NordVPN Review: Cost and Pricing Plans in 2025

NordVPN is one of the most recognized names in the virtual private network (VPN) market, boasting millions of users worldwide. With its promise of secure browsing, exceptional speed, and a user-friendly experience, it’s no surprise that NordVPN has become a go-to choice for individuals seeking online privacy and security. In this NordVPN review, we’ll evaluate its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right VPN for you.

Pros

• Advanced security features, including Double VPN
• Fast speeds with NordLynx protocol
• Extensive server network for global coverage
• User-friendly interface
• Supports streaming and torrenting

Cons

• Monthly plan is relatively expensive compared to other VPNs on the market
• Certain advanced features may require a learning curve

Features

Double VPN

For an added layer of security, NordVPN offers Double VPN functionality, which routes traffic through two separate VPN servers, encrypting data twice. This dual-layer encryption is particularly advantageous for users concerned about privacy in restrictive regions or those handling highly sensitive information.

Onion Over VPN

Integrating the Tor network with VPN security, the Onion Over VPN feature routes user traffic through a NordVPN server and then through the Tor network. This combination provides enhanced anonymity by encrypting data multiple times and dispersing it through a series of volunteer-operated servers, making it extremely difficult to trace.

Threat Protection Pro

This feature functions as an integrated cybersecurity tool within the NordVPN application. Threat Protection Pro™ actively scans for malware, blocks intrusive ads, and prevents access to malicious websites. It operates continuously, offering real-time protection by analyzing URLs and downloaded files to detect potential threats, thereby enhancing the overall security of the user’s online experience.

Kill Switch

The Kill Switch feature is a critical security measure that prevents data leaks by disconnecting the device from the internet if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. This ensures that the user’s real IP address and unencrypted data are not exposed during such interruptions, maintaining privacy and security at all times.

DNS Leak Protection

Prevents any DNS queries from being exposed outside the encrypted tunnel, ensuring your ISP cannot monitor your browsing activity.

Strict No-Logs Policy

NordVPN adheres to a verified no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any data about your online activity, connection timestamps, or IP addresses. Regular audits by independent firms further solidify its commitment to privacy.

NordVPN’s security infrastructure also includes RAM-only servers. These servers erase all data upon reboot, ensuring no sensitive user information is stored long-term.

Split Tunneling

Split Tunneling provides users with the flexibility to choose which applications or websites route their traffic through the VPN and which access the internet directly. This is useful for accessing local services while maintaining VPN protection for sensitive activities, optimizing both performance and security.

Meshnet

Meshnet allows users to create a private, encrypted network connecting multiple devices over the internet. This is particularly useful for secure file sharing, collaborative work, or setting up virtual LAN parties. By routing traffic through encrypted tunnels between devices, Meshnet ensures that data remains protected from interception, even across different geographical locations.

Dark Web Monitor

NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor continuously scans dark web forums and marketplaces for credentials associated with the user’s email addresses. If compromised information is detected, the user receives an immediate alert, enabling them to take proactive measures such as changing passwords to prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.

Dedicated IP

For users requiring a consistent IP address, NordVPN offers a Dedicated IP service. This is beneficial for accessing IP-restricted networks, managing online reputations, and avoiding CAPTCHAs. Unlike shared IP addresses, a dedicated IP is exclusively assigned to a single user, reducing the likelihood of being blacklisted due to the actions of others.

Security Protocol and Privacy Standards

NordVPN employs advanced encryption standards to safeguard user data. Utilizing the AES-256-GCM cipher, it ensures that data transmitted through its servers remains confidential and secure. This encryption standard is widely recognized for its robustness against brute-force attacks, providing a high level of security for users. Combined with a 4096-bit Diffie-Hellman key exchange, NordVPN ensures your data remains secure during transmission.

Speed and Performance

NordVPN uses cutting-edge technology to ensure top-tier performance. Its NordLynx protocol, based on the WireGuard framework, offers faster speeds compared to traditional protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec. Here are some key technical details:

Server Infrastructure

With over 7,000 servers in 118 countries, NordVPN optimizes server loads to provide consistent speeds. The servers are strategically located to reduce latency and improve connection quality.

Obfuscated Servers

NordVPN’s obfuscated servers are designed to operate in regions with heavy internet censorship. They mask VPN traffic to appear as regular internet traffic, thereby bypassing network restrictions and allowing users to access blocked websites and services without detection.

Connection Speeds

In performance tests, NordVPN’s download speeds averaged around 480 Mbps on a 500 Mbps connection when using NordLynx. Upload speeds were similarly impressive, maintaining over 95% of the original speed.

SmartPlay Technology

SmartPlay is NordVPN’s solution for accessing geo-restricted streaming content. It combines VPN technology with Smart DNS, automatically rerouting user requests through the appropriate servers to bypass regional restrictions, ensuring a seamless and secure streaming experience.

P2P Optimization

NordVPN’s specialized servers for peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing are designed to handle large amounts of data, providing smooth and efficient torrenting experiences.

Server Switching

NordVPN’s automatic server switching ensures you’re always connected to the best available server, minimizing downtime and improving performance.

Ease of Use

NordVPN’s intuitive interface makes it an excellent choice for both VPN novices and experienced users. Available on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, the software is easy to install and navigate. Features like Quick Connect allow users to establish a secure connection in just one click.

NordVPN Pricing and Plans

NordVPN offers several plans that vary in price depending on features and duration.

Prime Plan

• 2-Year Plan: $8.39 per month, billed one-time at $201.26
• 1-Year Plan: $9.99 per month, billed one-time at $119.88
• 1-Month Plan: $17.99 per month

Complete Plan

• 2-Year Plan: $5.39 per month, billed one-time at $129.36
• 1-Year Plan: $6.99 per month, billed one-time at $83.88
• 1-Month Plan: $14.99 per month

Plus Plan

• 2-Year Plan: $4.39 per month, billed one-time at $105.36
• 1-Year Plan: $5.99 per month, billed one-time at $71.88
• 1-Month Plan: $13.99 per month

Basic Plan

• 2-Year Plan: $3.39 per month, billed one-time at $81.36
• 1-Year Plan: $4.99 per month, billed one-time at $59.88
• 1-Month Plan: $12.99 per month

Customer Support

NordVPN’s customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and email. Their extensive knowledge base includes guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips, ensuring help is always within reach.

Compatibility

NordVPN provides applications for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. This wide compatibility ensures that users can maintain a secure and private internet connection across all their devices.

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
• Browsers: Extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
• Other Devices: Smart TVs, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and various routers (manual setup required).

Summary

NordVPN delivers on its promises of exceptional security, fast performance, and versatility. Its extensive server network and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for both casual users and those with advanced needs.

Whether you’re concerned about online privacy, need access to global content, or want to safeguard your data while torrenting, NordVPN stands out as one of the best VPN options on the market. With competitive pricing and a solid reputation, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their online security.