

⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Malwarebytes VPN starts at $44.99/yr. AdGuard VPN starts at $2.40/month on its 2-year plan.
- Best for: Malwarebytes suits people who already run its antivirus. AdGuard suits budget users who want to block ads.
- Key difference: Malwarebytes runs on WireGuard and Mullvad’s servers. AdGuard uses a proprietary protocol plus DNS ad blocking.
- Our pick: AdGuard VPN for most users. It adds a free plan, 10 devices, and wider platform support.

Malwarebytes VPN and AdGuard VPN come from security brands, not VPN providers.
Malwarebytes built its name on antivirus software.
AdGuard built its name on blocking ads.
Both now sell a virtual private network on the side.
But they aim at very different people.
Overview
This Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN comparison covers price, speed, privacy, streaming, and device support.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and user reviews for both VPN services.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those notes appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
By the end, you’ll know which one fits your online privacy needs.
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is the VPN from the makers of Malwarebytes antivirus.
The company started as an anti malware solution for Windows devices.
It’s a security brand first and a VPN company second.
Today, Malwarebytes products cover antivirus, Browser Guard, identity protection, and a VPN.
So how does Malwarebytes Privacy VPN work?
It runs on the WireGuard protocol with AES-256 encryption.
That keeps your online activities hidden from your internet provider.
Behind the scenes, Malwarebytes servers come from Mullvad’s network.
Apps cover Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Here’s a quick video walkthrough of the app.

Malwarebytes VPN
A simple WireGuard VPN from a known security brand. It pairs neatly with Malwarebytes antivirus. Good if you want one bill for security and privacy.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Here’s what Malwarebytes costs in 2026. Every plan bills yearly.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $59.99/yr | Basic protection on a budget |
| Plus | $79.98/yr | Users who want more privacy tools |
| Total | $89.99/yr | Full security plus identity protection |
Pricing verified October 2026.

Free trial: Yes. A 7-day trial period lets you test it first.
Money-back guarantee: You get a 60-day money back guarantee on paid plans.
📌 Note: Malwarebytes offers no discounts on Privacy VPN plans. It takes PayPal and credit or debit cards, but not crypto. VAT can add up to 20% in some countries.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list standalone Privacy VPN plans by device count. They show $39.99/yr for one device, $49.99 for three, and $59.99 for five. Each tier has all the same features. Confirm the final price at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what makes Malwarebytes VPN worth a look:
- Fast WireGuard Protocol: WireGuard is lighter than older VPN protocols. That usually means quicker connections.
- MultiHop Routing: You can send traffic through two servers in different countries. Your traffic never exits from the same server it entered.
- Connection Rules: Certain apps or IP addresses can skip the VPN. Review sites say this works best in the Windows version.
- Kill Switch: It blocks all traffic if the VPN connection drops. Your real IP address stays hidden.
- No-Logs Policy: It doesn’t store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. A private DNS server handles lookups without tracking.
- Antivirus Pairing: Malwarebytes protects your devices from malware too. One Malwarebytes account manages both.
- Helpful Support: Review sites say the support team replies quickly. Hit issues downloading the app? A support ticket gets fast help.

What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Malwarebytes Privacy VPN and used the desktop app daily. Here’s what stood out:
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- WireGuard protocol keeps the app light and quick
- MultiHop and Connection Rules add useful control
- 60-day money back guarantee beats most VPNs
- Bundles neatly with Malwarebytes antivirus
❌ Cons
- Small network of 470+ servers in 45+ countries
- Struggles with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- US-based with no third party audits yet
- No apps for Linux, routers, or gaming consoles
What is AdGuard VPN?
AdGuard VPN is a VPN service from AdGuard Software Limited.
It’s best known for AdGuard products like its ad blocker and AdGuard DNS.
AdGuard puts privacy and ad blocking under one roof.
So how does AdGuard VPN work?
The VPN hides your IP address by routing traffic through a remote server.
It encrypts your traffic with AES-256 and masks your real location.
Instead of WireGuard, it runs its own proprietary protocol.
You get apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Android TV.

Watch this short review to see the AdGuard VPN app in action.

AdGuard VPN
A budget VPN with built-in ad and tracker blocking. Start free with 3 GB every month. Paid plans cover up to 10 devices.
AdGuard VPN Pricing
AdGuard offers three AdGuard VPN subscription plans. Longer terms cost less per month.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short trips or quick testing |
| 1 Year | $3.99/month | Regular users who want savings |
| 2 Years | $2.40/month | Long-term users on a budget |
Pricing verified October 2026.

