Atlas VPN vs NordVPN
Atlas VPN is the budget‑friendly sibling in the Nord Security family, often bundled with or compared to its more established counterpart, NordVPN. While both services come from the same company, their goals differ: Atlas VPN is designed to offer a free entry point and unlimited device connections, while NordVPN focuses on delivering premium performance, an expansive server network, and strong privacy features.
So, how do these two services really stack up? Can the more affordable Atlas VPN keep pace with the robust capabilities of NordVPN? And is it worth paying more for additional features and stronger security? Let’s break it down by speed, security, servers, and usability to help you decide which one makes more sense for your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Atlas VPN has around 1,000 servers spread across 49 locations in 42 countries, offers a generous free tier (5 GB monthly) and allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it appealing for new VPN users and larger households.
- NordVPN runs over 5,400 servers in 59 countries, keeps speeds high thanks to its NordLynx protocol and provides robust features like Double VPN, Threat Protection and audited no‑logs policies, catering to privacy‑conscious power users.
- Hardware‑based VPN solutions like simple VPN boxes can secure your entire network without dealing with device‑specific apps; they’re worth considering if you want set‑and‑forget protection.
Quick Comparison: Atlas VPN vs NordVPN
| Feature | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Servers & locations | 1,000+ servers in 49 locations (42 countries) | 5,400+ servers in 59 countries |
| Free plan | Yes – 5 GB/month, four server locations | No – free trial only |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited | 10 devices |
| Average speed impact | ~7 % drop on nearby servers; bigger latency on long‑distance | 6 % or less; stable across distances |
| Price (paid plans) | Starts around USD 2/month (long term) | Starts around USD 3.39/month (long term) |
| Best suited for | Beginners, budget users, households with many devices | Streamers, gamers, torrenters and those needing top privacy |
Atlas VPN entices users with unlimited connections and a usable free tier, making it easy to try out. NordVPN, despite a higher price, offers more servers, more robust security and far better performance. Depending on your needs, paying extra for NordVPN could be worth it. For those who prefer a plug‑and‑play approach without fiddling with software, hardware solutions like Shellfire’s VPN service and Shellfire Box offer whole‑home protection with minimal setup.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server count | 1,000+ (approx.) | 5,400+ |
| Countries covered | 42 (focus on Europe & North America; limited in Africa & South America) | 59 (wide distribution including specialty servers) |
| Free server locations | 4 (New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, Amsterdam) | None (full network requires subscription) |
| Specialty servers | SafeSwap (rotating IP), MultiHop Plus (multi‑hop) | Double VPN, Onion over VPN, P2P, obfuscated |
Atlas VPN’s 49 server locations may be enough for casual use, but coverage outside Europe and North America is sparse. NordVPN’s network is not only larger but includes specialty servers for P2P and double‑hop connections. Atlas’s SafeSwap servers rotate your IP address for added anonymity, while MultiHop Plus routes through multiple random nodes. Nevertheless, advanced users will miss the broader coverage and specialized options NordVPN offers.
To see how NordVPN compares to another top contender, check out our NordVPN vs Private Internet Access comparison.
Speed & Performance
| Test | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Nearest server download (example) | 55.4 Mbps (7 % drop from 59.6 Mbps baseline) | 29.5 Mbps vs 30 Mbps baseline (≈6 % drop) |
| International download | 27–48 Mbps (long‑distance servers) | 26–30 Mbps even on faraway servers |
| Upload performance | 3.7–5.8 Mbps; adequate for basic tasks | 4–5.8 Mbps; slightly better consistency |
| Latency | 74–702 ms (increases sharply on distant servers) | 36–427 ms; usually lower |
Atlas VPN performed reasonably well on nearby servers, losing only around seven percent of download speed. However, latency increased significantly even on the fastest server, and long‑distance connections suffered greater slowdowns. NordVPN’s speeds remained consistently high across the board, making it far better for streaming 4K, competitive gaming or large file downloads.
