Proton VPN Review 2025: Strong on Privacy, Solid on Speed

VPNs aren’t just about unblocking Netflix anymore. These days, it’s about protecting your personal data, avoiding trackers, and staying private — whether you’re streaming from your couch or using public Wi-Fi at the airport.

Proton VPN, created by the team behind Proton Mail, is built around that exact goal: privacy first. And in 2025, it’s improved on a lot of fronts — speeds, transparency, usability — while still keeping a tight focus on security.

But it’s not perfect. Let’s dig into what works, what doesn’t, and whether Proton VPN is right for you.

🔐 Strong Privacy That’s Actually Verified

If staying private is your top concern, Proton VPN does a lot right. It’s based in Switzerland, where strong privacy laws protect users. And unlike many VPNs that just claim “no logs,” Proton VPN has had independent audits to prove it. It only records your login timestamp (and even that resets each time you log in).

All of its apps are open-source, which means anyone can inspect the code — and security researchers have. The company also publishes regular transparency reports and refuses to log or hand over browsing activity. That’s rare.

There’s also real protection built in:

• 256-bit AES encryption (the standard for secure data)
• Kill switch (stops data leaks if your connection drops)
• DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection
• Perfect Forward Secrecy (changes encryption keys each session)

For users in high-risk situations, Proton also includes a feature called Secure Core. It routes your traffic through two servers (instead of one), starting in ultra-secure data centers in places like Iceland and Switzerland. It’s slower — but much more private.

⚡ Fast Speeds — Especially With “VPN Accelerator”

Most VPNs slow down your connection. Proton VPN does too, but it’s a lot better about it than many others.

With the VPN Accelerator feature turned on, we saw speeds drop by about 20% across distant servers — still very usable for HD streaming and large downloads. On nearby servers, the connection was sometimes even faster than our base internet.

It works by using multiple CPU cores and better routing tech, so your traffic reaches its destination quicker. It’s automatically available on every platform, and it’s one of Proton’s standout performance features.

📺 Streaming? You’re Covered (Mostly)

Proton VPN works with over 90 streaming sites, including Netflix (25+ libraries), BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, and Disney+. You’ll need a paid plan to access streaming-optimized servers (called “Plus” servers), but once you’re in — it just works.

There’s no smart DNS, though, so if your device doesn’t support VPN apps (like an older smart TV or Xbox), you’ll need to install Proton VPN on your router. The company has good setup guides, but it still takes a bit of time.

On Apple TV, the dedicated app is simple and fast. We liked the clean interface and quick server switching, but we’d love to see NetShield (Proton’s tracker blocker) added here in the future.

🧲 Torrenting Support Is Solid

If you torrent, Proton VPN has dedicated P2P servers in all 122 countries it operates in. You’ll see a little double-arrow icon next to servers that support file-sharing, so they’re easy to find.

We tested it with qBittorrent, BitTorrent, and Vuze — all worked without any hiccups. Port forwarding is available on Windows and Linux (with manual setup on macOS), and in our tests, it gave us about a 25% speed boost.

There’s also leak protection, NetShield to block ads and fake P2P sites, and a kill switch — all important if you’re downloading torrents.

🎮 What About Gaming?

On local servers, gaming performance was great — low ping, no lag. Distant servers did increase latency (as expected), but it was still playable. Proton VPN also hides your IP, so you’re protected against DDoS attacks during multiplayer games.

If you’re gaming on a console, router setup is your best bet. It works, but competitors like ExpressVPN make it easier with a dedicated router app.

🔧 Features That Add Real Value

Proton VPN comes with a bunch of handy tools:

• NetShield: Blocks ads and trackers
• Split-tunneling: Available on Android, Windows, and browser extensions
• Profiles: Save and auto-load connection settings (like one for gaming or streaming)
• Stealth Protocol: Helps bypass firewalls in places like schools or offices
• Tor over VPN: Lets you visit .onion sites without needing the Tor browser
• Alternative Routing: Tries backup routes if your VPN is being blocked

Plus, there’s Proton Pass, a separate password manager that’s open-source, audited, and pretty full-featured. It includes autofill, secure vaults, password strength checks, email aliases, and even 2FA code support.

💬 Support Is… Okay

Proton VPN has a complete help center with guides and articles. Email support is responsive, but not super fast. And live chat is only available to paid users — and only on weekdays, during European business hours.

If you’re used to 24/7 live chat (like you get with ExpressVPN or PIA), this might be a letdown.

💰 Pricing: Reasonable, With a Free Option Too

Proton VPN has a very usable free plan, with unlimited data and access to servers in five countries. It’s one of the better free VPNs out there, especially for basic use.

Paid plans start at £2.63/month on a two-year deal. All paid plans include the same features — you’re just paying based on how long you commit. There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, but it’s prorated, so you’ll only be refunded for the unused time.

Payment options include card, PayPal, Bitcoin — and even cash if you want to stay fully anonymous.

✅ The Bottom Line

Proton VPN is one of the most privacy-focused VPNs you can get in 2025. It’s not the cheapest or the fastest in every scenario, and it doesn’t work reliably in countries with strict censorship like China. But it’s a trustworthy, tested choice for people who care about real privacy — not just unblocking a show or two.

You’ll get strong security, fast speeds (especially with VPN Accelerator), solid streaming support, and a slick experience across most devices. The free plan is generous. And if you’re paying, it’s a fair price for what you get. Proton also a whole host of other benefits as a package so if you’re in the market for a new password manager, secure email & calendar it might just have the edge at keeping you safe online.

Need a VPN for travel or streaming only? You might prefer something like ExpressVPN. But if privacy, transparency, and user control matter to you, Proton VPN’s a top pick.