--- title: "Proton VPN Review: Free Plan, Plus and Privacy" description: "Proton VPN review: Free and Plus prices, renewals, privacy evidence, device support, leaks, speed, Netflix, and setup choices." url: "https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/" lang: "en" published: "2026-06-18" modified: "2026-10-29" tags: ["pricing","privacy","streaming","proton-vpn","review"] image: "https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/featured.jpg" alternates: es: "https://tunnelverdict.com/es/blog/resena-proton-vpn.md" --- Review # Proton VPN Review: Free Plan, Plus and Privacy Proton VPN review: Free and Plus prices, renewals, privacy evidence, device support, leaks, speed, Netflix, and setup choices. Tunnel Verdict Published June 18, 2026 Prices checked October 28, 2026 ![A laptop on a wooden desk beside a window overlooking a snowy backyard](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/featured.jpg) If you need a VPN for one device, everyday browsing, public Wi-Fi, or occasional privacy, Proton VPN Free is the sensible starting point. It costs $0, includes unlimited data, and lets you connect from randomly selected servers in 10 countries. Prices checked October 28, 2026. Choose Proton VPN Plus when you need streaming support, a specific country, peer-to-peer downloads, up to 10 devices, or higher-capacity servers. The main tradeoff is the subscription cost and automatic renewal, especially after an introductory billing period. Install the free app on the exact device and network you plan to use. Check local sites, banking apps, video calls, and streaming before paying. A VPN encrypts the connection between your device and the VPN server and changes the IP address websites see, but it does not make accounts, cookies, device fingerprints, or online activity anonymous. Key takeaways - Proton VPN Free fits one device, unlimited data, general browsing, and basic privacy. - Free uses 10 randomly selected countries, shared servers, and one active connection. - Plus adds streaming, P2P, Secure Core, NetShield, split tunneling, more countries, and 10 devices. - Plus costs $83.76 upfront for two years ($3.49 per month) and renews at $83.88 a year, checked October 28, 2026. - Proton publishes open-source apps, no-logs audits, Swiss jurisdiction, and a transparency report. - Test the free plan first, then record the checkout renewal amount before paying. ## What Proton VPN Free Is Good For, and Where It Stops Proton VPN Free is a good fit when you want a VPN on one device for ordinary browsing, public Wi-Fi, or a basic privacy layer. Proton lists unlimited data, strong encryption, DNS-leak protection, IPv6-leak prevention or support depending on the platform, and a kill switch or always-on VPN. Proton says its free plan is funded by paid users rather than advertising. ![A phone resting on two paperbacks on a bedroom shelf beside a small lamp](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/one-phone-nightstand.jpg) The free plan allows one active VPN connection. Its servers are in the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, Norway, Switzerland, Singapore, Mexico, Canada, and the United States, with the country selected randomly. That can work for general use, but it does not fit a reader who needs a particular country every time. Proton says Free has no general speed limit, although the servers are shared and may slow down when busy. Free also lacks the full paid server network. If a website, app, bank, or video call behaves differently while connected, try another available protocol or compare the service with the VPN disconnected. Streaming is the clearest limit. Proton says paid plans support streaming, while Netflix often blocks free-server IP addresses. Free users can try Netflix, but access to a particular catalog is not guaranteed. Keep a valid streaming subscription and follow the platform's terms. Free supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone and iPad, Chromebook, browser extensions, Android TV, and Fire TV. Confirm the supported app and operating system version on the intended device before relying on it. For a clearer price and feature comparison, see [Free vs Paid VPN: What You Give Up and What You Pay](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/free-vs-paid-vpn/). ## What Proton VPN Plus Adds Plus is the better fit when the VPN needs to do more than protect one laptop or phone. Proton lists more than 20,000 servers in more than 140 countries, up to 10 simultaneous devices, and server capacity of up to 10 Gbps. The larger network gives you more choice when a nearby server is busy or when you need a specific location. Plus includes streaming support and P2P or BitTorrent support. It also adds Secure Core, which routes traffic through an additional Proton-controlled server, NetShield for ad, tracker, and malware blocking, split tunneling, and browser extension support. Split tunneling lets selected apps use the normal connection while others use the VPN, though the available platforms differ. The paid plan supports the same core leak protection and kill switch features listed for Free. Proton's apps are open source across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and iPadOS, browser, Android TV, Apple TV, and Fire TV platforms where apps are provided. A paid plan does not guarantee that every streaming catalog will work. Netflix can identify VPN or proxy addresses, and Proton says Secure Core is not optimized for streaming because the extra routing can reduce video quality. Use a paid server in the account's home country, follow Netflix's current VPN or proxy troubleshooting guidance, and keep the streaming account active. Before committing, compare Plus with [NordVPN vs Proton VPN: Which One Fits You](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/nordvpn-vs-proton-vpn/) using