NordVPN Review: Here's Why We Think It's One Of The Best

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Written by Chris Bibey
Last updated on July 4, 2021

Since its release in 2012, NordVPN has been a popular VPN service for internet users in search of a more private and secure online experience.

It provides desktop applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, along with mobile apps for both iOS and Android. This variety ensures that the majority of people can use the service.

In this NordVPN review, we provide you with the information you need to determine if it’s the right VPN service for you.

Our Verdict

There’s no shortage of fast, reliable, and reputable VPN services to choose from, but NordVPN is in the conversation of being the “best of the best.”

Just the same as any VPN, there are both pros and cons of NordVPN.

Pros

  • Unblocks Netflix, Amazon, and Disney
  • Effective kill switch
  • Speedy live chat support
  • No logging

Cons

  • Basic browser extensions
  • Some UI issues
  • Above-average renewal prices

Overall, the benefits of NordVPN outweigh any potential drawbacks. In many ways, the only thing you need to know is that the service keeps your online activity private and secure.

NordVPN Deals

Many people shy away from using a VPN because of the cost. NordVPN helps with this by providing coupons directly on its website.

Currently, there are three NordVPN deals to choose from:

  • 3-month plan: Save 33% with NordVPN promo code
  • 6-month plan: Save 33% with NordVPN promo code
  • 15-month plan: Save 60% with NordVPN promo code

If you’re going to experiment with NordVPN, you might as well use one of these coupons. Doing so will save you a lot of money, even if you opt for the shortest plan.

NordVPN overview

If you’re looking to get secure and private access to the internet — along with above-average download speeds — look no further than NordVPN.

There are many reasons to use a VPN, such as to securely access personal information while using a public Wi-Fi network, encrypt your internet connection, and keep your browsing history 100 percent private.

Key Features

NordVPN is packed full of all the VPN features you’ve come to expect, as well as some that will surprise you.

  • Secure internet browsing
  • Strict no-logs policy
  • Uninterrupted streaming
  • Privacy on the go with the NordVPN app
  • A network of more than 5,300 NordVPN servers
  • Industry-leading VPN connection speed
  • Split tunneling support
  • Dedicated IP address
  • Mask your IP address
  • Simultaneous connection (up to six devices at once)
  • CyberSec to block malware and ads
  • Worldwide access
  • 24/7 customer support
  • DNS leak protection

These aren’t the only features of NordVPN, but they’re among the most popular.

Plans and Pricing

As noted above, NordVPN generally has several coupon codes to help you save money.

Its standard pricing plans include:

  • 1-month plan: $11.95/month
  • 1-year plan: $4.92/month
  • 2-year plan: $3.67/month plus three months free

The best way to save is to purchase one of the longer-term NordVPN plans. With a two-year plan, for example, you pay a third of the one-month plan price.

Security and Privacy

One of the top reasons to use a VPN is to keep your online activity secure and private. And that’s exactly what you get with NordVPN.

Once you connect to one of 5,300 NordVPN servers, you can rest assured that everything you do is secure and private.

For example, NordVPN masks your IP so no one can track your online activity. Along with this, you get a dedicated IP address that’s used by you and no one else.

NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t track, collect, or share your private data.

And of course, the NordVPN kill switch is a popular feature, as it makes sure your data is never exposed — even if you lose connection.

Servers and Server Locations

There are more than 5,300 NordVPN servers located throughout the world. This is one of the largest selections you’ll find, ensuring that you obtain a fast and reliable connection no matter where you are.

Currently, NordVPN has VPN servers in 59 countries.

Other points of interest include:

  • NordVPN has p2p servers for p2p sharing in many countries.
  • NordVPN native applications automatically use custom DNS servers when connected.
  • NordVPN is a solid choice if you’re seeking a VPN for torrents.

NordVPN Performance Testing

In addition to security and privacy, you’re also interested in performance. While this means something different to everyone, download speed always comes into play.

With so many servers to choose from — in 59 countries — you can always find one that suits your performance requirements.

A quick test across numerous locations at different times of the day resulted in an average download speed of 110 Mbps.

Using NordVPN with Netflix and Other Streaming Sites

Watching Netflix and other streaming sites in a secure environment is easier said than done. You need a fast, reputable, and reliable VPN service to do so.

NordVPN is designed to work with almost every streaming site imaginable. With servers in six countries that offer Netflix streaming, you always have another option.

Note: servers are regularly blocked, so you may need to search around to find one that suits your requirements.

Does NordVPN Support Torrents?

You can use all of the most popular torrent clients with NordVPN.

As far as VPNs for torrents are concerned, NordVPN is a leader thanks to its comprehensive suite of security features.

How Easy is it to Set up NordVPN Apps?

This is one of the many areas in which NordVPN excels.

All you have to do is find the NordVPN in the applicable app store, download it, and sign in.

From there, look for the “quick connect” button located in the top right corner.

NordVPN for Windows

NordVPN is designed for use with Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.

If you’re running on one of these operating systems, click the quick connect button and NordVPN will find the best server.

NordVPN for MacOS

NordVPN for MacOS allows you to protect your internet activity on your Apple device.

You have the option to connect to NordVPN with a click of your mouse or have it automatically launch when you turn your computer on.

NordVPN Android app

As one of the fastest and highest-rated VPN apps for Android devices, NordVPN is a popular choice.

With this app, you never again have to choose between security and speed. You can keep your private network while you access the internet on the go.

NordVPN iOS app

When using an iPhone or iPad, the NordVPN iOS app is available to keep your online activity safe and secure.

One click is all it takes to find the best VPN server for you at that time.

NordVPN browser extensions

There are several NordVPN browser extensions to consider, such as those for Chrome and Firefox.

You don’t necessarily need to use a browser extension, but it may come in handy, such as when watching videos or movies in your browser.

Customer Support

In addition to a robust online library of help guides, NordVPN customer support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

With industry-leading live chat response times, there’s always help to be had. You can ask questions about everything from NordVPN plans to how to use a p2p server and everything in between.

NordVPN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

As noted in the section above, if you have any questions, you can always reach out to NordVPN’s dedicated customer support team.

Here are some frequently asked questions that you may need to address:

What is a VPN and how does it work? 

A VPN (virtual private network) provides online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a public internet connection.

By sending all your data traffic through an encrypted virtual tunnel, your IP address is disguised and your browsing activity is kept private.

Does NordVPN slow down your internet? 

While your connection speed may be slower when using NordVPN, it’s not something you’ll notice. The service is designed to provide fast download and upload speeds, regardless of your internet activity.

Is it good for online gaming? 

Thanks to its speed and reliability, NordVPN is a top choice for online gaming.

Does it work in China and other countries with internet censorship? 

Unlike many VPN connections, NordVPN works in China and other countries with strict internet censorship policies.

Can you try NordVPN for free? 

Yes, there is a NordVPN free trial for 30 days. You can cancel at any time during this period for a full refund.

How many devices can you use with NordVPN?

With the help of the simultaneous connection feature, you can use up to six devices at the same time.

What is data leak protection?

With data leak protection, you never have to worry about your location being discovered or your online activity being tracked. NordVPN has a DNS leak test on its website to help you see if your internet traffic is fully secure and private.

NordVPN Review: Final Verdict

With the help of our NordVPN review, it should be clear that this VPN service is one of the best in the business.

If secure and private internet use is important to you — and it should be — NordVPN has all the features you need at an industry-competitive price.

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