Avast SecureLine VPN vs NordVPN 2024
NordVPN is a familiar name in the VPN landscape and consistently appears in our roundup of the best VPN services. Avast VPN, while not as prominent, offers a distinct set of features that merit attention. In this Avast VPN vs NordVPN comparison, we'll dissect these two services to see how they differ and excel in various critical areas.
NordVPN, originating in Panama, has earned a reputation since 2012 for its extensive server network, strict no-logs policy, and high-quality performance. It's a top pick if you’re seeking robust performance and diverse functionality.
Alternatively, Avast SecureLine VPN, rooted in the Czech Republic and USA, provides straightforward privacy solutions and effective performance for basic VPN use cases. While it adheres to a no-logs policy, there are some privacy concerns that we’ll address later in this comparison.
So, how do these two contenders measure up against each other? Let's begin by comparing their key features at a glance.
In this comprehensive NordVPN vs Avast VPN comparison, we aim to guide you in choosing the right VPN for your specific requirements, preferences, and budget.Â
We’ll do this by evaluating their backgrounds, server networks, encryption standards, protocols, speed, and key features. We’ll also talk about their usability, customer support, and performance, so you’ll have all the details to make an informed decision.
Background, Jurisdiction & Reputation
The trustworthiness of a VPN often hinges on its jurisdiction and history. Always choose a VPN service outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance with no history of privacy incidents. Let’s explore how NordVPN and Avast VPN treat your data and what laws they adhere to.
NordVPN - (Score 8.5/10)
NordVPN, established in 2012, operates under the privacy-friendly regime of Panama. This strategic location means NordVPN isn’t under the jurisdiction of the 5/9/14-Eyes Alliance and is free from mandatory data retention laws. The service is part of Nord Security, which also manages other VPN services like Surfshark and Atlas VPN. Despite this, NordVPN maintains its unique path with a distinct and independent infrastructure.
The company’s dedication to user privacy is evident in its strict no-logs policy, supported by regular independent audits. The use of RAM-only servers ensures that all your information is wiped with each server restart, further enhancing your security.
NordVPN’s reputation, however, faced a challenge in 2018 due to a security breach in a third-party data center. While no user data was compromised, this incident highlighted the need for even tighter security measures.
Avast VPN - (Score 8/10)
Avast VPN, initially rooted in the Czech Republic, now falls under the purview of Gen Digital, a multi-brand company formed from the merger of NortonLifeLock and Avast VPN. The company is co-headquartered in the Czech Republic and the US, which is a member of the 5/9/14-Eyes Alliance.
Gen also manages other VPNs like HMA (formerly HideMyAss), SurfEasy, Avira, and the AVG Secure VPN. While HMA, Norton, and Avira remain independent entities, Avast VPN and AVG VPN share infrastructure, which can be unsettling if you prefer individual service autonomy.Â
Unlike NordVPN's transparent and audited approach, Avast VPN hasn’t undergone any third-party audits. This raises questions about its no-logs policy and adherence to privacy standards.
While Avast VPN has avoided data leaks, it can hand over user information to authorities “when compelled by law," as shown in its Transparency Report. This practice, despite its reduced frequency now, can be a deal-breaker if you value complete privacy and anonymity.
Who’s the Winner? NordVPN!
NordVPN takes the lead in the first comparison round due to its Panamanian jurisdiction and its consistent record of maintaining user confidentiality. It regularly undergoes independent security audits and has never shared any user data with authorities.
So, for a VPN rooted in a strong privacy framework and a flawless record, get NordVPN. It will ensure that your online activities remain secure and private.
Supported Platforms & Devices
It’s crucial for a VPN to cater to various platforms, ensuring widespread compatibility. This section compares how well NordVPN and Avast VPN integrate across different ecosystems.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
NordVPN offers wide-ranging compatibility across a multitude of devices and operating systems. It provides native apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS.
In addition to standard computing devices, NordVPN supports popular streaming devices such as Amazon Fire TV and Android TV. It also offers dedicated apps for gaming consoles, like Xbox and PlayStation, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
You can protect up to 6 devices simultaneously under a single NordVPN account. However, if you wish to secure all your household devices in one go, you can set up NordVPN on a compatible router for complete protection.
Avast VPN - (Score 7/10)
Avast VPN offers a basic selection of apps for key platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It also provides convenient Chrome and Mozilla extensions, enabling quick IP changes without leaving your browsing environment.
