Compare Serenity and AVG Secure VPN: Which App is the Best?

AVG Secure VPN is a security-focused VPN service with 5M+ downloads and 4.4/5 rating, offering reliable protection and easy-to-use interface, though it has faced some recent connection issues and customer service challenges.
Serenity is a meditation app with 4.8 stars on Android (4.95 recent) and 4.9 on iOS, offering a free 7-day beginner course and sleep meditations. Known for its soothing narrator voice, simple interface, and no-account-required access, it provides excellent value with flexible pricing—buy content packs individually or unlock everything via subscription.
Key Features
  • Secure VPN connection – Protect your data and identity while browsing
  • Automatic connection – Connects automatically on unsecured networks
  • Dashboard widget – Quick one-click VPN on/off toggle
  • Multiple server locations – Choose from various countries and locations
  • No-logs policy – Your browsing activity is not logged
  • AVG integration – Works seamlessly with AVG security suite
  • Easy setup – Simple installation and configuration
  • Cross-platform support – Available on Android and iOS
  • 7-Day Beginner Course – Free, structured audio program that teaches meditation fundamentals step-by-step, perfect for building confidence
  • Sleep Meditation Library – Dedicated sleep guides with relaxation techniques, peaceful music, and tranquil sounds to help you fall asleep naturally
  • Stress Relief Sessions – Targeted meditations using relaxation and mindfulness techniques to calm anxiety and soothe the mind
  • Quick Meditations – Short sessions for practicing skills or finding calm during busy days, ideal for quick mental resets
  • Daily Meditations – Different meditation content each day to help maintain regular practice and keep sessions fresh
  • No Account Required – Start meditating immediately after installation with no sign-up, login, or personal information needed
  • Progress Tracking & Challenges – Stay motivated by completing challenges, unlocking free sessions, and monitoring your meditation journey with stats and graphs
  • Flexible Purchasing – Choose between one-time purchases for specific content packs or unlock everything with a subscription—no forced subscription model
Our Rating
7.3
9.0
Total users
0
0
Total ratings
0
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Average rating
— ⭐
— ⭐
Entry Level PriceFreeFree
Android
Google Play Store
Downloads
Google Play Store
Downloads
iOS
Apple App Store
Apple App Store
Features
7.5

AVG Secure VPN offers a solid set of features that justify its security-focused positioning. The service includes basic VPN functionality, automatic connection on unsecured networks, and integration with AVG's broader security ecosystem. The dashboard widget for quick access and automatic threat protection provide comprehensive security options for different use cases.

What sets AVG Secure VPN apart is its integration with AVG's security suite, offering users a comprehensive security solution. The service also includes advanced features like automatic connection on unsecured networks and dashboard widget for quick access, making it more than just a basic VPN.

However, the service lacks some advanced features found in dedicated VPN providers, such as specialized servers for specific use cases and some cutting-edge privacy features. The service also doesn't offer some advanced features like obfuscated servers or specialized streaming servers that some competitors provide.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN offers good features, but the connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. The service provides good value for users who need comprehensive security features.

8.5

Serenity delivers a well-rounded meditation experience without overwhelming complexity. The feature set focuses on what matters for building a consistent practice, and executes this effectively.

Standout features:

  • 7-Day Beginner Course: This structured program excels at teaching newcomers. It builds progressively, covering fundamentals without rushing or leaving you behind. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned gaining confidence through this course
  • Sleep Meditation Library: These guides work remarkably well. Using relaxation techniques, peaceful music, and nature sounds, the sessions help you fall asleep naturally. Long-term users frequently cite sleep content as their primary reason for staying
  • Daily Meditations: Fresh content each day maintains variety and prevents staleness. The continuity between sessions creates genuine progress
  • Quick Meditations: Short sessions for busy days or immediate stress relief. Perfect when you need a mental reset but lack 20 minutes
  • Progress Tracking: Stats, graphs, and challenge completion provide motivation without being pushy. The app won't nag you about missing days—several users appreciated this approach
  • Stress Relief & Anxiety Tools: Targeted meditations for specific challenges like anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem, anger, and frustration. One user with severe panic attacks mentioned quickly finding needed support during episodes

There are limitations. While the free version generously offers over 2 hours of content, it restricts access to advanced programs. Some users wanted more variety in the free tier, though most agreed the basics provided solid value. The app lacks organizational features found in complex apps—no folders or advanced filtering. This simplicity is intentional and generally works in its favor.

