When it comes to online security, privacy, and the ability to access content without geographical restrictions, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are the go-to tools for internet users. Two prominent names in the VPN landscape are Atlas VPN and CyberGhost. Both offer robust security features and compelling performance attributes, making the choice between them a challenge for many.
In this article, we’re going to compare Atlas VPN and CyberGhost, evaluating key factors including pricing, privacy and security, speed, server locations, usability, customer support, and extra features.
| Features | Atlas VPN | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free and premium plans, yearly subscription is more affordable | No free version, monthly, 2-year and 3-year plans, 45-day money-back guarantee |
| Privacy and Security | Uses AES-256 encryption, no-log policy, based in the U.S. | Uses AES-256 encryption, no-log policy, based in Romania |
| Speed | Good | Faster especially with distant servers |
| Server Locations | Covers all major regions | Extensive coverage across more countries |
| Usability | User-friendly, allows fewer simultaneous connections | User-friendly, allows more simultaneous connections |
| Customer Support | Email support, online knowledge base, no live chat | 24/7 live chat support, email support, detailed FAQ section |
| Extra Features | Simple and straightforward | HTTPS forced connections, ad and malware blocker, automatic mobile site redirection |
Pricing
Atlas VPN offers both free and premium plans. The free version gives access to a limited number of server locations but is a great starting point for beginners. The premium subscription includes more server locations and improved speed, but it’s the cost-effectiveness that sets Atlas VPN apart, with its yearly subscription being one of the most affordable on the market.
CyberGhost, on the other hand, doesn’t offer a free version but has more pricing tiers. Their monthly plans might be more expensive, but you can significantly save if you commit to their 2-year or 3-year plans. They also have a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, which is longer than the industry standard.
Privacy and Security
Both Atlas VPN and CyberGhost have a strong focus on privacy and security. They each use AES-256 encryption, which is considered the gold standard for VPNs. This encryption level is virtually uncrackable, providing robust security to users.
Atlas VPN is based in the U.S., which is part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing agreement. Still, the company maintains a strict no-log policy, meaning they do not store user data. CyberGhost is headquartered in Romania, a country outside of the 14 Eyes alliance. This makes CyberGhost potentially more favorable from a jurisdiction standpoint, and they also follow a no-logs policy.
Speed
In terms of speed, both VPNs perform well, but CyberGhost tends to have an edge. It generally offers faster connections, especially when connecting to servers that are geographically distant. The speed differences might not be significant for casual browsing, but for data-intensive activities like streaming or gaming, every bit of speed counts.
Server Locations
CyberGhost outshines Atlas VPN when it comes to the number and distribution of servers. It has a vast network of servers spread across more countries, providing more options for bypassing geo-restrictions. This is not to say that Atlas VPN’s network is insufficient; it covers all major regions, but CyberGhost’s coverage is more extensive.
Usability
Both Atlas VPN and CyberGhost have intuitive interfaces that are user-friendly, even for VPN novices. They offer applications for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Both allow multiple simultaneous connections, although CyberGhost permits more simultaneous connections than Atlas VPN.
Customer Support
Atlas VPN offers email support and an extensive online knowledge base, but they lack live chat support, which is a downside if you require immediate assistance. CyberGhost, on the other hand, offers 24/7 live chat support in addition to email and a detailed FAQ section. This makes CyberGhost’s customer support more accessible and responsive.
Extra Features
CyberGhost has several additional features that Atlas VPN lacks. These include the ability to force HTTPS connections, a built-in ad and malware blocker, and automatic redirection to the mobile versions of websites, conserving data.
Atlas VPN keeps things simple and straightforward, focusing on providing secure, reliable VPN connections without a lot of extra features. This can be a pro or a con, depending on what you’re looking for in a VPN.
Final Conclusion
Both Atlas VPN and CyberGhost offer strong contenders in the VPN market. Your choice between them largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective solution with a free option, Atlas VPN is a great choice. If you need a feature-rich VPN with expansive server coverage and are willing to pay a bit more, CyberGhost is an excellent option.
Remember, the best VPN for you is one that aligns with your unique needs, including your budget, desired level of security and privacy, and the specific features that matter most to you.