Introduction
Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for protecting your online privacy and security in today’s digital world. With your sensitive personal and financial data constantly flowing across the internet, using a reliable VPN to encrypt your connection is more crucial than ever.
Two of the top contenders among VPN services are NordVPN and CyberGhost. They both offer robust features for securing your browsing activity and accessing restricted content. But how exactly do they compare when stacked against each other?
This comprehensive showdown will compare and contrast key aspects like speed, security, privacy, streaming capabilities, and overall value between NordVPN and CyberGhost. By the end, you’ll have all the details to determine which provider is better suited to your needs.
Server Network and Locations
The number and distribution of servers a VPN offers plays a major role in performance and reliability.
NordVPN
With over 5200 servers in 60 countries worldwide, NordVPN operates one of the largest VPN server networks. It has a strong presence in privacy-focused countries like Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland. NordVPN offers extensive coverage across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific regions.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost has over 6800 servers in 89 countries, giving it the edge over NordVPN in terms of sheer number of servers. It has servers in 63 locations in the United States and Germany. But its network is not as expansive in the Asia Pacific region compared to NordVPN.
Geographical Spread of Servers
NordVPN covers more countries in Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. But CyberGhost has more servers spread throughout European countries. Both provide ample coverage in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. NordVPN takes the lead on widespread global server distribution.
Speed and Performance
VPN performance hinges greatly on consistent speeds and minimal lag.
Speed Tests
Independent speed tests of both services show NordVPN achieving faster download speeds on average than CyberGhost on local and international connections. NordVPN scored 72 Mbps vs. CyberGhost’s 51 Mbps on a 75 Mbps connection in one test.
Latency and Distance
NordVPN demonstrates lower latency rates and ping times, especially when connecting to servers farther away from your location. This results in less lag and disruptions to your browsing.
Overall, NordVPN takes the prize when it comes to faster speeds with lower latency across its network. This gives better performance for streaming, browsing, and torrenting.
Security Features
The encryption protocols and cybersecurity protections a VPN employs are make-or-break for privacy.
Encryption and Protocols
Both NordVPN and CyberGhost utilize industry-standard AES-256 encryption and support OpenVPN UDP/TCP, IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols. NordVPN uses additional obfuscation techniques to masquerade VPN traffic.
Additional Security Features
NordVPN has a standalone DNS service, ad/malware blocker, and ability to hop between double VPN servers. CyberGhost lacks some of these extras but offers an ad-blocker and tracker blocker as well.
Dedicated IP Addresses
NordVPN allows purchasing static, dedicated IP addresses. CyberGhost does not currently offer dedicated IPs, giving NordVPN the advantage for users needing a specific IP configuration.
NordVPN pulls ahead on advanced security features for masking VPN connections and blocking threats.
Privacy
Remaining anonymous online requires a strict no-logs policy and extra privacy tools.
NoSpy Servers
NordVPN operates specialized NoSpy servers in Sweden and Denmark with added privacy protections against mass surveillance. CyberGhost does not have specific servers focused on enhanced privacy.
Privacy Guarantees
Both services operate under a strict no-logs policy and do not monitor user activity. NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but CyberGhost has an impressive 45 day refund window, giving it a slight edge in privacy guarantees.
For privacy-focused users, NordVPN and CyberGhost are evenly matched competitors. No logs are maintained, but NordVPN provides added layers of anonymity tools.
Streaming and Torrenting
Besides privacy, many users prioritize a VPN’s ability to unblock streaming platforms and allow P2P file sharing.
Unblocking Streaming Services
NordVPN and CyberGhost can both unblock major streaming sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and ESPN+. NordVPN struggles more with consistently accessing Disney+ libraries outside the US. Overall, CyberGhost edges out NordVPN for streaming reliability.
P2P and Obfuscated Servers
Both VPNs permit torrenting on select global servers indicated in their apps. And each uses obfuscated servers to disguise P2P traffic, with NordVPN having more obfuscated options. For P2P usage, it’s a tie.
If streaming is your main focus, CyberGhost is slightly better suited. But NordVPN meets the mark for file sharing usage.
Customer Support
Getting timely assistance from customer support can influence the user experience.
User-Friendliness
NordVPN offers greater convenience through features like one-click Quick Connect. CyberGhost requires more manual selection of servers. Both have user-friendly apps across multiple platforms.
Customer Service
NordVPN provides support via 24/7 live chat, email, and an extensive self-help knowledgebase. CyberGhost offers the same channels, but chat wait times are sometimes longer.
NordVPN pulls ahead in the customer support category by making connections fast and hassle-free while offering multiple timely support avenues.
Pricing and Value
The right balance of affordability and features is central to any VPN’s value.
Cost Comparison
NordVPN costs $3.29 per month for the 2-year plan. CyberGhost comes in marginally cheaper at $2.15 monthly for the 2-year subscription. CyberGhost wins on long-term cost savings.
Features for Price
When you factor in the extra features like P2P servers, double VPN, and advanced filtering, NordVPN delivers greater overall value per dollar spent. You get more robust features for the money.
Conclusion
After comparing these leading VPN heavyweights, NordVPN emerges as the winner in most categories aside from pricing and streaming. With its wider server coverage, faster speeds, stronger security, and more responsive support, NordVPN is the superior option for the majority of everyday VPN use cases.
However, CyberGhost holds its own as a very capable VPN with strengths in unblocking streaming content, cost savings, and maintaining user privacy. Those whose priorities center on streaming or budget may find CyberGhost the better fit.
At the end of the day, both NordVPN and CyberGhost deliver ample security and features to meet most VPN demands. Your individual needs will determine which solution works best for you. But for all-around performance, NordVPN has the edge for robust privacy protection accompanied by blazing fast speeds.
NordVPN Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros
- Very fast connection speeds and low latency
- Wide assortment of security features
- Massive global server coverage across 60+ countries
- Responsive 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Slightly higher pricing than competitors
- Occasional difficulties accessing some streaming platforms
- No dedicated IP address option
Overall, NordVPN excels in speed, security, and server distribution making it a top choice for safe everyday browsing. But the above limitations hold it back from being flawless.
CyberGhost Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros
- Reliably unblocks content across streaming sites
- Affordable pricing, especially long-term plans
- NoSpy servers for enhanced privacy
- Helpful built-in ad blocking
Cons
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Noticeable speed reduction over long distances
- Customer support wait times can be slow
- No option for dedicated IP addresses
CyberGhost succeeds as a cost-effective streaming-focused VPN, but shows some weakness handling widespread global server coverage and customer support demand.
Comparison Table
| Feature | NordVPN | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Server Countries | 60+ | 89 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | 7 devices |
| Unblocks Netflix | Yes | Yes |
| Average Speed | 72 Mbps | 51 Mbps |
| Cost per month (2-yr plan) | $3.29 | $2.15 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat | Live chat and email |