Features earn 8.5 out of 10. Core meditation functionality is excellent, the beginner course stands out, and sleep content delivers genuine value. It doesn't match the content volume of Calm or the completely free library of Medito, but what's present is thoughtfully implemented and effective.

Performance
6.0

AVG Secure VPN's performance is inconsistent, with good speeds when working but frequent connection issues that significantly impact usability. The service offers decent connection speeds and server coverage, but the frequent connection problems and customer service issues make it difficult to use reliably.

The service works well for basic security protection when connected, but many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection stability issues are particularly concerning given the security-focused positioning.

The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the security-focused positioning. Users expect reliability and performance from a security-focused service, but AVG Secure VPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN's performance is below average. The connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the security-focused positioning, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability.

9.0

Serenity performs reliably. Across thousands of recent reviews, technical issues are rarely mentioned—stark contrast to apps like Headspace where performance problems dominate feedback.

Performance strengths:

  • Stability: The app works consistently without crashes. Users with years of regular use don't report reliability issues
  • Smooth Experience: Reviews specifically mention "smooth experience" with "no irritating pop-ups" interrupting sessions
  • Always Works: One user: "Always works correctly and super easy to use." This consistency matters for daily practice
  • Quick Loading: Sessions start promptly. No significant lag or loading delays mentioned
  • Reliable Playback: Audio quality is good, playback works smoothly. The soothing voice wouldn't matter if technical issues interfered

Long-term reliability is impressive. Users with 3+ years of consistent use continue praising the app. One mentioned using it twice daily for years without issues. Another: "3 years later and I'm still using this app. Truly saved my life."

The app handles offline mode well. Progress tracking and stats work reliably. Reminders arrive as scheduled. Basic functions work consistently—which should be standard but, as competitor reviews show, often isn't.

The only minor performance consideration? Ads in the free version, though users say they're "seamlessly integrated" and not disruptive. No mentions of ad-related lag or crashes.

Performance earns 9.0 out of 10. Serenity simply works, consistently, for years. In a market where major apps struggle with crashes and slowdowns, this reliability is a competitive advantage. The app delivers without technical friction.

Design
8.0

AVG Secure VPN's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to VPN controls, server selection, and key settings. The dashboard widget is easily accessible, and the interface is clean and modern.

The app's design is intuitive and well-organized, with clear navigation between different features. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the settings menu is well-structured. The interface doesn't overwhelm users with complex options while still providing access to advanced features.

The interface is generally user-friendly and provides good visual feedback about connection status and app performance. The design reflects the security-focused positioning of the service, making it easy for users to manage their VPN connection.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN's design is competitive and well-polished. The interface is functional and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience.

9.0

Serenity's design philosophy is refreshingly simple—clean interface, clear navigation, zero clutter. After testing meditation apps that try to do too much visually, this straightforward approach felt intentional and calming.

Design strengths:

  • Clean Interface: Everything is laid out logically. Users consistently describe it as "simple" and "easy to navigate"—not exciting adjectives, but exactly what a meditation app needs
  • Foundation Section Structure: The foundation course builds day-by-day, creating continuity and progress. This storytelling approach maintains engagement
  • Minimal Distractions: No unnecessary animations or flashy elements. One user specifically noted they "barely notice the ads" because they're seamlessly integrated
  • Intuitive Organization: Meditation categories are clearly separated—sleep guides, stress relief, quick meditations, daily content. Finding what you need takes seconds

The design doesn't try to impress with visual flair, and that's its strength. Where Headspace has become cluttered with features and constant UI changes that frustrate users, Serenity maintains consistency. It looks professional without feeling corporate or sterile.

Several reviewers compared Serenity's interface favorably to Calm and Headspace. The simpler design made it easier to use, and the lack of visual complexity helps maintain focus on practice rather than navigation.

Design earns 9.0 out of 10. The minimalist approach works exceptionally well. It won't win design awards for innovation, but it excels at creating a calm, distraction-free environment that supports meditation.