Free trial: No trial, but the free version gives you 3 GB per month. It caps speeds at 20 Mbps and unlocks only a few server locations. That’s tight for data intensive tasks.
Money-back guarantee: The yearly and 2-year plans carry a 30-day money back guarantee. That lets you test a long plan risk free. The monthly plan isn’t covered.
📌 Note: The yearly plan bills $47.88 up front. Every paid plan covers 10 simultaneous connections. AdGuard takes credit cards, PayPal, and crypto.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list the 2-year plan at $119. That works out to about $2.99 per month. Promotions change often, so confirm at checkout.
Key Benefits of AdGuard VPN
Here’s what makes AdGuard VPN worth considering:
- Ad and Tracker Blocking: It routes lookups through DNS servers that block ads and trackers. You can also pair it with the AdGuard Ad Blocker.
- Free Plan: The free version gives you 3 GB every month. That’s enough to test before you buy AdGuard VPN.
- 10 Devices: One AdGuard account covers 10 devices at once. That fits a phone, laptop, tablet, and TV with room to spare.
- Cyprus Headquarters: AdGuard is based in Cyprus, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances. It also follows GDPR rules.
- Censorship-Resistant Protocol: The protocol disguises VPN traffic as normal HTTPS. That helps on strict networks.
- Kill Switch and Split Tunneling: The kill switch stops leaks if the VPN drops. Split tunneling lets certain websites skip the tunnel.
- Wide Platform Support: Apps run on almost every major operating system. Browser extensions cover Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

What Our Team Noticed
Our writer tested AdGuard VPN on a Windows PC and an Android phone. Here’s what stood out:

AdGuard VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with 3 GB of data every month
- Blocks ads and trackers at the DNS level
- Covers 10 devices on every paid plan
- Based in Cyprus, outside the 14 Eyes alliance
- Easy to use apps on almost every platform
❌ Cons
- No WireGuard or OpenVPN, only a proprietary protocol
- Speeds can drop hard on distant servers
- No 24/7 live customer support
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN plays out? We’ll compare nine important features, then pricing.
| Feature | Malwarebytes VPN | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $44.99/yr | $2.40/month |
| Free Plan | ❌ (7-day trial) | ✅ 3 GB/month |
| Protocol | WireGuard | Proprietary |
| Servers | 470+ in 45+ countries | 65+ locations in 53 countries |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ (Connection Rules) | ✅ |
| Built-In Ad Blocking | ❌ (Browser Guard is separate) | ✅ DNS-level |
| Linux App | ❌ | ✅ |
| Third-Party Audit | ❌ | ❌ |
| Headquarters | USA (5 Eyes) | Cyprus (outside 14 Eyes) |
| Best For | Malwarebytes antivirus users | Budget users who hate ads |
1. VPN Protocol and Speed
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes uses WireGuard, a modern protocol built for quick connections. Still, independent speed tests show drops of 34% on nearby servers. Distant servers lost about 62%.

AdGuard VPN: The AdGuard VPN protocol is proprietary, so there’s no WireGuard or OpenVPN. AdGuard VPN’s performance depends on distance. Nearby servers lose around 20%, and one paid test averaged 58.73 Mbps. One test on a US server fell from 65 Mbps to 10 Mbps.
⚠️ Warning: Neither tool is the fastest VPN for long-distance links. Expect slow speeds far from home, and pick a nearby server for better connection speeds.
2. Server Network
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers 470+ servers across 45+ countries. That’s smaller than many VPNs, and review sites criticize the limited choice. The servers come from Mullvad, and critics call it a more basic Mullvad.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard lists 65+ locations in 53 countries, with 800+ worldwide servers. That’s wider country coverage than Malwarebytes. Free users only get a handful of locations, though.
3. Privacy and Logging
Malwarebytes VPN: So, is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN safe? It follows a no-logs policy and runs its own DNS server. It may keep anonymized data like a public key. Its privacy policy also reads as unclear.

AdGuard VPN: Its strict no logs policy covers IP addresses, browsing history, and timestamps. It collects minimal data only to fix technical issues. Its Cyprus base sits outside the 5/9/14 Eyes and follows GDPR.
⚠️ Warning: Neither VPN has passed third party audits. Malwarebytes is also US-based, a 5 Eyes member, which worries some privacy-minded users.
4. Security Features
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes covers the basics with AES-256 and a kill switch. MultiHop chains two servers in different countries for extra cover. Connection Rules let chosen apps or IPs bypass the VPN.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard also uses AES-256 encryption and a kill switch. Split tunneling lets certain apps or sites skip the VPN tunnel. There’s no MultiHop, and the protocol hasn’t been independently audited.
Both cover the core security measures well. For stronger online security, an audited VPN is the safer bet.
5. Ad and Tracker Blocking
Malwarebytes VPN: The VPN itself doesn’t filter ads. Malwarebytes offers Browser Guard instead, a separate extension that blocks ads and trackers. It works with or without the VPN on.