However, Avast VPN falls short in versatility due to the lack of support for Linux systems and routers. It lacks support for popular set-top boxes like Fire TV Stick and gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.Â
Additionally, Avast VPN can be used on up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is more than what NordVPN supports.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN easily wins this round with its expansive support across various operating systems and devices. While Avast VPN caters to basic needs, it doesn’t support Linux, routers, or gaming consoles.
To ensure seamless protection that extends beyond conventional devices, get NordVPN. It provides a more inclusive and flexible VPN experience.
Installation & Initial Configuration
Setting up a VPN should be a hassle-free process, marked by quick and simple steps. It’s crucial for a service to offer native apps that require minimal installation effort. In this comparison section, we’ll examine how NordVPN and Avast VPN fare in terms of user-friendly setup.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
Setting up NordVPN on your device is simple and user-friendly. The process starts by choosing a subscription plan on NordVPN’s official website, which leads you through a straightforward account creation process. For step-by-step instructions, here’s our guide on how to set up NordVPN.
After activating your subscription, you can download the relevant NordVPN app for your specific device or operating system directly from the user dashboard. The installation process is equally intuitive and quick. Once installed, simply login to your NordVPN account, and you're ready to connect to a server and start browsing securely.
NordVPN also offers alternative applications with custom manual connections, so it can be used in restrictive countries as well. The company provides comprehensive guides and instructions to assist you and ensure a smooth setup experience.
Avast VPN - (Score 10/10)
Signing up for Avast VPN is a straightforward process that closely aligns with NordVPN's user-friendly setup. You can start by subscribing to your desired plan through the official website and downloading the native apps for your chosen platform.
Once downloaded, open the file and run the installation. The entire process is hassle-free and takes less than five minutes to complete. Avast SecureLine VPN also encourages you to explore other products; however, these aren’t bundled with the VPN, ensuring a streamlined process that focuses solely on the VPN setup.
After the application is installed, simply log in with your credentials to activate the product. From this point, securing your connection is just a matter of a few simple clicks. Both desktop and mobile apps boast an intuitive interface, simplifying the initial configuration and making it accessible even if you haven’t used a VPN before.
Who’s the Winner? - It’s a Tie!
Both services excel in cross-platform compatibility with simple setup processes, so it’s hard to choose a winner in this category.Â
That said, get NordVPN if you prioritize simple installation and a user-friendly interface. Or get Avast VPN if you want a quick and uncomplicated VPN solution.
Prominent Features
A VPN's value is significantly enhanced by its features. In this segment, we scrutinize NordVPN vs Avast SecureLine VPN across different offerings, from basic security elements to unique advanced features.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
NordVPN stands out with its array of essential and advanced VPN features for a versatile online experience. It includes a reliable kill switch that protects your identity if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. NordVPN also employs secure VPN protocols, including strong cryptographic methods like AES 256, to encrypt your data.
If you prefer more customized control, NordVPN's split tunneling feature allows specific apps on Windows and Android to bypass the VPN and directly access the Internet. This is complemented by an innovative Double VPN feature and Threat Protection, which actively blocks malicious sites, ads, and potential online threats.Â
Additionally, NordVPN provides obfuscated servers that disguise your VPN traffic as regular Web traffic to bypass VPN blocks. You can also obtain a dedicated IP address in select countries for an extra $8.99/month on the monthly plan. Moreover, the service offers unlimited server switches and unrestricted data and bandwidth, ensuring consistent performance across all your online activities.
Avast VPN - (Score 6.5/10)
Avast VPN provides a fundamental set of features, covering the essentials without venturing deep into advanced territory. In comparison to NordVPN’s feature-rich offerings, Avast VPN focuses more on the basics. It ensures robust VPN protocols and ironclad security with AES 256-bit encryption but lacks some of the extras like dedicated IPs or ad-blockers that NordVPN offers.
Besides basic VPN encryption, Avast VPN provides a useful kill switch, which is standard across all devices. You also benefit from split tunneling and Wi-Fi Threat Shield to enhance your security on Android. However, there are no options like Double VPN or Onion Over VPN for additional protection.
Unique to Avast VPN is the Smart VPN Mode for Windows users, which simplifies security by automating VPN connections for specific activities or websites. Like NordVPN, Avast also offers unlimited server switches with no data or bandwidth caps. These features, though not as extensive as NordVPN, still provide a solid foundation for basic VPN use.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
In terms of unique features, NordVPN clearly outshines Avast VPN with an extensive range of advanced features, like Double VPN, Threat Protection, and its innovative NordLynx protocol. In contrast, Avast VPN, while offering basic features like a kill switch and leak protection, lacks functionalities like obfuscation and dedicated IPs.
