Compare OpenVPN Connect and Pocket: Which App is the Best?

Pocket was a popular read-it-later app with 20 M+ registered users. Now, it's shut down in July 2025.
OpenVPN Connect is the official OpenVPN client with 10M+ downloads and 4.6/5 rating, offering enterprise-grade security and open-source transparency, though it requires technical setup and a compatible VPN server.
Key Features
  • Save web pages for later reading
  • Organize saved pages into collections
  • Read articles offline
  • Sync across devices
  • Customizable reading experience
  • AI-powered article summaries
  • Social sharing
  • Enterprise-grade security – AES-256 encryption and TLS 1.3 support
  • Open-source transparency – Complete code visibility and community audited
  • Advanced features – Split-tunneling, kill switch, and auto-reconnect
  • Flexible authentication – Certificate, username/password, and MFA support
  • Easy profile import – Simple .ovpn file import and URL-based setup
  • Cross-platform compatibility – Works with all OpenVPN-compatible servers
Our Rating
7.0
8.3
Total users
0
0
Total ratings
0
0
Average rating
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Entry Level PriceFreeFree
Android
Google Play Store
Downloads
Google Play Store
Downloads
iOS
Apple App Store
Apple App Store
Features
7.0
Not available anymore.
9.0

OpenVPN Connect offers an exceptional set of enterprise-grade features that justify its reputation as the gold standard for VPN clients. The app includes AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3 support, split-tunneling, kill switch, and auto-reconnect capabilities. The service also includes advanced features like device posture checks and SAML SSO support, making it more than just a basic VPN client.

What sets OpenVPN Connect apart is its open-source nature and enterprise focus. The app also includes advanced features like IPv6 and DNS leak protection, HTTP proxy configuration, and support for multiple authentication methods including certificates and MFA.

However, the service lacks some consumer-friendly features found in all-in-one VPN services, such as built-in server access and simplified setup. The service also doesn't offer some advanced features like specialized streaming servers or geo-blocking bypass that some consumer VPNs provide.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect offers superior features for enterprise use, but the lack of built-in service makes it less suitable for casual users. The service provides excellent value for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Performance
7.0
Not available anymore.
8.5

OpenVPN Connect's performance is excellent when properly configured, with fast connection speeds and reliable operation. The service offers excellent connection stability and performance, with users reporting consistent speeds and minimal disconnections when using compatible servers.

The service works well for enterprise VPN protection, with users reporting reliable connections and good performance. The connection stability is excellent, and the service handles various network conditions well.

The service's performance is particularly strong for enterprise use cases, with users reporting excellent reliability and speed. The open-source nature and enterprise focus ensure optimal performance for professional use.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's performance is excellent when properly configured. The service provides reliable performance for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Design
7.0
Not available anymore.
7.5

OpenVPN Connect's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and enterprise usability. The main screen provides quick access to connection profiles, server settings, and security options. The interface is clean and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience for enterprise users.

The app's design is functional and well-organized, with clear navigation between different features. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the settings menu is comprehensive. The interface provides good visual feedback about connection status and security features.

The interface is generally user-friendly for technical users and provides good visual feedback about connection status and security features. The design reflects the enterprise positioning of the service, making it suitable for professional use.

Compared to other VPN clients like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's design is functional but not as polished for consumer use. The interface is professional and functional, with good attention to detail for enterprise users.

Value for Money
7.0
Not available anymore.
8.5

OpenVPN Connect's value proposition is excellent for enterprise users, with free access to enterprise-grade features and complete transparency. The service offers exceptional value compared to other enterprise VPN solutions, with the ability to get enterprise-grade security for free being a significant advantage.

The service's pricing is exceptional for enterprise use, and the open-source nature makes it particularly attractive for organizations that want complete control and transparency. The comprehensive features and security protection add value beyond basic VPN functionality.

However, the service's value is impacted by the requirement for technical setup and server infrastructure. Many users need to invest in server hosting or compatible services. The technical requirements make it less suitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect offers exceptional value for enterprise users but requires significant technical investment. The service provides excellent value for users who need enterprise-grade VPN functionality.

Ease of Use
7.0
Not available anymore.
6.0

OpenVPN Connect is moderately easy to use for technical users, but requires significant setup knowledge for basic functionality. The app's design is functional, but most users need technical knowledge to configure servers and import profiles. The service works well for enterprise users who understand VPN protocols.

The service offers profile import and URL-based setup, making it accessible to users with technical knowledge. The app doesn't require complex configuration for basic use, and the VPN connection process is straightforward once configured. The service works well for most enterprise use cases and provides good performance when properly set up.

However, the service's ease of use is compromised by the requirement for technical setup and server configuration. Many users report difficulty with initial setup and the need for technical knowledge. The app can be complex to configure, and some users experience issues with profile imports and server compatibility.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's ease of use is significantly more complex. The technical requirements make it unsuitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution.

Security & Privacy
7.0
Not available anymore.
10

OpenVPN Connect takes security and privacy to the highest level, with enterprise-grade encryption and open-source transparency. The service includes AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3 support, and advanced features like kill switch and DNS leak protection. The service also includes advanced features like device posture checks for enhanced security.

The service's privacy features are exceptional, with complete open-source transparency and no data collection. The service also includes advanced features like IPv6 protection and split-tunneling for enhanced security and privacy protection.

OpenVPN Connect has an impeccable security record, with regular security audits and community oversight. The open-source nature ensures complete transparency, and the enterprise focus means the highest security standards are maintained.

Compared to other VPN solutions like Proton VPN or NordVPN, OpenVPN Connect's security practices are unmatched. The service provides the highest level of protection for users who prioritize security and transparency.

Conclusion

Pocket changed how we save and read content, but its story is coming to a close. The service was shut down in July 2025. If you're searching for a new way to save articles, don't miss our picks for the best Pocket alternatives.

OpenVPN Connect is the gold standard for enterprise VPN clients, offering unmatched security, transparency, and control. The app's open-source nature and enterprise-grade features make it the top choice for users who prioritize security and are willing to invest in the technical setup required. For users who need the highest level of VPN security and transparency, OpenVPN Connect is unmatched. However, those seeking a simple consumer VPN solution might find it overly complex compared to all-in-one services that handle both client and server components, such as Proton VPN or NordVPN. Ultimately, OpenVPN Connect's enterprise focus and open-source transparency make it the best choice for security-conscious users and organizations, but the technical requirements and lack of built-in service make it unsuitable for casual users who just want a simple VPN solution. For a more user-friendly approach with built-in servers, consider ExpressVPN or Surfshark VPN.
Our Recommendation