Aura VPN vs NordVPN
A virtual private network should be more than a tool for hiding your IP address. It should make you feel secure when shopping online and give you peace of mind knowing your movie night won’t be interrupted by buffering or blocked content. Two services that promise this kind of safety take very different paths.
Aura VPN comes bundled with an identity-protection suite, making it feel more like a feature than a standalone VPN. NordVPN, on the other hand, is a dedicated VPN known for its large server network, speed, and strong privacy record.
Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer simplicity and integration or a robust tool built specifically for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing censorship. This guide breaks down how these two VPNs compare in everything from infrastructure and privacy to customer support, pointing out where each excels and where they fall short. By the end, you’ll know which VPN fits your needs best.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Aura VPN includes VPN access as part of a larger security suite. It offers servers in over 80 countries and simple apps, but its AES-128 encryption and lack of protocol choice mean it sacrifices some security for convenience.
- NordVPN operates more than 7,000 servers in roughly 120 countries. It uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, supports advanced protocols like NordLynx, and has been independently audited to confirm its strict no-logs policy.
- Cheaper VPNs often trade speed for price. Combining both strong performance and affordability is rare, so comparing options like NordVPN vs ProtonVPN in our other reviews can help you understand where compromises lie.
Quick Comparison: Aura VPN vs NordVPN
| Feature | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Network size | Servers in 80+ countries; company does not disclose server count | 7,000+ servers in around 120 countries |
| Encryption & protocols | AES-128 encryption; no protocol choice; kill switch and split tunneling available | AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption; NordLynx, OpenVPN, and others; kill switch and split tunneling |
| Speed reduction (local connection) | About 15% download drop on nearby servers | Approximately 7% download drop in tests |
| Streaming capability | Unblocks Netflix U.S., BBC iPlayer and Disney+ but struggles with Hulu and Amazon Prime | Reliable access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and more |
| Simultaneous connections | Up to 10 devices per plan | Up to 10 devices per account |
| Independent audits | No public audits; some privacy concerns | Multiple independent audits verifying no-logs policy |
It’s clear from the table that NordVPN leads in both network strength and security. Aura VPN is designed as an add-on to a broader identity-protection suite, a convenient choice for light browsing and local streaming but not ideal for torrenting or bypassing censorship. NordVPN stands out as a purpose-built VPN, offering speciality servers, modern encryption, and verified privacy practices. If you prefer simplicity and an all-in-one setup, Aura may be enough.
But for users who want reliability and advanced protection, NordVPN is the stronger pick. Keep in mind that there are middle-ground alternatives too; the Shellfire VPN and Shellfire Box blend ease of use with strong security, offering another practical option between these two extremes.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Aspect | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Number of servers | Undisclosed | Over 7,000 |
| Countries covered | 80+ countries | Approximately 120 countries |
| Specialised servers | None; general servers only | Double VPN, Onion over VPN, P2P and obfuscated servers |
| Ownership & jurisdiction | Part of Aura’s U.S. security suite; AES-128 encryption and identity-protection features | Headquartered in Panama with no data retention laws and RAM-only servers |
Although Aura’s 80-plus country coverage looks good on paper, the lack of published server numbers makes it difficult to judge congestion and reliability. NordVPN, by contrast, is transparent about its 7,000+ servers and uses a mix of physical and virtual locations. It also offers specialized servers for torrenting and obfuscation. NordVPN’s Panama jurisdiction and RAM-only setup strengthen its privacy edge. Readers curious about how NordVPN compares with other large players can check our deep dive on NordVPN vs ProtonVPN, which explores why server distribution is key when choosing a VPN.
Speed & Performance
| Test scenario | Aura VPN (download/upload) | NordVPN (download/upload) |
|---|---|---|
| Baseline speed | 500 Mbps / not provided | 500 Mbps / not provided |
| Same-country server | 425 Mbps (15% drop) / similar upload | 465 Mbps (~7% drop) / 480 Mbps (~4% drop) |
| U.K. server (from U.S.) | 312 Mbps (38% drop) | ≈450 Mbps (around 10% drop; NordLynx maintains speed) |
| Asia-Pacific server | 162 Mbps (68% drop) in Japan; 154 Mbps (69% drop) in Australia | High speeds with minor drops; latency increases but stays usable |
The results show that Aura VPN holds up well for local use but struggles over longer distances. A 15% drop is acceptable for daily browsing or streaming, but a nearly 70% slowdown when connecting to Asia-Pacific servers can quickly get annoying. NordVPN performs much better across continents, with NordLynx keeping speed loss around 7%, even on faraway connections. If you’re wondering how NordVPN stacks up against others like Surfshark, our comparison dives into more real-world speed results and use cases.
