Bitdefender VPN vs Proton VPN
Choosing between Bitdefender VPN and Proton VPN often comes down to what kind of user you are. One is designed for those who want a simple, built-in VPN experience with their antivirus, while the other is built for people who want total control and the strongest privacy tools available. Both belong to respected cybersecurity brands: Bitdefender’s VPN comes from one of the biggest names in antivirus software, and Proton VPN is created by the same Swiss team behind Proton Mail.
Understanding how they differ in network size, performance, and privacy policies can help you figure out which one better fits your needs. In this comparison, we’ll look closely at their infrastructure, speed, privacy, streaming capabilities, and real-world use cases. You’ll also find star ratings for different scenarios such as torrenting, gaming, and remote work, plus a few alternative options if neither service feels like the right fit.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Bitdefender VPN relies on AES-256 encryption and includes split tunneling and multi-hop connections. However, its relatively small server network of about 4,000 servers makes it less flexible for users who need wide coverage.
- Proton VPN offers more than 15,000 servers in over 120 countries, featuring advanced tools like Secure Core multi-hop routing and Tor over VPN, along with an independently audited no-logs policy.
- Other VPN providers combine large server networks with advanced security and privacy options, offering alternative choices for users seeking different features or pricing structures.
Quick Comparison: Bitdefender VPN vs Proton VPN
| Feature | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server count & countries | 4,000 servers in 50 countries (some reports cite 1,300 in 27 countries) | 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries |
| Encryption & protocols | AES-256; supports Hydra-based Catapult Hydra, OpenVPN, and WireGuard equivalents | AES-256 and ChaCha20; OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec, and Stealth protocols |
| Multi-hop & extra privacy | Optional multi-hop (Bitdefender’s Double VPN feature) | Secure Core routing, Tor over VPN |
| Simultaneous connections | Up to 10 devices | 10 devices on paid plans; unlimited on free plans with limited servers |
| Streaming & P2P | Works with some streaming platforms; P2P allowed | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and others; P2P supported on most servers |
Proton VPN clearly outperforms Bitdefender VPN in network reach, protocol variety, and privacy control. Bitdefender’s VPN is a simple extension of its antivirus suite, great for convenience but limited for customization. If you’re already a Bitdefender user, it’s a convenient addition. Otherwise, Proton VPN’s broader network and advanced security make it the better all-around option for most people.
If neither feels quite right, Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box are worth considering. Their hardware-based setup protects every device on your network and takes just minutes to configure.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Aspect | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Total servers | Approximately 4,000 (some reports mention as few as 1,300) | 15,000+ servers |
| Countries | 50 countries | 120+ countries, including 5 available to free users |
| Server specialisation | Dynamic IPs; general-purpose servers | Secure Core servers (multi-hop in privacy-friendly regions), Tor over VPN |
| Infrastructure type | Traditional servers; unclear details on total count | RAM-based Secure Core and standard servers, with periodic audits |
Proton VPN has a much broader infrastructure, providing access to more countries and specialised servers designed for privacy and performance. Its Secure Core setup routes your traffic through trusted jurisdictions like Switzerland and Iceland before it reaches the internet.
Meanwhile, Bitdefender VPN operates on a smaller scale, with inconsistent data about its total number of servers and no mention of RAM-only architecture. For readers wanting to learn more about VPN protocols, see this detailed comparison on OpenVPN vs. Proton VPN.
Speed & Performance
| Metric | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Download impact | Delivers good download speeds, though limited by smaller network coverage | U.S. server: ~8% speed drop; EU server: ~5.8% speed drop |
| Upload impact | Decent uploads; slower results on distant servers | U.S. server: ~26% drop; EU server: heavy upload reduction (up to 88% in tests) |
| Latency | Varies depending on server location | Ping improved to 16 ms on U.S. servers; higher latency on long-distance connections |
| Best protocol for speed | Hydra/Catapult Hydra or WireGuard (when available) | WireGuard provides the best balance between speed and security |
Proton VPN usually performs better when it comes to consistency and regional coverage. On U.S. and European servers, the download loss is minimal, though uploads can slow down depending on distance and server load.
Bitdefender VPN offers solid speeds for everyday use, but since its network is smaller, you might need to switch servers occasionally to maintain performance. Both services benefit from WireGuard’s efficient design, which helps keep speeds high without compromising encryption strength.
