NordVPN vs Avast SecureLine VPN: Which Provides the Best Online Protection in 2024?
In today‘s digital age, using a virtual private network (VPN) is more important than ever to safeguard your online privacy and security. Two well-known providers, NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN, both claim to offer robust protection – but which one truly delivers the best experience and value in 2024? In this in-depth comparison, we‘ll closely examine the key aspects of these VPNs to help you make an informed decision.
While Avast SecureLine VPN provides decent security for basic web browsing, NordVPN outshines it across the board. With a massive server network, faster speeds, strong privacy measures, and the ability to reliably unblock streaming services, NordVPN is the clear winner as an all-around VPN solution. Let‘s dive into the details.
Pricing and Value: NordVPN Offers More for Your Money
Budget is often a top consideration when choosing a VPN. NordVPN‘s long-term plans provide significantly better value compared to Avast SecureLine VPN:
- NordVPN‘s 2-year plan costs $3.49/month while Avast‘s 2-year plan is $4.39/month
- NordVPN‘s 1-year plan is $4.99/month vs $4.59/month for Avast‘s 1-year plan
- NordVPN‘s 1-month plan is $11.99 compared to Avast not offering a monthly option
All NordVPN plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Avast does provide a longer 60-day refund period, but overall you get more bang for your buck with NordVPN‘s packages.
Server Network: NordVPN Runs Laps Around Avast
One of the biggest differences between these VPNs is the size and distribution of their server networks. NordVPN boasts an extensive network of 5500+ servers in 60 countries. In comparison, Avast SecureLine‘s server count is much smaller at around 700+ servers in 54 countries.
Having more servers means better odds of finding a fast, reliable connection and avoiding overcrowding. More locations is also advantageous for unblocking geo-restricted content. In real-world tests, NordVPN‘s servers were consistently faster and more stable than Avast‘s. With NordVPN‘s huge network, you‘ll have a smoother, more flexible VPN experience.
Privacy and Security: NordVPN Takes the Lead
Both VPNs use industry-standard AES-256 encryption and have key features like a kill switch. However, there are notable differences in their privacy practices and advanced security extras:
- NordVPN has a verified no-logs policy and Panama jurisdiction. Avast keeps some connection logs and is based in the Czech Republic.
- NordVPN offers cutting-edge features like double VPN, Onion over VPN, and Meshnet that Avast lacks.
- NordVPN includes Threat Protection to block malware domains and trackers.
- NordVPN supports multiple secure protocols like NordLynx and OpenVPN, while Avast only offers OpenVPN.
Streaming: NordVPN Unblocks It All, Avast Lags Behind
For many VPN users, accessing streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+ is a top priority. In our tests, NordVPN reliably worked with 20+ streaming platforms. Avast had mixed results, frequently failing to unblock popular streaming apps.
Avast SecureLine VPN could only access US Netflix through a single server location during our checks. Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and others were a no-go. NordVPN unblocked different regional Netflix libraries as well as all major streaming services we tested it with. When it comes to streaming, NordVPN is the victor.
Torrenting and P2P: Both Allow It, But NordVPN is Faster
Both NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN allow torrenting and P2P traffic on their servers. However, NordVPN outperforms Avast in download speed tests. Avast‘s speeds were mediocre, with some connections dropping by 50% or more. With NordVPN‘s NordLynx protocol, we consistently achieved fast downloads with only minor slowdown. Serious torrenters will have a better experience with NordVPN.
Compatibility and Ease of Use: NordVPN Works on More Devices
NordVPN has user-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV, and Android TV. It can also be manually set up on supported routers, NAS, and other devices. Avast offers apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, but lacks support for Linux and routers. Both have browser extensions, but NordVPN‘s covers more browsers.
In terms of interface, NordVPN‘s apps have a sleek world map design that makes connecting to servers a breeze. Avast has a more basic layout but is still simple enough for VPN novices. Power users will appreciate NordVPN‘s advanced options and customization.
Customer Support: NordVPN Delivers Better Assistance
While Avast offers 24/7 live chat and phone support in English, German, and French, reports of slow or unhelpful replies are common. NordVPN‘s 24/7 live chat has a great reputation for quick, knowledgeable assistance. Email support and an extensive knowledge base are also available.
In our experience, NordVPN‘s customer service was top-notch. Queries were answered promptly and thoroughly whether we reached out via live chat or email. Though Avast‘s support is available through more channels, the quality of help doesn‘t match NordVPN‘s high standard.
Extra Features: NordVPN Goes Above and Beyond
Aside from core VPN functions, NordVPN packs in more handy features for all-around protection:
- Threat Protection blocks dangerous files, malware domains, trackers, and intrusive ads
- Dark Web Monitor scans dark web markets for data breaches involving your info
- Meshnet lets you connect devices over encrypted private tunnels
- Dedicated IP option for a unique IP address only you use
Unfortunately, Avast‘s extra offerings are limited in comparison. You can configure some DNS options but that‘s about it. If you want a VPN that includes bonus functionality for a safer, ad-free online experience, NordVPN has more to offer.
Conclusion: NordVPN Wins By a Mile
After thoroughly comparing NordVPN and Avast SecureLine VPN, we can confidently declare NordVPN as the superior VPN service in 2024. While Avast provides adequate protection for casual web browsing, it simply can‘t match NordVPN‘s all-around excellence.
NordVPN beats Avast in every major category we tested:
- Faster speeds and more reliable connections
- Larger server network with 5500+ servers worldwide
- Verified no-logs policy and secure Panama jurisdiction
- Consistently unblocks 20+ popular streaming services
- Faster torrenting and P2P downloads
- Supports more devices and operating systems
- Provides responsive, high-quality customer service
- Offers extra features for better security and usability
Unless you only need a bare-bones VPN for light web surfing, NordVPN is well worth the small extra cost. Its outstanding performance, rich feature set, and superb ease of use make it the best VPN choice for almost any use case. Safeguard your digital life with NordVPN for an optimal online experience in 2024 and beyond.
