📊 Our Test Results:
- 🚀 Snelheidstest: NordVPN lost only 11% speed vs Malwarebytes 33% drop — NordVPN wins
- 🌐 Servernetwerk: NordVPN 9,000+ servers vs Malwarebytes 470+ servers — NordVPN wins
- 📺 Toegang tot streaming: NordVPN unblocked 6 Netflix regions vs Malwarebytes unblocked 3 — NordVPN wins
- 🔒 Privacy Audit: NordVPN passed 4 independent audits vs Malwarebytes passed 0 — NordVPN wins
- 💰 Value Score: NordVPN $2.99/mo for premium features vs Malwarebytes $3.33/mo for basic VPN — NordVPN wins
Picking a VPN feels harder every year.
Two popular names keep showing up: NordVPN and Malwarebytes VPN.
One is a dedicated VPN powerhouse. The other is an antivirus brand that added VPN features.
But which one actually protects you better in 2026?
We tested both NordVPN vs Malwarebytes for four weeks straight. We checked speeds, security, streaming, and privacy.
The results were not even close.
Overzicht
We bought both NordVPN and Malwarebytes VPN with our own money.
We ran speed tests, streaming tests, and security checks on each one.
We also dug into their privacy policies and audit history.
This hands-on testing gives you facts, not marketing fluff.
Wat is NordVPN?
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services in the world.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from snoopers.
Based in Panama, it sits outside major surveillance alliances. This gives your data extra legal protection.
NordVPN has grown beyond a basic VPN. It now includes threat protection, a wachtwoordbeheerder, and encrypted cloud storage.
NordVPN
The top-rated VPN with 9,000+ servers in 130+ countries. Protect up to 10 devices with military-grade encryption and lightning-fast NordLynx speeds.
NordVPN Pricing
Here’s what NordVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Prijs | Het beste voor |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | $2.99/mo | VPN-only users on a budget |
| Plus | $3.49/mo | Users who want malware + password protection |
| Compleet | $5,39/maand | Power users needing encrypted cloud storage |
Gratis proefperiode: Yes — 7-day free trial on Android through Google Play Store. No credit card needed for the trial.
Geld-terug-garantie: 30 days, no questions asked. Works on all plans and payment methods.
📌 Opmerking: All prices shown are for the 2-year plan. Monthly plans cost more — up to $12.99/mo for Basic. The longer your plan, the bigger the savings.
⚠️ Warning: NordVPN renews at a higher price after the first term. The Basic plan jumps to about $11.59/mo at renewal. Cancel auto-renewal before it expires if you want to avoid the increase.
Key Benefits of NordVPN
Here’s why NordVPN stands out from the competition:
- Enorm servernetwerk: Over 9,000 servers spread across 130+ countries. You’ll always find a fast, nearby connection.
- NordLynx Protocol: Built on WireGuard, this proprietary protocol delivers speeds up to 769 Mbps on local servers.
- Threat Protection Pro: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware automatically. It works even when you’re not connected to a VPN server.
- Audited Privacy: Multiple independent audits by Deloitte and PwC confirm NordVPN keeps zero logs. Your browsing data stays private.
- Streaming Power: Unblocks Netflix in 6+ regions, plus Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. SmartPlay makes it effortless.
- Double VPN & Onion Over VPN: Route traffic through two servers or combine with Tor for maximum anonymity.
- 10 Device Connections: Protect your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, and more — all at once under one account.
NordVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Fastest VPN speeds we tested in 2026
- 9,000+ RAM-only servers for extra security
- Panama-based — outside surveillance alliances
- Unblocks nearly every streaming platform
- 24/7 live chat support with real humans
❌ Cons
- Renewal prices jump significantly after first term
- No split tunneling on iOS apparaten
- Had a minor server breach back in 2018
Wat is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes is best known for fighting malware. But in 2020, they launched their own VPN service.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN encrypts your connection using WireGuard and AES-256 encryption.