If you’d like to see another head‑to‑head on performance, our Surfshark vs NordVPN article provides additional benchmarks and insights.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES‑256 and ChaCha20; perfect forward secrecy | AES‑256 with Perfect Forward Secrecy |
| Protocols | WireGuard and IKEv2/IPsec | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill switch | Yes, but aggressive (cuts internet on any disconnect) | Yes, system‑wide and app‑level |
| No‑logs policy | Claimed but unaudited; logs IP addresses for website visits and chat; ambiguous deletion policy | Audited no‑logs; based in Panama outside Fourteen Eyes |
| Security extras | SafeBrowse malware blocker, Data Breach Monitor | Threat Protection, Meshnet, Dark Web monitor, bug bounty program |
| Past incidents | Zero‑day vulnerability patched in 2024 after initial delay; no audit of privacy policy | 2018 data‑center breach responded to with audits; credential stuffing incident in 2019 (user password reuse) |
Atlas VPN uses modern encryption and protocols but lacks the breadth of NordVPN’s offerings. Its privacy policy is less transparent: it logs IP addresses for website visits and chat support and does not specify how long data is retained. NordVPN, by contrast, has undergone multiple audits confirming its no‑logs policy and invests in a bug bounty program. Advanced privacy features like Double VPN and obfuscation are absent from Atlas, limiting its usefulness in restrictive regions.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | Unblocks most libraries tested | Unblocks all major libraries |
| Hulu | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes |
| Disney+ | Fails during testing | Yes |
| BBC iPlayer / BBC services | Works on U.K. servers | Works reliably |
| Streaming quality | HD is smooth; 4K can buffer on distant servers | 4K HDR streams with no buffering |
Atlas VPN is surprisingly capable at unblocking popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. Its Achilles’ heel is Disney+, which remained inaccessible in tests. NordVPN, meanwhile, cleared every streaming hurdle and maintained high enough speeds for Ultra HD. If you’re an occasional streamer, Atlas may suffice; serious binge‑watchers will appreciate NordVPN’s consistency.
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/OS | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Windows & macOS | Modern apps; kill switch sometimes overzealous | Polished apps with split tunneling on Windows |
| Linux | No official client (requires manual config) | CLI and GUI clients |
| Android & iOS | User‑friendly; includes SafeBrowse and Data Breach Monitor | Full‑featured; Threat Protection blocks trackers and malware |
| Smart TVs & devices | Apps for Android TV; no router support | Apps for Android TV and Fire TV; MediaStreamer DNS for consoles |
| Browser extensions | None | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Router support | No | Yes (manual or pre‑configured) |
Atlas VPN covers most common devices but lacks Linux clients and router support, meaning you cannot protect consoles or smart home devices via a central point. NordVPN offers apps or workarounds for nearly every platform and even includes browser extensions to secure only your web traffic. If you want whole‑home coverage or Linux support, NordVPN wins by a wide margin.
Performance in Censorship‑Heavy Countries
| Country | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| China | No obfuscation; not recommended | Works via obfuscated servers |
| Russia | Unlikely to work consistently | Moderate success with Double VPN |
| UAE/Saudi Arabia | Limited success | Reliable via obfuscated servers |
| Iran/Turkey | Mixed results | Better performance with obfuscation |
Atlas VPN lacks obfuscation and advanced tunnelling methods needed to bypass deep packet inspection. As a result, it’s not suitable for users in China or other highly censored regions. NordVPN’s obfuscated and double‑hop servers are specifically designed to disguise VPN traffic, giving it the advantage in restrictive environments.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Clean, minimalist app; sometimes hides advanced features | Map and list interface; easy to navigate |
| Ease of use | Great for beginners; limited settings | Beginner‑friendly but with advanced options |
| Stability | Generally stable; occasional disconnect triggers kill switch | Very stable across all platforms |
| Customization | Few toggles; SafeBrowse, MultiHop Plus | Split tunneling, protocol switch, Meshnet, ad blocking |
Atlas VPN’s interface is simple and inviting, perfect for users who don’t want to tinker. However, features are limited and some settings (like SafeBrowse) only work if toggled in a specific order. NordVPN offers more controls yet remains approachable. Its map‑based interface is intuitive and the extra features are tucked away so they won’t intimidate novices. If you’d rather skip software altogether, a hardware solution like our Shellfire Box can cover your entire network with virtually no setup.
Customer Support
| Support Channel | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat | Available only for paid users | 24/7 for all users |
| Ticket system; responses within a day | Ticket system; responses usually within hours | |
| Knowledge base | Help center with OS‑specific guides; some navigation required | Comprehensive tutorials and FAQs |
| Money‑back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Atlas VPN’s support is decent but not outstanding. Live chat is hidden behind a paywall and the help center can be a maze. NordVPN provides chat support around the clock and has a well‑structured knowledge base. If quick assistance matters, NordVPN has the advantage.
