Best for streamers and beginners

4.6

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On CyberGhost's website

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CyberGhost

• Has an extensive server network of 7,000+ servers
• Its user interface stands out for simplicity and ease of use
• Only allows for seven simultaneous connections

Best for security-conscious users

4.9

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On Proton VPN's website

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Proton VPN

• Displayed faster download and upload speeds than CyberGhost
• Allows for 10 simultaneous connections
• Doesn't provide 24/7 live chat

As more people embrace the digital world, protecting your online privacy becomes more important. But with a vast array of VPN services available, picking the right one can be a daunting task. Two of the most popular choices are CyberGhost VPN and Proton VPN. Both offer unique benefits, so your choice would be dependent on your preferences and needs.

In our comprehensive face-off of CyberGhost vs. ProtonVPN, we'll compare their costs, features, and pros and cons. By the end, you should have a clearer idea of which VPN provider best suits your digital needs.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN at a glance

Upon initial comparison, one might struggle to find substantial differences between CyberGhost and Proton VPN. Both provide top-tier encryption, worldwide servers, and a strict no-logs policy. But as we dive deeper, unique attributes emerge, painting a clearer picture of how each distinguishes itself.

• CyberGhost: Best for streamers and beginners
• Proton VPN: Best for security-conscious users

How do CyberGhost and Proton VPN compare?

	CyberGhost Our Pick	Proton VPN
Starting price	Starting at $2.03/mo	Starting at $4.99/mo (for paid plans)
Max # of connected devices	Up to 7	Up to 10
24/7 customer support
Compatibility	Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Chromebook, Android TV, Fire TV, Apple TV, gaming consoles	Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Chromebook, Android TV
# of servers	7,000+	+2,900
VPN protocol	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?
Learn more	Get CyberGhost Read CyberGhost Review	Get Proton VPN Read Proton VPN Review

In terms of cost, CyberGhost offers a lower starting price of $2.03/mo, while Proton VPN starts at $4.99/mo. Both offer different subscription lengths with discounts for longer-term commitments, so users looking to save money on a VPN would need to consider their long-term usage. However, CyberGhost allows only for seven simultaneous connections, while Proton VPN allows for 10.

CyberGhost stands out with its massive server network of over 7,000 servers, while Proton VPN offers less than half of that, with over 2,900 servers. CyberGhost also offers 24/7 customer support, which ProtonVPN unfortunately lacks.

Both CyberGhost and Proton VPN offer a strict no-logs policy. This means that they do not keep any record of your online activities, ensuring the privacy of your data. In terms of VPN protocols, they both utilize OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the WireGuard protocol, known for its optimal balance of speed and security.

Another vital factor for many users is the ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix. Both CyberGhost and Proton VPN successfully unblock Netflix, so you can access content that might be restricted in your region.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: prices

Reviewed by Ryan L. Clancy

“In terms of cost, CyberGhost offers a lower starting price of $2.11/mo, while Proton VPN starts at $4.99/mo. Both offer different subscription lengths with discounts for longer-term commitments, so users looking to save money on a VPN would need to consider their long-term usage. However, CyberGhost allows only for seven simultaneous connections, while Proton VPN allows for 10.”

When comparing prices between CyberGhost and Proton VPN, CyberGhost’s starting price is a more attractive deal for those on a budget. Its prices range from a reasonable $2.03/mo for a two-year plan through $12.99/mo for a one-month plan.

Proton VPN has a slightly higher starting price of $4.99/mo for its two-year plan but costs only $9.99/mo for its one-month plan. While the higher price point is justified by the premium features and services, it might be a deterrent if you’re looking for a budget-friendly VPN. Proton does offer a competitive month-by-month price and even has a free plan that comes with access to 57 servers. However, Proton Free lacks most of the features you would require in a VPN and doesn’t have high speed.

Both providers offer a money-back guarantee, giving you some time to try the service without risk. CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, while Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. With this time, you can try out the VPNs before making a final decision.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: features

CyberGhost and Proton VPN are closely matched when it comes to key features. They both have robust no-logs policies, which ensure your online activities aren't tracked or stored. As a demonstration of their commitment to user privacy, both VPNs have undergone independent audits to confirm these no-logs claims —CyberGhost by Deloitte and Proton VPN by SEC Consult.

Both providers use OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, which are all reliable and secure VPN protocols. Both also use industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption, confirming top-tier security for your data.

Both VPNs also deliver another crucial feature, the kill switch. This feature instantly cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental exposure of your real IP address or personal data. Both VPNs also support split tunneling, allowing you to decide which apps use the VPN and which don’t — this is beneficial for managing network speed and accessing local and international services simultaneously.