If you’re looking for a VPN packed with diverse features and advanced capabilities, you can’t go wrong if you get NordVPN.
Server Count & Infrastructure
The size and quality of a VPN's server network can affect everything from speed to accessibility. Let’s see which VPN has a better global server presence and infrastructure in this round of comparison.
NordVPN - (Score 9/10)
NordVPN easily secures its position as the best VPN with the most servers. It features a massive network of over 6,000 servers in 61 countries. This extensive global presence not only minimizes the risk of server overload but also ensures consistent and high-speed connections.
NordVPN features specialized obfuscated servers for bypassing VPN blocks, P2P servers for torrenting, and a Double VPN option for enhanced protection. Although it lacks specialized streaming or gaming servers, the entire server network competently supports these activities.
To further solidify its top-tier status, NordVPN operates on a RAM-only server architecture, meaning your data can’t be logged permanently on its hardware. The provider also avoids the use of virtual server locations, which aligns well with its highest standards of data security and privacy.
Avast VPN - (Score 5/10)
Avast VPN, while showing significant growth in its server network, still lags far behind NordVPN. With over 700 servers across 36 countries, Avast VPN’s server fleet falls short when stacked against NordVPN’s massive array of over 6,000 servers.
Despite the limited network, Avast VPN provides specialized servers for streaming and torrenting. However, unlike NordVPN, it isn't transparent about the use of virtual server locations.
Avast VPN offers unlimited server switching, which is a plus, but its city-specific selection is limited to a few countries.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN wins this round with its versatile network of over 6,000 servers spread across 61 countries. This vast network ensures better speed, stability, and a wider range of geo-spoofing options.
So if you want to experience an efficient server infrastructure that elevates your VPN experience, it would be wise to get NordVPN.
UI/UX Design & Ease of Use
The design and usability of a VPN's interface are essential for a smooth user experience. Both NordVPN and Avast VPN offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, but let’s see which VPN comes out on top when pitted against each other.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
NordVPN's desktop app artfully combines style with substance, offering a user experience that's both sleek and simple. It features an engaging map for selecting servers and a home button that presents a concise view of your VPN status and connection. Just clicking on your desired country on the map instantly establishes a secure VPN connection.
On the left-hand side, you’ll find your recent connections and more connection options that include specialty servers and a list of regular servers. Navigating through the server options is a breeze with the alphabetized country list, enhanced by a search function.
The mobile app reflects the same ease of use, providing a clean and responsive interface that scales down elegantly for smaller screens. With just a few taps, you can access the full suite of NordVPN's features, ensuring a secure and hassle-free mobile browsing experience.
Avast VPN - (Score 9/10)
Avast VPN provides user-friendly interfaces on both desktop and mobile platforms. The desktop clients deviate from conventional portrait layouts and opt for a wider, landscape format. This minimalist approach, with a stylish purple theme, is consistent across both Windows and macOS apps.
On the main screen, you’ll find a simple map, a prominent toggle button, and an easy server-switching option. The settings menu offers a range of options, from VPN modes, including the unique Smart VPN Mode, to protocol selection and local network access.
Avast's mobile apps also maintain this simplicity, dominated by a large connect button and streamlined server selection. The settings cog provides access to various configurations, such as connection rules, account details, and general preferences.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN excels over Avast VPN in this category with its superior design and advanced features that are uniformly available across all its apps.
For a streamlined VPN experience that combines aesthetic appeal with functionality, we recommend that you get NordVPN.
Media Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming Support
A VPN's ability to support streaming services, P2P file sharing, and online gaming is crucial for uninterrupted access to digital entertainment. In this section, let’s delve into how NordVPN and Avast VPN handle these activities.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
NordVPN is a top performer for media enthusiasts as it effortlessly unblocks the most popular streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. It can easily overcome geo-restrictions, so you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruption.
For torrenting, NordVPN includes dedicated P2P servers, specifically designed to support secure and swift file sharing. Coupled with robust protocols like OpenVPN and NordLynx, torrenting on NordVPN is both fast and anonymous. It’s also safeguarded by a reliable kill switch and a stringent no-logs policy.
NordVPN is also an optimal choice for gamers due to its low-latency connections that facilitate a seamless and uninterrupted gaming experience. Although it doesn't offer dedicated gaming servers, NordVPN's entire server network is optimized to bypass regional blocks and provide reliable access to gaming servers without lag.
