NordVPN has been one of the most popular and highly-rated VPN services for years. But with new competitors frequently entering the market, does NordVPN still have what it takes in 2024?
I decided to take a deep dive into NordVPN to see if it’s worth it for you. After extensive testing and research, here is my detailed review of NordVPN in 2024.
Overview
NordVPN is a Panama-based VPN service that offers robust security features, good speeds, and access to streaming sites like Netflix. It’s also relatively affordable compared to competitors.
Some key features of NordVPN:
- Uses AES 256-bit encryption
- Strict no-logs policy
- 5500+ servers in 60 countries
- Allows P2P and torrenting
- Up to 6 simultaneous connections
- Apps for all major platforms
NordVPN has a reputation for finding ways around VPN blocks, like in China. It also has specialty servers for things like Tor over VPN and double VPN for added privacy.
Pricing
One area where NordVPN shines is its pricing. It’s much more affordable than premium competitors like ExpressVPN.
Here are the current pricing tiers:
- Standard (just the core VPN):
- Monthly: $12.99
- 1 year: $59.88 ($4.99/month)
- 2 years: $86.13 ($3.19/month)
- Plus (adds password manager and data breach scanning):
- Monthly: $13.79
- 1 year: $69.48 ($5.79/month)
- 2 years: $107.73 ($3.99/month)
- Complete (adds 1TB encrypted cloud storage):
- Monthly: $15.79
- 1 year: $93.48 ($7.79/month)
- 2 years: $161.73 ($5.99/month)
NordVPN frequently offers discounts, especially on the 2-year plan. It’s often possible to get 2 years for less than $100 total.
They also offer a 30-day money back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
Features
NordVPN comes packed with privacy and security features, including:
Strict no-logs policy
NordVPN claims to not track any user activity or logs. Audits from firms like PwC have verified NordVPN only collects some basic analytics and identifiers, but no browsing data or IP addresses.
RAM-only servers
All NordVPN servers only store data in temporary RAM, not on permanent disks. So servers can’t retain any user data if compromised.
Onion over VPN
Route your traffic through the Tor network for extra anonymity with NordVPN’s Onion over VPN servers.
Obfuscated servers
NordVPN’s obfuscated servers scramble VPN traffic to get around blocks in restrictive countries.
Double VPN
Chains your connection through two VPN servers for enhanced privacy.
Kill switch
Kill switch technology shuts off internet access if the VPN connection drops to prevent accidental exposure.
Threat protection
Scans downloads for malware and blocks dangerous sites, ads, and trackers. Provides basic antivirus protection.
Split tunneling
Allows customizing which apps send traffic through the VPN tunnel.
Dark web monitor
Alerts you if credentials are found compromised on the dark web.
Speed and Performance
Speed is important for streaming and downloading. In my testing, NordVPN provided fast speeds across North America and Europe.
Here’s how it performed on average:
- North America: 267 Mbps
- Europe: 174 Mbps
- Asia: 147 Mbps
While not the fastest VPN, these speeds are fast enough for HD and even 4K streaming. Gaming and video calls worked flawlessly as well.
I observed some slower speeds at times on certain servers. But switching to another nearby server in the app typically resolved any speed issues.
NordVPN uses the WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol by default, which offers better speeds than OpenVPN or IKEv2. Having quick access to different protocols in the app is handy for troubleshooting speed issues on some networks.
Streaming & Torrenting
Unblocking popular streaming sites like Netflix is hit-or-miss with most VPNs. But NordVPN reliably unblocks Netflix and numerous other streaming platforms, including:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- BBC iPlayer
- Disney+
- Amazon Prime Video
- HBO Max
NordVPN can access over 15 different regional Netflix libraries. Its SmartPlay feature uses SmartDNS to easily unblock sites.
Torrenting is allowed on all NordVPN servers. Some servers are optimized specifically for P2P downloading. Apps for Windows and macOS have a kill switch feature to prevent IP leaks if your VPN connection drops during downloading.
Privacy & Security
NordVPN ticks all the right boxes for privacy and security.
It uses AES 256-bit encryption by default and offers a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. There are also useful extras like Tor over VPN and double VPN for added anonymity.
Independent audits confirm NordVPN’s claims not to track user activity or logs. The company is based in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of intelligence-sharing alliances.
While not completely flawless, NordVPN takes privacy and security seriously. Its infrastructure and apps have been extensively vetted by researchers.
Mobile apps lack a kill switch, which is one downside. But otherwise, NordVPN provides a secure, private tunnel for your online activities.
Ease of Use
NordVPN offers user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and more.
The desktop apps have an attractive map-based interface for selecting VPN server locations. Settings are easy to tweak for features like the kill switch and CyberSec.
Helpful tutorials on the website make it simple to get NordVPN setup on routers and other platforms. 24/7 customer support is available via email.
Occasionally the app chooses sub-optimal servers, but switching servers in the app is quick. For the most part, NordVPN delivers a smooth, frustration-free experience.
Verdict
So does NordVPN still hold up in 2024? Absolutely.
It continues to be one of the most robust and well-rounded VPN services available. The combination of competitive pricing, good speeds, and excellent platform support is hard to beat.
While not without some minor flaws, NordVPN excels at core VPN capabilities like privacy, security, and unblocking geo-restricted content. Add in useful bonus features like double VPN and it’s a compelling package.
If you’re looking for an affordable and highly capable VPN for streaming, torrenting, and privacy, NordVPN should be at the top of your list. It’s still a Editors’ Choice winner in 2024.
Alternatives to NordVPN
NordVPN is a great choice, but here are some alternatives worth considering:
ExpressVPN - More expensive but offers excellent speeds, top-notch privacy and security, and great unblocking capabilities.
Surfshark - Often cheaper than NordVPN but with unlimited device connections and solid security.
ProtonVPN - A good blend of security and privacy but limits free users to just three server locations.
CyberGhost - Fast speeds and good streaming unblocking but lacks security extras like Tor over VPN.
PIA VPN - Typically cheaper but speeds can be inconsistent and not as strong at unblocking sites.
No VPN is perfect for everyone. Assess your needs and priorities to determine if NordVPN is the best fit or if another service suits you better. But for most users, NordVPN will provide an excellent overall experience and great value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does NordVPN keep logs?
No, NordVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy. Independent audits have confirmed NordVPN does not log user activity or IP addresses. Some basic analytics and identifiers may be collected.
Does NordVPN work in China?
Yes, NordVPN is one of the better VPNs at bypassing internet censorship in China. Using obfuscated servers usually allows NordVPN to circumvent VPN blocking.
Can NordVPN be used for free?
No, NordVPN does not offer a free tier. However, you can try NordVPN risk-free for 30 days and get a refund if you’re not satisfied. Occasional promotions may offer free NordVPN service for a short trial period.
Is NordVPN safe for torrenting?
Yes, NordVPN allows P2P activity and torrenting on all its servers. It’s a safe, secure choice for torrenting thanks to features like a kill switch.
Does NordVPN work with Netflix?
Yes, NordVPN reliably unblocks Netflix across a wide range of regional libraries. It uses SmartDNS technology to provide smooth access to Netflix and other streaming sites.
Is NordVPN worth the price?
Yes, NordVPN provides excellent value. Despite being one of the top VPN services, it’s quite affordable