For streaming and torrenting enthusiasts, both VPNs have robust support. They can unblock Netflix, enabling you to access content that might be unavailable in your region. Additionally, they both support torrenting activities, which is great for users who share large files.

While CyberGhost offers a larger number of servers, both VPNs have a wide distribution of servers globally, which is essential for reliable and speedy connections. In terms of jurisdiction, CyberGhost is based in Romania, and Proton VPN is based in Switzerland — and both countries are known for strong privacy laws.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: streaming support

Both CyberGhost and Proton VPN display robust capabilities for unblocking a range of popular streaming platforms. They both reliably unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max, so you can stream content from these platforms regardless of your location. This ability to bypass geo-restrictions is a massive plus for international viewers who want to access regional content.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: internet speeds

Speed is crucial when choosing a VPN. A good VPN should provide excellent security without significantly hampering your internet speed. To gauge the performance of CyberGhost and Proton VPN, we conducted speed tests using a Windows 10 device on a fiber-optic internet connection.

We measured both download and upload speeds across four popular server locations: the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia. This variety helped us understand the overall consistency of speed performance for each VPN, taking into account the user's geographical distance.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN speed test results 

Proton VPN demonstrated significantly higher download and upload speeds across all tested locations compared to CyberGhost. Higher speeds are preferable for activities such as streaming, gaming, or downloading large files to ensure a smoother, lag-free experience.

CyberGhost performed better in our latency tests, with noticeably lower latency across all server locations. This could translate into a more responsive online experience, especially in real-time applications.

Latency refers to the delay (in milliseconds) in the data being sent and received over your network. In gaming or real-time video chats, a lower latency contributes to a smoother and more responsive experience. VPNs can increase latency due to the extra distance data must travel to reach the VPN server, as well as the processing time used in encryption.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN latency comparison

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: compatibility and ease of use

Both CyberGhost and Proton VPN display excellent compatibility across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. They also support routers and smart devices, ensuring comprehensive coverage for users with diverse device environments. CyberGhost also provides compatibility with an additional variety of smart TV devices (Apple and Amazon fireTV) and gaming consoles (Xbox, Playstation, and Nintendo Switch), while Proton VPN doesn’t.

When it comes to ease of use, CyberGhost has a user-friendly interface that is straightforward and intuitive, making it an excellent choice for VPN beginners. The setup process is simple, and the main controls are easy to navigate. Its one-click connection and automatic server selection make the VPN experience hassle-free for users.

Proton VPN also boasts a clean and uncluttered interface. It provides detailed information about server loads and locations, so you can make informed decisions when connecting. However, some users have reported a slightly steeper learning curve due to the advanced settings and options available, particularly in its secure core servers feature.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: customer service

CyberGhost and Proton VPN both offer comprehensive support tools, including email support, support forums, and detailed online guides. However, a major distinction is CyberGhost's 24/7 live chat, which provides instant, real-time support. This ensures that you can get prompt assistance, day or night. Since Proton VPN does not offer 24/7 live chat, it may delay the resolution of your queries.

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: payment options

When it comes to payment options, both VPN providers provide a range of methods catering to different user preferences. Notably, both providers accept cryptocurrency payments, which adds an extra layer of privacy, as it allows you to maintain anonymity.

CyberGhost payment options

• Credit cards
• PayPal
• Cryptocurrency
• Amazon Pay
• BitPay
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay

Proton VPN payment options

• Credit cards
• PayPal
• bitcoin
• Bank transfer
• Cash

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN FAQs

CyberGhost vs. Proton VPN: which is better?

Both CyberGhost and Proton VPN have their respective strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences.

CyberGhost shines with its extensive server network, ease of use, reliable streaming support, and 24/7 live chat support. It also offers great value for the money, considering its feature-rich service.

On the other hand, Proton VPN offers strong security and privacy features. While it also supports streaming services, it can be somewhat inconsistent. A notable drawback is the lack of 24/7 live chat support, which may delay the resolution of customer queries.

Given its excellent balance of price, features, ease of use, and customer support, CyberGhost emerges as the overall winner in this comparison. While Proton VPN is a solid choice, particularly for advanced users valuing high-end security features, CyberGhost provides a more well-rounded service that caters to a broader range of users, making it our top recommendation.

4.6

Save 84% on 2 years + 4 months free

Learn More

On CyberGhost's website

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CyberGhost

• Cheaper than ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark
• Optimized servers for regional streaming
• No split tunneling feature

Author Details

Ryan L. Clancy

About the Author

Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.