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NordVPN vs OpenVPN: 157 Highlights & 67 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Discover how NordVPN excels in privacy and streaming, while OpenVPN targets business users needing straightforward security. Choosing software can be messy. We made it easier by comparing NordVPN vs OpenVPN on all key intended use, target user, account sharing policy & deployment type.

80 Points
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
62 Points
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
80 Points
vs
62 Points

Why is NordVPN better than OpenVPN ?

Scroll down for more facts

NordVPN vs OpenVPN: A Detailed Look at Two Leading VPN Solutions

When comparing NordVPN and OpenVPN, both offer robust security and encryption features with third-party audits, kill switches, and strong key exchange methods such as RSA and ECDHE. However, their target users and deployment models vary significantly: NordVPN is cloud-based and targets individuals, families, and teams seeking privacy, streaming, and P2P capabilities, while OpenVPN focuses squarely on business users with a hybrid deployment approach prioritizing security. This sets the stage for their functionality differences, including support for streaming platforms, device compatibility, and logging policies.

NordVPN: Tailored For Privacy, Speed, and Versatile Streaming

NordVPN shines with impressive features that cater to a broad spectrum of users looking for not only security but also high performance and entertainment flexibility. Its cloud-based system allows for seamless updates and scalability, while its network infrastructure boasts gaming-optimized servers, unlimited bandwidth, and high-tier data centers. This combination supports a peak speed of 900 Mbps, which, while generating a slight latency of around 20 ms, delivers a smooth experience for gamers, streamers, and P2P enthusiasts.

Moreover, NordVPN's stringent no-logs policy is bolstered by the use of RAM-only servers, ensuring that no user data is stored long-term, enhancing privacy protections. Its broad device compatibility supports major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even smart TVs, making it a versatile choice for multi-device households.

NordVPN impresses with advanced capabilities such as a stealth mode that helps bypass VPN blocks, crucial for maintaining access in restrictive regions. Its support for per-app rules adds an extra layer of customization, allowing users to route traffic through the VPN selectively. Add to that an extensive streaming platform support, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, all delivered at reliable high streaming reliability and 4K streaming quality, NordVPN clearly prioritizes entertainment alongside security.

OpenVPN: Focused Security for Business Needs

OpenVPN is designed primarily with business security at the forefront, serving organizations that require strong encryption and compliance with GDPR. Its hybrid deployment supports flexibility between cloud and on-premises solutions, which appeals to businesses seeking tailored VPN architecture. While it lacks support for multiple desktop operating systems and smart TVs, it does provide CLI support and compatibility with IoT devices, which is beneficial for technical environments.

Security remains robust, with strong key exchange protocols and a kill switch included. OpenVPN's no-logs policy is less transparent compared to NordVPN, as it maintains connection and metadata logs, which may be a consideration for privacy-focused users. However, its audit program is ongoing, with evidence of third-party evaluations and a clean legal track record.

Performance-wise, OpenVPN claims zero latency impact and supports smart routing and regional speed optimization. While it does not specify peak speed metrics, this suggests a more conservative approach, possibly suitable for environments where security and uptime trump raw speed capabilities.

In terms of user experience, OpenVPN's customer support includes email, ticket, and phone assistance with a 24-hour SLA response time, slightly slower compared to NordVPN's instant response SLA with live chat. The platform also lacks API documentation, a disadvantage for developers, though it offers automation scripts and custom DNS features similar to NordVPN. Business users may appreciate the 14-day free trial and flexible plans that fit organizational needs.

Quick Take

NordVPN stands out for its speedy, reliable service that combines strong privacy safeguards with excellent streaming and gaming support, making it a versatile choice for general consumers. OpenVPN caters to businesses that prioritize security and compliance with a hybrid deployment model, delivering reliable VPN connectivity without the frills preferred by individual users.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, NordVPN is the superior pick for users who desire a comprehensive VPN solution balancing privacy, speed, and entertainment features across multiple devices. OpenVPN suits enterprises focusing on secure infrastructure tailored to business contexts, but offers fewer conveniences for personal or streaming use. For most non-business users, NordVPN's robust privacy practices and extensive platform support provide a better overall experience.

