Shellfire

CyberGhost, often referred to informally as Ghost VPN, has built a loyal following thanks to its very large server network and low long-term prices. NordVPN, by contrast, is best known for its consistently high speeds and advanced privacy features. Both services are designed to keep your online activities private, but they take slightly different routes to get there.

If you are doing a direct VPN Vergleich between these two services in 2025, especially for streaming, gaming, or remote work, this guide walks you through the details that actually matter in daily use. We look at how CyberGhost stacks up against NordVPN in terms of infrastructure, speed, security and overall value, so you can decide which one fits better with your habits and devices.

You will see whether CyberGhost’s budget-friendly, günstige VPN approach really costs you performance, how NordVPN justifies its more premium positioning with technology such as NordLynx, and in which scenarios other providers might offer a practical middle ground for users who want something simpler.

Key Points

• CyberGhost operates a vast network of more than 11,500 servers across around 100 countries and allows up to seven simultaneous connections, which is more than enough for most households.
• NordVPN boasts over 8,400 servers in more than 160 countries, delivers faster speeds thanks to its modern NordLynx protocol and offers advanced features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN.
• Other VPN providers offer simpler alternatives, sometimes including hardware devices, which can bridge the gap between highly featured services and very easy, plug-and-play use.

Quick Comparison: Ghost VPN vs NordVPN

Feature	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Server count	11,500+ servers in around 100 countries	8,400+ servers in over 160 countries
Headquarters	Romania (outside 14 Eyes)	Panama (outside 14 Eyes)
Simultaneous connections	Seven devices	Ten devices
Average speed drop	Approx. 46% speed reduction during typical tests	Minor speed reduction on nearby servers thanks to NordLynx
Streaming	Dedicated streaming servers to unblock Netflix and other platforms	Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and many other libraries reliably
No-logs policy	Strict, independently audited no-logs policy based in Romania	Independently audited no-logs policy based in Panama

CyberGhost offers a very competitive server network and attractive prices, but its performance still tends to lag behind NordVPN in many speed tests, especially on long-distance routes. NordVPN’s modern protocols and heavily optimized servers usually deliver faster, more stable connections and smoother 4K streaming.

If you do not need thousands of servers, Double VPN or advanced extras, Shellfire VPN and its dedicated Shellfire Box provide a simple alternative with hardware-level protection that plugs directly into your router. For some users that prefer “set it and forget it” convenience, this kind of solution can be more attractive than configuring a complex app on every device.

Infrastructure & Global Coverage

Metric	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Servers	11,500+ servers in around 100 countries	8,400+ servers in over 160 countries
Simultaneous connections	Up to seven devices	Up to ten devices
Multi-hop	Not offered as a standard feature	Double VPN and Onion over VPN available

CyberGhost’s network spans roughly 100 countries, which is still more geographic diversity than many günstige VPN Anbieter provide. This helps if you travel a lot or need IP addresses from less common regions such as South America or parts of Africa.

NordVPN covers even more countries and adds multiple types of specialty servers, including Double VPN, Onion over VPN, P2P and obfuscated servers. That extra flexibility is especially useful if you want a privacy-focused setup or you live in a region where VPN traffic is heavily monitored.

One key difference is multi-hop support. CyberGhost currently does not offer multi-hop (Double VPN) connections, while NordVPN lets you route traffic through two servers for extra privacy. This is not something every user needs, but if you are specifically looking for a multi-hop VPN for sensitive research or journalism, it can be a deciding factor.

If you are curious how CyberGhost compares to other well-known services in terms of network size and locations, you can also check our detailed article on ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost for a different VPN Vergleich perspective.

Speed & Performance

Metric	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Average download drop	Roughly 40–50% average speed reduction compared to base connection	Typically a small speed drop on nearby servers thanks to NordLynx
Latency	Noticeable latency increase, especially on distant servers	Low latency on nearby and optimized servers, suitable for gaming
Reliability	Occasional connection issues and slower peak hours	Highly reliable with automatic reconnection and smart server selection

In practice, CyberGhost’s performance is somewhat mixed. On short routes with WireGuard, speeds can be very good, but during tests and everyday usage it is not unusual to see download rates drop by around 46% compared with your base connection, particularly when you connect to far-away servers. That is still acceptable for HD streaming and general browsing, but if you are used to a very fast fiber line you will feel the difference.

NordVPN tends to perform better across the board. Its NordLynx protocol (a WireGuard-based implementation) keeps overhead low and often delivers speeds close to the unprotected baseline, especially on nearby servers. This makes NordVPN a strong option if you care about a schnelles VPN for 4K streaming, large cloud backups or frequent downloads.