your location, device count, renewal price, and streaming needs. A different provider may fit better for a particular country or device, but Proton has an unusually clear free option and privacy record. ## What Proton VPN Costs and Renews At The prices below are for the US region and were checked on October 28, 2026. Introductory monthly equivalents are calculated from the amount paid upfront. A subscription is not the same as a free trial. Proton's 30-day money-back guarantee is a refund window attached to a paid plan, not a no-card trial. | Plan | Billing term and amount due upfront | Effective monthly figure | Renewal | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Proton VPN Free | $0, no paid billing interval | $0 | No renewal charge | | Proton VPN Plus | 2 years, $83.76 due upfront for 24 months | $3.49 per month | $83.88 for 12 months, excluding tax | | Proton Unlimited | 2 years, $191.76 due upfront for 24 months | $7.99 per month | $119.88 for 12 months, excluding tax | The Plus two-year price is the lowest listed VPN-only effective monthly figure, but the renewal is shown as $83.88 for 12 months, excluding tax. Confirm the renewal amount on the checkout page, because renewal terms can change. Proton Unlimited includes Plus and premium features for Proton Mail, Drive, Pass, and Calendar. Its VPN portion still allows up to 10 simultaneous devices. It is worth comparing only if those other Proton services matter to you. Before paying, check the final checkout total, tax treatment, billing interval, and renewal amount for your billing address. Record the renewal amount shown for the selected plan and currency, then save the receipt. If you subscribe through Apple or Google Play, confirm the refund route with the store before purchasing. Before you pay for Proton VPN Plus 1. Check the totalsCheck the final checkout total, tax treatment, billing interval, and renewal amount for your billing address. 2. Record the renewal amountNote the renewal amount shown for the selected plan and currency. 3. Save the receiptKeep the receipt from the purchase. 4. Check the refund routeIf you subscribe through Apple or Google Play, confirm the refund route with the store before purchasing. Proton says paid plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee. Website subscriptions use Proton support, while Apple and Google Play subscriptions use their respective refund processes. Canceling stops future renewal, but paid features remain available through the current billing period. ## Privacy Evidence: No Logs, Audits, Open Source, and Swiss Jurisdiction Proton's privacy case rests on several separate points. Its apps are open source, Proton publishes no-logs audits, the company is headquartered in Switzerland, and its transparency report records VPN-related legal requests and the company's responses. These points support a privacy decision, but they do not make a person anonymous. ![A cabin porch with two chairs and a view of a calm lake](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/mountain-lake-cabin.jpg) Securitum's 2025 no-logs audit examined Proton VPN infrastructure and server-side operations. The scope included production VPN servers, DNS queries, session timestamps, traffic contents, destination services, regional servers, subscription tiers, configuration controls, change management, and whether a user could be associated with a particular VPN server. Proton describes Securitum's 2025 report as finding no evidence of logged browsing activity, DNS queries, destination services, traffic contents, or persistent user-identifiable connection metadata in the examined infrastructure. The audit supports that conclusion for the systems and scope it covered. A privacy policy remains the provider's statement about its practices, while an audit is an independent examination of defined systems and controls. Proton's privacy policy, last modified July 30, 2025, says it does not log VPN traffic, communication contents, IP addresses, session lengths, or location-based information. It separately identifies account information and maintenance data that may exist. Proton's apps are open source on the listed desktop, mobile, browser, TV, and router-related platforms where an app is provided, allowing code to be inspected and maintained publicly. Proton says Swiss law does not require it to retain VPN connection logs. Its transparency report records 59 Swiss-approved VPN-related orders in 2025, all denied because Proton says it did not have the requested VPN connection logs. Through June 2026, the report records 47 orders and 47 denials. This describes Proton's legal position and available data. Proton can still receive lawful requests, and other account information can exist, so treat this as a statement about connection logs only. A VPN changes the IP address websites see and encrypts traffic between your device and the VPN server. It does not hide an account you log into, remove cookies, prevent browser fingerprinting, protect a compromised device, or stop a site from identifying behavior linked to your account. Keep software updated, use strong account security, and treat phishing protection as a separate need. ## IP Leaks, Kill Switch, Protocols, and Device Support Proton says every VPN app includes DNS-leak protection, intended to stop websites and other parties from seeing the normal DNS address. IPv6-leak prevention or full IPv6 support varies by platform. Proton says the kill switch is available on every plan and blocks network traffic when the VPN connection is interrupted, preventing the normal IP address and DNS queries from being exposed. The tradeoff is that the kill switch can interrupt internet access until the VPN reconnects. Proton warns that a connection interruption can allow DNS queries to reach the