AirVPN vs ProtonVPN
Sometimes, choosing a VPN isn’t just about features, it’s about values. With AirVPN and ProtonVPN, you’re choosing between two providers that view online privacy as a mission, not just a product. But their approaches to that mission couldn’t be more different.
In this comparison, we explore what sets them apart, from AirVPN’s hacktivist-driven transparency to ProtonVPN’s polished simplicity rooted in Swiss law. Whether you crave total control or elegant efficiency, this breakdown will guide you to the service that best mirrors your mindset.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- AirVPN provides deep control over settings and networking features, making it a top choice for users with advanced technical knowledge.
- ProtonVPN combines high privacy standards with user-friendly apps and transparent audits, offering a trustworthy and smooth VPN experience.
- Plug-and-play VPN solutions offer an alternative path for users looking for security without needing to configure anything manually.
Quick Comparison: AirVPN vs ProtonVPN
| Feature | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | Italy | Switzerland |
| Servers | ~250+ | 3,000+ in 65+ countries |
| No-logs Policy | Yes (strict) | Yes (independently audited) |
| Free Version | No | Yes (limited features) |
| Open Source Clients | Yes | Partially (some apps) |
| Simultaneous Connections | 5 | 10 (on Plus plans) |
| Monthly Price (starting) | €2/month (with long-term plan) | $4.99/month (with 2-year plan) |
Although both VPNs prioritize user privacy, they serve different audiences. AirVPN is a privacy enthusiast’s dream, offering total control and detailed network insights. ProtonVPN, backed by the team behind ProtonMail, leans into accessibility and formal assurance through audits. It’s perfect for those who want robust protection with minimal complexity.
Alternatively, for users who prefer security that works out-of-the-box, without needing to weigh protocols or server geography, our Shellfire Box presents a compelling option. As a hardware-based VPN router, it protects every device in the household automatically, requiring no manual configuration, which can be a distinct advantage for families or non-technical users.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server Count | ~250+ | 3,000+ |
| Countries Covered | ~20 | 65+ |
| City-Level Server Options | Limited | Yes |
| Owns Physical Servers | Yes (select locations) | Yes |
| Virtual Servers | No | Minimal use |
For global travelers or users who want more options to bypass regional restrictions, ProtonVPN wins with its vast and geographically diverse network. AirVPN maintains tighter control with fewer locations, ensuring legal compliance and full transparency of its infrastructure. This makes it attractive to users concerned about jurisdiction and data routing integrity.
Speed & Performance
| Test Metric | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Download Speed | 310 Mbps | 450 Mbps |
| Avg. Upload Speed | 190 Mbps | 320 Mbps |
| Latency (Europe to US) | 95 ms | 82 ms |
| Consistency (peak times) | High | Very High |
With superior infrastructure and better international routing, ProtonVPN excels in speed tests and is more consistent during peak hours, ideal for heavy-duty tasks like 4K streaming and cloud collaboration. AirVPN, while slightly slower, delivers highly stable connections with less fluctuation, which is critical for persistent tasks like secure file transfers or SSH server access.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-GCM |
| VPN Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard |
| Kill Switch | Yes (system-level, configurable) | Yes (automatic) |
| Independent Audits | No | Yes (multiple, publicly available) |
| RAM-only Servers | No | Yes |
| Obfuscation / Stealth | Yes (SSL and SSH tunneling) | Yes (Stealth protocol, Smart routing) |
| Jurisdiction | Italy (EU) | Switzerland (non-EU, privacy-focused) |
Both VPNs maintain industry-standard encryption and privacy-first protocols, but their assurance models diverge. AirVPN favors a DIY approach, with open-source code and deep configurability, but lacks formal third-party verification. ProtonVPN adds credibility with extensive public audits and RAM-only server deployments—ensuring that user data is wiped on every reboot. For privacy with convenience,
ProtonVPN holds the edge; for those who value autonomy and inspectability, AirVPN offers unmatched depth. If you’re also considering how ProtonVPN compares to other privacy-focused services, our review alongside NordVPN provides further clarity.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (US, UK, JP) | Partial access (inconsistent) | Yes (stable and consistent) |
| BBC iPlayer | Rarely works | Yes |
| Disney+ | No | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | No | Yes |
| Hulu | No | Yes |
| Streaming Speed (4K) | Buffering common | Smooth |
If streaming access is a top priority, ProtonVPN is clearly superior. It provides dedicated access to popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ with stable performance and minimal buffering. AirVPN explicitly avoids focusing on bypassing geo-restrictions, which results in spotty success. This philosophical difference matters: one is designed for media access; the other for uncompromising privacy.