Avast VPN - (Score 6/10)
Avast VPN doesn’t measure up to NordVPN’s standards for streaming. It struggles to unblock many popular streaming services and can only grant access to Netflix US, Disney+, and Max. Although it offers six servers optimized for streaming, our tests revealed inconsistent results.
For torrenting, Avast VPN supports P2P sharing with dedicated servers in several key locations. These servers enhance download speeds and reduce throttling risks.Â
In terms of gaming, Avast VPN again struggles due to its lack of specialized gaming servers. Although Avast VPN’s fast connection speeds can help minimize ping and latency, especially on nearby servers, its capabilities for bypassing geo-blocks for gaming are limited compared to NordVPN.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN edges ahead in this round as it reliably unblocks almost all popular streaming platforms. It also excels at torrenting with dedicated P2P servers and supports gaming with low latency.
This means that all your entertainment and digital lifestyle needs will be met if you get NordVPN.
Security & Privacy
The core purpose of a VPN is to provide online protection with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and leak prevention. This comparison segment focuses on how the two VPNs protect your data and maintain your anonymity online.
NordVPN - (Score 9.5/10)
NordVPN delivers top-notch security and privacy using a suite of advanced encryption and protocols. These include OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx, which is a proprietary protocol based on the cutting-edge WireGuard technology. NordVPN’s protocols offer a perfect blend of speed and impenetrable security that cater to diverse needs, from casual browsing to data-heavy activities.
The VPN's staunch commitment to user privacy is backed by its strict no-logs policy, which has stood up to multiple independent audits. The use of RAM-only servers further underscores this commitment, ensuring that no user data is ever written to a hard drive or retained after a session ends.
In addition to these robust privacy measures, NordVPN provides a leak-proof service. We conducted numerous leak tests, but our IP and DNS information remained secure each time.
Avast VPN - (Score 6/10)
Avast VPN delivers solid security with various tunneling protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec, and its proprietary Avast Mimic. It prioritizes secure connections, but the protocol distribution shows less uniformity across devices compared to NordVPN.
In terms of privacy, Avast VPN states it has a zero-logs policy, aligning with industry standards. However, its data retention practices raise concerns as the VPN collects more data than we believe is necessary. It retains connection timestamps and the amount of data transmitted for 35 days, which is worrisome in the absence of independent audits.
Like NordVPN, Avast VPN delivered leak-proof performance, as we couldn’t detect any IP or DNS leaks during our tests.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN holds an edge over Avast VPN in this round thanks to its proven no-logs policy, which has been validated by independent audits. It also uses RAM-only servers to minimize the risk of permanent data logs.
So, get NordVPN to obtain superior security and guaranteed privacy for a wide range of online activities.
Speed & Performance
A VPN’s impact on your speed can influence your overall experience with the service. In this round, we examine the speeds of NordVPN and Avast VPN across various locations to identify which is the better choice for optimal performance.
NordVPN - (Score 9/10)
NordVPN stands out for its exceptional speed and performance, making it one of the fastest VPNs currently available. In our speed tests, we observed a minor reduction in connection speeds, with an average drop of just 15%, depending on the server location. For servers in the US, UK, and Canada, the speed reduction was impressively low, ranging between 9-13%.
Even when connecting to remote servers, the performance remained stable and fast. This is especially significant if you engage in activities that require high bandwidth, such as 4K video streaming or competitive online gaming.
The speed drop was slightly higher on the Australian servers, hovering around 37%, which is still acceptable considering the security features that NordVPN offers. Overall, you can expect consistent and reliable speeds with NordVPN, ensuring an efficient online experience regardless of your server location.
Avast VPN - (Score 8/10)
Avast VPN offers decent speeds across various locations, though it doesn’t quite reach the top-tier speeds of NordVPN. On average, we experienced a 33% speed reduction, which can be satisfactory for a VPN service. In specific tests, speeds varied significantly based on server locations.
For instance, connecting to a US server showed a 26% drop in speed, while connecting to a UK server only resulted in a 10% speed reduction. However, remote server connections, like in Canada and Australia, saw steeper drops of 37% and 61%, respectively.
This indicates that Avast VPN's speeds are generally satisfactory for routine activities like streaming and downloading but can be notably impacted by geographical distance.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN stands out in this round with its consistently fast connections and minimal impact on Internet speeds across its extensive global network. Although Avast VPN delivers adequate performance, it falls short of NordVPN’s higher standards.
