Best NordVPN Alternatives in 2026
NordVPN is our highest-rated VPN overall, but it isn't the right fit for everyone. Whether you want unlimited devices, a lower price, open-source apps, or more streaming access, here are the strongest alternatives - each one leads NordVPN on a specific priority.
The Short Answer
The best overall alternative to NordVPN is Surfshark - it covers unlimited devices at a lower price while still rating 8.9/10. For streaming, choose ExpressVPN; for maximum privacy, ProtonVPN (open source) or Mullvad (anonymous). Pick the one that beats NordVPN on the thing you care about most.
Top NordVPN Alternatives Compared
| Alternative | Rating | Best Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | 8.9/10 | $2.19/mo | Value + unlimited devices |
| ExpressVPN | 9.1/10 | $6.67/mo | Streaming + app polish |
| ProtonVPN | 8.6/10 | $4.49/mo | Open-source privacy + free tier |
| CyberGhost | 8.5/10 | $2.03/mo | Huge network + 45-day refund |
| Mullvad | 8.4/10 | ~$5.50/mo | Anonymous, no-email signup |
1. Surfshark - Best Overall Alternative
Surfshark is the closest like-for-like alternative: a fast, full-featured VPN that costs less and removes NordVPN's 10-device cap entirely with unlimited connections. It unblocks around 12 Netflix regions, includes CleanWeb ad-blocking, and is audited by Deloitte and Cure53. It isn't quite as fast as NordVPN (83% vs 89% retention in our ratings), but for most people the value trade is worth it. See how they stack up in our Surfshark vs NordVPN comparison.
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2. ExpressVPN - Best for Streaming
If you left NordVPN wanting the widest possible streaming access, ExpressVPN is the answer - it unblocks around 20 Netflix regions and includes MediaStreamer Smart DNS for devices that can't run a VPN app. It's the most polished VPN we cover and reliable in censored regions, though it's the priciest option here at $6.67/month.
3. ProtonVPN - Best for Open-Source Privacy
ProtonVPN is the pick for privacy-conscious users: fully open-source apps, a Switzerland base, and a genuinely usable free tier with no data cap. It comes from the Proton Mail team and rates a shade above NordVPN on our privacy score. It's cheaper than NordVPN over the long term, too. Compare directly in our NordVPN vs ProtonVPN breakdown.
4. CyberGhost - Huge Network, Longest Guarantee
CyberGhost is the budget alternative with one of the largest server networks we track (11,500+, behind only PIA), servers labelled by streaming service, and an industry-leading 45-day money-back guarantee. At $2.03/month it's cheaper than NordVPN, though slower in our ratings. Great for beginners who want plenty of servers and a long risk-free window.
5. Mullvad - Best for Anonymity
If your reason for leaving is privacy above all else, Mullvad is the most anonymous option: it issues a random account number instead of asking for an email, accepts cash and cryptocurrency, and is open source and heavily audited. It's not built for streaming, but for pure privacy it's exceptional.
Our Verdict
Here's the honest truth: nothing on this list beats NordVPN across the board, which is why it's still our number one. You switch for a reason, not for an upgrade. If that reason is cost or a house full of devices, Surfshark is the one to get - you lose a little speed and gain unlimited connections at a lower monthly rate. Streaming diehards should spend up for ExpressVPN, privacy hardliners belong on ProtonVPN or Mullvad, and anyone chasing a giant server list with a generous refund window will be happy on CyberGhost.
Risk-free - 30-day money-back guarantee
Risk-free - 30-day money-back guarantee