Verdict

  • Winner: NordVPN - Offers faster speeds, broader device compatibility, strong privacy with RAM-only servers, and outstanding streaming and gaming support.
  • Runner-up: OpenVPN - A solid business-focused VPN with hybrid deployment and strong security, but limited device support and less credible no-log claims.

Comparisons 44

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 44

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

No hype, just facts. This vpn comparison lays out what NordVPN and OpenVPN offer — from AI performance to pricing tiers and UX wins.

General Information 12

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

85 NordVPN 1 Votes Cloud-Based

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Deployment Type

NordVPN is Cloud-Based in deployment, whereas OpenVPN uses a Hybrid deployment. Cloud-based deployment allows NordVPN more scalability and remote access, ideal for flexible modern users.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

NordVPN's cloud-based deployment just feels way smoother to me than OpenVPN's hybrid model especially for everyday use.

See more

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

55 NordVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P

58 OpenVPN 0 Votes Security, Business

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Intended Use

NordVPN is intended for Privacy, Security, Streaming, and P2P, covering a wide range of uses. OpenVPN focuses more narrowly on Security and Business. NordVPN is better suited for users wanting diverse features including streaming.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

63 NordVPN 0 Votes Individual, Family, Team

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes Business

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Target User

NordVPN targets Individuals, Families, and Teams, while OpenVPN is designed for Business users only. This makes NordVPN more versatile for personal and multi-user environments, whereas OpenVPN focuses on enterprise-level applications.

Identifies the primary audience.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Restricted

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Restricted

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Account Sharing Policy

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN have a Restricted Account Sharing Policy, ensuring controlled sharing across user accounts. This policy provides enhanced security for both individual flexibility and enterprise control.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

67 NordVPN 0 Votes 2012

15 OpenVPN 0 Votes 2001

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

OpenVPN has been in continuous development since 2001, making it one of the most mature and battle-tested VPN technologies in enterprise security environments.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ideal for businesses deploying VPN access across large teams, branch offices, or distributed cloud infrastructure without per-device licensing limits.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Unlike consumer VPNs that limit connections (often 5–10 devices), this supports unlimited concurrent sessions—useful for remote workforces and site-to-site tunnels.

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Global

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Global

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Designed for worldwide deployment, supporting distributed teams and international infrastructure.

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

25 NordVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes Enterprise VPN

Indicates the primary service classification.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

69 NordVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Router, Cloud

Indicates supported platform categories.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

76 NordVPN 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR, ISO 27001

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes GDPR

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Regulatory Compliance Statement

NordVPN complies with GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR, and ISO 27001, while OpenVPN only complies with GDPR. NordVPN's broader regulatory compliance offers better assurance for international users seeking comprehensive data protection.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Security & Encryption 24

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

72 NordVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

67 OpenVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Key Exchange Method

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN utilize the same Key Exchange Methods including RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman. This parity ensures strong cryptographic security standards for both services.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Kill Switch

Kill Switch functionality is supported by both NordVPN and OpenVPN, providing a critical fail-safe to protect user data if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Third-Party Audit Availability

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN offer Third-Party Audit Availability, confirming transparency and trust through external security evaluations. This is great for users prioritizing verified security.

Availability of external audit reports.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes AES

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN uses AES encryption standard, a widely recognized and robust method for securing data transmission.

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES is widely adopted in enterprise and government systems, while ChaCha20 is optimized for high performance on mobile and low-power devices.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

IPv6 leak protection present to safeguard against accidental exposure of the user's IPv6 address, reinforcing privacy.

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Protects against traffic leaks on IPv6 networks, which are increasingly common in modern infrastructure.

