I suggest choosing the Plus plan to get the best value for money. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can get a refund within the first month of subscribing.
Customers get the best prices when picking the lengthiest two-year plan. However, these are only introductory prices, and renewals typically switch to annual prices. Moreover, the prices can change over time due to various factors. In any case, the provider will notify you about any changes about a month before it’s time to renew.
You can get a discounted NordVPN annual plan by adding it to your existing subscription, helping you avoid higher renewal rates. For the biggest savings, consider waiting for seasonal deals like Black Friday.
Compared to alternatives like Surfshark, CyberGhost, and ExpressVPN, NordVPN often delivers excellent value. Surfshark’s entry-level plans may be more affordable, but NordVPN’s Plus plan stands out by including a password manager, a feature Surfshark lacks. Likewise, CyberGhost and Norton VPN fall short in terms of features, while ExpressVPN, though premium in performance, comes at a significantly higher price point.
Is NordVPN secure?
Yes, NordVPN is definitely secure, thanks to its impressive feature arsenal and trustworthy reputation. Here are a few highlights that showcase its trustworthiness:
- NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy that was independently audited five times, and the provider is based in the privacy-oriented jurisdiction of Panama.
- Rigorous in-house tests have demonstrated that NordVPN is DNS, IP, and WebRTC leakproof, so it deserves the #1 spot on our list of the most secure VPNs.
- NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro feature can block between 70 and 100% of ads and malware, making it a great VPN and reliable ad blocker.
The jurisdiction
NordVPN’s headquarters are in Panama, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction that’s outside the reach of the Fourteen Eyes intelligence alliance. This means NordVPN isn’t legally required to log or share user data with any governments, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing privacy.
For the everyday user, this might seem like a minor detail – after all, most people just want to unblock streaming services or browse securely. However, for those with heightened privacy concerns, like investigative journalists, activists, or anyone operating in sensitive industries, Panama’s jurisdiction adds an extra layer of assurance.
Even if you’re not in a high-risk category, knowing your VPN operates in a country with strong privacy protections ensures your data stays secure and out of surveillance-heavy jurisdictions. It’s a reassuring feature for anyone serious about maintaining online anonymity.
Encryption
NordVPN employs market-leading encryption protocols, including AES-256 and ChaCha20, which are widely regarded as the gold standard in cybersecurity. These encryption methods are nearly impossible to break, ensuring your online activity and data remain private and secure. Additionally, NordVPN uses Perfect Forward Secrecy, which generates a new encryption key for every session, adding an extra layer of protection.
Moreover, NordVPN introduced post-quantum encryption upgrades to the NordLynx protocol on the Linux app in September 2024. It’s an essential milestone for securing your connections against emerging quantum computers that could, in theory, decipher standard encryption methods. Crucially, post-quantum encryption was added to Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS apps in early 2025. Like with Linux, the feature is only available with the NordLynx protocol, and you can toggle it whenever needed.
For the user, this means that whether you’re streaming, shopping, or just browsing, your data is shielded from malicious hackers, ISPs, and any other third parties. Even on public Wi-Fi networks, which are notorious for security vulnerabilities, NordVPN’s encryption keeps your sensitive information, like passwords and financial details, safe.
This level of encryption also ensures peace of mind for professionals handling confidential data or users in regions with heavy censorship. In short, NordVPN’s strong encryption protocols guarantee that your online activities are private, secure, and protected from unauthorized access.
No-logs policy
NordVPN enforces a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited five times as of 2025, most recently by Deloitte. These audits evaluated NordVPN’s no-logs claims, including its handling of P2P servers and overall data practices. Deloitte’s publicly available findings confirm that NordVPN does not store or track incoming or outgoing traffic data, validating its commitment to user privacy.
What does this mean for users? Even if law enforcement or governments were to request data, NordVPN would have nothing to hand over. The no-logs policy ensures that no past activity can be accessed, making it ideal for those who prioritize online anonymity.
I also reviewed NordVPN’s privacy policy to ensure consistency with these claims. The policy revealed no contradictions, though it’s worth noting that accounts are tied to an email address, which introduces a minimal chance of traceability. Here’s a table summarizing what data NordVPN requires:
Data | Does NordVPN store it? |
IP address | No |
Customer’s email address | Yes |
Customer’s encrypted password | Yes |
Payment data | Yes (if provided) |
Browsing history | No |
Session information | Yes (deleted 15 minutes after ending) |
User bandwidth | No |
Network traffic | No |
As you can see, NordVPN doesn’t collect excessive information that would undermine your privacy. Session information may be a point of concern, but it’s only stored for 15 minutes. This information is kept so that accounts would not exceed the 10-device simultaneous connection limit. Below is an excerpt from NordVPN’s privacy policy detailing this aspect:

It’s worth noting that there’s a general privacy policy for all of Nord Security’s products and separate documents for each product, including NordVPN. I recommend reading the NordVPN document since it’s relatively short and includes all the necessary details. Overall, NordVPN’s no-logs policy is a critical feature for users seeking true privacy, guaranteeing that their data stays private and secure.
Advanced security features
NordVPN provides a range of advanced features that significantly boost your online security and privacy. It combines excellent performance with advanced security features and great functionality:
Feature | How it works |
Threat Protection Pro | Blocks ads, trackers, phishing sites, online scams, and malware, enhancing online safety and creating a smoother browsing experience |
Kill switch | Instantly disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data exposure |
Dark Web Monitor | Scans dark web forums and alerts you if your credentials are exposed in a data breach |
Double VPN | Routes your traffic through two servers for an extra layer of encryption and privacy |
Onion Over VPN | Combines NordVPN with the Tor network for maximum anonymity and security |
SmartPlay | Optimizes streaming by unblocking geo-restricted content and ensuring a fast, buffer-free experience |
Split tunneling | Allows you to route specific apps or websites through the VPN while keeping others on your local network |
DNS Leak protection | Prevents DNS leaks to ensure your browsing data isn’t exposed to your ISP or third parties |
Meshnet | Connects devices securely over the internet, ideal for remote work or gaming |
Simultaneous connections | Allows up to 10 devices to connect to the VPN simultaneously under one account |
NordLynx protocol | Combines speed and security using WireGuard technology, ensuring a fast and reliable connection |
1TB encrypted cloud storage | Securely stores sensitive files, providing access across devices with NordLocker integration |
Threat Protection test results
What you get out of Threat Protection depends on your subscription plan. For example, Threat Protection Pro is not available with the Basic plan. Instead, Basic subscribers get a stripped-down version of the feature. Still, I found that all of these features function reliably and offer something useful to the overall experience.
In my opinion, the most useful feature is Threat Protection Pro. It scans the files you download for malware, removes threats, and notifies you about weaknesses. Additionally, it blocks ads and trackers and your access to dangerous websites. Threat Protection Pro is an excellent tool for increasing device security in addition to the general safety that a VPN provides.

The Cybernews research team and I tested both Threat Protection versions to see if there’s a noticeable difference between their ad-blocking capabilities. We adhered to our standard ad-blocking testing methodology, where we use a combination of in-house methods and proprietary tools to measure the providers’ ad-blocking performance. For NordVPN Threat Protection tests, we used AdBlock Tester, Cover Your Tracks, and D3ward test on Chrome and Firefox browsers.
Unsurprisingly, Threat Protection Pro performed better overall. You can review our findings in the table below.
Test environment | Threat Protection Pro | Threat Protection |
AdBlock Tester | 71/100 (Chrome), 100/100 (Firefox) | 66/100 (Chrome), 69/100 (Firefox) |
D3ward Test | 91/100 (Chrome), 94/100 (Firefox) | 91/100 (Chrome), 93/100 (Firefox) |
Cover Your Tracks | Strong protection against web tracking (Chrome and Firefox) | Strong protection against web tracking (Chrome and Firefox) |
Overall, Threat Protection Pro performed significantly better on AdBlock Tester, while the D3ward Test showed almost identical performance. Cover Your Tracks also indicates that both Threat Protection versions grant strong protection against web tracking on any browser. Below is a screenshot showcasing how the Can You Block It website looks without Threat Protection Pro enabled.

And here’s a screenshot showing how the same site looks with Threat Protection Pro enabled.