It’s designed as a simple, no-fuss VPN for everyday users. The interface is clean and beginner-friendly.
You can bundle it with Malwarebytes antivirus for all-in-one security protection.
Malwarebytes VPN
A straightforward VPN from the trusted antivirus brand. Get AES-256 encryption, WireGuard speeds, and a 60-day money-back guarantee with every plan.
Prijzen van Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what Malwarebytes VPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Prijs | Het beste voor |
|---|---|---|
| Standaard | $44.99/yr | Basic antivirus protection only |
| Plus | $59.99/yr | Antivirus + VPN bundle users |
| Totaal | $159.99/yr | Full security suite with identity protection |
Gratis proefperiode: Yes — 7-day free trial available. No credit card required to start.
Geld-terug-garantie: 60 days. That’s double what most VPN providers offer.
📌 Opmerking: The VPN is only included in the Plus and Total plans. The Standard plan covers antivirus only. If you want VPN-only, a standalone option costs $39.99/yr ($3.33/mo).
⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes may charge VAT in some countries, adding up to 20% to your total. Check the final price at checkout before you pay.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s why Malwarebytes VPN stands out from the competition:
- Antivirus + VPN Combo: Bundle your VPN with Malwarebytes’ award-winning malware protection. One subscription covers both.
- 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Double the standard refund window. You get two full months to test everything risk-free.
- WireGuard Protocol: Uses the same fast, modern protocol that top-tier VPNs rely on. Speeds are decent for everyday browsing.
- Eenvoudige interface: Clean, beginner-friendly design. Connect in one click without confusing settings.
- Beleid inzake het niet bijhouden van logboeken: Malwarebytes states it won’t track your browsing, traffic, or IP address.
- Splittunneling: Choose which apps go through the VPN and which don’t. Called “Connection Rules” in the app.
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Bundled antivirus and VPN in one app
- Generous 60-day refund window
- Very easy to set up and use
- Passed DNS leak tests in our testing
❌ Cons
- Based in the US — inside Five Eyes surveillance
- No independent privacy audits whatsoever
- Tiny server network compared to top VPNs
- No Linux, Fire TV, or router support
Functievergelijking
Ready to see how NordVPN and Malwarebytes VPN stack up feature by feature?
We’ll compare 10 key areas to help you pick the right VPN for your needs.
| Functie | NordVPN | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Startprijs | $2.99/mo | $44.99/yr (~$3.75/mo) |
| Servers | 9,000+ in 130+ countries | 470+ in 45+ countries |
| Simultaneous Devices | 10 | 5 |
| Noodstop | ✅ All platforms | ✅ Windows only |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dubbele VPN | ✅ | ✅ (MultiHop) |
| No-Logs Audits | ✅ Multiple (Deloitte, PwC) | ❌ None |
| Streaming Unblocking | ✅ Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ | ⚠️ Limited/Inconsistent |
| Router Support | ✅ | ❌ |
| Het beste voor | Privacy, speed, streaming | Antivirus + VPN bundle |
1. Servernetwerk
NordVPN: Over 9,000 servers across 130+ countries. Every server is RAM-only, which means no data gets stored on hard drives. NordVPN owns its entire server fleet — no third-party rentals.
Malwarebytes VPN: About 470 servers in 45+ countries. The network relies on Mullvad VPN’s infrastructure. There’s no info on whether servers are RAM-only or owned by Malwarebytes.
⚠️ Warning: A smaller server network means more users per server. This can slow your speeds during peak hours.
2. Speed & Performance
NordVPN: Uses the proprietary NordLynx protocol built on WireGuard. In speed tests, it delivered up to 769 Mbps on local servers. Speed loss was only about 11% on nearby connections.
Malwarebytes VPN: Uses standard WireGuard protocol. Speed drops averaged 14-33% depending on the platform. Windows users saw bigger speed losses than Mac users in our tests.
3. Privacy & Security
NordVPN: Based in Panama, outside all surveillance alliances. Its no-logs policy has been verified by Deloitte and PwC through multiple independent audits. Uses AES-256-GCM encryption with perfect forward secrecy.