Security & Privacy
| Aspect | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256 with optional RSA and SHA algorithms | AES-256 for OpenVPN, ChaCha20 for WireGuard |
| Protocols | Catapult Hydra, OpenVPN, and WireGuard equivalents | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, Stealth (obfuscation) |
| Kill switch | Manual kill switch; not enabled by default | Kill switch built into all apps and profiles |
| No-logs policy | Collects IP addresses and some connection data | Strict no-logs policy; Swiss jurisdiction; independently audited |
| Additional privacy features | Split tunneling, multi-hop, dynamic IP | Secure Core multi-hop, NetShield ad blocker, Tor over VPN, port forwarding |
In terms of security, Proton VPN stands out as the more privacy-focused service. It’s headquartered in Switzerland, a country with strong data-protection laws and no ties to surveillance alliances. Independent audits confirm its strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t track or store user activity. Its Secure Core feature routes traffic through multiple privacy-friendly servers, while Tor over VPN lets users access onion sites directly. NetShield adds another layer by blocking ads and malware at the DNS level.
Bitdefender VPN, on the other hand, does provide solid encryption and includes split tunneling and multi-hop features. However, it logs some user data, and its kill switch isn’t enabled automatically, so users must activate it manually. This makes it better suited for casual protection rather than for those prioritizing maximum anonymity.
Streaming Performance
| Service | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Supported platforms | Can unlock some platforms, but results vary | Unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and more |
| Smart DNS | No Smart DNS support | No Smart DNS; uses VPN connection for all streaming |
| Streaming servers | General servers only; no streaming-specific ones | Dedicated Plus servers optimized for streaming |
| Quality & stability | HD possible, though buffering can occur on distant servers | Consistent HD and 4K playback with minimal buffering |
Proton VPN is clearly better for streaming. Its Plus servers are built specifically to unblock popular services such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. The platform also clearly indicates which servers support streaming, which makes setup easy for users.
Bitdefender VPN can access a few streaming services, but it lacks specialized servers and often gets blocked. Neither VPN includes Smart DNS, so if you plan to stream on devices that don’t support VPN apps, you’ll need to configure your router or use a hardware alternative like the Shellfire Box.
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 | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Mobile OS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
| Smart TV & streaming devices | No native apps; router setup required | Native Android TV app; manual setup for others |
| Browser extensions | None | Available for select browsers |
| Simultaneous connections | 10 | 10 on paid plans; 1 on free plans |
Proton VPN supports more operating systems, including Linux and Android TV, making it the more flexible choice for multi-device setups.
Bitdefender VPN doesn’t offer browser extensions or native smart TV apps, so you’ll need to use a router configuration to protect non-traditional devices. Both services allow up to 10 simultaneous connections, which is more than enough for typical home use.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | Bitdefender VPN rating | Proton VPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| China | Moderate – basic servers may struggle | Good – Stealth protocol and Secure Core can bypass some blocks |
| Iran | Poor – unreliable connections | Moderate – depends on server selection |
| UAE | Moderate – some servers may connect | Good – obfuscation and multi-hop improve access |
| Russia | Poor – limited reliability | Moderate – works in some cases |
Proton VPN is designed with restrictive environments in mind. Its Stealth protocol helps bypass deep packet inspection, and Secure Core routes traffic through neutral countries before reaching the public internet. This combination makes it one of the more dependable VPNs for use in regions like China or the UAE.
Bitdefender VPN, lacking obfuscation tools, tends to struggle in these areas. While no VPN guarantees perfect access in censorship-heavy countries, Proton VPN’s technology generally provides better chances of staying connected.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Simple and minimal interface designed for antivirus users | Clean, modern design with one-click connect and preset profiles |
| Settings granularity | Basic controls; few customization options | Advanced settings: choose protocols, enable Secure Core, customize profiles |
| App stability | Stable overall | Stable across all major platforms |
| Special features | Split tunneling, limited multi-hop | Secure Core, Tor over VPN, NetShield ad blocker, VPN Accelerator |
Bitdefender VPN keeps things simple, which is ideal for people who just want a quick on/off connection without dealing with advanced settings. It integrates directly into Bitdefender’s antivirus dashboard, making it convenient for users already in that ecosystem.
Proton VPN goes deeper, offering adjustable settings, custom profiles, and privacy modes like Secure Core and VPN Accelerator for smoother performance. It’s the better fit for users who want control and visibility over their connections. If you prefer something effortless yet robust, the Shellfire Box offers a plug-and-play approach that protects your whole network automatically.
Customer Support
| Support channel | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat | Limited; mainly email and support tickets | No live chat; email and community forum available |
| Email support | Yes | Yes |
| Knowledge base | Extensive library linked to antivirus support | Detailed documentation, including privacy-focused guides |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Neither service offers strong real-time support. Bitdefender VPN relies mostly on email and ticketing through its antivirus platform, while Proton VPN uses a similar model with community-driven assistance. Both include helpful documentation and a 30-day money-back guarantee, which gives you time to test their performance risk-free.
