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Proton VPN Review: Privacy-Focused VPN with Free and Paid Plans.

Proton VPN review covering free and paid plans, privacy features, Secure Core, NetShield, Linux support and pricing.

90/100TheVPNIndex note
From about $2.99/moStarting price guide
10Device support
Best fit: Privacy-focused users who may also want encrypted email, password manager and cloud storage from the same ecosystem.

Quick verdict

Proton VPN is best viewed as best privacy ecosystem. It is a good candidate if your priorities match its strengths, but you should still test DNS behaviour, app stability, device support and renewal pricing before committing to a long plan.

Main benefits

  • Strong privacy brand and Swiss jurisdiction
  • Free plan available for basic use
  • Includes NetShield and Secure Core on paid plans

Things to check before buying

  • Best speeds and locations require paid plans
  • Full Proton ecosystem costs more than VPN-only use
  • Check whether the advertised price is introductory pricing and what the renewal price will be.
  • Test the provider with the locations, streaming services, operating systems and apps you actually use.

Pricing snapshot

The current guide price for Proton VPN is From about $2.99/mo. VPN Plus long-term pricing can vary by currency and offer. Treat this as a starting point, not a guaranteed checkout price.

Check Proton VPN pricing Back to comparison table

Privacy and DNS checks

After installing any VPN, do not assume it is working just because the app says connected. Check your public IP address, DNS resolver behaviour and IPv6 exposure. Our DNS leak guide explains the process, and DNS lookup tools from DNSNow can help you understand resolver behaviour.

curl ifconfig.me
dig myip.opendns.com @resolver1.opendns.com
ip route

Linux support notes

For Linux users, the best VPN is not always the one with the prettiest desktop app. Look for WireGuard configuration support, clear CLI instructions, NetworkManager examples and troubleshooting documentation. If you are new to Linux networking commands, practise with CommandLineQuiz Linux troubleshooting guides.

Who should avoid Proton VPN?

Users who only want the cheapest basic VPN deal.

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Final checklist

  • Check the live provider price and renewal terms.
  • Install the VPN and test public IP, DNS and IPv6 behaviour.
  • Check the kill switch by disconnecting and reconnecting.
  • Try your real use case, such as public Wi-Fi, streaming, Linux CLI use or travel.
  • Cancel within the refund window if it does not match your needs.