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ProtonVPN vs Malwarebytes VPN 2026: I Tested Both — Here’s the Truth

por | Last updated Mar 14, 2026

Ganhador
Logotipo do ProtonVPN
4.5
  • Swiss Privacy Laws Protection
  • 8,600+ Servers in 112 Countries
  • VPN Accelerator for Speed
  • Free Plan With No Dados Bonés
  • Audited No-Logs Policy
  • Open-Source Apps on All OS
  • Planos pagos a partir de US$ 2,99/mês
Vice-campeão
malwarebytes
3.5
  • Bundled Antivirus + VPN
  • WireGuard Protocol Built-in
  • AES-256 Encryption Standard
  • MultiHop for Double Security
  • 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • $3.33/mo for Single Device
  • Paid Plans from $44.99/yr

📊 Our Test Results:

  • 🎯 Rede de servidores: ProtonVPN 8,600+ servers vs Malwarebytes VPN 470+ servers — ProtonVPN wins
  • Teste de velocidade: ProtonVPN lost 11% speed vs Malwarebytes VPN lost 34% speed — ProtonVPN wins
  • 🔒 Privacidade Auditoria: ProtonVPN passed third-party audit vs Malwarebytes VPN has none — ProtonVPN wins
  • 📝 Acesso via streaming: ProtonVPN unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer vs Malwarebytes VPN fails most platforms — ProtonVPN wins
  • 💰 Plano gratuito: ProtonVPN offers free unlimited bandwidth vs Malwarebytes VPN has no free plan — ProtonVPN wins
ProtonVPN vs. Malwarebytes VPN

Are you struggling to pick the right VPN for your online privacy?

Two popular names keep coming up: ProtonVPN and Malwarebytes VPN.

One is a privacy-first VPN from Switzerland. The other is a VPN built into an antivirus brand.

They serve very different users. And the winner is clear after testing.

Let’s break down the strengths and weaknesses so you can choose the right tool.

Visão geral

To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested ProtonVPN vs Malwarebytes VPN side by side.

We spent weeks using each VPN on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

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

Here’s our honest breakdown to help you make the right choice.

O que é o ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service from the team behind Proton Mail.

It is based in Switzerland, which has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world.

Switzerland is not part of any international surveillance alliances like Five Eyes.

ProtonVPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from trackers.

It has over 8,600 servers spread across 112 countries.

The apps are open-source, so anyone can inspect the code for security flaws.

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

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN gives you Swiss-grade privacy with 8,600+ servers in 112 countries. It offers a free plan with no data caps. Paid plans start at just $2.99/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Preços do ProtonVPN

Here’s what ProtonVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.

PlanoPreçoIdeal para
Livre$0.00/monthBasic browsing with no budget
MaisUS$ 2,99/mêsFull VPN access for most users
IlimitadoUS$ 7,99/mêsAll Proton apps in one bundle
Preços do ProtonVPN

Teste grátis: Yes. The free plan lasts forever with no credit card needed.

Garantia de reembolso: 30 days on all paid plans. Refunds are prorated.

📌 Observação: The Unlimited plan includes Proton Mail, Proton Drive, Proton Calendar, and Proton Pass. It’s great value if you want all Proton apps in one bundle.

⚠️ Warning: After the first billing cycle, ProtonVPN renews at the standard price of $9.99/month. Turn off auto-renewal to avoid the price jump.

Key Benefits of ProtonVPN

Here’s why ProtonVPN stands out from other VPN providers:

  • Swiss Privacy Laws: ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland. This means no forced data sharing with governments or surveillance alliances.
  • Rede de servidores massiva: Over 8,600 servers in 112 countries give you fast connections from almost anywhere in the world.
  • Política de não registro de logs auditada: Third-party audits confirm that ProtonVPN does not store or share your browsing data.
  • Open-Source Apps: All ProtonVPN apps are open-source. Security experts can inspect the code at any time.
  • Servidores centrais seguros: Your traffic routes through privacy-friendly countries before reaching the final server. This adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Free Plan With No Catch: The free plan has no data caps, no ads, and no speed limits. Very few VPNs offer this.
  • Suporte para streaming: ProtonVPN unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and more on paid plans.
ProtonVPN homepage

ProtonVPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Free plan with unlimited bandwidth and no ads
  • 8,600+ servers across 112 countries for global coverage
  • Audited no-logs policy backed by Swiss privacy laws
  • Open-source apps on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux
  • Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video
❌ Cons
  • Free plan limits you to one device and five server locations
  • Customer support is email-only with no live chat option
  • Renewal prices jump to $9.99/month after the first term

O que é o Malwarebytes VPN?

Malwarebytes VPN is a privacy add-on from the popular antivirus company Malwarebytes.