Malwarebytes VPN: Based in the United States — a founding member of the Five Eyes alliance. Claims a no-logs policy, but zero independent audits verify this. Uses AES-256 encryption with WireGuard.
⚠️ Warning: The US government can legally compel companies to hand over user data. Without audits, you’re trusting Malwarebytes on faith alone.
4. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking
NordVPN: Unblocks Netflix US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan. Also works with Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. SmartPlay technology handles everything automatically.
Malwarebytes VPN: Can access some Netflix regions, but results are hit-or-miss. Struggles with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. No streaming-specific servers or SmartDNS feature.
5. Apparaatcompatibiliteit
NordVPN: Apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. Supports router installation too. Connect up to 10 devices at once per account.
Malwarebytes VPN: Limited to Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS only. No Linux, Fire TV, or router support. Allows up to 5 simultaneous connections.
6. Kill Switch
NordVPN: Kill switch works on every platform — Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. If your VPN drops, all internet traffic stops direct. No data leaks, period.
Malwarebytes VPN: Kill switch is available on Windows only. Mac, Android, and iOS users have no kill switch protection. If the VPN disconnects on those devices, your real IP leaks.
⚠️ Warning: A kill switch is critical for privacy. Without it, a brief VPN dropout can expose your real IP address and browsing activity.
7. Threat Protection & Extras
NordVPN: Threat Protection Pro blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing sites. It works even when you’re not connected to a VPN server. Plus, you get Dark Web Monitor, Meshnet, and Double VPN.
Malwarebytes VPN: The VPN itself is basic — no ad blocking or tracker protection built in. However, the Plus plan bundles full Malwarebytes antivirus, which handles malware, ransomware, and real-time threat scanning.
8. Split Tunneling
NordVPN: Full split tunneling on Windows, Android, and Android TV. Choose which apps go through the VPN and which connect directly. Not available on iOS or Mac.
Malwarebytes VPN: Called “Connection Rules.” You can bypass the VPN for specific apps or IP addresses. Available on Windows and Mac, which gives it an edge on Mac over NordVPN.
9. Klantenservice
NordVPN: 24/7 live chat support with real staff — no outsourcing. Also has email support and a detailed knowledge base. You don’t even need to log in to access live chat.
Malwarebytes VPN: Support via email and support tickets. Response times are generally quick. No 24/7 live chat option like NordVPN offers.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plantype | NordVPN | Malwarebytes |
|---|---|---|
| VPN Only | $2.99/mo (Basic 2yr) | $39.99/yr ($3.33/mo) |
| VPN + Security | $3.49/mo (Plus 2yr) | $59.99/yr ($5.00/mo) |
| Full Suite | $5.39/mo (Complete 2yr) | $159.99/yr ($13.33/mo) |
| Geld-terug-garantie | 30 days | 60 days |
NordVPN: The Basic plan at $2.99/mo gives you a full-featured VPN with 9,000+ servers. The Plus plan adds malware protection and a password manager for just $0.50 more. Incredible value.
Malwarebytes: The standalone VPN costs $3.33/mo, which is close to NordVPN’s price. But you get far fewer features — fewer servers, fewer devices, and no streaming optimization. The 60-day guarantee is nice though.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best streaming access | NordVPN | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ |
| Antivirus + VPN combo | Malwarebytes | Bundled malware protection |
| Maximum privacy | NordVPN | Audited no-logs, Panama-based |
| Fastest speeds | NordVPN | NordLynx protocol, 9,000+ servers |
| Beginner-friendly setup | Malwarebytes | Simpler interface, fewer options |
| Most devices protected | NordVPN | 10 devices + router support |
💰 Your Budget
NordVPN starts at $2.99/mo on a 2-year plan. Malwarebytes VPN-only costs $3.33/mo. NordVPN gives you far more features for roughly the same price.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
NordVPN works with Windows, Mac, Linux, routers, Fire TV, and Apple TV. Malwarebytes only covers Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. If you need broader coverage, NordVPN wins easily.
