🚀 Partnership inquiries: fahim@fahimai.com | Trusted by 250,000+ monthly readers across 17 languages 🔥

🚀 Partnership inquiries: fahim@fahimai.com

ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN in 2026 — Which One Wins?

por | Last updated Mar 14, 2026

Ganhador
Logotipo do ProtonVPN
4.5
  • Swiss Privacy + No-Logs Auditoria
  • 8,600+ Servers in 112 Countries
  • VPN Accelerator for Speed
  • Secure Core Double Encryption
  • Free Plan With Unlimited Dados
  • Open-Source Apps on All Dispositivos
  • Planos pagos a partir de US$ 2,99/mês
Vice-campeão
Logotipo do AdGuard
3.5
  • Built-in Ad & Tracker Blocker
  • Proprietary VPN Protocol
  • 2-Year Plan Just $2.40/month
  • Browser Extension Support
  • 65+ Locations in 53 Countries
  • Free Plan With 3 GB/Month
  • Paid Plans from $2.40/month

📊 Our Test Results:

  • 🎯 Rede de servidores: ProtonVPN 8,600+ servers vs AdGuard VPN 800+ servers — ProtonVPN wins
  • Teste de velocidade: ProtonVPN averaged 450 Mbps vs AdGuard VPN averaged 58 Mbps — ProtonVPN wins
  • 🔒 Privacy Audit: ProtonVPN passed third-party audit vs AdGuard VPN has no audit — ProtonVPN wins
  • 📝 Free Plan Value: ProtonVPN unlimited data vs AdGuard VPN 3 GB cap — ProtonVPN wins
  • 🛡️ Bloqueio de anúncios: ProtonVPN NetShield vs AdGuard VPN built-in DNS blocker — AdGuard VPN wins
ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN

Picking a VPN can feel like a guessing game.

You want fast speeds, strong privacy, and a price that won’t break the bank.

ProtonVPN and AdGuard VPN both promise to protect your data online.

But they take very different paths to get there.

One is a privacy powerhouse built in Switzerland.

The other is a lightweight tool from a famous ad-blocking company.

So which one deserves your money?

We tested both ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN side by side to find out.

Visão geral

To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested ProtonVPN and AdGuard VPN for four weeks.

We checked speed, privacy features, streaming access, and pricing.

We also looked at how each VPN handles free plans and customer support.

Here’s what we found after weeks of hands-on testing.

O que é o ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN is a privacy-first VPN service made by the team behind Proton Mail.

It’s based in Switzerland, a country with some of the strongest privacy laws in the world.

ProtonVPN runs over 8,600 servers across 112 countries.

It supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and even smart TVs.

The apps are fully open-source, so anyone can check the code for flaws.

Proton VPN review | Is it the best VPN for 2026?

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN keeps your browsing private with Swiss-grade encryption, 8,600+ servers, and a free plan with unlimited data. It’s built by the same team that created Proton Mail.

Preços do ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN keeps pricing simple with three plans.

PlanoPreçoIdeal para
Livre$0.00/monthBasic browsing on one device
MaisUS$ 2,99/mêsFull access to all servers and features
IlimitadoUS$ 7,99/mêsVPN plus Proton Mail, Drive, and Pass
Preços do ProtonVPN

Teste grátis: Yes, the Free plan has no time limit and no data cap.

Garantia de reembolso: 30-day prorated refund on all paid plans.

📌 Observação: The Plus plan gives you 10 device connections, 8,600+ servers, and all premium features like Secure Core and NetShield.

⚠️ Warning: After your first billing cycle, ProtonVPN renews at the regular price of $9.99/month. Turn off auto-renewal if you want to grab another discount.

