NordVPN is a premium VPN service with 100M+ downloads and 4.6/5 rating, offering advanced security features, fast speeds, and a global server network, though it comes with a higher price point and some connection stability issues. | Secure VPN is a lightning-fast free VPN with 100M+ downloads and 4.7/5 rating, offering one-tap connection and global servers, though it has limited free server options and some connection issues. | Thunder VPN is a highly-rated free VPN service with 100M+ downloads, offering fast connections and minimal ads, making it one of the better free VPN options available. | |
Key Features A summary of the most important features offered by each app. |
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Our Rating Prod Apps's expert review score for each app, based on hands-on testing and research. | 7.3 Winner in this category | 7.1 | 7.2 |
Total users Total active users across all major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Total ratings Total number of user ratings received across all supported browsers. | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Average rating Average user rating across all browsers, calculated from available store ratings. | — ⭐ | — ⭐ | — ⭐ |
Entry Level Price The minimum price required to start using the app. "Free" means a free tier is available. | Free | Free | Free |
Android User rating and stats for the app on Android browser. | ![]() Downloads | ![]() Downloads | ![]() Downloads |
iOS User rating and stats for the app on iOS browser. | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
Features Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Features' aspect of each app. | 8.5 NordVPN offers an impressive array of features that justify its premium positioning. The service includes military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced security protocols like NordLynx (based on WireGuard). The kill switch protection, double VPN, and split tunneling provide comprehensive security options for different use cases. What sets NordVPN apart is its specialized server network, including servers optimized for streaming, torrenting, and enhanced privacy. Unlike Proton VPN which offers a free tier with limited servers, NordVPN provides access to 7,000+ servers across 60+ countries. The service also includes Threat Protection for ad and malware blocking, which adds value beyond basic VPN functionality. The ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously is generous for most users. However, some advanced features like Meshnet (which was recently discontinued) and certain specialized servers may not be available in all regions. The service also lacks some cutting-edge features found in newer VPN providers, but it covers all the essential security and privacy needs effectively. Compared to free alternatives like Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN, NordVPN offers significantly more features, but the premium pricing means users need to evaluate whether these additional capabilities justify the cost. Winner in this category | 7.5 Secure VPN offers a solid set of features that justify its lightning-fast positioning. The service includes one-tap connection, global server network, and no registration required. The service also includes advanced features like smart server selection and app-specific VPN routing, making it more than just a basic VPN. What sets Secure VPN apart is its simplicity and speed. The service also includes advanced features like smart server selection and app-specific VPN routing, making it more than just a basic VPN. However, unlike Proton VPN, it lacks a kill switch and split tunneling. 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 free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN offers good features, but the limited free server options make it difficult to recommend over more comprehensive alternatives. The service provides good value for users who need basic VPN features. | 7.5 Thunder VPN delivers a solid foundation of core VPN features that meet the basic needs of most users. The app's feature set is straightforward and focused on simplicity rather than advanced functionality, which aligns well with its target audience of casual VPN users. Key features we found most valuable include:
However, Thunder VPN lacks many advanced features that users expect from premium VPN services. There's no kill switch to protect against connection drops, no split tunneling to route specific apps through the VPN, and no specialized servers for streaming or torrenting. The server selection is limited compared to premium alternatives. While the core features work well for basic privacy and geo-unblocking needs, power users will find the feature set limiting. For users who need advanced features like kill switches, split tunneling, or specialized servers, alternatives like Proton VPN offer more comprehensive free tiers, while NordVPN provides extensive advanced features for premium users. We rate features at 7.5 out of 10—good for basic VPN needs with better user experience than most free alternatives, but lacking the depth that serious users require. |
Performance Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Performance' aspect of each app. | 6.0 NordVPN's performance is inconsistent, with good speeds when working but frequent connection issues that impact usability. The service offers fast connection speeds with the NordLynx protocol, and the extensive server network provides good coverage for most use cases. The service works well for streaming and geo-blocking when connected. However, the service's performance is significantly impacted by connection stability issues. Many users report frequent disconnections, slow connection times, and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The auto-connect feature doesn't work reliably, and some users experience issues with the app not connecting at all. The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the premium pricing. Users expect reliability and performance from a paid service, but NordVPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations. Compared to other premium VPNs like ExpressVPN or Surfshark VPN, NordVPN's performance is below average. The connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the premium pricing, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability. | 6.5 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 one-tap connection, but the frequent disconnections and connection stability problems make it difficult to use reliably. The service works well for basic VPN protection when connected, but many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection issues are particularly concerning given the lightning-fast positioning. The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the lightning-fast positioning. Users expect reliability and performance from a free VPN service, but Secure VPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance. Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN's performance is below average. The connection issues make it difficult to justify the lightning-fast positioning, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability. Winner in this category | 6.5 Thunder VPN's performance presents a mixed picture that reflects the challenges of maintaining a free VPN service. While the app can deliver fast connections when working properly, reliability issues significantly impact the overall performance experience. Performance strengths include:
However, significant performance issues undermine the user experience:
User reviews reveal a pattern of performance issues, with many users praising the app's speed when it works but complaining about frequent disconnections. The app's focus on user experience over aggressive monetization may be impacting server quality and maintenance. For users seeking reliable performance, alternatives like Proton VPN offer more consistent free performance with better server maintenance, while NordVPN provides premium performance with dedicated servers and better reliability guarantees. We rate performance at 6.5 out of 10—good speeds when working but undermined by frequent connection drops and stability issues that create an inconsistent user experience. Winner in this category |
Design Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Design' aspect of each app. | 7.5 NordVPN's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to connection controls, server selection, and key settings. The map-based server selection is intuitive and visually appealing, making it easy to choose servers in different countries. The app's design is clean and professional, with a dark theme that's easy on the eyes. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the kill switch toggle is easily accessible. The settings menu is well-organized, allowing users to customize their experience without feeling overwhelmed. However, some users have reported issues with the interface, particularly around server selection and connection management. The app can sometimes feel clunky when switching between servers, and the connection process isn't always as smooth as advertised. The recent interface updates have received mixed feedback from users. Compared to other premium VPNs like ExpressVPN or Surfshark VPN, NordVPN's design is competitive but not exceptional. The interface is functional and professional, but it lacks some of the polish and refinement found in newer VPN services. | 7.0 Secure VPN's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to server selection, connection controls, and key settings. The interface is clean and modern, with good attention to detail and user experience. 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 lightning-fast positioning of the service, making it easy for users to manage their VPN connection. Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN's design is competitive and well-polished. The interface is functional and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience. | 8.0 Thunder VPN's design philosophy centers on simplicity and user experience, which works exceptionally well for its target audience. The interface is clean, intuitive, and focuses on functionality rather than flashy design elements. Design strengths we observed include:
The design experience is significantly better than competitors like Turbo VPN and Now VPN, with much less advertising interruption. Users consistently praise the app's clean interface and ease of use, making it one of the most user-friendly free VPNs available. While the core interface design is solid, some users report that the app requires keeping the window open to maintain connections, which can be inconvenient. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall design quality. For users who value a clean, uninterrupted interface, Thunder VPN offers one of the best free experiences available. Alternatives like Proton VPN offer similar design quality with better privacy protection, while Windscribe VPN provides a comparable free experience with fewer restrictions. We rate design at 8.0 out of 10—excellent design principles with minimal advertising that creates a genuinely user-friendly experience. Winner in this category |
Value for Money Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Value for Money' aspect of each app. | 6.5 NordVPN's value proposition is mixed, with strong security features but questionable reliability for the premium price. The service offers comprehensive security features, extensive server network, and good performance when working properly. The ability to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously is generous for most users. However, the service's value is significantly impacted by connection stability issues and customer service challenges. Many users report frequent disconnections and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The premium pricing doesn't translate to the reliability and performance that users expect from a paid service. The service's pricing is competitive with other premium VPNs, but the connection issues make it difficult to justify the cost. Users who prioritize security and are willing to deal with connection problems might find value in the service, but those seeking reliability and performance might be better served by alternatives like Proton VPN. Compared to free alternatives like Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN, NordVPN offers more features but at a significantly higher cost. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations. | 7.0 Secure VPN's value proposition is good for free users, with lightning-fast connection and user-friendly features. The service offers competitive pricing compared to other free VPNs, with the ability to get free access to limited servers being a significant advantage. The service's pricing is competitive with other free VPNs, and the lightning-fast connection makes it particularly attractive for users who want a fast free solution. The comprehensive features and privacy protection add value beyond basic VPN functionality. However, the service's value is impacted by limited free server options and connection stability issues. Many users report frequent disconnections and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN offers good features but at a similar cost. The connection issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with better reliability. | 8.0 Thunder VPN's value proposition is significantly better than most free VPNs, offering a genuinely useful free service with minimal advertising and good performance. The app provides excellent value for users who can tolerate occasional connection issues. Value strengths include:
The free tier's value is significantly better than most free VPNs, with minimal advertising and good performance. However, some limitations affect the overall value:
The premium pricing is reasonable ($1.99-$59.99), but the connection stability issues may not justify the upgrade for many users. Premium VPN services like NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer more comprehensive features and better reliability for similar or lower costs. For users seeking genuine value, Thunder VPN offers one of the best free experiences available. Alternatives like Proton VPN offer a more generous free tier with better privacy protection, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free experience with fewer restrictions. We rate value for money at 8.0 out of 10—excellent value for a free VPN with minimal advertising and good performance, though connection stability issues limit the overall experience. Winner in this category |
Ease of Use Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Ease of Use' aspect of each app. | 7.0 NordVPN is generally easy to use for basic VPN functionality, with a simple one-tap connection process. The app's interface is intuitive, and most users can get connected quickly without technical knowledge. The automatic server selection works well for most use cases, and the connection process is straightforward. However, the service's ease of use is compromised by several factors. Many users report frequent connection drops and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The app can be slow to connect, and some users experience issues with the auto-connect feature not working reliably. The connection process isn't always as smooth as expected from a premium service. The service also lacks some user-friendly features found in competitors. The server selection process can be confusing, and the app doesn't always provide clear feedback about connection status. Some users report issues with the kill switch not working properly, which can compromise security. Compared to free alternatives like Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN, NordVPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The premium pricing doesn't translate to a significantly better user experience, and the connection stability issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a paid service. | 8.0 Secure VPN is very 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 works well for most use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly. The service offers one-tap connection and no registration required, 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 limited free server options and connection stability issues. Many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The app can be frustrating to use due to connection issues and stability problems. Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The connection issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a free VPN service. Winner in this category | 7.0 Thunder VPN excels in basic usability with its one-tap connection approach, making it one of the most accessible VPN apps for beginners. The core functionality is genuinely simple and requires no technical knowledge to operate effectively. Usability strengths include:
However, the ease of use is somewhat undermined by connection stability issues. Users report that the app requires keeping the window open to maintain connections, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, frequent connection drops require reconnection, which interrupts the user experience. While the core interface is genuinely easy to use, the connection stability issues compromise the overall user experience. For users seeking a truly hassle-free VPN experience, alternatives like Proton VPN offer a cleaner free tier with better connection stability, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free experience. We rate ease of use at 7.0 out of 10—excellent core usability with good interface design, but undermined by connection stability issues that require user intervention. |