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes AES-256

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES-256

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES-256 is considered military-grade encryption, using a 256-bit key for extremely strong brute-force resistance.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

Perfect Forward Secrecy

Is perfect forward secrecy supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ensures past sessions remain secure even if long-term private keys are compromised—critical for enterprise compliance requirements.

Ensures past sessions remain secure if keys are compromised.

DNS Leak Protection

Is DNS leak protection included?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Prevents DNS queries from leaking outside the encrypted tunnel, which helps maintain privacy and internal network confidentiality.

Prevents DNS requests from leaking outside the tunnel.

Double VPN

Is double VPN available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Double VPN feature routes traffic through two VPN servers for enhanced security and anonymity.

Encrypts traffic twice via two servers.

Dedicated IP Option

Is a dedicated IP offered?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Businesses can assign static IP addresses for secure access control, firewall whitelisting, and SaaS integrations.

Provides exclusive IP addresses.

Security Audits Conducted

Have security audits been conducted?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Undergoes independent third-party audits, reinforcing trust and validating encryption and implementation standards.

Indicates if audits have been performed.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Stealth Mode

NordVPN supports Stealth Mode, enhancing invisibility against VPN blocking, while OpenVPN does not offer this feature. Users needing more privacy online will find NordVPN more suitable here.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

I actually prefer NordVPN's stealth mode feature it helps me get around VPN blocks while OpenVPN has none of that.

See more

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Logging Policy Type

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN maintain a No-Logs policy, ensuring user actions are not recorded, which is essential for privacy-conscious customers.

Describes the overall logging stance.

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
RAM-Only Servers

NordVPN uses RAM-Only Servers, enhancing data security since no data is stored long-term. In contrast, OpenVPN does not use RAM-only servers, which can influence data retention risks.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

NordVPN using RAM-only servers gives me peace of mind about security unlike OpenVPN which doesn't use them.

See more

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Metadata Logs

NordVPN does not collect Metadata Logs, enhancing anonymity, while OpenVPN does collect these logs. NordVPN offers stronger protection against metadata tracking.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Warrant canary availability means the VPN provider signals if they have received government requests for data, promoting transparency.

Indicates presence of a warrant canary.

CCPA Compliance

Is CCPA compliance stated?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

CCPA compliance confirms adherence to California Consumer Privacy Act regulations, strengthening user privacy protections.

Indicates compliance with CCPA.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Connection Logs

Connection Logs are unavailable for NordVPN, supporting its no-logs claim, but OpenVPN retains connection logs. Therefore, NordVPN is preferable for users needing strict connection privacy.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

40 NordVPN 0 Votes Panama

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes None

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes No Logs

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Logs

Length of time user data is retained.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Gaming Optimized Servers

NordVPN offers Gaming Optimized Servers, beneficial for latency-sensitive gaming scenarios, whereas OpenVPN does not. Gamers will prefer NordVPN for enhanced play performance.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Bandwidth Capacity

What is the bandwidth capacity?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Bandwidth Capacity

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN provide Unlimited Bandwidth Capacity, allowing users unlimited data usage without speed restrictions.

Overall bandwidth capability of the network.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Owned

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Server Ownership

NordVPN fully owns its server infrastructure, while OpenVPN utilizes Hybrid server ownership. Full ownership by NordVPN can increase reliability and security.

Describes who controls the servers.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

15 NordVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Throttling Policy

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN enforce a No Throttling policy, meaning consistent network speeds without intentional bandwidth slowdowns, great for high-performance needs.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes 200+

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 200+

NordVPN
NordVPN

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, offering users extensive options for connecting close to their location or to specific locations worldwide.

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

City-level coverage improves routing efficiency and can reduce latency compared to country-level-only networks.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Network Uptime SLA

Is there an uptime SLA?