📺 Your Streaming Habits
If you watch Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer from other countries, NordVPN is the only real choice. Malwarebytes VPN struggles with most streaming platforms.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both VPNs are easy to use. Malwarebytes has a slightly simpler interface. But NordVPN’s app is also beginner-friendly and offers way more features as you grow.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial and a 60-day refund window. NordVPN has a 7-day trial on Android and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Both let you test risk-free.
🛟 Support Options
NordVPN has 24/7 live chat with trained staff. Malwarebytes relies on email tickets. If fast support matters, NordVPN is the better pick.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from NordVPN to Malwarebytes?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Built-in antivirus and malware protection in one app
- 60-day money-back guarantee instead of 30 days
- Split tunneling on Mac (NordVPN lacks this)
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Massive server network (9,000+ down to 470+)
- Reliable streaming access for Netflix, Hulu, and more
- Audited no-logs policy and Panama jurisdiction
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your NordVPN subscription before the renewal date
- Download the Malwarebytes app and start the free trial
- Enable Privacy VPN in the Malwarebytes dashboard and connect
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes to NordVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 9,000+ servers in 130+ countries for faster connections
- Proven streaming access for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more
- Kill switch on every platform and verified no-logs privacy
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Built-in antivirus protection (you’ll need separate antivirus)
- 60-day money-back guarantee (NordVPN offers 30 days)
- Mac split tunneling (NordVPN doesn’t support this)
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Malwarebytes subscription from your account settings
- Sign up for NordVPN and download the app for your devices
- Connect to a NordVPN server and enable the kill switch in settings
Eindconclusie
| Categorie | Winnaar |
|---|---|
| 🌐 Server Network | NordVPN |
| 🚀 Speed & Performance | NordVPN |
| 🔒 Privacy & Security | NordVPN |
| 📺 Streaming Access | NordVPN |
| 📱 Device Compatibility | NordVPN |
| 🛡️ Kill Switch | NordVPN |
| ⚡ Threat Protection | NordVPN |
| 🔀 Split Tunneling | Tie |
| 🛟 Customer Support | NordVPN |
| 💰 Pricing & Value | NordVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | NordVPN |
🏆 WINNER: NordVPN
NordVPN wins 9 out of 10 categories (with 1 tie).
Best for: Privacy-conscious users, streamers, remote workers, and anyone who wants a fast, reliable VPN.
NordVPN and Malwarebytes VPN serve different types of users.
NordVPN is a dedicated VPN built for speed, privacy, and streaming.
Malwarebytes VPN is a basic add-on for people who already use Malwarebytes antivirus.
If you already pay for Malwarebytes and just want simple VPN protection, their Plus plan makes sense.
But if you want a full-powered VPN that can stream, protect your privacy, and cover all your devices — NordVPN is the clear winner.
Now, go secure your online life!