Additional Features
| Extra Tool | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Malware/Tracker blocker | Yes (SafeBrowse) | Yes (Threat Protection) |
| Data breach monitor | Yes | Yes (Dark Web Monitor) |
| Multi‑hop connections | MultiHop Plus (random exit node) | Double VPN (specific exit node) & Onion over VPN |
| Mesh networking | No | Yes (Meshnet) |
| Dedicated IP option | No | Yes (for extra fee) |
Atlas VPN includes a breach monitor and malware blocker, which is impressive for a budget service. However, it lacks more advanced extras like Meshnet or an optional dedicated IP. NordVPN’s feature set is more mature, giving users more tools to customize their privacy and networking experience. As a middle‑ground, hardware solutions such as the Shellfire Box provide simple yet effective features without the complexity of software menus.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | Atlas VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Torrenting/P2P | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Gaming | ⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Remote work | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Budget use | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Censorship-heavy regions | ⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Best VPN for Streaming
For everyday streaming, Atlas VPN performs admirably. It gets you into Netflix and Prime Video without fuss, and HD playback is smooth as long as you connect to a nearby server. That makes the service attractive for casual viewers who occasionally hop regions. The free plan’s 5 GB monthly cap, however, won’t last long if you’re binge‑watching.
NordVPN goes further. It consistently unblocks Netflix libraries worldwide and handles Disney+, BBC iPlayer and regional services with ease. Its minimal speed impact means you can stream 4K HDR content while still browsing or downloading in the background. Enthusiast streamers will find the extra cost justified. And if you want a hands‑off solution for your living room, our Shellfire Box can deliver streaming protection without managing apps on each device.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Atlas VPN allows torrenting on all servers, and for small downloads the speeds are acceptable. Its unlimited device policy also means everyone in your household can share the connection without extra cost. However, the lack of specialized P2P servers and the unaudited privacy policy may worry heavy file sharers.
NordVPN offers designated P2P servers and a strict no‑logs policy confirmed by audits. Downloads stay fast thanks to its large network, and the kill switch ensures no data leaks. For serious torrenting with peace of mind, NordVPN is the safer choice.
Best VPN for Gaming
Atlas VPN’s higher latency and occasional spikes make it less appealing to gamers. You might manage casual play on nearby servers, but competitive titles will suffer. There’s also no split tunneling on desktop, so all traffic runs through the VPN, potentially increasing lag.
NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol keeps latency low, even on international connections. Split tunneling lets you send game traffic through the VPN while leaving voice chat or updates outside. Whether you’re raiding in an MMO or competing in a shooter, NordVPN provides the smoother experience. If you play across multiple consoles at home, a hardware VPN like the Shellfire Box can simplify the setup by covering every device behind one protected gateway.
Best VPN for Remote Work
If you work remotely and just need to secure your connection when checking email or using collaboration tools, Atlas VPN gets the job done. The unlimited device allowance is handy if you’re juggling laptops, tablets and phones. Upload speeds are limited though, so sending large files can be tedious.
NordVPN shines for remote work. Its stable speeds ensure video calls rarely stutter, and the service supports remote desktop connections and file transfers without issue. The Meshnet feature even allows secure, direct connections between colleagues without exposing addresses to the internet.
Best VPN for Budget‑Conscious Users
Atlas VPN’s low entry price and generous free tier make it a compelling option if money is tight. Unlimited device usage is a boon for large households or people who don’t want to keep track of simultaneous connection limits.
NordVPN isn’t the cheapest, but its long‑term plans provide discounts, and you get more in return: higher speeds, better global coverage and advanced privacy tools. If you can stretch your budget a little, the value proposition might tilt in NordVPN’s favour.
Best VPN for Censorship‑Heavy Countries
Atlas VPN lacks obfuscation or stealth protocols. It may work in moderately restrictive regions, but it’s unreliable in places with heavy internet controls. Users in China, Iran or Russia should avoid relying on it as their sole privacy tool.
NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, double‑hop options and strong privacy record make it well suited for bypassing censorship. It’s one of the more dependable services for travellers or residents in repressive regimes.
Conclusion
Atlas VPN delivers a surprising amount of value for its price. Unlimited connections, a free tier and a simple interface make it a friendly option for beginners or those who want basic protection on many devices. However, its limited network, slower long‑distance speeds and opaque privacy policy keep it from standing toe‑to‑toe with premium providers.
NordVPN remains one of the strongest VPNs on the market. Its combination of speed, broad server coverage, robust security and audited privacy practices offers peace of mind for serious users. If you stream a lot, torrent frequently or need protection in censorship‑heavy countries, paying the extra few dollars a month is a sensible investment.
And remember, you’re not confined to software‑only solutions. Shellfire’s easy‑to‑use VPN service and the compact Shellfire Box provide whole‑home protection without the complexity of installing apps on every device. For households in Barranquilla and beyond looking for a “set it and forget it” option, hardware‑based VPNs deserve a place on your shortlist.