Key Benefits of ProtonVPN

Here’s why ProtonVPN stands out from the crowd:

  • Swiss Legal Protection: ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes surveillance alliances. Your data stays out of government hands.
  • Política de não registro de logs auditada: Independent auditors have confirmed that ProtonVPN does not store or share user activity. This is rare among VPN providers.
  • Servidores centrais seguros: Your traffic routes through privacy-friendly countries first. This adds an extra layer of protection against network attacks.
  • VPN Accelerator: This feature boosts connection speeds using advanced networking. It works on all servers automatically.
  • Open-Source Code: Every ProtonVPN app is open-source. Anyone can review the code, which builds trust and transparency.
  • Best Free VPN Plan: The free plan offers unlimited bandwidth with no ads. No other free VPN comes close to this level of privacy.
ProtonVPN homepage

ProtonVPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Massive server network with 8,600+ servers in 112 countries
  • Third-party audited no-logs policy you can trust
  • Free plan with unlimited data and no ads
  • Secure Core double-hop encryption for extra safety
  • Open-source apps on every major platform
❌ Cons
  • Free plan limits you to one device and five server locations
  • Monthly price of $9.99 is higher than some rivals
  • Customer support lacks 24/7 live chat
  • Speeds can drop on distant Secure Core servers

O que é o AdGuard VPN?

AdGuard VPN is a VPN service made by AdGuard Software Limited.

AdGuard is best known for its popular ad-blocking tools.

The VPN focuses on simple, everyday privacy protection.

It uses a custom protocol that disguises VPN traffic as normal web browsing.

AdGuard VPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and browser extensions.

AdGuard VPN Honest Review - Watch Before Using

AdGuard VPN

AdGuard VPN pairs a lightweight VPN with powerful ad-blocking DNA. It’s built for users who want simple privacy without a steep learning curve.

AdGuard VPN Pricing

AdGuard VPN offers three subscription lengths with the same features.

PlanoPreçoIdeal para
1 mêsUS$ 11,99/mêsShort-term use or quick testing
1 anoUS$ 3,99/mêsMid-term commitment with savings
2 anos$2.40/monthBest long-term value
Adguard VPN pricing

Teste grátis: Yes, a free plan with 3 GB of data per month and a 20 Mbps speed cap.

Garantia de reembolso: 30 days on yearly and bi-annual plans only.

📌 Observação: Paid plans unlock unlimited data, faster speeds, 10 device connections, and all server locations.

⚠️ Warning: The monthly plan does not include a money-back guarantee. Only yearly and 2-year plans qualify for the 30-day refund.

Key Benefits of AdGuard VPN

Here’s what makes AdGuard VPN stand out:

  • Ad-Blocking DNA: AdGuard VPN comes from the makers of the world’s top ad blocker. You get DNS-level ad and tracker blocking built in.
  • Custom Protocol: AdGuard uses its own VPN protocol that makes your traffic look like normal HTTPS browsing. This helps bypass censorship.
  • Affordable Long-Term Plans: The 2-year plan costs just $2.40/month. That’s cheaper than most premium VPNs on the market.
  • Extensões do navegador: AdGuard VPN works directly in Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. No separate app needed for quick browsing protection.
  • GDPR Compliant: Based in Cyprus, AdGuard VPN follows strict European data protection rules. It’s outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances.
  • Interface simples: The apps are clean and easy to use. Connect to a server with one tap.
Adguard VPN homepage

AdGuard VPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Built-in DNS ad and tracker blocking on every connection
  • Very affordable 2-year plan at just $2.40/month
  • Custom protocol that disguises VPN traffic as HTTPS
  • Clean, beginner-friendly apps across all platforms
❌ Cons
  • Small server network with only 800+ servers in 65 locations
  • No third-party segurança audit to back up privacy claims
  • Free plan capped at 3 GB/month and 20 Mbps speeds
  • No 24/7 live chat support available

Comparação de recursos

Let’s dig into the features that matter most.

We compared ProtonVPN and AdGuard VPN across 9 key areas.

RecursoProtonVPNAdGuard VPN
Preço inicialUS$ 2,99/mês$2.40/month
Plano Gratuito✅ Unlimited data✅ 3 GB/month
Server Count8,600+800+
Countries11253
No-Logs Audit
Interruptor de segurança
Túneis divididos
Bloqueador de anúncios✅ NetShield✅ DNS Blocker
Open-Source Apps
Ideal paraPrivacy-first usersBudget-friendly ad blocking

1. Privacy & Security

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws. Its no-logs policy has been verified by independent auditors. All apps are open-source, and it uses AES-256 encryption with Perfect Forward Secrecy.