Our second round of tests involved evaluating Threat Protection Pro’s malware protection capabilities, which we tested using our security software testing methods. In short, the research team enabled Threat Protection Pro and then visited a few malicious websites to see how the malicious URL-blocking feature would react. Then, they downloaded files laced with malware to see if the software would detect harmful downloads.
The tool performed reasonably well, but I wasn’t particularly impressed. It blocked 9 out of 10 malicious websites, meaning it’s great for protecting your online browsing. However, it detected only 4 out of 10 malicious files on the test device, meaning it’s less effective regarding actual malicious software.
Many of the best antivirus services we test perform much better during such tests, although you shouldn’t base your decision solely on our findings. For example, you should also consider the conclusions of independent antivirus test labs like AV-TEST, which thoroughly test and rank various antivirus services. You’ll notice that NordVPN isn’t even included in their evaluations, while Surfshark VPN is. That’s because Surfshark offers antivirus software in its subscription.
Overall, Threat Protection is an excellent addition to NordVPN’s arsenal and offers great security benefits for casual daily browsing. However, I don’t think it’s a good alternative to full-fledged antivirus services like Norton 360 and TotalAV. So, consider getting something more powerful if you’re worried about malware.
Testing Meshnet
Another handy feature is Meshnet. It allows you to share files, play LAN games, or securely link with other devices. With NordVPN, you can create a private network for up to 10 internal or 50 external devices. Most importantly, this unique feature is available for free, meaning you don’t have to subscribe to the premium tier plan if this is the only feature you need.

I tested Meshnet with our research team to evaluate its features in real-life scenarios. We used a Mac laptop and an Android smartphone.
Meshnet’s basic features, like file sharing and traffic routing, were generally straightforward and easy to use. However, remote access was more difficult because it required a more complicated setup. I recommend checking NordVPN’s official Meshnet setup guides for more information, since this can get pretty technical.
During our tests, we measured internet speeds with and without Meshnet. Our findings show that connection speed depends on each device’s capabilities. Basically, the internet speed you get while using Meshnet depends on the device you connect to and not the feature itself. So, don’t be surprised if your speed slows down when you’re connected to an old laptop.
Another crucial factor is that Meshnet’s features depend on the type of device you use. For example, due to technical limitations, only specific devices (Windows, macOS, and Linux) can be traffic-routing hosts. However, practically all NordVPN-supported devices can be clients that connect to hosts and enjoy file-sharing capabilities.
Overall, Meshnet is an excellent and unique feature in the VPN market. I think most customers use it for secure file sharing, while remote access and traffic routing features are less popular due to their technical complexity and limitations. I doubt most people like the idea of leaving their home PC turned on continuously just to make its IP address accessible while traveling abroad. However, if you’re intrigued by that, please read our in-depth NordVPN Meshnet review.
Dark Web Monitor
NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor is a great security feature that enhances your overall cybersecurity. Usually, if you get hacked or scammed by threat actors, your details might get sold on the dark web for identity theft or ransomware purposes. NordVPN’s feature continuously scans the dark web to see if your email address has been leaked. If it has, NordVPN immediately alerts you so that you can take action and secure your vulnerable data.

Enabling NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor is easy – simply go to the feature’s menu and enable the On switch. You can recognize the menu by the bullseye target icon, which is consistent across all platforms.
You must include at least one email address so the feature has something to scan for on the dark web. Of course, you can add multiple email addresses, which is great because most people usually have more than one email account anyway. Alternatively, you can add your family’s email addresses. Just keep in mind that only you will receive the immediate threat alerts.
Double VPN
One effective way to minimize the risk of a data leak is to enable Double VPN. It works with NordVPN by routing traffic through two servers instead of one. So, your activity gets double the encryption, and your anonymity further increases when you access the site you want. However, remember that getting double encryption and routing your connection through multiple servers greatly reduces your speed. As such, I don’t recommend this feature for typical daily activities like web browsing or streaming.
Most people don’t need such extreme security measures, but they’re essential for those engaging in more serious online activities. According to NordVPN, Double VPN is best suited for political activists, journalists, whistleblowers, and those seeking refuge from oppressive governments. For them, a dip in performance is a small tradeoff for improved security. Also, Double VPN is usually not the only tool such people must use to ensure their anonymity.
While NordVPN’s Double VPN is great overall, I prefer Surfshark’s MultiHop feature because it allows picking custom connection points. Meanwhile, NordVPN’s options are predetermined, making it less versatile. Another provider with a similar feature is Proton VPN, which offers Secure Core servers. Like with NordVPN, these servers provide predetermined routes through servers in secure jurisdictions.
NordVPN kill switch performance
In a theoretical scenario where your VPN experiences issues, like a connection drop, NordVPN has a kill switch function. It automatically cuts off your internet connection to prevent exposing your true IP until the connection is restored. This feature is automatic yet optional, but it’s handy to ensure complete safety and anonymity.
NordVPN is exceptional in this regard because it offers two kill switches, while most VPNs only offer one. For more safety, you can enable an internet and app kill switch with NordVPN. The feature is under the Settings menu, which is the cogwheel icon in the bottom-left corner of the app on Windows.