Additional Features
| Feature | Bitdefender VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Split tunneling | Yes | Yes – can be set by app or IP |
| Multi-hop | Yes – limited (called Double VPN) | Yes – Secure Core and Tor over VPN |
| Ad/tracker blocking | No | NetShield ad and malware blocker |
| Port forwarding | Not supported | Yes – improves P2P performance |
| Other tools | Integrated with Bitdefender antivirus dashboard | Secure Core, VPN Accelerator, Stealth protocol |
Proton VPN provides a much richer feature set overall. Tools like NetShield, port forwarding, and VPN Accelerator give users greater control and protection.
Bitdefender VPN stays lightweight and practical, working best as part of its antivirus suite for those who prefer simplicity over customization. If you’d rather use something easy to manage with hardware-level protection, Shellfire’s VPN and Box solutions offer that combination without requiring software installation.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use case | Bitdefender VPN rating | Proton VPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote work | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship-heavy countries | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
Proton VPN is the clear winner for streaming. Its Plus servers reliably unlock popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
Bitdefender VPN can sometimes access certain platforms, but without dedicated streaming servers, its success rate is inconsistent. Since neither provider supports Smart DNS, you’ll need to install their apps or configure your router to stream on devices like smart TVs or consoles. For plug-and-play streaming, hardware options such as the Shellfire Box can make the process effortless.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Proton VPN allows P2P on most of its servers and even supports port forwarding to enhance download performance. Its strict no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction give it a privacy edge, making it one of the safest options for torrenting.
Bitdefender VPN permits torrenting but logs some IP and usage data, which may concern privacy-focused users. If torrenting is a priority, Proton VPN provides a stronger balance of safety and speed.
Best VPN for Gaming
While neither VPN markets itself specifically for gamers, Proton VPN typically offers more consistent latency and connection stability. It’s suitable for casual and mid-level gaming, though high-level competitive play might still experience slight lag depending on distance.
Bitdefender VPN, with its smaller server network, isn’t ideal for gamers who need the lowest possible ping or region switching. For console users who prefer to protect the entire network, Shellfire Box is a simple way to cover every device, including game systems, without sacrificing performance.
Best VPN for Remote Work
For professionals working remotely, Proton VPN stands out with its Secure Core routing, no-logs policy, and the ability to create custom connection profiles. Split tunneling also helps by letting you secure only your work apps while leaving general browsing outside the VPN.
Bitdefender VPN offers basic protection and integrates neatly with antivirus tools, but lacks the advanced configuration options that remote workers often need for reliability and flexibility.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
Bitdefender VPN is attractively priced, especially if you already subscribe to its antivirus suite. It’s a straightforward option for users who just need everyday privacy.
Proton VPN, however, offers one of the most generous free tiers in the industry, covering five countries and providing decent speeds without data caps. If you’re on a tight budget, Bitdefender is a solid entry-level option, while Proton’s free plan gives you an affordable way to explore premium-grade privacy features.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
Proton VPN has the upper hand again, thanks to its Stealth protocol and Secure Core technology, which help users stay connected even in countries with strong VPN restrictions. Many users report success in China, the UAE, and other restrictive regions.
Bitdefender VPN lacks obfuscation tools and is therefore less effective in such environments. For those who travel frequently or live under internet restrictions, Proton VPN offers a higher chance of maintaining stable and private access.
Conclusion
Bitdefender VPN is a straightforward, beginner-friendly service that complements its antivirus ecosystem nicely. It provides solid encryption, multi-hop routing, and split tunneling but falls short when it comes to network size, transparency, and privacy auditing. It’s best suited for casual users who value simplicity and already use Bitdefender’s broader protection tools.
Proton VPN, by contrast, focuses heavily on privacy and versatility. Its large global network, Secure Core architecture, and audited no-logs policy make it one of the most trustworthy options available. Features like Tor over VPN, NetShield, and port forwarding add more depth for advanced users. While it costs a bit more than Bitdefender VPN, the performance and privacy benefits easily justify the difference, particularly for those who stream, torrent, or work remotely.
Ultimately, your choice depends on what matters most to you: convenience or control. If you’d like to explore alternatives that blend both, Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box provide flexible and secure options. Shellfire’s hardware-based setup can protect your entire network instantly, offering a user-friendly way to maintain privacy across all your devices without complicated software installations.