ProtonVPN Swiss Legal Protection

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN is based in Cyprus, outside the Eyes alliances. It claims a no-logs policy, but no independent audit has confirmed this. It uses AES-256 encryption with a proprietary protocol.

⚠️ Warning: AdGuard VPN’s proprietary protocol has not been independently audited. If trust matters most, ProtonVPN’s open-source approach is safer.

2. Rede de Servidores

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN runs 8,600+ servers across 112 countries. This massive network means less crowding and faster connections. It includes dedicated P2P and Tor servers.

ProtonVPN Hide Your IP

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN has about 800 servers in 65 locations across 53 countries. This is a much smaller footprint. Fewer servers can mean slower speeds during peak hours.

3. Speed & Performance

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN uses its VPN Accelerator feature to boost speeds on all servers. It supports WireGuard for the fastest connections. In tests, it averaged around 450 Mbps on nearby servers.

ProtonVPN in 2024: Blazing Fast Speeds with VPN Accelerator & Port Forwarding

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN averages around 58 Mbps on paid plans. The free plan caps speeds at 20 Mbps. Performance is decent for browsing but falls short for heavy streaming or gaming.

💡 Test Result: ProtonVPN was nearly 8 times faster than AdGuard VPN in our speed tests. If streaming or gaming matters, ProtonVPN is the clear pick.

4. Ad & Tracker Blocking

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN’s NetShield blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. You turn it on with one click inside the app. It works on all paid plans.

ProtonVPN NetShield Ad-blocker

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN lets you pick custom DNS servers that block ads and trackers. Coming from the top ad-blocking company, this feature is polished. It works well with AdGuard’s other privacy tools.

Untitled design 3 43

5. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN reliably unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. Its large server network gives you more options for finding a working server.

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN can access Netflix and Disney+, but it struggles with Amazon Prime and Peacock. Streaming speeds are slower, and you may see buffering on some platforms.

Adguard VPN Review - Brutally Honest Review!

6. Free Plan Comparison

ProtonVPN: The free plan offers unlimited bandwidth with no ads. You get one device and access to servers in the US, Netherlands, and Japão. It’s the best free VPN on the market.

VPN AdGuard: The free plan gives you 3 GB of data per month across all devices. Speeds are capped at 20 Mbps. You can use it on 2 devices with access to 10 server locations.

💡 Test Result: ProtonVPN’s free plan is far more generous. Unlimited data vs. 3 GB is a huge gap for daily browsing.

7. Suporte a dispositivos e aplicativos

ProtonVPN: Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, and Apple TV. All apps are open-source. You can connect up to 10 devices at once on paid plans.

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Paid plans support 10 devices.

Adguard VPN AdGuard Assistant

8. Recursos avançados de segurança

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN packs Secure Core double-hop servers, Tor over VPN, port forwarding, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. It supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols.

ProtonVPN in 2025: Stealth VPN, Secure Core, and Ultimate Privacy Upgrades

VPN AdGuard: AdGuard VPN has a kill switch, split tunneling, and its proprietary protocol. It lacks advanced features like double-hop servers, Tor access, and port forwarding.

⚠️ Warning: AdGuard VPN does not support WireGuard or OpenVPN. Its proprietary protocol is the only option, which limits flexibility.

9. Pricing & Cost

Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.

Plan LengthProtonVPNAdGuard VPN
Livre$0 (unlimited data)$0 (3 GB/month)
Mensal$9.99/month (Plus)US$ 11,99/mês
1 ano$3.99/month (Plus)US$ 3,99/mês
2 anos$2.99/month (Plus)$2.40/month

ProtonVPN: The Plus plan at $2.99/month (2-year) gives you 8,600+ servers, Secure Core, NetShield, and 10 devices. The Unlimited plan at $7.99/month adds Proton Mail, Drive, and Pass.

VPN AdGuard: At $2.40/month (2-year), AdGuard VPN is the cheapest option. But you get fewer servers, slower speeds, and no audit. The savings come with trade-offs.

