156 Highlights 81 Differences 6 Reactions 0 Likes

NordVPN vs PrivateVPN: 156 Highlights & 81 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Streaming and gaming are crucial. See which VPN delivers faster speeds and better platform support. We compared NordVPN and PrivateVPN for people who care about third-party audit availability and time-saving tools. Here’s what to know before committing.

80 Points
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
62 Points
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
vs

Highlights 175

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

Why is NordVPN better than PrivateVPN ?

Scroll down for more facts

NordVPN vs PrivateVPN: A Comprehensive VPN Showdown

When comparing NordVPN and PrivateVPN, both services cater to individuals, families, and teams with cloud-based deployments tailored for privacy, security, streaming, and P2P activities. PrivateVPN extends its reach slightly by also targeting business users and gamers. While both VPN providers enforce restricted account sharing and comply with GDPR standards, NordVPN offers broader regulatory compliance, including CCPA, UK GDPR, and ISO 27001 certifications. 

This contrast hints at differing priorities: while both prioritize privacy and unrestricted bandwidth, NordVPN focuses heavily on audit transparency and infrastructure ownership, whereas PrivateVPN emphasizes longer trial periods and router compatibility. Their shared foundation in strong encryption features like stealth mode and kill switches ensures user security, but their feature sets diverge significantly in device support, performance analytics, and account management.

What Makes NordVPN an Industry Leader?

NordVPN stands out with its robust security and audit credentials, including annual independent third-party audits and complete audit transparency, giving users peace of mind on its security assurances. Its adoption of RAM-only servers further minimizes data retention risks, complementing its strict no-logs policy. Owning servers housed in Tier III data centers empowers NordVPN to maintain stringent control over its infrastructure, unlike PrivateVPN, which rents servers.

The VPN's performance analytics and latency optimization of just 20 milliseconds enable speedy connections with a peak throughput of around 900 Mbps, supporting users who demand fast, reliable access, whether for streaming 4K content or engaging in cloud gaming. 

NordVPN's extensive compatibility covers a wide array of devices, including IoT gadgets, something PrivateVPN does not provide, and its support extends to command-line interfaces for advanced users. Additionally, features like automation scripts, per-app rules, and mesh networking offer sophisticated control over VPN behavior, appealing more to tech-savvy individuals or teams requiring granular management.

On account management, NordVPN shines by allowing multiple user profiles, access controls, and detailed session management, which makes team collaboration and privacy management more effective. Customer support is also a major plus, with instant SLA responses and multiple channels, including live chat, phone, and a community forum, along with documented API access that supports integration and automation, supporting users every step of the way.

Why PrivateVPN Appeals to Budget and Router Users

PrivateVPN, while limited in audit transparency and advanced feature sets, fills niche needs well, offering a generous 30-day trial period that exceeds NordVPN's 7-day trial, providing a longer risk-free evaluation window. It supports a wider range of use cases, including gaming explicitly in its intended use, and it enables direct router compatibility, offering VPN protection at the network level, which NordVPN does not emphasize. This makes PrivateVPN a convenient choice for users wanting easy home network encryption with multiple devices connected via a router.

Functionality remains solid with support for major OS platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, plus smart TVs. The VPN permits unlimited bandwidth and gaming-optimized servers with no throttling, ensuring smooth gaming and streaming experiences, including access to popular streaming services like Netflix and Disney+. Though detailed speed metrics aren't available from PrivateVPN, its support for regional speed optimization and smart routing indicates a solid focus on maintaining reliable connectivity.

On the privacy front, while PrivateVPN lacks RAM-only servers, it retains a strict no-logs policy with no connection or metadata logging and enables user data deletion. Its security capabilities include stealth mode and a kill switch, matching NordVPN in core protection. However, its customer support is limited to email with a slower response time SLA of up to 24 hours, and it doesn't include a community forum or advanced API documentation. Account management options are minimal, lacking sub-accounts or multi-user profiles.

Quick Take

NordVPN solidifies its position with audited security, extensive features like per-app rules and mesh networking, plus broad device compatibility, including IoT support. PrivateVPN appeals to those seeking an affordable, straightforward VPN with longer trials and router-friendly setup. Both offer reliable streaming and gaming performance, but NordVPN's infrastructure ownership and rapid customer support offer distinct advantages.