Value for Money
7.0

AVG Secure VPN's value proposition is mixed, with good security features but questionable reliability for the price. The service offers competitive pricing compared to other security-focused VPNs, with the ability to get comprehensive security features for a reasonable price being a significant advantage.

The service's pricing is competitive with other security-focused VPNs, and the integration with AVG's security suite makes it particularly attractive for users who want a comprehensive security solution. The comprehensive features and privacy protection add value beyond basic VPN functionality.

However, the service's value is impacted by recent connection issues and customer service challenges. Many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN offers good features but at a similar cost. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations.

8.5

Serenity offers strong value, especially compared to subscription-only meditation apps. The pricing model provides genuine flexibility that respects different budgets.

The free tier is legitimately useful:

  • Complete 7-Day Course: Over 2 hours of quality beginner content at no cost. This alone provides real value for building a meditation foundation
  • Additional Free Content: Several meditation sessions available beyond basics. Users mentioned unlocking more free content by completing challenges
  • No Account Required: Access everything free without payment information upfront. No "free trial" requiring a credit card

Paid options are flexible:

  • One-Time Purchases: Buy specific meditation packs (€3.79 - €149.99). Unlike subscriptions, you own purchases permanently
  • "Unlock Everything" Subscription: Available for full access but not forced. One user mentioned a 6-month option for sleep meditations
  • Student Discounts: Developers offer reduced rates for students, showing consideration for different financial situations

Multiple users compared Serenity favorably to Calm. One review stated: "I like Calm but this app is a much better deal if you are low on money. The meditation quality is great." Another: "This app is by far the best deal for a simple meditation app."

The main value limitation? Medito offers completely free, ad-free meditation with no purchases required. If budget is your primary concern, Medito's perfect 10.0 value rating can't be beaten. However, Serenity's flexible pricing—pay only for what you want—beats subscription-only alternatives.

Value for money earns 8.5 out of 10. Free content is genuinely useful, purchasing options are flexible and fairly priced, and quality justifies the cost. While not free like Medito, Serenity delivers considerably better value than premium subscription apps.

Ease of Use
7.0

AVG Secure VPN is generally easy to use for basic VPN functionality, with a simple interface that requires no technical knowledge. The app's design is intuitive, and most users can get started quickly without any setup or configuration.

The service offers automatic VPN connection and dashboard widget for quick access, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. The app doesn't require complex configuration, and the VPN connection process is straightforward. The service works well for most use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly.

However, the service's ease of use is compromised by recent connection issues and customer service challenges. Many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The app can be slow to connect, and some users experience issues with the auto-connect feature not working reliably.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The connection stability issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a security-focused service.

9.5

Serenity is remarkably easy to use. This came up repeatedly in reviews and matched our experience—the app just works, immediately, without friction.

What makes it so accessible:

  • No Account Required: Install, open, start meditating. No sign-up forms, no email verification, no password creation. Users specifically praised this as a major advantage
  • Immediate Access: The free 7-day course is available from the first launch. No trials requiring payment information, no bait-and-switch tactics
  • Straightforward Technique: Meditation instructions are clear and easy to follow. Users described the approach as "straightforward" and effective
  • Simple Navigation: Finding sessions takes seconds. The organization makes sense—no hunting through confusing menus
  • Gentle Reminders: Notifications are available but not aggressive. The app won't guilt you about missed days or broken streaks

Ease of use particularly shines for beginners. Multiple first-time meditators mentioned Serenity helped them establish regular practice when other apps felt overwhelming. One user switching from another "popular meditation app" (likely Headspace) specifically cited Serenity's simpler layout as crucial during anxiety attacks—they could find what they needed quickly without confusion.

Even purchasing is straightforward if you choose to upgrade. Buy specific content packs rather than committing to a full subscription. Flexibility and control.

Ease of use earns 9.5 out of 10. This is one of the app's greatest strengths. Serenity removes barriers between you and meditation, making it genuinely effortless to build a practice. The 0.5 deduction? Perfection doesn't exist—but this comes close to frictionless usability.