With the app kill switch, you can ensure that some applications, like web browsers or online video games, will immediately close if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This ensures those apps never see your real IP address if you don’t want to.
We tested both kill switch versions under various circumstances, and they were successful in all cases. With the internet kill switch, we tried simulating an app crash, internet problems, and a combination of both, and the kill switch worked great each time. Additionally, the app kill switch always successfully shut down our selected apps whenever the VPN connection crashed unexpectedly. You can expect similar results in various network circumstances, whether on Wi-Fi, broadband, or cellular.
Split tunneling
Split tunneling lets you route some of your traffic through a VPN. NordVPN uses this feature to access both the home IP and server locations simultaneously. For example, when traveling, you can watch your home country’s TV series on Google Chrome and access local content on Microsoft Edge. You can also turn on split tunneling to exclude specific apps from VPN use. It’s handy when you want to have a VPN on but not have it affect your online gaming.

I tested NordVPN’s split tunneling a few times, and it worked as intended. In the screenshot above, I’m using the feature to route all my web traffic through the UK, except for Chrome, which has an American IP address using a VPN web extension, so you wouldn’t see my home IP address. My only issue with NordVPN’s split tunneling is that you can’t add IP addresses; you only need apps.
Onion Over VPN
NordVPN has a feature called Onion Over VPN, also known as Tor Over VPN. It combines the security benefits of a VPN tunnel and the Tor network into one, making you more secure without needing to install the Tor Browser. The feature connects you to a NordVPN server before routing your connection through multiple Tor nodes. This gives you numerous security layers (hence, onion) and makes it completely impossible to track anything back to you.
Like Double VPN, this feature severely slows down your connection speed and is not suitable for regular daily activities. You can consider Onion Over VPN a more powerful version of Double VPN since your connection is routed through more than two points. As such, it has similar use cases for journalists, activists, and people who work with sensitive data. Another provider offering Tor over VPN servers is Proton VPN.
Simultaneous connections
As of 2025, NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections, which puts it on par with other industry leaders like Proton VPN and PureVPN. I’m glad that NordVPN upgraded its device limit from 6 to match the industry standard. This also makes it superior to providers like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, which permit only 8 and 7 simultaneous connections, respectively.
Additionally, each user can buy a dedicated IP. This feature eliminates the ever-changing IP address depending on the server and assigns a single, stable IP address in a preferred location. NordVPN offers dedicated IPs in 25 locations across 18 countries. That’s more than Surfshark, which has 13 locations, PureVPN, which has 8, and CyberGhost has 7.
Additional features
NordVPN’s Prime plan subscribers get a few additional features. The first is NordLocker, which grants 1TB of encrypted cloud storage to safely keep and access your files through any linked device. The second is cyber protection through NordProtect, which provides insurance for users in the US. There is $1M insurance for identity theft (covered by HSB Specialty Insurance Company) and $100K insurance for cyber extortion.
For businesses seeking more robust cybersecurity solutions beyond personal VPN use, NordStellar offers advanced threat exposure management services tailored to enterprise needs, which are not included with the NordVPN plans but are available as a separate subscription.
To summarize, although a few major things make NordVPN stand out among competitors, there is also some room for improvement.
DNS and WebRTC leak protection
All VPNs come with leak protection by default to ensure your VPN connections aren’t exposing your DNS requests and other data. Even so, it’s crucial to occasionally test their capabilities to ensure everything works as intended. We tested NordVPN’s DNS and WebRTC leak protection features using dnsleaktest.com to check for flaws.

Unsurprisingly, NordVPN showed excellent results in the DNS leak test. It didn’t expose our DNS requests, meaning our connections were wholly confidential and unreadable to our ISP.