AdGuard VPN: This is home turf for AdGuard. Does AdGuard VPN block ads? Yes, through DNS servers that filter ads and trackers. Integrated mode adds the AdGuard Ad Blocker to stop pop up window ads too.

Fighting adware already on your PC? Malwarebytes also offers AdwCleaner, a free cleanup tool.

6. DNS Protection
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes sends lookups through a proprietary DNS server that doesn’t track traffic. That keeps your browsing away from your internet provider. It also helps shrink your digital footprint.

AdGuard VPN: AdGuard lets you pick DNS servers that block ads and trackers. AdGuard DNS also works without the VPN. You can even set it on a router to cover every device at home.

7. Streaming, Gaming, and Censorship
Malwarebytes VPN: Unlike other VPNs built for streaming, Malwarebytes has no dedicated streaming servers. Review sites report failures with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Gamers see high ping, and it often fails against censorship in China.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer in several tests. It struggles with Amazon Prime and Peacock, and buffering or connection drops happen. Its HTTPS-style protocol fights censorship, but China remains tough.
💡 Pro Tip: Using a VPN for online gaming or video calls? Connect to a nearby server. Long hops raise ping on both services.
8. Device Compatibility
Malwarebytes VPN: Its desktop and mobile apps cover Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There’s no Linux, Fire TV Stick, router, or console support. Plans top out at five simultaneous connections.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN’s apps cover Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Android TV. Browser extensions run in Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Desktop apps and mobile devices share the same simple layout. Every paid plan supports 10 devices.

9. Extra Tools and Support
Malwarebytes VPN: Higher plans add identity theft protection, a data remover, and dark web monitoring. Support gets good marks for quick replies. That helps when setup hits a snag.

The personal data remover asks data brokers to delete your details.

Dark web monitoring alerts you when your information shows up in leaks.

AdGuard VPN: AdGuard adds Temp Mail for throwaway email addresses. Support runs through a ticketing system, with no 24/7 live chat. Expect slower help when something breaks.