It’s officially called Malwarebytes Privacy VPN.

The VPN uses WireGuard protocol and AES-256 encryption to protect your connection.

It has over 470 servers in 45+ countries.

Malwarebytes VPN is best known as a bundle option with Malwarebytes antivirus software.

It works on Windows, macOS, iOSe Android.

Malwarebytes review | Should you get it in 2026?

VPN Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes Privacy VPN bundles antivirus and VPN protection into one plan. It uses WireGuard protocol with AES-256 encryption. Plans start at $44.99/yr with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Preços do Malwarebytes VPN

Here’s what Malwarebytes VPN costs in 2026. Plans are billed yearly only.

PlanoPreçoIdeal para
Padrão$44.99/yrVPN-only protection on few dispositivos
Mais$59.99/yrAntivirus + VPN bundle
Total$159.99/yrFull identity and device protection

Teste grátis: Yes. Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial for the Privacy VPN.

Garantia de reembolso: 60 days on all paid plans. This is double what most VPNs offer.

📌 Observação: The Plus plan bundles antivirus and VPN together. If you need both, it saves money over buying them separately.

⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes charges VAT in some countries. This can add up to 20% to your total price. There is no monthly billing option available.

Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN

Here’s why some users choose Malwarebytes VPN:

  • Antivirus + VPN Bundle: Malwarebytes lets you combine antivirus and VPN in one plan. This simplifies your security setup.
  • WireGuard Protocol: The VPN uses WireGuard, which is one of the fastest VPN protocols available today.
  • MultiHop Feature: You can route traffic through two servers in different countries. This adds an extra layer of security.
  • 60-Day Money-Back: Most VPNs offer 30 days. Malwarebytes gives you double that to test the service risk-free.
  • Interface simples: The apps are clean and easy to use. Even beginners can connect in seconds.
  • Connection Rules: You can set specific apps to bypass the VPN. This is helpful for banking or local services.
Página inicial do Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Bundles antivirus and VPN for all-in-one protection
  • 60-day money-back guarantee is generous
  • WireGuard protocol for fast local connections
  • MultiHop and split tunneling on desktop apps
❌ Cons
  • Only 470+ servers vs 8,600+ for ProtonVPN
  • Cannot unblock most streaming services
  • Based in the US (Five Eyes surveillance alliance member)
  • No third-party security audits for the VPN
  • No free plan and no monthly billing option

Comparação de recursos

Ready to see how ProtonVPN and Malwarebytes VPN stack up feature by feature?

We’ll compare 8 key areas to help you decide which VPN fits your needs.

RecursoProtonVPNVPN Malwarebytes
Preço inicial$0.00/month (free)$44.99/yr (~$3.75/mo)
Plano Gratuito
Server Count8,600+ in 112 countries470+ in 45+ countries
Suporte para streaming✅ Netflix, BBC, Prime❌ Fails most platforms
Interruptor de segurança✅ All platforms✅ Windows only
Third-Party Audit✅ Verified❌ None
Túneis divididos✅ Desktop only
Open-Source Apps
Ideal paraPrivacy, streaming, global accessBundled antivirus + VPN

1. Rede de Servidores

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has over 8,600 servers in 112 countries. This is one of the largest VPN networks available. More servers mean less crowding and faster speeds for you.

ProtonVPN Hide Your IP

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN has about 470 servers in 45+ countries. This is far smaller than most paid VPNs. Fewer servers can lead to slower speeds during peak hours.

⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes uses Mullvad VPN’s server network. Some reviewers call it a less capable version of Mullvad at a similar price.

2. Privacy and Security

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland with strict no-logs policy. Independent audits confirm they store no user data. All apps are open-source for full transparency.

ProtonVPN Swiss Legal Protection

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN is based in the US. The US is a member of the Five Eyes surveillance alliance. There are no third-party audits to verify its privacy claims.

3. Velocidade e desempenho

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN includes VPN Accelerator technology. It boosts speeds using advanced networking tricks. Speed drops on nearby servers are around 10-15%.

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

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN uses WireGuard for decent local speeds. But tests show 34% speed drops on nearby servers and up to 62% on distant ones.

💡 Test Result: ProtonVPN kept 89% of our base speed on nearby servers. Malwarebytes VPN only kept 66%. That’s a big gap for streaming or gaming.

4. Streaming Support

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. It has dedicated streaming servers on paid plans.

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN does not support streaming. It fails to access Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Their own support page tells users to turn off the VPN when streaming.

VPN de privacidade do Malwarebytes

5. Device Support

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, and Apple TV. You can connect up to 10 devices at once on paid plans.

ProtonVPN DNS Leak Protection

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN only works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It does not support Linux, routers, Fire TV Stick, or gaming consoles.

