Compare Thunder VPN and Cool VPN Pro: Which App is the Best?
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. | Cool VPN Pro offers budget-friendly VPN access with thousands of servers, but recent reliability issues and a declining rating (3.86 in last 100 reviews vs 4.8 overall) raise concerns about connection stability and service quality. | |
| 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. | 7.2 Winner in this category | 5.8 |
| Total users Total active users across all major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. | 0 | 0 |
| Total ratings Total number of user ratings received across all supported browsers. | 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 |
| Android User rating and stats for the app on Android browser. |  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. | 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. Winner in this category | 7.0 Cool VPN Pro offers a respectable feature set that covers the essentials of VPN functionality. The app advertises thousands of servers across multiple countries, which is competitive for this price range. The ability to automatically connect based on network type (Wi-Fi or cellular) adds convenience for users who want constant protection. The app-specific VPN routing stands out, letting you choose which applications use the VPN connection while others access the internet directly. This flexibility proves useful when you need VPN protection for specific apps but want normal speeds for others. The one-tap connection interface makes getting online quick—when it works properly. The feature set feels somewhat basic compared to premium competitors. Split-tunneling for websites is absent, server information is limited, and the selection process lacks granularity. Detailed connection statistics and advanced security options that power users expect are missing. The promised "unparalleled VPN performance" in the app description doesn't match what users actually experience. The core VPN features are present, but execution has become inconsistent. Advertised features like "one-tap connection" now frequently result in extended "network optimization" screens that never resolve. Reliability is a feature in itself for VPN apps, and Cool VPN Pro's recent struggles here significantly impact the overall rating. |
| Performance Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Performance' aspect of each app. | 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 | 4.5 Performance is where Cool VPN Pro's current struggles become most apparent. The app's overall 4.8-star rating tells one story, but the recent 3.86-star average from the last 100 reviews tells another. This significant drop reflects widespread performance issues that have emerged recently. Connection reliability is the primary concern. Numerous recent reviews report that the app gets stuck on "network optimization" screens and fails to establish connections. Some users mention waiting 10 minutes or more for connections that never complete. Others report that the app simply "doesn't work" at all, despite previously functioning normally. This inconsistency is particularly problematic for a VPN service where reliability is paramount. When connections do establish, speed performance is mixed. Some users report adequate speeds for browsing and streaming, with one reviewer praising "blazing fast, unlimited speed." However, an equal number complain about extremely slow connections—one user described speeds of "3 kbit per second," which is essentially unusable. This wide variance suggests inconsistent server quality or capacity issues. The app's stability has also deteriorated. Multiple reviews mention increased crashes, freezing, and unexpected disconnections. Battery drain is mentioned by several users, suggesting the app may not be efficiently managing system resources. The long loading times and "optimization progress not ended" errors indicate potential server-side or network infrastructure problems that the developers haven't adequately addressed. Server availability appears inconsistent as well, with some users reporting that "all servers are down" during their attempts to connect. While it works reliably for some users (particularly those in certain regions like Iran and Myanmar where it remains popular), the overall performance trajectory is concerning. For a VPN service at any price point, the level of connection failures and performance issues we've documented is difficult to justify. |
| Design Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Design' aspect of each app. | 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 | 6.5 The design of Cool VPN Pro follows a fairly standard VPN app layout with a prominent connection button as the centerpiece. The interface is straightforward with minimal distractions, which makes it approachable for users who aren't technically savvy. The color scheme is simple, and the main connection status is clearly visible. Navigation between servers and settings is uncomplicated, with most options accessible within a few taps. The server list is organized by country with flags for easy identification, and connection status indicators use familiar colors (red for disconnected, green for connected). This conventional approach works well enough for basic functionality. However, the design feels dated compared to modern VPN apps like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, which have invested heavily in polished, intuitive interfaces. The visual hierarchy could be improved, and some screens feel cluttered with promotional content for premium features. The design lacks the sophistication and attention to detail that makes premium apps feel premium. The biggest design issue is the intrusive advertisement placement in the free version. Multiple users complain about ads appearing at inconvenient moments, disrupting the user experience. While monetization through ads is understandable, the implementation here feels aggressive and detracts from the overall design quality. |