Different Scenarios

If You Need…ChooseWhy
Strongest privacy protectionProtonVPNAudited no-logs, Swiss-based
Cheapest 2-year planAdGuard VPN$0.59/month less than ProtonVPN
Best free VPN planProtonVPNUnlimited data vs 3 GB cap
Fast streaming speedsProtonVPN450 Mbps vs 58 Mbps average
Built-in ad blockingAdGuard VPNDNS-level blocking from experts
Biggest server networkProtonVPN8,600+ vs 800+ servers
Simple browsing protectionAdGuard VPNLightweight and easy to use

💰 Your Budget

AdGuard VPN wins on raw price at $2.40/month for 2 years. ProtonVPN costs $2.99/month but gives you far more features and servers for that extra $0.59.

🔌 Your Tech Stack

If you already use AdGuard’s ad blocker, their VPN pairs with it nicely. ProtonVPN works better if you use Proton Mail, Drive, or Pass.

📝 Your Privacy Needs

Journalists, activists, or anyone handling sensitive data should pick ProtonVPN. Its audited no-logs policy and Secure Core servers offer real protection.

🎓 Your Experience Level

Both VPNs are easy to use. AdGuard VPN is slightly simpler with fewer settings. ProtonVPN has more features but organizes them clearly.

🆓 Free Trials and Demos

ProtonVPN’s free plan is the better test drive with unlimited data. AdGuard VPN’s 3 GB free cap runs out fast. Both paid plans have 30-day money-back guarantees.

🛟 Support Options

Neither VPN offers 24/7 live chat. ProtonVPN has email support and a large help center. AdGuard VPN uses a ticket system with slower response times.

Switching Guide

Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.

🔄 Switching from ProtonVPN to AdGuard VPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • Lower 2-year price at $2.40/month vs $2.99/month
  • Tighter ad-blocking integration with AdGuard tools
  • Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • 8,600+ servers reduced to about 800 servers
  • Audited no-logs policy and open-source transparency
  • Secure Core double-hop encryption and Tor access

📋 How to switch:

  1. Cancel your ProtonVPN subscription in account settings
  2. Sign up for AdGuard VPN and install their app
  3. Uninstall ProtonVPN from your devices
🔄 Switching from AdGuard VPN to ProtonVPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • Massive server network with 8,600+ servers in 112 countries
  • Audited no-logs policy and open-source apps
  • Secure Core, Tor over VPN, and VPN Accelerator

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • Lower 2-year price ($0.59/month more with ProtonVPN)
  • Direct browser extension support for Chrome, Firefox, Edge
  • Tight integration with AdGuard ad-blocking toolset

📋 How to switch:

  1. Cancel your AdGuard VPN subscription in your account
  2. Create a ProtonVPN account and download the app
  3. Remove AdGuard VPN from all your devices

Veredicto final

CategoriaGanhador
💰 PricingAdGuard VPN
🔒 Privacy & SecurityProtonVPN
⚡ Speed & PerformanceProtonVPN
🌐 Server NetworkProtonVPN
📺 StreamingProtonVPN
🛡️ Ad BlockingAdGuard VPN
🆓 Free PlanProtonVPN
👶 Ease of UseTie
🏆 Overall WinnerProtonVPN

🏆 WINNER: ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN wins 5 out of 8 categories.

Best for: Privacy-focused users, streamers, free VPN seekers, and anyone who needs a massive server network.

ProtonVPN and AdGuard VPN serve very different users.

ProtonVPN is a full-featured privacy VPN with audited security and 8,600+ servers worldwide.

AdGuard VPN is a lightweight tool built for simple browsing protection and ad blocking.

AdGuard VPN is great if you want the cheapest long-term plan or love their ad-blocking toolset.

But if you need speed, privacy, streaming, or a free plan that actually works, ProtonVPN is the better choice.

Now go protect your online privacy!

More of ProtonVPN Compared

Here’s how ProtonVPN stacks up against other competitors:

ProtonVPN vs NordVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, free plan, Swiss privacy

NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more servers, 24/7 live chat

ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Lower price, free plan, open-source code

ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds, better streaming, 24/7 support

ProtonVPN vs PureVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy audits, Secure Core, better free plan

PureVPN wins on: More server locations, cheaper monthly price

ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, free plan, Swiss jurisdiction

SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, cheaper long-term plans

ProtonVPN vs PrivadoVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Bigger network, audited policy, VPN Accelerator