62 NordVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

57 OpenVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

NordVPN
NordVPN

The network uptime Service Level Agreement guarantees 99.9% availability, showcasing reliable and continuous VPN service accessibility.

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

99.9% uptime translates to roughly 8.76 hours of potential downtime per year, aligning with many enterprise-grade SLAs.

Guaranteed network uptime level.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 3000+

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 1000–3000

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Indicates a large-scale infrastructure footprint, suitable for global enterprise deployments and regional redundancy.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 90+

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes 90+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Coverage in 90+ countries supports localized access and lower latency connections for multinational organizations.

Number of countries with server presence.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Tier III

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Tier III

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Data Center Tier

Both services operate data centers rated Tier III, ensuring robust infrastructure with high availability and security standards.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Smart location selection enables automatic choice of the optimal server based on criteria like speed and distance for the best connection.

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Unlimited Bandwidth

Is bandwidth unlimited?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Supports high-volume use cases like site-to-site tunnels, VoIP, and cloud workloads without throttling.

Indicates if data usage is unlimited.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Mixed

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Mixed

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Performance & Speed 14

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

20 ms 1 Votes
NordVPN
0 ms 0 Votes
OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Latency Impact

NordVPN has a Latency Impact of 20 milliseconds, while OpenVPN shows 0 milliseconds. Lower latency in OpenVPN suggests minimal delay added, potentially better for real-time applications.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

OpenVPN having zero latency impact sounds great but I still think NordVPN's small 20 ms latency is acceptable for fast usage.

See more

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

900 Mbps 1 Votes
NordVPN
0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Peak Speed Performance

NordVPN supports a Peak Speed Performance of 900 Mbps, whereas OpenVPN records 0 Mbps here, indicating no specified peak speed. NordVPN is better suited for high-speed internet demands.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

NordVPN's peak speed of 900 Mbps seriously outshines OpenVPN's zero which seems too slow for me.

See more

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Smart Routing

Smart Routing is offered by both NordVPN and OpenVPN, enabling optimal traffic paths for improved performance and network efficiency.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

500 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

No fixed speed—performance depends on server hardware, encryption settings, and network bandwidth. 0 Mbps indicates not publicly benchmarked rather than actual throughput.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

450 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Upload speed varies by deployment and infrastructure; enterprise setups often depend on the organization’s ISP capacity.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

NordVPN
NordVPN

Speed consistency is rated High, meaning users can expect stable connection speeds without significant fluctuation, important for streaming and gaming.

Stability of speeds over time.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Regional Speed Optimization

Both providers support Regional Speed Optimization to deliver faster connection speeds based on user location, enhancing performance for global users.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Congestion Handling

How is congestion handled?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN includes congestion handling features to maintain performance even when network traffic is high, ensuring smooth and consistent connectivity.

Manages performance during peak loads.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Smart TV

NordVPN supports Smart TVs, enhancing streaming on larger screens, whereas OpenVPN does not. This makes NordVPN better for entertainment setups.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

NordVPN supporting smart TVs is huge for me since I love streaming at home and OpenVPN sadly doesn't have it.

See more

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

84 NordVPN 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

85 OpenVPN 0 Votes iOS

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
OS Version Compatibility

NordVPN supports a wide range of OS versions including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. OpenVPN supports only iOS, making NordVPN the more versatile choice across devices.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
Browser Extension

Neither NordVPN nor OpenVPN offers Browser Extensions, which may limit quick browser-based controls, but aligns with their focus on dedicated apps and security.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
CLI Support

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN support CLI (Command Line Interface), appealing to advanced users and administrators who prefer command-line control.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
vs
OpenVPN
IoT Device Compatibility

Both NordVPN and OpenVPN support IoT Device Compatibility, securing smart home and connected devices within their VPN networks.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

82 NordVPN 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN supports major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, providing easy integration and protection for web browsing activities.

Lists supported browser types.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

ARM architecture support suggests the VPN can run efficiently on devices with ARM processors, such as many smartphones and tablets, ensuring broader device compatibility.