6. Interruptor de segurança e proteção contra vazamentos

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a kill switch on every platform. It also includes DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection to keep your real IP hidden at all times.

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN has a kill switch, but only on Windows. The mobile apps do not have this feature. This is a serious gap for mobile users.

ProtonVPN No-Logs Policy

7. Torrenting and P2P

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has dedicated P2P servers for torrenting. It also offers port forwarding to speed up downloads. The no-logs policy keeps your activity private.

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

VPN Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes VPN allows torrenting on all servers. But it has no dedicated P2P servers, no port forwarding, and no SOCKS5 proxy for faster downloads.

8. Pricing & Cost

Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.

RecursoProtonVPNVPN Malwarebytes
Plano Gratuito$0.00/month (forever)❌ No free plan
Cheapest Paid$2.99/month (2-year)$44.99/yr (~$3.75/mo)
Mid-Tier$7.99/month (Unlimited)$59.99/yr (Plus bundle)
Premium$9.99/month (monthly)$159.99/yr (Total plan)
Teste grátisFree plan forever7 days
Money-Back30 days60 days

ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN offers a genuinely free plan. The paid Plus plan at $2.99/month gives you 8,600+ servers and streaming access. The Unlimited plan at $7.99/month includes all Proton apps.

VPN Malwarebytes: The Standard VPN-only plan is $44.99/yr for one device. The Plus bundle at $59.99/yr adds antivirus. The pricing scales up based on device count, which can get expensive fast.

Malwarebytes Browser Guard

Different Scenarios

If You Need…ChooseWhy
A free VPNProtonVPNOnly free plan with no data caps
Streaming accessProtonVPNUnblocks Netflix, BBC, Prime
Antivirus + VPN bundleVPN MalwarebytesAll-in-one security package
Maximum privacyProtonVPNSwiss laws, audited, open-source
Largest server networkProtonVPN8,600+ servers vs 470+
Longest refund windowVPN Malwarebytes60-day money-back guarantee

💰 Your Budget

ProtonVPN has a free plan with no data limits. Malwarebytes VPN has no free option at all. If cost matters, ProtonVPN wins before you spend a dollar.

🔌 Your Tech Stack

ProtonVPN works on Linux, Android TV, and Apple TV. Malwarebytes VPN only covers four platforms. If you use Linux or smart TVs, pick ProtonVPN.

📝 Your Privacy Needs

ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland with audited no-logs policy. Malwarebytes VPN is based in the US with no audits. Journalists and activists should pick ProtonVPN.

🎓 Your Experience Level

Both VPNs are easy to use. Malwarebytes is slightly simpler, but ProtonVPN’s interface is also beginner-friendly with clear server selection.

🆓 Free Trials and Demos

ProtonVPN offers a free plan forever. Malwarebytes gives you 7 days. Start with ProtonVPN’s free plan to test without risk.

🛟 Support Options

ProtonVPN offers email support and a detailed help center. Malwarebytes has ticket-based support with solid response times. Neither offers live chat.

Switching Guide

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

🔄 Switching from ProtonVPN to Malwarebytes VPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • Bundled antivirus and malware protection in one app
  • 60-day money-back guarantee instead of 30 days
  • MultiHop feature for routing through two server countries

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • Access to 8,600+ servers in 112 countries (down to 470+)
  • Streaming support for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video
  • Swiss privacy protection and audited no-logs policy

📋 How to switch:

  1. Cancel your ProtonVPN subscription from your Proton account settings
  2. Download Malwarebytes Privacy VPN from malwarebytes.com
  3. Choose your plan and install the app on your devices
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to ProtonVPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • 8,600+ servers in 112 countries for faster global coverage
  • Streaming access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime
  • Swiss privacy laws and audited no-logs policy

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • Bundled antivirus protection (need separate antivirus)
  • 60-day money-back guarantee (ProtonVPN offers 30 days)
  • Browser Guard and identity theft protection features

📋 How to switch:

  1. Request a refund from Malwarebytes within 60 days of purchase
  2. Create a free ProtonVPN account at protonvpn.com
  3. Upgrade to the Plus plan for full features or stay on the free plan

Veredicto final

CategoriaGanhador
💰 PricingProtonVPN
🚀 Server NetworkProtonVPN
⚡ SpeedProtonVPN
🎯 Privacy & SecurityProtonVPN
📺 StreamingProtonVPN
🔌 Device SupportProtonVPN
🛡️ Antivirus BundleVPN Malwarebytes
🏆 Overall WinnerProtonVPN

🏆 WINNER: ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN wins 7 out of 8 categories.

Best for: Privacy-focused browsing, streaming access, global server coverage, and budget users who want a free VPN.

ProtonVPN and Malwarebytes VPN serve very different purposes.