For a broader perspective on how ProtonVPN compares to other top-tier services in streaming scenarios, you might find this comparison with ExpressVPN particularly insightful.
Looking for reliable streaming access across all devices?
Our Shellfire Box is designed to provide consistent access to your favorite streaming platforms, which can be a helpful solution if you’re experiencing issues with other VPNs.
Platform Compatibility
| Device/Platform | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes (strong support) | Yes (GUI & CLI) |
| iOS | Manual config only | Yes (native app) |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| Routers | Yes (OpenVPN/WireGuard) | Yes (manual setup or InvizBox) |
| Browser Extensions | No | Planned (not yet released) |
| Smart TVs & Consoles | Via router only | Yes (via SmartDNS or router) |
ProtonVPN’s ecosystem is much more accessible to general users, offering polished native apps and broad device support including smart TVs. AirVPN, by contrast, favors manual configuration, which provides flexibility but adds complexity. It excels for Linux and router power users, but casual users may find it less intuitive.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| China | Moderate (via SSL/SSH tunneling) | High (Stealth protocol) |
| Russia | Moderate | High |
| Iran | Moderate | High |
| UAE | Low | High |
| Turkey | Moderate | High |
| India | Low (limited servers) | Moderate |
For users in restrictive environments, ProtonVPN offers an easier and more reliable path with its advanced obfuscation and Stealth protocol. It’s designed to mask VPN traffic entirely. AirVPN allows skilled users to deploy SSH and SSL tunneling, but requires more effort and technical comfort. For plug-and-play censorship evasion, ProtonVPN is the better fit.
User Experience & Apps
| Category | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Functional, outdated | Modern, user-friendly |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (best for advanced users) | Very Easy |
| App Stability | Very stable | Very stable |
| Custom Configuration | Extensive | Limited to advanced settings |
| Multilingual Support | Limited | Yes |
AirVPN caters to users who prioritize granular control, offering deep customization through its Eddie client. While functional, the design feels dated and may present a learning curve for newcomers. ProtonVPN shines in this area, with sleek interfaces and intuitive layouts on all devices. It supports multiple languages and streamlines the VPN experience, making it ideal for users who want security with minimal setup or confusion.
Still, some users might not want to manage apps at all. The Shellfire Box offers a unique alternative by eliminating the app layer entirely, connecting once at the router level and covering all connected devices. This can simplify VPN usage significantly for households with mixed tech capabilities or many connected gadgets.
Customer Support
| Support Option | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | No | No (coming soon) |
| Email Support | Yes (slow response) | Yes (within 24h) |
| Community Forum | Yes (active technical forum) | Yes (moderated) |
| Knowledge Base | Yes (technical guides) | Yes (beginner to advanced) |
| Ticket System | Yes | Yes |
Customer support is one area where both providers can improve. Neither currently offers live chat, but ProtonVPN provides faster response times and a more structured support experience through a well-organized knowledge base. AirVPN relies more on its forum and community-driven support, which is excellent for technical deep dives but can feel daunting for average users needing quick answers.
Additional Features
| Feature | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Split Tunneling | Yes (via client settings) | Yes |
| Port Forwarding | Yes (configurable per session) | Yes (for paid users) |
| Multi-Hop / Secure Routing | Yes (manual setup) | Yes (Secure Core) |
| Ad & Tracker Blocking | No (can be self-implemented) | Yes (NetShield) |
| Tor Over VPN | No | Yes (on select servers) |
| Mesh Networking | No | No |
| Command-Line Interface | Yes (Linux, advanced usage) | Yes (Linux) |
AirVPN is a toolkit for advanced users. It offers port forwarding, custom multi-hop routing, and CLI support, but expects users to set things up themselves. ProtonVPN takes a more integrated approach, delivering valuable features like NetShield ad blocking and Secure Core routing within the GUI. It’s a better choice for those who want maximum privacy benefits without technical setup.