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows manual VPN setup.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Consistent

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Centralized device management interface.

Features & Functionality 24

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Per-app rules enabled allow users to specify which applications use the VPN connection and which access the internet directly, providing granular control over network behavior.

Applies VPN rules per application.

I dig NordVPN's per-app rules since it lets me manage which apps use the VPN unlike OpenVPN which lacks this.

See more

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Mesh networking support ensures devices can connect directly in a mesh configuration through the VPN, enhancing network flexibility.

Connects devices in a private mesh network.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows use of automation scripts.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Split tunneling is supported, allowing users to decide which applications or traffic go through the VPN and which do not, improving performance and privacy.

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Custom routing rules allow the user to configure VPN traffic routes according to specific requirements, enhancing network management.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Scheduled Connections

Can connections be scheduled?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Scheduled connections enabled means users can automate their VPN connections to start or stop at specific times, enhancing convenience and security.

Allows VPN connections on a schedule.

Per-Profile Settings

Are per-profile settings available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Per-profile settings feature means multiple user profiles can have customized configurations, ideal for shared devices or varied user needs.

Allows separate settings per user profile.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Trusted Wi-Fi Detection

Can trusted Wi-Fi networks be detected?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Detects trusted networks to control VPN behavior.

Ad Blocker

Is an ad blocker included?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Blocks advertisements at the network level.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

HD streaming capability means users can enjoy high-definition video content without buffering interruptions when connected through the VPN.

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Support for cloud gaming is included. This means the VPN is optimized to provide low-latency and stable connections suitable for gaming through cloud services.

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Allows peer-to-peer traffic, which can be useful for distributed file synchronization and development workflows.

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

82 NordVPN 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes Low

Consistency of streaming access over time.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Device revocation enabled means users can remotely remove devices from their VPN account, enhancing security when devices are lost or sold.

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Adds an extra authentication layer beyond passwords, strengthening protection against credential-based attacks.

Adds an extra layer of account security.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Shows login and access history.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Very Strong

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unspecified

Rules for password complexity and security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

95 NordVPN 1 Votes Instant

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

NordVPN
NordVPN

Response time SLA is Instant, indicating immediate response to customer inquiries or technical issues, which is crucial for timely support.

Expected support response time.

NordVPN's instant response time SLA is way better for support when compared to OpenVPN which can take up to 24 hours.

See more

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

63 NordVPN 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket, Phone

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Email, Ticket, Phone

Lists available customer support channels.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Provides documentation for API usage.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Setup guides are provided to assist users in installing and configuring the VPN effectively.

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

32 NordVPN 0 Votes English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Multi-language

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes English

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 0 Votes
NordVPN
14 days 0 Votes
OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

14 days equals two full weeks—enough time for IT teams to test deployment, policy controls, and performance before committing.

Length of the free trial period.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Structured specifically for enterprise teams, often including centralized management, role-based access control, and compliance tooling.

Indicates availability of business plans.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

58 NordVPN 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Credit Card

Supported payment methods.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

62 NordVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

53 OpenVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Flexible billing options allow short-term testing or discounted annual commitments for enterprises.

Available subscription durations.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Auto-renewal enabled helps maintain uninterrupted VPN service by automatically renewing the subscription at the end of the current period.

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 30 Days

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Refund

Time window for requesting refunds.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

Ease of changing plans.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Excellent

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Good

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN holds an Excellent public reputation, reflecting its strong performance, reliability, and user trust in the industry.

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Widely recognized in the cybersecurity industry and frequently adopted by enterprises, security professionals, and IT administrators.

Overall public perception.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Undergoes third-party security audits.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
NordVPN
99.9 % 0 Votes
OpenVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Equivalent to approximately 43 minutes of potential downtime per month, depending on maintenance windows.

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Publishes full audit reports.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
OpenVPN

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

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