| Value for Money Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Value for Money' aspect of each app. | 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 | 5.0 Cool VPN Pro's value proposition is complicated. The free tier exists, which technically makes it accessible to anyone, but the ad-heavy experience and limited server access mean you're getting what you pay for—or less. Based on user feedback, the free version has become increasingly restricted and difficult to use without constant ad interruptions. The premium pricing (€2.69 to €104.99) sits below what you'd pay for premium services like ExpressVPN, making it appear competitive. However, value isn't just about the price—it's about what you receive for that price. With Cool VPN Pro's declining reliability and increasing connection issues, the question becomes whether saving a few euros monthly is worth the frustration of a VPN that doesn't consistently work. Users who subscribed when the service was more reliable express disappointment with recent performance degradation. Several reviews mention that "it was wonderful when it was free" or that the service has declined since they first started using it. This suggests that the value equation has shifted negatively over time, with the company perhaps struggling to maintain service quality as it scales. Compared to Brave Private Browser's integrated VPN features or even AVG Secure VPN's straightforward offering, Cool VPN Pro doesn't clearly differentiate itself on value. The extensive advertisements, reliability issues, and lack of transparency about server quality make it difficult to recommend as a strong value option, even at its lower price point. If you need a VPN that consistently works, spending a bit more on a proven service might ultimately provide better value. |
| Ease of Use Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Ease of Use' aspect of each app. | 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. Winner in this category | 6.0 When Cool VPN Pro works as intended, it's reasonably easy to use. The basic concept is simple: open the app, tap the connect button, and you're protected. For users who just want to bypass regional restrictions without diving into technical settings, the straightforward approach has merit. First-time users can get connected without reading documentation or watching tutorials. The app provides some helpful automation features, like the option to auto-connect when joining specific networks. Setting these up is relatively intuitive, and they work reliably once configured. Server switching is straightforward, with a simple list interface that lets you select your desired location quickly. However, ease of use breaks down when things don't work smoothly. A significant number of recent reviews mention getting stuck on loading screens, particularly the "network optimization" phase. When connection attempts fail, error messages are often vague and don't provide actionable solutions. This creates frustration, especially for less technical users who don't know how to troubleshoot VPN connection issues. The free version's ad interruptions also impact usability. Users report that ads appear when trying to connect or switch servers, adding friction to what should be a seamless process. Additionally, the distinction between free and premium features isn't always clear upfront, leading to confusion when certain servers or options are locked behind the paywall. |
| Security & Privacy Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Security & Privacy' aspect of each app. | 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. Winner in this category | 5.5 Cool VPN Pro claims a no-logs policy, stating it doesn't track or keep logs of user activities. The app advertises a "high safe encryption algorithm" for securing connections on public Wi-Fi. These are standard VPN privacy claims, but the lack of transparency about specific encryption protocols raises concerns. Unlike premium VPN services that undergo independent security audits and publish detailed transparency reports, Cool VPN Pro provides limited information about its security practices. The privacy policy exists but isn't as comprehensive or clear as what you'd find with established providers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. There's no mention of independent audits or third-party verification of their no-logs claims. The app requires various permissions, which is normal for VPN functionality, but the privacy implications of the extensive ad network integration in the free version aren't clearly disclosed. When you're using a VPN partly for privacy, having multiple advertising SDKs tracking your behavior creates an inherent contradiction. Premium subscribers avoid this issue, but free users should be aware of the trade-off. The company is registered in Singapore (HOPE DEVE PTE. LTD.), which has reasonable data protection laws, but it's not in a jurisdiction known for strong privacy protections like Switzerland or Iceland. The lack of clear information about server ownership (owned vs. rented) and data handling practices makes it difficult to fully assess the privacy posture. For users primarily concerned with bypassing geo-restrictions rather than maximum privacy, these concerns may be less critical. |
| Conclusion A summary of our findings and final thoughts for each app. | 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. | Cool VPN Pro finds itself at a crossroads. While it has built a substantial user base of over 10 million downloads and maintains a historically strong 4.8-star rating, the recent performance decline tells a different story. The sharp drop to 3.86 stars in the most recent 100 reviews reflects growing frustration with connection failures, excessive advertisements, and reliability issues that have emerged over time. For users primarily seeking to bypass internet restrictions in regions with heavy censorship, Cool VPN Pro still serves a purpose, particularly given its lower price point and accessibility through a free tier. The app works adequately for some users, especially those who successfully connect and maintain stable sessions. However, the inconsistent performance makes it difficult to recommend with confidence. The core issue is reliability. A VPN needs to work when you need it, and Cool VPN Pro increasingly fails this fundamental test. The frequent connection failures, long optimization delays, and server availability problems create an unpredictable experience. When you're paying for a service—even a budget one—you should expect consistent functionality. If you're considering Cool VPN Pro, we'd recommend exploring more established alternatives first. NordVPN and ExpressVPN cost more but deliver significantly better reliability and performance. Brave Private Browser offers integrated VPN features with better transparency, while AVG Secure VPN provides a straightforward, reliable option without the connection issues. The money saved on Cool VPN Pro's lower pricing may end up costing you more in time and frustration dealing with a service that doesn't consistently deliver on its promises. |
| Our Recommendation | ||