Security & Privacy
| Criterion | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-128 encryption | AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption |
| Protocols | Proprietary or unspecified; user cannot select protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec |
| Kill switch | Available; activates automatically on disconnections | Available across all apps; can fully cut local connectivity if needed |
| No-logs policy | Claims to not track user activity but lacks third-party verification | Audited multiple times by independent firms; RAM-only servers ensure no data is stored |
While Aura VPN’s AES-128 encryption is still technically strong, it doesn’t match the long-term robustness of AES-256 and ChaCha20 used by NordVPN. Aura’s approach feels a bit opaque, users can’t choose or even view which protocol is in use. Privacy-focused individuals might find that unsettling. In contrast, NordVPN’s transparency and independent audits inspire greater confidence, and its Panama jurisdiction gives it legal distance from strict data retention laws. If privacy is your top concern, NordVPN is clearly more reassuring.
Streaming Performance
| Service | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | Unblocks U.S., BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ but fails with Hulu and Amazon Prime | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer and others |
| Streaming quality | 4K quality on local servers; drops on distant ones | Stable 4K streaming on most servers due to high speeds |
| P2P support | Permitted; includes torrenting servers | Dedicated P2P servers and SOCKS5 proxy |
Streaming is where the gap between the two widens. Aura VPN can access a few Netflix regions and BBC iPlayer, but it repeatedly fails with Hulu and Amazon Prime. Even when it connects, performance can drop noticeably on distant servers, causing buffering or lower resolution. NordVPN’s SmartDNS feature and large server network handle these challenges easily, keeping quality stable across different regions and platforms. For heavy streamers or travelers who hop between countries, NordVPN is the clear winner.
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
| Platform | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop | Windows, macOS, limited Linux support | Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS |
| Mobile | iOS, Android | iOS, Android |
| Browser extensions | None | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Routers & Smart TVs | Not officially supported | Manual router setup, Smart TV apps available |
Aura VPN covers the basics, desktops and mobile, which suits its identity-protection focus. But if you want flexibility, NordVPN is the more complete option. It supports nearly every operating system, browser, and router configuration. This makes it easier to protect your entire network, not just individual devices. The added browser extensions are handy for lightweight privacy, like hiding your IP while browsing or shopping online.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | Aura VPN rating | NordVPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| China | Low; lacks obfuscation | High; obfuscated servers bypass Great Firewall |
| Russia | Low; unreliable connections | Medium; some servers blocked, but obfuscation helps |
| Iran | Low; inconsistent performance | Medium; obfuscated servers work intermittently |
| UAE | Medium; browsing may work, streaming often fails | High; obfuscated servers maintain solid access |
Because Aura VPN lacks obfuscated protocols and relies on weaker encryption, it struggles to bypass strict firewalls in regions like China or Russia. NordVPN’s obfuscated and double-VPN servers make it far more reliable for travelers or residents in censorship-heavy countries. If your work or lifestyle involves staying connected in these regions, NordVPN is a much safer choice. Still, even with strong tools, users should always verify local laws before using a VPN.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Simple, minimal dashboard integrated with identity suite | Interactive map-based interface with accessible settings |
| Ease of use | Very straightforward; one-click connect | Beginner-friendly with advanced options for power users |
| Stability | Occasional disconnects on distant servers; kill switch usually prevents leaks | Stable connections; auto-reconnect and kill switch ensure consistency |
The Aura VPN interface is designed for people who don’t want to think much about technical details. It’s built right into Aura’s main security dashboard, which keeps everything tidy if you already use their other protection tools. NordVPN also has an intuitive design, but it lets advanced users dig deeper, toggling obfuscation, switching between protocols, or using NordLynx for better performance. For those who prefer an even easier setup, the Shellfire Box offers plug-and-play security for every device in your home without installing separate apps.
Customer Support
| Support channel | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat | Automated chatbot; limited escalation to human agents | 24/7 live chat with real support agents |
| Email support | Available; response times can vary | Available; generally quick responses |
| Knowledge base | Comprehensive FAQ and troubleshooting guides | Extensive tutorials, guides, and community forums |
| Guarantee | 60-day money-back guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee |
Aura’s support relies heavily on its automated chatbot, which can handle simple questions quickly. However, for more complex issues, users often have to reach out via email and wait for help. NordVPN provides live human assistance around the clock, which is particularly valuable if you encounter connection or setup problems. Similarly, Shellfire VPN stands out for its responsive customer support, an appealing option for users who value friendly, human guidance when configuring or troubleshooting their VPN.
Additional Features
| Feature | Aura VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Ad & tracker blocker | Integrated within Aura’s identity-protection tools | Threat Protection Pro blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites |
| Multi-hop | Not available | Double VPN and Onion over VPN route traffic through multiple servers |
| Dedicated IP | Not available | Available as an optional add-on |
| Split tunneling | Yes | Yes |
Aura VPN integrates useful web filtering and anti-tracking tools through its identity-protection suite. Still, it misses more advanced VPN features such as multi-hop routing or dedicated IPs. NordVPN goes further with Threat Protection Pro, which not only blocks ads but also scans files for malware before they’re downloaded. Its double VPN and Onion over VPN features offer extra privacy for users who handle sensitive data. Similarly, the Shellfire Box combines ad blocking, firewall protection, and plug-and-play setup, an easy, hardware-based layer of defense for your entire network.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use case | Aura VPN rating | NordVPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote work | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget-conscious users | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship-heavy countries | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
If your goal is to stream shows from different countries, NordVPN clearly leads the pack. Its SmartDNS feature and huge network allow access to Netflix libraries in multiple regions, and it handles BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu with ease. Aura VPN manages to unlock a few services, like Netflix U.S. and BBC iPlayer, but it struggles with Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. For occasional streaming or casual use, Aura is fine, but frequent travelers or movie buffs will appreciate NordVPN’s stability and global reach.