normal system DNS server if the kill switch is not enabled. Turn it on when exposure during a dropped connection matters, then run an IP and DNS leak check on the exact device and network. WireGuard is Proton's modern, fast protocol and is listed for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and iPadOS, Android, and routers. Proton describes OpenVPN as established and reliable on poor connections, but its lifecycle documentation lists OpenVPN as deprecated on Windows and end-of-life on iOS and Android. IKEv2 is listed for macOS, with end-of-life scheduled for January 2027. Smart Protocol can select a supported protocol automatically on several platforms. Stealth is intended to disguise VPN traffic on supported Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and iPadOS, and Android TV apps. If a network blocks VPN traffic, try the available protocol options for that platform. To set it up on a phone, follow the [iPhone VPN setup steps](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/vpn-on-iphone/). Proton also lists apps for Android TV, Apple TV, and Fire TV. Confirm the Fire OS or TV operating system version under Settings before paying. A router setup can cover more devices, but it may reduce control over individual apps. [VPN on Your Router or Your Devices: Which Is Better](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/vpn-on-router-vs-device/) helps separate those two setups. ## Netflix, Streaming, and Speed Proton VPN Plus is the relevant plan if Netflix or another streaming platform is central to the purchase. Proton says streaming access is supported on paid plans, while Free-server IP addresses are often blocked. Netflix's help center includes guidance for the message, “You seem to be using a VPN or proxy,” which means Netflix may detect and restrict VPN or proxy addresses. ![A smart TV on a stand beside a desk with an open laptop in a small apartment](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/smart-tv-and-laptop.jpg) A paid VPN still cannot guarantee a particular catalog. Use a server in the account's home country, keep the official streaming subscription active, and follow the platform's current troubleshooting guidance. Proton says Secure Core is not optimized for streaming, and its extra routing layer may reduce video quality. Speed depends on the device, protocol, server distance, ISP capacity, and server load. Free servers are shared, so busy periods can affect performance. AV-TEST's February 2025 comparative test measured Proton against unencrypted reference connections across selected user regions and reported an average overseas torrent-download result of about 53% of reference speed across its tested regions. TechRadar measured Proton using a cloud PC with a 10 Gbps connection, several speed-test sites, times of day, and protocols. Its published results included 1,242 Mbps across the Atlantic with Proton's fastest protocol, plus 240 Mbps local and 173 Mbps long-distance performance with OpenVPN. Those are TechRadar's measurements, not a promise for your connection. TechRadar speed measurements for Proton VPN on a cloud PC with a 10 Gbps connection, in Mbps Across the Atlantic, Proton's fastest protocol1,242 Mbps Local, OpenVPN240 Mbps Long distance, OpenVPN173 Mbps Compare battery behavior on your actual phone, laptop, TV, or router during the intended use before leaving the VPN permanently connected. If performance is poor, try a nearby server and another supported protocol. If it is still slow, try the steps in [why a VPN slows your internet and what helps](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/vpn-slowing-down-internet/). ## Is Proton VPN Worth Paying For? Proton VPN Plus is worth paying for when you need more than one device, a specific country outside the 10-country Free network, reliable access attempts for streaming, P2P support, Secure Core, NetShield, split tunneling, or less crowded servers. The main cost is the upfront subscription and the renewal amount, which should be recorded before payment. ![Hands holding a phone and a tablet over a table, comparing them](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/proton-vpn-review/hands-weighing-choice.jpg) Free is the better choice for one device, unlimited data, ordinary browsing, public Wi-Fi, and basic privacy. Its shared servers, random country selection, one-connection limit, and uncertain Netflix access are real limits, not minor details. The practical verdict is conditional: start with Free on the device and network that matter. Keep it if local services, calls, banking, and speed work well. Move to Plus only when its extra countries, device limit, streaming support, or privacy features solve a problem Free cannot. Check [What Is a VPN and What Does It Do](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/what-is-a-vpn/) if the remaining question is what the VPN can and cannot change. **Quiz: Comprueba lo aprendido** 1. ¿A qué te limita Proton VPN Free? - A una conexión activa y 10 países elegidos al azar **(correct answer)** - A diez dispositivos y un país a tu elección - A un tope mensual fijo de datos 2. ¿Pueden rastrearte aunque uses Proton VPN? - No, la VPN te vuelve anónimo - Sí, a través de cuentas, cookies, características del navegador, registros de pago, información del dispositivo y comportamiento **(correct answer)** - Solo en el plan gratuito 3. ¿Un plan de pago de Proton VPN garantiza el acceso a Netflix? - Sí, todos los catálogos funcionan con Plus - No; el streaming es compatible con los planes de pago, pero ni siquiera Plus puede garantizar un catálogo concreto **(correct answer)** - Sí, pero solo con Secure Core activado ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Proton VPN trustworthy? Proton's documented case includes open-source apps, Securitum no-logs audits, Swiss