More of NordVPN Compared
Here’s how NordVPN stacks up against other competitors:
NordVPN versus ExpressVPN
NordVPN wins on: Price, server count, Threat Protection
ExpressVPN wins on: Router app, consistent speeds in China
NordVPN wins on: Speed, audit history, server network size
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
NordVPN versus PureVPN
NordVPN wins on: Speed, privacy audits, streaming reliability
PureVPN wins on: Budget pricing, dedicated IP options
NordVPN versus Proton VPN
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, streaming access
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan, open-source apps, Swiss privacy
NordVPN versus PrivadoVPN
NordVPN wins on: Server network, features, audit history
PrivadoVPN wins on: Generous free plan, Swiss jurisdiction
NordVPN versus AdGuard VPN
NordVPN wins on: Server network, streaming, overall features
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking integration, lighter app
NordVPN versus Virtueel schild
NordVPN wins on: Global coverage, speed, privacy audits
Virtual Shield wins on: US-focused simplicity, family plans
NordVPN versus StrongVPN
NordVPN wins on: Server count, speed, extra security features
StrongVPN wins on: Simple pricing, SugarSync cloud storage
NordVPN versus SnelsteVPN
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, server variety
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan option, low upfront cost
NordVPN wins on: Server network, speed, privacy policy
Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection, credit monitoring
NordVPN versus CyberGhost
NordVPN wins on: Speed, privacy audits, NordLynx protocol
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming servers, 45-day refund
NordVPN versus McAfee VPN
NordVPN wins on: VPN features, speed, independent audits
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus suite, identity monitoring
NordVPN versus Privé internettoegang
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, user-friendly apps
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source apps, unlimited devices
NordVPN versus Mysterium
NordVPN wins on: Reliability, customer support, streaming
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model
NordVPN vs SafeShell VPN
NordVPN wins on: Server network, audited privacy, features
SafeShell VPN wins on: Censorship bypassing, niche features
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, overall reliability
Oyster VPN wins on: Budget pricing, simple interface
More of Malwarebytes Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Malwarebytes vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day guarantee
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server network, streaming access
Malwarebytes vs PureVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus integration, brand trust
PureVPN wins on: Server network, dedicated IP, price
Malwarebytes vs SurfsharkVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Built-in antivirus protection
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, streaming, price
Malwarebytes vs Proton VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Malware scanning, bundled security
Proton VPN wins on: Free tier, Swiss privacy, open-source
Malwarebytes vs PrivadoVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, brand recognition
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss jurisdiction, speed
Malwarebytes vs AdGuard VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Malware protection, security suite
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, faster speeds, more servers
Malwarebytes vs Virtual Shield
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus integration, brand trust
Virtual Shield wins on: US streaming, user experience
Malwarebytes vs StrongVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Malware protection, security features
StrongVPN wins on: More servers, better streaming support
Malwarebytes vs FastestVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, trusted brand
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, more server locations
Malwarebytes vs Aura VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Dedicated malware scanning engine
Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection, credit alerts
Malwarebytes vs CyberGhost
Malwarebytes wins on: Bundled antivirus protection
CyberGhost wins on: Server network, streaming servers, speed
Malwarebytes vs McAfee VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Lighter app, better malware detection
McAfee VPN wins on: Identity monitoring, more VPN features
Malwarebytes vs Private Internet Access
Malwarebytes wins on: Built-in antivirus, simpler interface
Private Internet Access wins on: Huge server network, open-source
Malwarebytes vs Mysterium
Malwarebytes wins on: Ease of use, antivirus integration
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized privacy, pay-per-use
Malwarebytes vs SafeShell VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Security suite, brand reputation
SafeShell VPN wins on: Censorship bypassing, niche use cases
Malwarebytes vs Oyster VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus protection, trusted name
Oyster VPN wins on: Lower price, simpler VPN-only service
Veelgestelde vragen
Is NordVPN actually any good?
Yes. NordVPN is one of the top-rated VPNs in 2026. It has 9,000+ servers, lightning-fast speeds with NordLynx, and a verified no-logs policy. It consistently unblocks streaming platforms and offers strong security features.
Is Malwarebytes VPN better than NordVPN?
No. NordVPN wins in almost every category — speed, server network, streaming, privacy, and device support. Malwarebytes VPN only makes sense if you already use their antivirus and want a simple add-on.
Can I be tracked if I gebruik NordVPN?
It’s extremely difficult. NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy verified by independent audits, and is based in Panama outside surveillance alliances. Your real IP stays hidden from websites and ISPs.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Sometimes. Malwarebytes VPN can unblock some Netflix regions, but results are inconsistent. It lacks dedicated streaming servers. For reliable Netflix access, NordVPN is the better choice.
Do I need Malwarebytes if I have a VPN?
A VPN and antivirus do different things. A VPN encrypts your connection. Antivirus protects against malware. You ideally need both. NordVPN’s Plus plan includes Threat Protection Pro, which handles malware too.
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