The WebRTC leak tests were also successful, showing no signs of IP address leakage during video chat sessions. That means NordVPN will guarantee secure and private connections no matter what.
How fast is NordVPN?
VPN apps inevitably slow down your connections because they add an additional destination for your internet traffic. Still, this slowdown usually isn’t very noticeable, especially if you’re connecting to a nearby server. However, other factors are also at play, such as the VPN tunneling protocol, the server’s current load, your baseline connection speed, and even your ISP. Even so, testing a VPN’s connection speeds is crucial to see how it performs on average.
The research team and I measured NordVPN’s connection speed in various countries to understand its overall performance. Our latest May 2025 tests show that NordVPN is currently the fastest VPN on the market. Here are a few reasons behind its excellent performance:
- NordLynx protocol. NordVPN’s proprietary protocol is an upgraded version of WireGuard, featuring faster connections and better security.
- Frequent server updates. The service continuously optimizes its servers to improve efficiency and speed retention rates.
- Worldwide server network. NordVPN’s fleet of 7600+ servers across 118 countries allows most users to easily find an optimal server for speedy connections.
- Avoiding bandwidth throttling. Connecting to a VPN server can help you prevent bandwidth throttling, which can improve your connection speed.
The table below highlights NordVPN’s performance across different server locations, showcasing its impressive speed consistency worldwide.
Speed without VPN | Local VPN server speed | US server speed | UK server speed | |
Ping | 5ms | 35ms | 103ms | 42ms |
Average download speed | 500Mbps | 475Mbps | 413Mbps | 485Mbps |
Average upload speed | 500Mbps | 436Mbps | 451Mbps | 473Mbps |
Your internet speed while the VPN is enabled depends on several factors. The primary ones are the distance between you and the VPN server, the server’s load, and your baseline internet speed. You can expect the best performance by connecting to nearby servers or letting NordVPN pick a server automatically using Quick Connect.
The research team and I tested NordVPN on a MacBook Air laptop to get the best possible baseline speed. Naturally, we used the provider’s NordLynx protocol to evaluate its maximum potential. We picked the most optimal servers from various countries to assess NordVPN’s performance in different regions and check for inconsistencies.
NordVPN showed excellent results with its US servers, even when we tested it from Lithuania. This great performance is reassuring because the US is a popular connection point for accessing exclusive TV shows and sporting events.

Unsurprisingly, the speed retention rate was even better in the UK since it’s closer to our actual location in Lithuania. This is excellent news for anyone who wants to watch British online TV like BBC iPlayer.

And here’s how NordVPN and other VPN services performed regarding international speed retention rates:
US server | UK server | Japan server | Canada server | Germany server | Australia server | |
NordVPN | 83% | 97% | 94% | 93% | 95% | 92% |
Surfshark | 81% | 94% | 93% | 95% | 94% | 89% |
ExpressVPN | 82% | 92% | 89% | 93% | 90% | 91% |
IPVanish | 78% | 90% | 92% | 93% | 93% | 93% |
Note: The table shows download speed retention compared to 500Mbps internet baseline speed.
NordVPN's server network
NordVPN has a network of 7600+ servers in 118 countries, giving it an edge over many of its rivals like Surfshark, IPVanish, and Norton VPN. On the other hand, Proton VPN has more (12600+ servers in 117 countries) if you prioritize sheer numbers. In any case, here are some highlights about NordVPN’s server network that make it appealing:
- NordVPN has numerous P2P-optimized servers that are scattered worldwide to provide speedy connections for users all across the globe.
- NordVPN offers a variety of specialized servers: dedicated IP, Double VPN, obfuscated servers, Onion Over VPN, and P2P. Not all top VPN providers can offer such a rich variety.
- NordVPN’s apps are very user-friendly and make choosing the preferred server quick and easy. An interactive map allows you to select servers according to your preferred country and city. You can also use a convenient menu to connect to specialized servers.
There are two types of servers – owned and rented. Owned servers belong to the provider. This means that the VPN provider owns the hardware, implements its security measures, and is solely responsible for server maintenance. Rented servers are leased from another provider. This means that the VPN provider does not own the hardware, does not have physical access to the server, and cannot fully ensure server security but still controls the software.
NordVPN uses a combination of owned and rented servers in its network. To avoid disadvantages associated with owned or rented servers, NordVPN has RAM-only (Random Access Memory) servers. These servers run everything on RAM, so no information is stored on hard drives, ensuring that the no-logs policy cannot be breached. So, essentially, NordVPN can use both rented and owned servers without the risk of its internal policies being breached by data centers.
Switching between servers is very simple, too. Mac, Windows, or Linux apps have a very clear interface with an optional map to pick a server, and it takes seconds to connect. The mobile app and browser extension server switch is more minimalist, with a scroll-type list of countries and their servers to connect to. Additionally, NordVPN can automatically connect to your recently used server, so you wouldn’t have to visit the app or extension at all to be instantly connected.
If you face connection issues like delays or drops, switch to another server in the same country. This often improves speeds and stability by avoiding congestion.
NordVPN interface and compatibility
NordVPN has been in the industry for a long time, allowing it to evolve its apps and overall user experience to perfection. I think the service is intuitive and easy to use, although its abundance of features can take some getting used to. Installing NordVPN’s apps is pretty straightforward, meaning anyone can get up and running with it in no time.