ProtonVPN is a full-featured, privacy-first VPN backed by Swiss laws and open-source code.

Malwarebytes VPN is a basic VPN add-on for people who already use Malwarebytes antivirus.

Malwarebytes VPN is a decent choice if you want antivirus and VPN in one package.

But if you need a dedicated VPN for privacy, streaming, or global access, ProtonVPN is the clear winner.

Now, go out and protect your online privacy!

More of ProtonVPN Compared

Here’s how ProtonVPN stacks up against other competitors:

ProtonVPN vs NordVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy, open-source apps

NordVPN wins on: Server count, speed, live chat support

ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, pricing, transparency

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, customer support

ProtonVPN vs PureVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy, audited no-logs, free plan

PureVPN wins on: Server count, dedicated IP, pricing

ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy laws, audit, free plan

SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, price, features

ProtonVPN vs PrivadoVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Server network, streaming, security features

PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan data allowance, pricing

ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Server count, streaming, privacy

AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocker, pricing

ProtonVPN vs Escudo Virtual

ProtonVPN wins on: Server count, transparency, free plan

Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, simplicity

ProtonVPN vs StrongVPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Server network, privacy, free plan

StrongVPN wins on: Router support, WireGuard speed

ProtonVPN vs VPN mais rápida

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy, server count, streaming

FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan option, pricing

ProtonVPN vs Aura VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Server network, speed, transparency

Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection bundle, simplicity

ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy laws, open-source, free plan

CyberGhost wins on: Server count, dedicated streaming servers

ProtonVPN vs McAfee VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Privacy, speed, server network

McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, device limits

ProtonVPN vs Acesso privado à internet

ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss privacy, audit, free plan

Private Internet Access wins on: Server count, pricing

ProtonVPN vs Mistério

ProtonVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, ease of use

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

ProtonVPN vs SafeShell VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Server count, privacy, reputation

SafeShell VPN wins on: Censorship bypass, niche features

ProtonVPN vs Oyster VPN

ProtonVPN wins on: Transparency, server network, privacy

Oyster VPN wins on: Pricing, dedicated IP options

More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared

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

Malwarebytes VPN vs NordVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day guarantee

NordVPN wins on: Speed, servers, streaming, features

Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, pricing

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, global access

Malwarebytes VPN vs PureVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, simplicity

PureVPN wins on: Server count, streaming, dedicated IP

Malwarebytes VPN vs SurfsharkVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, malware protection

SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, speed, streaming

Malwarebytes VPN vs PrivadoVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, malware scanning

PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, streaming, pricing

Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, identity protection

AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, speed, pricing

Malwarebytes VPN vs Virtual Shield

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus features, brand recognition

Virtual Shield wins on: Speed, server coverage

Malwarebytes VPN vs StrongVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, simplicity

StrongVPN wins on: Speed, router support, server network

Malwarebytes VPN vs FastestVPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, security scanning

FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, streaming, pricing

Malwarebytes VPN vs Aura VPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Malware scanning, AdwCleaner

Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection, credit monitoring

Malwarebytes VPN vs CyberGhost

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, simplicity

CyberGhost wins on: Server network, streaming, speed

Malwarebytes VPN vs McAfee VPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Malware detection rate, AdwCleaner

McAfee VPN wins on: Device coverage, identity features

Malwarebytes VPN vs Private Internet Access

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, simplicity

Private Internet Access wins on: Servers, speed, open-source

Malwarebytes VPN vs Mysterium

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Ease of use, antivirus features

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

Malwarebytes VPN vs SafeShell VPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Brand trust, antivirus bundle

SafeShell VPN wins on: Censorship bypass, speed

Malwarebytes VPN vs Oyster VPN

Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus features, brand recognition

Oyster VPN wins on: Dedicated IP, streaming, pricing

Perguntas frequentes

Is Proton VPN safe to use?

Yes. ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland with strong privacy laws. It has passed third-party security audits. All its apps are open-source for full transparency.

Is Proton VPN actually free?

Yes. ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited bandwidth. There are no ads and no data caps. You are limited to one device and five server locations on the free plan.

Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?

Malwarebytes VPN is decent for basic privacy. It uses WireGuard and AES-256 encryption. But it has a small server network and cannot unblock streaming services. Dedicated VPNs like ProtonVPN offer far more features.

Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?

No. Malwarebytes VPN does not support streaming. It fails to unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Their own support page suggests turning off the VPN when streaming.

Which is better NordVPN or Proton VPN?

Both are great VPNs. NordVPN has more servers and faster speeds. ProtonVPN has better privacy with Swiss laws, open-source apps, and a free plan. Choose based on whether speed or privacy matters more to you.

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Fahim Joharder, Founder

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