If you get NordVPN, you'll have access to swift and reliable connections, enhanced by its NordLynx protocol.
Customer Support
Customer service can be a deciding factor when choosing a VPN. This section compares the availability, responsiveness, and helpfulness of the support channels offered by each VPN.
NordVPN - (Score 10/10)
NordVPN prides itself on providing extensive assistance, so you can easily and quickly find help when you need it. With a 24/7 live chat service, you can expect prompt responses to any issues from a knowledgeable team. For more complex inquiries, you can seek email support, which offers detailed, though slightly less immediate, assistance.
If you prefer to solve problems independently, NordVPN's website is rich with self-help resources. You’ll find comprehensive guides on the setup process for various devices and an exhaustive FAQ section that addresses common concerns and troubleshooting steps.
Additionally, NordVPN maintains a regularly updated blog that offers insights into cybersecurity news and tips for optimizing your VPN usage.
Avast VPN - (Score 8.5/10)
Avast SecureLine VPN offers a range of support resources, with varying efficiency and accessibility. For immediate assistance, there’s a live chat and phone support line exclusively for paying customers.
In an effort to modernize its support, Avast introduced a chatbot for quick queries, though it currently falls short of effectively handling even basic queries. Email support is available for less urgent inquiries, but accessing it requires a complex navigation process and is also limited to paying subscribers.
Additionally, Avast offers a comprehensive FAQ section, along with a helpful blog and a knowledge base filled with articles, tutorials, and guides. These resources are helpful, but we expect to see more streamlined access and improved assistance.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN outperforms Avast VPN in customer support with its superior 24/7 live chat service and a wealth of self-help options. While Avast VPN offers respectable support, it restricts its live chat and email service to paying customers only.
This means that if you get NordVPN, you’ll have access to immediate support regardless of your subscription status.
Pricing
The cost of a VPN and the value it provides are important factors when choosing a VPN. In this round, we assess each VPN’s pricing structure and features across different plans to see which service offers the best value for money.
NordVPN - (Score 9/10)
NordVPN provides a range of subscription choices with its Standard, Plus, and Complete plans. The Standard plan starts at $3.39 per month for 2 years and provides comprehensive VPN protection.Â
For additional utilities, like a password manager and data breach scanner, you can choose the Plus plan for $4.39 per month. The Complete plan, starting at $5.39/month, adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage for comprehensive digital protection.
NordVPN doesn't feature a completely free plan but includes a 7-day free trial exclusive to Android users. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free test of its features.
Avast VPN - (Score 5/10)
Avast SecureLine VPN offers three pricing tiers with varying subscription lengths. The annual plan stands at $4.59 per month, while opting for the two or three-year plans reduces the monthly cost to $4.39.Â
Each plan accommodates up to 10 devices simultaneously, but shorter commitments like monthly and quarterly plans are noticeably absent.
Although Avast SecureLine VPN doesn’t offer a completely free version, it provides 7- and 60-day trials, with the latter requiring payment details. Avast VPN also has a 30-day refund policy, but unlike NordVPN, it requires you to state a reason for the refund request.
Who’s the Winner? - NordVPN!
NordVPN stands out in the pricing round with its diverse and budget-friendly subscription options. It provides greater value and flexibility without compromising on quality features or performance.Â
For an exceptional VPN experience that strikes the perfect balance between cost and functionality, get NordVPN. This way, you get to enjoy premium security without straining your wallet.Â
Avast VPN vs. NordVPN - Which One Is Better?
NordVPN stands as the leader in the VPN industry with an exceptional blend of security, speed, and versatility. In contrast, Avast SecureLine VPN, competent in its own right, fails to match up in crucial aspects evaluated in this matchup. Consequently, NordVPN is well ahead and emerges as a clear winner in this head-to-head comparison.
To better understand why, let’s compare the individual scores of these VPNs in different segments of this Avast VPN vs NordVPN comparison.
While Avast SecureLine VPN provides basic functionality and ease of use, it notably lagged behind NordVPN in terms of server network, compatibility, features, speed, pricing, and more. NordVPN’s commitment to regular independent audits, coupled with its exceptional capabilities in streaming and gaming, further enhances its appeal.
If you're seeking a VPN that delivers in every aspect, from streaming, torrenting, and gaming to privacy and ease of use, sign up for NordVPN.
Thanks for staying with us through this detailed Avast VPN vs NordVPN comparison. If you have further queries or need more insights, feel free to drop a comment below.