That said, if you find NordVPN’s advanced setup intimidating, both Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box offer user-friendly alternatives. Their plug-and-play configuration makes it simple to stream securely without digging into settings, and they’re compatible with a wide range of devices.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Aura VPN allows torrenting, but details about its P2P infrastructure are scarce. Download speeds can vary, and when the kill switch triggers, reconnecting sometimes takes longer than expected. NordVPN has specialized P2P servers designed specifically for file sharing and even includes a SOCKS5 proxy for faster transfers. With its verified no-logs policy, users can torrent with confidence, knowing their activity remains private.
For occasional users who appreciate built-in malware protection and identity security, Aura works reasonably well. But for heavy downloaders or privacy-focused users, NordVPN or other torrent-optimized VPNs are safer bets. NordVPN’s optional port forwarding also makes it more efficient for seeding and maintaining stable upload speeds.
Best VPN for Gaming
When it comes to gaming, every millisecond counts. Aura VPN delivers acceptable speeds on local servers but suffers from higher latency across continents. Competitive gamers might notice lag or increased ping times. NordVPN performs better thanks to its NordLynx protocol and optimized infrastructure, which maintain stable connections and low jitter.
Both VPNs allow simultaneous connections, so you can protect your console and PC at the same time. For consoles that don’t support VPN apps, NordVPN can be installed directly on routers or used with SmartDNS. Aura VPN lacks router support, which limits flexibility. In this scenario, the Shellfire Box is a clever alternative, as it encrypts all your gaming traffic automatically and requires zero software setup.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Remote workers often handle confidential data, so encryption strength matters. Aura VPN uses AES-128 and offers split tunneling, but the lack of transparency about its protocols could raise eyebrows. NordVPN, with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, goes further by offering double VPN routing and Threat Protection Pro. Its Meshnet feature lets you securely connect multiple devices as if they were on the same private network, making collaboration smoother for remote teams.
NordVPN’s split tunneling is also more flexible across different devices. If you frequently travel to countries with strict internet rules, its obfuscated servers are invaluable. Aura’s version is simpler and works fine for separating work and leisure traffic, but it lacks the same reliability under restrictive conditions.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
Affordability can make or break a VPN choice. Aura VPN comes bundled in its broader identity-protection plans, so it can be a good deal if you also want credit monitoring, password management, and identity theft coverage. However, judged purely as a VPN, it doesn’t offer as many advanced tools for the price. NordVPN often provides deep discounts on long-term subscriptions, giving more value for power users who rely on the service daily.
If you’re hunting for a cost-effective option, Shellfire VPN also offers competitive pricing and even a free tier for basic use, ideal if you need secure browsing but don’t require advanced configurations.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
When privacy and unrestricted access can affect your personal safety, the technology behind your VPN becomes crucial. Aura VPN lacks obfuscated servers and relies on weaker encryption, which limits its ability to function reliably in countries with heavy censorship such as China or Iran. In contrast, NordVPN offers obfuscated connections and double VPN routing, which disguise your traffic as regular HTTPS and help bypass deep-packet inspection.
If you travel or work from regions with strict internet controls, NordVPN is the safer option. Always remember to check local regulations before using a VPN, even the best technology cannot ensure total anonymity under intensive government surveillance. Still, having a tool like NordVPN or the straightforward Shellfire VPN gives you far greater flexibility and safety compared to browsing without protection.
Conclusion
In the face-off between Aura VPN and NordVPN, the differences are clear. Aura feels more like an added feature within an identity-protection plan than a dedicated VPN service. It’s practical for casual users who just want basic privacy for browsing or watching local content, but it lacks the transparency, speed, and flexibility that heavy users expect. Its undisclosed server count and limited encryption strength make it less suited for demanding use cases.
NordVPN, by contrast, continues to lead with a vast server network, audited no-logs policy, and consistently strong speeds worldwide. Its specialized servers and advanced protocols make it well-equipped for streaming, torrenting, and secure remote work. Users who value both performance and privacy will find it hard to beat.
That said, the “best” VPN ultimately depends on your priorities. If you’re already subscribed to Aura’s identity-protection services and just need an extra layer of online security, Aura VPN is convenient and easy to manage. If you prefer a more capable and fully featured solution, NordVPN is the obvious choice.
For those who want something in between, simple, trustworthy, and ready to use out of the box, both the Shellfire VPN and the hardware-based Shellfire Box are well-balanced alternatives. They combine solid encryption and plug-and-play convenience, making them perfect for users who want reliable privacy without diving into complex settings. Whichever path you take, having a VPN in 2025 isn’t just a nice extra, it’s an essential step toward protecting your digital life.