I use NordVPN on my desktop most of the time, so I’ll describe my experience using that version. The service’s apps are pretty similar across different operating systems, although feature availability can differ.
The home screen includes a small server selection menu, usage information from the previous week, and data about Threat Protection. It’s all the essential data if you want to enable the VPN and overview performance metrics. All the feature-specific details are readily available in the left-hand menu. For me, the most important ones are the server world map, Threat Protection Pro, and Meshnet. Each feature is denoted with a unique icon that’s consistent across all app versions for easy navigation.
Below the home menu is the world map menu, where you can easily navigate and find your desired connection spot without typing anything. I loved how easy it was to navigate NordVPN’s app. There’s also a handy search bar if you prefer typing, although it wasn’t necessary for me since the map is more than enough. The specialty server tab is also nearby. It’s a great system overall that accommodates users with varying preferences.

Using NordVPN on mobile is a breeze. The home screen includes the server selection menu, allowing you to connect to a server and secure your traffic with minimal effort. The next menu is Threat Protection, which improves your online security by blocking ads, trackers, and malicious websites. Note that mobile users get a slightly weaker version of this feature than on desktop. I noticed that on some phones, the second menu is Meshnet, which is just as good.
The third menu is notifications, which I believe is pretty self-explanatory. However, most of the provider’s exciting features are hidden in the Profile menu. Here, you’ll find Meshnet, Dark Web Monitoring, and your security dashboard, which shows your VPN usage statistics over the previous week.
Overall, I find it easy to use NordVPN on mobile since the most important features are prioritized, while others are pushed to the side to keep things uncluttered. There are some minor differences between Android and iOS in terms of features, but the overall experience is basically the same.

NordVPN offers a dedicated app for the Apple TV digital media player, which runs on the tvOS operating system that’s based on iOS. Note that the company’s streaming service is called Apple TV+, which can cause some confusion due to its similar name.
Installing NordVPN on Apple TV is straightforward since all you have to do is download the app from the Apple App Store. Then simply log in and connect to any of the available servers. The experience is completely trouble free just like on any other NordVPN app. Just note that this app isn’t very feature rich and only includes the essentials for streaming, such as speedy connections and the ability to choose specific servers by country or city.
However, this changes if you’re using an older Apple TV device that doesn’t include the App Store. Then you’ll have to use an alternative method of running NordVPN on Apple TV. These methods include using Smart DNS, installing the VPN on your router, or sharing a VPN connection from another device. Obviously, these methods aren’t as convenient as using an app, but I appreciate that NordVPN has these alternative methods to accommodate users with older Apple TV devices.