Security & Privacy Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Security & Privacy' aspect of each app. | 8.0 NordVPN takes security and privacy seriously, with military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. The service uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols including OpenVPN and NordLynx. The kill switch protection ensures that internet traffic is blocked if the VPN connection drops. The service's no-logs policy is comprehensive and has been verified by independent security firms. NordVPN is based in Panama, which provides some legal protection for user privacy. The service also includes advanced features like double VPN and split tunneling for enhanced security. However, NordVPN has faced some security concerns in the past, including a data breach in 2019. While the company has since improved its security practices, some users remain concerned about the service's track record. The service also lacks some advanced privacy features found in newer VPN providers. Compared to other premium VPNs like ExpressVPN or Surfshark VPN, NordVPN'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. Winner in this category | 6.5 Secure VPN takes security and privacy seriously, with strict no-logging policy and privacy protection claims. The service includes one-tap connection and no registration required. The service also includes advanced features like smart server selection for enhanced privacy protection. The service's privacy features are comprehensive for a free solution, with strict no-logging policy and privacy protection. The service also includes advanced features like smart server selection for enhanced security and privacy protection. However, Secure VPN has faced some privacy concerns in the past, particularly around its data collection practices and connection 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 free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Secure VPN's privacy practices are solid but not exceptional. The service provides good protection for most users, but those with high privacy requirements might want to consider alternatives with more advanced privacy features. | 6.0 Thunder VPN's security and privacy practices present a mixed picture that raises some concerns for privacy-conscious users. While the app claims to offer secure connections and privacy protection, several factors undermine confidence in its privacy commitments. Security strengths include:
However, some privacy concerns emerge from user feedback and business practices:
User reviews reveal mixed experiences, with some users praising the app's privacy features while others express concerns about data collection. The lack of transparency about the service's data handling practices further undermines trust. For users who prioritize privacy and security, alternatives like Proton VPN offer Swiss-based privacy protection with independent audits and transparency reports, while Windscribe VPN provides Canadian privacy protection with more transparent data handling practices. We rate security and privacy at 6.0 out of 10—basic security features present but concerns about data handling, jurisdiction, and transparency that compromise trust in the service. |
Conclusion A summary of our findings and final thoughts for each app. | NordVPN is a premium VPN service that offers comprehensive security features and extensive server coverage, but its value proposition is compromised by connection stability issues and customer service challenges. The service provides good security and privacy protection, but the frequent disconnections and reliability problems make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives.
For users who prioritize security and are willing to deal with connection issues, NordVPN offers a solid feature set with good performance when working. However, those seeking reliability and consistent performance might find better value with alternatives like Proton VPN that offer similar features with better stability, or Thunder VPN for a more user-friendly free experience.
Ultimately, NordVPN's premium pricing doesn't translate to the reliability and performance that users expect from a paid service. While the service offers good security features, the connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the cost over free alternatives that provide similar performance with fewer limitations. | Secure VPN offers good free access and lightning-fast connection, but its value proposition is compromised by limited free server options and connection stability issues. The service provides excellent one-tap connection and global server network, but the limited free access and connection problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives.
For users who prioritize simplicity and are willing to work within the service's limitations, Secure VPN offers a solid feature set with good connection speeds when working properly. However, those seeking specialized VPN functionality or experiencing connection issues might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability, such as Thunder VPN for a more stable free experience.
Ultimately, Secure VPN's lightning-fast approach and user-friendly features make it a good choice for users seeking free VPN access, but the limited free server options and connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance. For a more consistent free experience, consider Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN. | Thunder VPN represents one of the better free VPN options available, offering a genuinely useful service with minimal advertising and good performance. While the app delivers on its core promise of free, unlimited VPN access with simple one-tap connection, connection stability issues and the need to keep the app window open create some usability concerns. The app's exceptional popularity (100M+ downloads, 4.8-star rating) reflects genuine demand for a user-friendly free VPN service, and many users do find value in its basic functionality. However, the frequent connection drops and stability issues suggest that the free model may be impacting server quality and maintenance. For users who can tolerate occasional connection issues, Thunder VPN provides a functional free VPN with minimal advertising. For users seeking a more reliable free VPN experience, Proton VPN offers better privacy protection and connection stability, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free tier with fewer restrictions. For those willing to pay for premium features, NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer more comprehensive solutions with better reliability and privacy guarantees. |
Our Recommendation |