10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Malwarebytes VPN | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ (7-day trial) | 3 GB/month free plan |
| Entry | Standard: $44.99/yr | 1 Month: $11.99/month |
| Mid | Plus: $59.99/yr | 1 Year: $3.99/month |
| Top | Total: $159.99/yr | 2 Years: $2.40/month |
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes bills yearly only, and there’s no free version of the VPN. The 7-day trial and 60-day refund soften that. Higher tiers mostly add identity tools, not VPN upgrades.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard starts free, and long terms deliver the best value. The monthly plan is pricey by comparison. Still, every paid tier includes all the features and 10 devices.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | AdGuard VPN | Free plan and cheap 2-year term |
| One bill with antivirus | Malwarebytes VPN | Same account as Malwarebytes antivirus |
| Ad-free browsing | AdGuard VPN | DNS-level ad filtering |
| Linux or Android TV | AdGuard VPN | Native apps for both |
| Extra routing privacy | Malwarebytes VPN | MultiHop double-server routing |
| Fast support replies | Malwarebytes VPN | Quick answers to tickets |
| Beginner-friendly | AdGuard VPN | Free tier to learn on |
💰 Your Budget
AdGuard costs less over time and has a free tier. Malwarebytes only wins on price if you want its antivirus bundle.
🔌 Your Devices
AdGuard covers Linux, Android TV, and three major browsers. Malwarebytes sticks to Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
🔒 Your Privacy Priorities
AdGuard’s Cyprus base sits outside surveillance alliances. Malwarebytes offers MultiHop but answers to US law.
🎬 Streaming and Gaming
AdGuard unblocks more streaming platforms in published tests. Neither is a strong pick for low-ping gaming.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both have simple apps with one big connect button. The main controls stay easily accessible, so beginners can use AdGuard VPN free while learning.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Start with AdGuard’s free plan or the Malwarebytes 7-day trial. Both paid plans come with a refund window.
🛟 Support Options
Malwarebytes support earns praise for quick answers. AdGuard relies on tickets without round-the-clock help.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to AdGuard VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A free plan and cheaper long-term pricing
- Built-in ad and tracker blocking
- Apps for Linux and Android TV
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The open WireGuard protocol
- MultiHop double-server routing
- Bundled antivirus and identity tools
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off auto-renewal in your Malwarebytes account.
- Download the AdGuard VPN app and create an AdGuard account.
- Turn on the kill switch and set split tunneling rules.
🔄 Switching from AdGuard VPN to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- WireGuard and MultiHop routing
- Faster, friendlier support replies
- One bill with Malwarebytes antivirus
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The free 3 GB plan
- DNS-level ad blocking (use Browser Guard instead)
- Linux, Android TV, and 10-device coverage
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your AdGuard VPN renewal.
- Install the Malwarebytes Windows app, iOS app, or Android app and sign in.
- Set Connection Rules and auto connect for untrusted networks.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users with everyday privacy needs. We didn’t run our own upload speed tests or check for virtual servers. We also didn’t test whether you can download torrents reliably on either service.
Router setups, gaming consoles, and use inside China weren’t part of this review. Everything reflects the October 2026 versions. For more depth, read our full Malwarebytes Privacy VPN review and AdGuard VPN review.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | AdGuard VPN |
| ⚡ Speed | Tie |
| 🔒 Privacy & Jurisdiction | AdGuard VPN |
| 🛡️ Security Features | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🚫 Ad Blocking | AdGuard VPN |
| 🎬 Streaming | AdGuard VPN |
| 🔌 Device Support | AdGuard VPN |
| 🛟 Customer Support | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🎁 Extra Tools | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | AdGuard VPN |
🏆 WINNER: ADGUARD VPN
AdGuard VPN wins 5 out of 9 categories.
Best for: Budget users, ad-free browsing, and homes with many devices
Malwarebytes VPN and AdGuard VPN are both decent, but neither is a premium VPN. Each is an add-on from a brand known for something else.
Malwarebytes is a solid pick if you already run its antivirus. WireGuard, MultiHop, and a long refund window make it a low-risk add-on.
AdGuard VPN gives more to most people. You get a free plan, 10 devices, wider platform support, and real ad blocking.
Want top speeds or reliable streaming? Then look at premium VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN instead. Neither tool here is the best VPN for that job.
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Simpler app, antivirus bundle, and a 60-day refund window
NordVPN wins on: Bigger network, Smart DNS for consoles, Threat Protection, and audited no-logs claims
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, MultiHop routing, and a longer refund window
ExpressVPN wins on: Router apps, stronger streaming, and better results on censored networks
Malwarebytes VPN vs Proton VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: One login for malware protection, an easy interface, and Connection Rules
Proton VPN wins on: Uncapped free plan, Swiss jurisdiction, audited open-source apps, and Secure Core
Malwarebytes VPN vs Surfshark
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Security-first brand, 60-day refund cushion, and a cleaner app for beginners
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, CleanWeb ad blocking, Linux and Fire TV apps, plus audits
More of AdGuard VPN Compared
Here’s how AdGuard VPN stacks up against other competitors:
AdGuard VPN wins on: A free 3 GB tier, ad blocker integration, and Temp Mail
NordVPN wins on: NordLynx speeds, many more servers, 24/7 live chat, and verified audits
AdGuard VPN vs Surfshark
AdGuard VPN wins on: A no-cost plan, a Cyprus base, and ad-focused DNS filtering
Surfshark wins on: No device cap, WireGuard and OpenVPN, round-the-clock chat, and audits
AdGuard VPN wins on: Paid-tier ad filtering, Android TV apps, and a stealth protocol
Proton VPN wins on: Unlimited free data, audited open-source apps, and Secure Core routing
AdGuard VPN vs Private Internet Access
AdGuard VPN wins on: A free tier, a non-US base, and censorship-busting protocol design
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source apps, WireGuard and OpenVPN, unlimited connections, and port forwarding
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN good?
It’s good for basic privacy, especially if you already pay for Malwarebytes antivirus. Streaming, server count, and device support lag behind premium VPNs.
Does Malwarebytes VPN log data?
No. Its no-logs policy says it doesn’t store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. It may keep anonymized data like a public key, and no audit has verified it.
Is the AdGuard VPN free?
Yes, there’s a free plan with 3 GB of data per month. It caps speeds at 20 Mbps and limits server choice. Paid plans remove those limits.
Is AdGuard a Russian company?
It started in Moscow in 2009. The company is now based in Limassol, Cyprus, outside the 14 Eyes alliance. It follows GDPR rules.
Is AdGuard VPN safe to use?
Yes, for everyday browsing. It uses AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. Its proprietary protocol hasn’t been independently audited, though.