That said, Shellfire VPN covers the essentials, encryption, anonymous browsing, IP masking, while standing out with its hardware VPN option. The Shellfire Box offers a unique benefit: set-it-once functionality and persistent protection for all smart home and IoT devices, many of which can’t run VPN apps directly.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | AirVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐☆☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote Work | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget-Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Censorship Resistance | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
ProtonVPN emerges as the clear winner for streaming. With consistently accessible servers for platforms like Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, it ensures smooth playback, even in 4K, and minimal geo-restriction issues. Its dedicated infrastructure and smart routing capabilities make it the go-to for entertainment lovers.
AirVPN does not prioritize streaming functionality. While it may occasionally work with certain platforms, it’s not designed for users whose main goal is media access. Instead, it caters to users focused on privacy and network neutrality.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
For peer-to-peer file sharing, AirVPN stands out. It provides unrestricted traffic, full port forwarding capabilities, and consistent server access without throttling. This appeals to users managing large file transfers or participating in seeding networks.
ProtonVPN supports torrenting but restricts it to certain servers. While sufficient for occasional downloads, it lacks the fine-grain controls and speed optimization that heavy users or torrent veterans may require.
Best VPN for Gaming
ProtonVPN delivers a better experience for gamers due to its wide server distribution, low latency, and stable performance. This is especially important for online competitive play where milliseconds count.
Alternatively, gamers seeking a hassle-free setup for consoles and shared networks may find our Shellfire Box a better fit. By applying VPN coverage through the router, it ensures secure and consistent connections on Xbox, PlayStation, and other devices that don’t support native VPN apps, without complicating network performance or latency management.
Best VPN for Remote Work
ProtonVPN is a strong asset for remote professionals, offering secure access through its Secure Core, a clean app interface, and jurisdictional benefits under Swiss law. It’s easy to deploy across workstations and mobile devices, making it ideal for distributed teams.
AirVPN offers powerful tools for technically skilled professionals, especially those running servers or requiring long-term tunnel stability. However, its setup complexity may pose a barrier for remote teams without IT support.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
For users on a tight budget who still want top-tier privacy, AirVPN offers unbeatable value. Its pricing is extremely competitive, especially on long-term plans, and it doesn’t limit features based on subscription tier.
ProtonVPN has a generous free plan, which is rare among trustworthy providers, but its full-featured options are more expensive. It’s an appealing option for casual users or those new to VPNs, but less optimal for those needing maximum value at low cost.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
ProtonVPN excels with built-in Stealth protocols, rotating IPs, and encrypted routing designed to evade the most aggressive internet filters. It’s engineered for environments like China, Iran, and the UAE, where VPN detection is a serious risk.
AirVPN includes tools like SSL and SSH tunneling that can circumvent some censorship systems, but these require manual configuration. Advanced users can tailor AirVPN for tough regions, but ProtonVPN offers an easier, more reliable plug-and-play solution.
Conclusion
AirVPN and ProtonVPN represent two distinct visions for what a VPN should be. AirVPN champions freedom, transparency, and configurability, making it a top pick for experts who want complete control over their privacy setup. It’s not concerned with mass appeal, it’s for users who understand the tech and want to wield it without limits.
ProtonVPN, by contrast, takes the complexity out of privacy. It’s backed by formal audits, designed for cross-platform ease, and delivers exceptional streaming and stealth features without requiring deep technical knowledge. Whether you’re traveling, working remotely, or simply watching Netflix, ProtonVPN offers a secure, efficient experience with minimal fuss.
For users who want something even simpler, the Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box provide a unique alternative. They deliver powerful encryption and global access through a plug-and-play device that protects your entire household. With no need for manual configuration, and compatibility across smart TVs, consoles, and tablets, these solutions are ideal for families or non-tech-savvy users looking for effortless privacy.