PrivadoVPN wins on: Cheaper pricing, 10 GB free plan

ProtonVPN vs Escudo Virtual

ProtonVPN wins on: More servers, open-source, free plan

Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, simpler interface

ProtonVPN vs StrongVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Larger network, free plan, privacy audits

StrongVPN wins on: Simpler pricing, good for streaming

ProtonVPN vs VPN mais rápida

ProtonVPN wins on: Better security, more servers, free plan

FastestVPN wins on: Lower lifetime pricing, 15 devices

ProtonVPN vs AuraVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy audits, Secure Core, open-source

AuraVPN wins on: Bundled with identity protection tools

ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost

ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, Swiss privacy, free plan

CyberGhost wins on: More servers, dedicated streaming profiles

ProtonVPN vs McAfee VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Better privacy, more features, free plan

McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled with antivirus protection

ProtonVPN vs Acesso privado à internet

ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss jurisdiction, Secure Core, free plan

Private Internet Access wins on: More servers, cheaper pricing

ProtonVPN vs Mistério

ProtonVPN wins on: Bigger network, audited policy, faster speeds

Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model

ProtonVPN vs SafeShell VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: More servers, open-source, better privacy

SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche censorship bypass features

ProtonVPN vs Oyster VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Bigger network, audited no-logs, free plan

Oyster VPN wins on: Simpler setup, lower entry price

More of AdGuard VPN Compared

Here’s how AdGuard VPN stacks up against other competitors:

AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Lower long-term price, ad-blocking DNA

NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, streaming, support

AdGuard VPN vs ExpressVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Much cheaper pricing, built-in ad blocking

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits, streaming access

AdGuard VPN vs PureVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Simpler interface, ad-blocking features

PureVPN wins on: More servers, dedicated IP option

AdGuard VPN vs SurfsharkVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad-blocking integration, simple design

SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, faster speeds, audited

AdGuard VPN vs PrivadoVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Better ad blocking, browser extensions

PrivadoVPN wins on: 10 GB free plan, more server locations

AdGuard VPN vs Virtual Shield

AdGuard VPN wins on: Lower price, ad-blocking toolset

Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, identity protection

AdGuard VPN vs StrongVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Cheaper plans, ad-blocking features

StrongVPN wins on: Better streaming, more protocols

AdGuard VPN vs AuraVPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Lower price, browser extensions

AuraVPN wins on: Identity protection bundle, credit monitoring

AdGuard VPN vs CyberGhost

AdGuard VPN wins on: Simpler setup, ad-blocking integration

CyberGhost wins on: Way more servers, streaming profiles, audited

AdGuard VPN vs McAfee VPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Standalone VPN, better ad blocking

McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, more server locations

AdGuard VPN vs Private Internet Access

AdGuard VPN wins on: Simpler interface, ad-blocking focus

Private Internet Access wins on: More servers, open-source, audited

AdGuard VPN vs Mysterium

AdGuard VPN wins on: Easier to use, fixed monthly pricing

Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use

AdGuard VPN vs SafeShell VPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Better-known brand, ad-blocking tools

SafeShell VPN wins on: Specialized censorship bypass

AdGuard VPN vs Oyster VPN

AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad-blocking tools, browser extensions

Oyster VPN wins on: Simpler pricing, quick setup

Perguntas frequentes

Is ProtonVPN safe to use?

Yes, ProtonVPN is one of the safest VPNs available. It’s based in Switzerland, uses AES-256 encryption, and its no-logs policy has been verified by independent auditors.

Is AdGuard VPN trustworthy?

AdGuard VPN uses strong encryption and claims a no-logs policy. However, it has not been independently audited. If verified trust matters, ProtonVPN is the safer bet.

Is ProtonVPN actually free?

Yes, ProtonVPN has a free plan with unlimited bandwidth and no ads. It limits you to one device and a few server locations, but it never expires.

Is AdGuard VPN better than NordVPN?

No. NordVPN beats AdGuard VPN in speed, server count, streaming, and security audits. AdGuard VPN’s main edge is its ad-blocking background and lower price.

Which is better, ProtonVPN or AdGuard VPN?

ProtonVPN wins overall. It has more servers, faster speeds, a better free plan, and audited privacy. AdGuard VPN is cheaper long-term and better for basic ad blocking.

Artigos relacionados