Bottom Line Recommendation

For users craving top-tier security verified by independent audits, comprehensive feature options, and advanced account management, along with industry-leading support responsiveness, NordVPN emerges as the superior choice despite a slightly higher price point. 

Meanwhile, PrivateVPN is a strong contender for budget-conscious individuals or small businesses prioritizing simple, effective VPN service with a generous trial and router support, but fewer bells and whistles. Investing in NordVPN delivers more peace of mind and versatility for demanding users.

Verdict

  • Winner: NordVPN - Offers audited security, superior infrastructure, advanced features, and rapid, multi-channel support, making it ideal for comprehensive privacy and complex user environments.
  • Runner-up: PrivateVPN - Provides a wallet-friendly option with an extended trial and router support, but lacks advanced audits, detailed performance metrics, and multi-user account controls.

Comparisons 40

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

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

Related comparisons 40

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

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

Which tool gets it right — NordVPN or PrivateVPN? Dive into this comprehensive vpn feature battle and let the specs speak for themselves.

General Information 12

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

55 NordVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Intended Use

NordVPN serves Privacy, Security, Streaming, and P2P needs. PrivateVPN adds Gaming to this list. If gaming support is crucial, PrivateVPN is a better option, while NordVPN remains great for broad multimedia and privacy uses.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The service model is Subscription-Based, meaning access is delivered through recurring payments rather than a one-time license.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 8–10 Connections

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The plan allows 8–10 Connections simultaneously, supporting multiple devices or household members under one account.

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

25 NordVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN

24 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Indicates the primary service classification.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

69 NordVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

62 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

67 NordVPN 0 Votes 2012

44 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 2009

Year the VPN service was first released.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

63 NordVPN 0 Votes Individual, Family, Team

65 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Individual, Family, Team, Business

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Target User

NordVPN targets Individuals, Families, and Teams, while PrivateVPN includes Business users as well. NordVPN is better suited for those wanting a versatile service for both personal and small teams, whereas PrivateVPN extends its appeal to business users, making it more flexible for professional use.

Identifies the primary audience.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Restricted

44 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Restricted

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Account Sharing Policy

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN have a Restricted Account Sharing Policy, meaning neither allows unrestricted sharing of accounts. Users looking for strict control over account sharing will find both services equally suitable.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Cloud-Based

84 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Cloud-Based

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Deployment Type

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN use a Cloud-Based Deployment Type, making them similarly flexible and scalable for users wanting cloud VPN solutions.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Global

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

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

84 PrivateVPN 0 Votes GDPR

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Regulatory Compliance Statement

NordVPN complies with GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR, and ISO 27001, offering extensive regulatory compliance, while PrivateVPN complies only with GDPR. NordVPN is more suited for users requiring adherence to a broader set of privacy laws and standards.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Security & Encryption 24

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Third-Party Audit Availability

NordVPN offers Third-Party Audit Availability, while PrivateVPN does not. This makes NordVPN more transparent and better suited for users who value verified security claims.

Availability of external audit reports.

NordVPN passes with flying colors on third-party audits making it more trustworthy in my book

See more

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes AES

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes AES

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The encryption standard used is AES, a widely trusted symmetric cipher family commonly used in VPNs.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes AES-256

84 PrivateVPN 0 Votes AES-256

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Encryption strength is AES-256, offering high-grade symmetric encryption suitable for privacy-sensitive use.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

72 NordVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

71 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Diffie-Hellman, RSA, ECDHE

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Key Exchange Method

NordVPN and PrivateVPN support Key Exchange Methods RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman. Both provide strong cryptographic key exchanges for secure VPN connections.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Perfect Forward Secrecy

Is perfect forward secrecy supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Perfect Forward Secrecy is supported, which rotates session keys to limit the impact if a long-term key is compromised.

Ensures past sessions remain secure if keys are compromised.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes WireGuard

68 PrivateVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, L2TP

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Supported protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, L2TP, PPTP, and IPSec, providing a balance of modern secure choices and legacy compatibility.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

75 NordVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

74 PrivateVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The default protocol is OpenVPN, a secure and broadly compatible choice though sometimes slower than newer options like WireGuard.

Protocol used by default.