Security & Privacy
8.0

AVG Secure VPN takes security and privacy seriously, with basic encryption and a no-logs policy. The service includes automatic connection on unsecured networks and integration with AVG's broader security ecosystem. The dashboard widget for quick access and automatic threat protection provide additional security options.

The service's privacy features are comprehensive for a security-focused solution, with no-logs policy and automatic connection on unsecured networks. The service also includes advanced features like integration with AVG security suite and automatic threat protection for enhanced security and privacy protection.

However, AVG Secure VPN has faced some security concerns in the past, particularly around its data collection practices and VPN reliability. While the company has maintained its privacy commitments, some users remain concerned about the service's data practices and connection stability.

Compared to other security-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or dedicated VPNs like NordVPN, AVG Secure VPN's security practices are solid but not exceptional. The service provides good protection for most users, but those with high security requirements might want to consider alternatives with more advanced privacy features.

9.5

Serenity takes a privacy-friendly approach that stands out. The biggest advantage is simple: no account required means no personal data collection for basic use.

Privacy strengths:

  • No Mandatory Account: Use all free features without providing email, name, or any personal information. This eliminates most data collection concerns
  • Minimal Permissions: The app only requests essential permissions for notifications and audio. No suspicious background activity or unnecessary data access
  • Offline Functionality: Downloaded sessions work without internet, providing convenience and privacy
  • Transparent Pricing: Purchases go through Google Play or App Store—no separate payment system collecting extra information

Ads in the free version are the main privacy consideration. Users say they're "seamlessly integrated," and they appear to be standard in-app advertising rather than highly targeted data collection. Still, ads typically involve some tracking—worth noting if you're privacy-conscious.

For maximum privacy, Medito sets the gold standard with open-source, ad-free, account-free approach. Serenity's practices are solid though—better than subscription apps requiring accounts and more transparent than many competitors.

Security and privacy earn 9.5 out of 10. The no-account approach provides excellent privacy. Ads in the free version are the only minor concern, and even that appears handled reasonably. For most users, Serenity's privacy practices are more than adequate.

Conclusion
AVG Secure VPN is a security-focused VPN service that offers reliable protection and easy-to-use interface, but its value proposition is compromised by recent connection issues and customer service challenges. The service provides good security features and integration with AVG's broader security ecosystem, but the connection problems and customer service issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. For users who prioritize security and are willing to work within the app's limitations, AVG Secure VPN offers a solid feature set with good performance when working. However, those seeking specialized VPN functionality or experiencing connection issues might find better value with dedicated VPN services like Proton VPN that offer more reliable performance. Ultimately, AVG Secure VPN's security-focused approach and integration with AVG's security suite make it a good choice for users seeking comprehensive security, but the connection stability issues and customer service problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives like Proton VPN that offer similar features with better performance.

Serenity delivers what a meditation app should: effective guidance, reliable performance, and genuine accessibility. The 4.8-star rating with 54.2K reviews isn't inflated—the app works well, the narrator's voice is soothing, and the interface stays out of your way. The rising recent rating (4.95 stars) shows quality improving, not declining.

What makes Serenity valuable is a rare combination of factors. The free 7-day beginner course provides real value without requiring an account or payment info. Sleep meditations work effectively for long-term users. Flexible pricing respects your budget—buy what you want instead of committing to a subscription. The app maintains this quality over years without the technical deterioration affecting competitors.

It's not perfect. Free content is limited beyond basics, ads are present, and the values-focused approach in some sessions won't appeal to everyone. Want completely free meditation? Medito is your choice. Want celebrity narrators and massive libraries? Calm has that (at subscription cost). Need therapy integration? Headspace provides it (though with current technical issues).

For straightforward, effective meditation with excellent beginner support and reasonable pricing, Serenity hits the sweet spot. The simplicity is intentional. The focus on fundamentals over feature bloat helps. The consistent praise for ease of use, voice quality, and sleep effectiveness across thousands of reviews isn't marketing—it's genuine experience.

We recommend Serenity for beginners building their first meditation practice, anyone struggling with sleep who wants guided sessions, and users who appreciate simplicity. The free content lets you test it without commitment. If it clicks, flexible purchasing provides fair value. Reliable performance won't get in the way of developing consistent practice.

Our Recommendation