jurisdiction, and a published transparency report. Those controls support trust in the provider's stated practices, but they do not make users anonymous or remove tracking through accounts, cookies, devices, or websites. ### What are the downsides of using Proton VPN? Free limits you to one active device and 10 randomly selected countries, and shared servers may slow down when busy. Paid plans renew automatically unless canceled, and streaming is not guaranteed even on Plus. ### Which is better, NordVPN or Proton? Neither is always better. Proton fits readers who value unlimited Free data, open-source apps, published no-logs audits, Swiss jurisdiction, and Secure Core, while the right choice can change with current pricing, renewal terms, device support, location, and streaming results. ### What is the safest VPN to use? The safer choice depends on your specific risk. Look for an audited no-logs policy, secure protocols, leak protection, a kill switch, open-source apps, transparent ownership, and clear legal terms. Proton documents those features, but no VPN removes every online risk. ### Does Proton VPN leak your IP address? Proton says its apps include DNS-leak protection and IPv6-leak prevention or support depending on the platform. A leak result depends on the device, app, settings, and test conditions, so enable the kill switch and run a leak check on the exact network you use. ### Can I be tracked if I use Proton VPN? Yes. Websites can still identify you through accounts, cookies, browser characteristics, payment records, device information, malware, and behavior. Proton says it does not log VPN activity, IP addresses, session lengths, or visited websites, and Securitum's audit supports that conclusion for its examined scope. ### Is Proton VPN worth getting? Free is usually enough for one device, unlimited data, general browsing, and basic privacy. Plus is more suitable when you need streaming support, P2P, a specific country, up to 10 devices, Secure Core, NetShield, split tunneling, or higher-capacity servers. ### Is Proton VPN blocked by Netflix? Netflix can show a VPN or proxy warning, and Proton says Free-server IP addresses are often blocked. Proton says streaming is supported on paid plans, but even Plus cannot guarantee a particular catalog or uninterrupted access. ### Does Proton VPN slow down internet speed? A VPN can add latency because traffic travels through an extra server and network path. Proton's Free servers are shared, while Plus provides higher-capacity server access, but your result depends on location, protocol, ISP, device, and load. ### Does Proton VPN Free work? Yes. Proton VPN Free supports the listed Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone and iPad, Chromebook, browser, Android TV, and Fire TV platforms. It includes unlimited data and one active connection, but it may not fit a specific country, busy-period speed requirement, or reliable Netflix access. ### Which VPN is better, NordVPN, Surfshark, or Proton? The answer depends on the task and current terms. Proton has a clear Free plan and strong published privacy evidence, while a different provider may fit better for a particular country, price, device count, support channel, or streaming result. Compare renewal prices and device behavior separately rather than relying on one overall ranking. ## Glossary **Secure Core:** A Plus feature that routes traffic through an additional Proton-controlled server. Proton says it is not optimized for streaming. **NetShield:** A Plus feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware. **Split tunneling:** A feature that lets selected apps use the normal connection while others use the VPN. The available platforms differ. **Kill switch:** A feature that blocks network traffic when the VPN connection is interrupted, so the normal IP address and DNS queries are not exposed. **Smart Protocol:** A setting that can select a supported protocol automatically on several platforms. **Stealth:** A protocol intended to disguise VPN traffic on supported apps, useful when a network blocks VPN traffic. **No-logs audit:** An independent examination of defined systems and controls. Securitum's 2025 audit examined Proton VPN infrastructure and server-side operations. Find more VPN guides on [Tunnel Verdict](https://tunnelverdict.com/). Have a question about your own setup? [Contact us](https://tunnelverdict.com/contact/) and include your device and the VPN you use. - Pricing and renewals - Privacy - Streaming - Proton VPN - Review Keep reading ## More VPN guides and reviews Comparison ### [ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN: Which Is Worth Paying For](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/expressvpn-vs-proton-vpn/) Compare ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN on price, renewal, privacy, speed, streaming, devices and setup so you can choose the right plan. [Read ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN: Which Is Worth Paying For](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/expressvpn-vs-proton-vpn/) Explainer ### [Free vs Paid VPN: What You Give Up and What You Pay](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/free-vs-paid-vpn/) Free VPN vs paid VPN explained with real limits, upfront prices, renewal costs, device support, streaming rules and a practical choice. [Read Free vs Paid VPN: What You Give Up and What You Pay](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/free-vs-paid-vpn/) Comparison ### [NordVPN vs Proton VPN](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/nordvpn-vs-proton-vpn/) NordVPN vs Proton VPN explained with current US prices, renewal costs, free-plan limits, privacy evidence, devices, streaming, and which to choose. [Read NordVPN vs Proton VPN](https://tunnelverdict.com/blog/nordvpn-vs-proton-vpn/)