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Kill Switch

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN include a Kill Switch feature, ensuring users' connections are immediately cut if VPN drops, which maintains privacy and security.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Double VPN

Is double VPN available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Encrypts traffic twice via two servers.

Authentication Method

How are VPN connections authenticated?

69 NordVPN 0 Votes Certificates, Pre-Shared Key

68 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Certificates, Pre-Shared Key

Method used to authenticate connections.

DNS Leak Protection

Is DNS leak protection included?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Prevents DNS requests from leaking outside the tunnel.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

40 NordVPN 0 Votes Panama

79 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Sweden

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The service is based in Sweden, which affects applicable local laws and potential data‑access obligations.

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes No Logs

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes No Logs

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The data retention stance is No Logs, indicating a claim that user activity is not stored by the provider.

Length of time user data is retained.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Indicates compliance with CCPA.

Anonymous Account

Are anonymous accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

An anonymous account option is offered, allowing signup with minimal or no personally identifying information to reduce linkability.

Allows account creation without personal info.

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

NordVPN
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PrivateVPN
Logging Policy Type

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN operate a No-Logs Logging Policy Type, enhancing privacy by not storing users' activity data.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Connection Logs

NordVPN's Connection Logs status is unavailable, while PrivateVPN explicitly records No Connection Logs, making PrivateVPN preferable for users focused on strict no-log practices.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Metadata Logs

NordVPN's Metadata Logs value is unavailable, but PrivateVPN states No Metadata Logs. Thus, PrivateVPN provides clearer assurance about metadata privacy.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 3000+

24 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 100–500

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Total server count is in the 100–500 range, signaling moderate geographic coverage without being a very large-scale provider.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes 200+

14 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Under 20

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Mixed

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Mixed

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Server location type is Mixed, meaning the network includes a combination of physical and virtual server deployments.

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

P2P Servers

Are P2P servers available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

P2P servers are available, permitting torrenting and other peer-to-peer traffic on designated endpoints.

Servers optimized for P2P traffic.

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Gaming Optimized Servers

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN offer Gaming Optimized Servers, providing enhanced speed and stability for gamers. This makes either suitable for gaming performance.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Network Uptime SLA

Is there an uptime SLA?

62 NordVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

0 PrivateVPN 0 Votes No SLA

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Guaranteed network uptime level.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

85 NordVPN 1 Votes Owned

34 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Rented

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Server Ownership

NordVPN owns its servers which can enhance security and control, whereas PrivateVPN rents servers. For maximum control and security, NordVPN is more suitable.

Describes who controls the servers.

Owning its own servers makes NordVPN feel more secure in terms of control over data

See more

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 90+

74 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 60–90

Number of countries with server presence.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Tier III

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

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Data Center Tier

NordVPN uses Tier III Data Centers which offer robust infrastructure, but PrivateVPN has no available data center tier information. NordVPN is preferable for users prioritizing high-tier data centers.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Specialized Servers

Are specialized servers offered?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates presence of purpose-built servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

94 PrivateVPN 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.

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Speed consistency is rated High, indicating relatively stable throughput across typical usage and server selection.

Stability of speeds over time.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Regional Speed Optimization

NordVPN and PrivateVPN feature Regional Speed Optimization, which helps improve server performance across different regions, making them ideal for users connecting globally.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Congestion Handling

How is congestion handled?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

500 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN

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

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

450 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN

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

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

20 ms 0 Votes
NordVPN

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

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Latency Impact

NordVPN has a Latency Impact of 20 ms, while PrivateVPN's latency impact is unavailable. NordVPN is more suitable for latency-sensitive activities like gaming or video calls.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

900 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN

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

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Peak Speed Performance

NordVPN offers a Peak Speed Performance of 900 Mbps, but PrivateVPN does not provide this data. NordVPN is better for users needing higher speed capacities.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Smart Routing

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN provide Smart Routing features to improve speed and reliability by selecting optimal routes, beneficial for all users.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

82 NordVPN 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Who knows? 0 Votes PrivateVPN (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.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

No device management dashboard is available, so there is no centralized vendor console for administering multiple devices. Admins will need to manage each client individually or use third-party tooling.