I’m glad that NordVPN upgraded its simultaneous device connection limit from 6 to 10, making securing every device I own easier. It also allows me to share the VPN’s benefits with a few friends and family. Of course, it would be even better if the service supported unlimited connections like Surfshark and IPVanish. At least it’s not 8 like with ExpressVPN, which is pretty disappointing considering the provider’s price.
NordVPN is compatible with practically any device you can imagine. In my five years of testing NordVPN, I’ve never encountered any compatibility issues. It has dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS and a CLI app for Linux. Regarding browsers, the service has extensions for Firefox and Chrome, the latter of which is also compatible with other Chromium browsers like Edge. As for streaming devices, the service works with Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. Lastly, gadgets without VPN app support can be covered by setting NordVPN up on a router.
Overall, NordVPN is exceptionally easy to use, making it an excellent option for VPN beginners. Conversely, the settings menu has plenty of customization options to allow power users to adjust the service to their specific needs. Personally, I set it to connect to the fastest server whenever my PC boots up, and I frequently forget that the VPN is enabled.
NordVPN's customer support
NordVPN offers excellent customer support options to assist its users in any situation.
Support type | NordVPN |
24/7 live chat | ✅ Yes |
✅ Yes | |
Phone support | ❌ No |
Guides or articles | ✅ Yes |
FAQs | ✅ Yes |
The provider’s extensive knowledge base is usually enough for me, as it includes plenty of detailed guides and tutorials to solve my occasional issues. The service also has an active social media and forum presence if you want to discuss something with the community. Meanwhile, if you’re not inclined to solve issues yourself, you can contact the customer support team 24/7 through live chat or email. The agents are pretty helpful in my experience and are usually more than happy to assist with any issue.
NordVPN video review
If you prefer listening over reading, you might appreciate our NordVPN video review. In it, you can find every single fact from our review, but with the added bonus of a soothing voice.
NordVPN compared to other providers
After reviewing NordVPN in many areas, it's clear that it’s an exceptional service in the VPN market. It’s not perfect by any means, but it has many excellent features that make it more appealing than many other VPN options. Below is a comparison of some of the best VPNs on the market so you can see where NordVPN stands out:
VPN provider | Cybernews rating | Price | Average speed retention | Malware protection | Ad blocking | Server and location count | Streaming service unblocking | Customer support options |
NordVPN | From $3.39/month | 93.6% | ✅ Yes (Threat Protection) | ✅ Yes (blocks YouTube ads) | 7600+ servers in 118 countries | Most | Multiple | |
Surfshark | From $1.99/month | 93.3% | ✅ Yes (CleanWeb) | ✅ Yes (blocks YouTube ads) | 3200+ servers in 100 countries | Most | Multiple | |
ExpressVPN | From $4.99/month | 91% | ✅ Yes (Threat Manager) | ✅ Yes (blocks YouTube ads) | Servers in 105 countries | Most | Multiple | |
IPVanish | From $2.19/month | 91.8% | ✅ Yes (Threat Protection) | ✅ Yes (blocks YouTube ads) | 2400+ servers in 109 countries | Some | Multiple | |
CyberGhost | From $2.19/month | 91.2% | ✅ Yes (Block Content) | ✅ Yes (blocks YouTube ads) | Servers in 100 countries | Most | Multiple |
As the table shows, NordVPN stands out for its speed and reliability. It consistently outperforms other VPNs in unblocking streaming content, thanks to its extensive network of servers. Despite its premium features, it remains more affordable than ExpressVPN. Plus, its app interface is one of the most intuitive among all the VPNs I tested.
NordVPN review: final verdict
NordVPN is undoubtedly one of the best VPNs on the market, thanks to its abundance of features and effectiveness in various areas. The provider’s excellent speed retention rates make it ideal for streaming, online gaming, torrenting, and web browsing. Even so, it isn’t perfect, particularly in the pricing department, but that’s not surprising considering NordVPN’s quality. However, it's disappointing that to get the full premium experience, including features like Threat Protection Pro, the cheapest plan is not enough.
Another potential issue with NordVPN is its 10-device connection limit. While it should be enough for most users, it pales in comparison to providers like Surfshark and IPVanish, which permit unlimited device connections at a lower price.
Even so, I consider NordVPN a top-tier VPN that will satisfy any customer’s needs with its expansive server network, speedy connections, and reliable cybersecurity tools. While the service isn’t cheap, its feature variety and overall quality make it worth the price.
FAQ
Is NordVPN still trustworthy?
Yes, NordVPN is considered trustworthy because it has advanced security measures to secure your data. These include the industry-standard AES-256 encryption algorithm, a no-logs policy, and third-party audits.
What are the cons of NordVPN?
Unlike Surfshark and some other VPN providers, NordVPN allows only 10 simultaneous connections, limiting the number of devices that can be connected to a VPN server at the same time. In addition, not all of NordVPN’s servers support torrenting, which can become an issue if that’s your main reason for using a VPN.
Can I be tracked if I use NordVPN?
No, your location can’t be tracked if you’re using NordVPN. It masks your IP address and makes it difficult to get your information, such as real location or identity. NordVPN follows a strict no-logs policy and doesn’t give away your data other than specific cases when government authorities might request monitoring access.
Is NordVPN safe for banking?
Yes, NordVPN is safe for banking, as it employs advanced encryption and follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your sensitive data stays private and secure.
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