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
IoT Device Compatibility

NordVPN supports IoT Device Compatibility, whereas PrivateVPN does not. NordVPN is better suited for users needing VPN for IoT devices.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

NordVPN supporting IoT devices is lowkey a game changer for smart home users like me

See more

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

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

75 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
OS Version Compatibility

NordVPN supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. PrivateVPN supports these plus Router compatibility, making PrivateVPN more suitable for users wanting VPN on routers.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Smart TV

Both NordVPN and PrivateVPN support Smart TV platforms. This is ideal for streaming users who want VPN protection on smart TVs.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
Browser Extension

Neither NordVPN nor PrivateVPN offer Browser Extensions, making both less convenient for quick VPN activation through browsers.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows manual VPN setup.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
vs
PrivateVPN
CLI Support

NordVPN supports Command Line Interface (CLI), while PrivateVPN does not. CLI support is ideal for advanced users or those managing multiple devices.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Consistent

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Syncs settings across devices.

Features & Functionality 24

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Port Forwarding

Is port forwarding supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Port forwarding is supported, useful for hosting services or improving connectivity for certain P2P and gaming scenarios.

Enables inbound connections through the VPN.

SOCKS5 Proxy

Is a SOCKS5 proxy available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

A SOCKS5 proxy is provided, enabling protocol-agnostic proxying useful for torrent clients and certain application-level routing needs.

Provides SOCKS5 proxy access.

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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 PrivateVPN

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-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Per-Profile Settings

Are per-profile settings available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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 PrivateVPN

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Trusted Wi-Fi Detection

Can trusted Wi-Fi networks be detected?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Detects trusted networks to control VPN behavior.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Cloud gaming is supported, which typically implies optimizations or low-latency routes suitable for interactive streaming.

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

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

81 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The service lists support for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, indicating capability to access major streaming platforms.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes High

Consistency of streaming access over time.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed

94 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Team or family plans are offered, allowing multiple users to be grouped under one subscription with shared billing.

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 1 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Having multi-user profiles on NordVPN is super handy for families or teams managing accounts

See more

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Shows login and access history.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Very Strong

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

95 NordVPN 1 Votes Instant

64 PrivateVPN 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.

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

The response time SLA is Within 24 Hours, which sets expectations for support ticket turnaround.

Expected support response time.

Instant response SLA by NordVPN is a huge plus if you need help ASAP

See more

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

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

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Email

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Support is provided via Email, so users should expect asynchronous assistance rather than instant live chat or phone support.

Lists available customer support channels.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Provides documentation for API usage.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

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

14 PrivateVPN 0 Votes English

Languages supported by customer service.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 0 Votes
NordVPN
30 days 1 Votes
PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Trial duration is 30 days, providing a month-long evaluation period before committing to a paid plan.

Length of the free trial period.

I really like the 30-day trial PrivateVPN offers gives me plenty of time to test it out

See more

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

62 NordVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Quarterly, Yearly

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Subscription options include Monthly, Quarterly, and Yearly plans; choosing longer terms typically lowers the effective monthly cost.

Available subscription durations.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

A free trial is available, allowing prospective users to evaluate the service before purchasing a subscription.

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

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Accepted payment methods include Credit Card, PayPal, and Cryptocurrency, covering both mainstream and privacy-minded options.

Supported payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

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.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

44 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Moderate

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Plan flexibility is Moderate, indicating some ability to change plans or billing, but with potential restrictions or conditions.

Ease of changing plans.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 30 Days

64 PrivateVPN 0 Votes 30 Days

Time window for requesting refunds.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

94 PrivateVPN 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

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates availability of family plans.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Indicates availability of business plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Excellent

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Good

NordVPN
NordVPN

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

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

Public reputation is Good, suggesting generally positive user feedback and industry perception.

Overall public perception.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
NordVPN
99 % 0 Votes
PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN

At that level, expected downtime is roughly 7.2 hours per month, so critical services should consider higher‑SLA options if needed.

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Publishes full audit reports.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

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

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

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Yes 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

No 0 Votes PrivateVPN

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

54 PrivateVPN 0 Votes Moderate 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
PrivateVPN
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

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

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

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

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

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
PrivateVPN
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

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

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
PrivateVPN
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

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

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
PrivateVPN
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN

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
PrivateVPN
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
NordVPN
0 Votes
PrivateVPN

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

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More VPN 0

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Other PrivateVPN VPN 0

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