For more discussion of speed differences and how CyberGhost behaves against other Anbieter, have a look at our comparison of Surfshark vs CyberGhost, where latency and long-distance performance play a big role.

Security & Privacy

Feature	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Encryption	AES-256 encryption for all tunnels	AES-256 or ChaCha20 (with NordLynx)
Protocols	OpenVPN, WireGuard and IKEv2	OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard) and IKEv2
Kill switch	Automatic kill switch on major platforms	Automatic kill switch on all core apps
No-logs policy	Strict, independently audited no-logs policy in Romania	Strict, independently audited no-logs policy in Panama

From a technical security point of view, both providers tick the right boxes. CyberGhost and NordVPN rely on strong AES-256 encryption, offer modern protocols such as WireGuard or NordLynx and include an automatic kill switch so your traffic does not leak if the VPN connection drops.

CyberGhost operates under Romanian jurisdiction, which is generally considered privacy-friendly and outside of the main intelligence-sharing alliances. The service follows a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited, which is reassuring if you worry about long-term data retention.

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama and has also undergone multiple security and no-logs audits. On top of the basics, it offers Double VPN and Onion over VPN for layered security, as well as a growing set of Threat Protection features that block trackers, malicious domains and some ads. For users looking for an anonymer VPN Dienst with extra privacy tooling, this is a clear advantage.

Streaming Performance

Platform	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Netflix	Dedicated streaming servers successfully unblock multiple Netflix regions	Unblocks many Netflix libraries worldwide
Disney+	Works through dedicated streaming servers	Works consistently on most tested regions
Other services	Streaming servers for BBC iPlayer, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video	Unblocks dozens of platforms worldwide, including niche services
Quality & stability	Occasional buffering or quality drops during busy hours	Smooth HD and 4K streaming with minimal buffering

CyberGhost makes streaming simple thanks to its labeled servers. Within the app, you can pick servers optimized for Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and other platforms, which takes a lot of guesswork out of the process. These servers usually bypass geo-blocks, but because speeds can fluctuate, you may sometimes see buffering or automatic drops from 4K to HD quality.

NordVPN does not label streaming servers in the same way, yet it typically unlocks a wider range of platforms and international libraries. Its stronger performance means you are more likely to maintain high bitrates, even on devices like smart TVs or streaming sticks, making it one of the bestes VPN für Netflix and general streaming in many independent tests.

Platform Compatibility

Platform	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Desktop OS	Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile OS	iOS, Android	iOS, Android
Browser extensions	Chrome and Firefox	Chrome, Firefox and Edge
Other devices	Smart TVs, routers, game consoles and more	Smart TVs, routers, streaming devices, game consoles and more

CyberGhost and NordVPN both support a wide range of platforms, from classic desktop operating systems to mobile devices, browser extensions and TV boxes. CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous connections per account, which is already generous, while NordVPN goes up to ten, giving a bit more headroom for families or power users with many gadgets.

Both providers offer user-friendly apps, although the overall interface of NordVPN is usually perceived as more polished and slightly quicker to navigate, especially on mobile. If you mainly want a straightforward, cross-platform setup without advanced tweaking, both will do the job, but NordVPN feels a bit more streamlined during daily use.

Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries

Country	CyberGhost	NordVPN
China	Works only intermittently, lacks robust obfuscation tools	Offers obfuscated servers designed to bypass DPI and strong firewalls
Russia	May face blocking and inconsistent connectivity	Obfuscated and Double VPN servers improve reliability
Iran	Unreliable and difficult to maintain stable access	Specialized servers significantly improve success rates

CyberGhost can struggle in countries with very aggressive internet censorship. Without strong, easy-to-use obfuscation modes, deep packet inspection can often detect and throttle or block connections. For casual travel this may still be fine, but if you permanently live in a restrictive country, you might quickly reach its limits.

NordVPN, on the other hand, offers dedicated obfuscated servers and Double VPN options that are specifically designed to work in regions such as China, Russia or Iran. While no VPN can guarantee 100% access in these environments, NordVPN’s toolkit makes it one of the more reliable Optionen if you are looking for a “bestes VPN für China” style solution.

User Experience & Apps

Criteria	CyberGhost	NordVPN
User interface	Intuitive apps with simple server lists and labeled streaming options	Modern interface with map view and quick-connect button
Ease of use	Beginner-friendly, though you may need to switch servers for specific platforms	Easy to use with smart server recommendations and presets
Stability	Occasional connection drops, especially on busy servers	Stable connections with automatic reconnection routines

CyberGhost’s apps are straightforward, and the labeled streaming servers are genuinely helpful if you are not a technical user. You open the app, pick “Netflix” or another service from the list, and you are done. The downside is that stability can vary. In the real world, users sometimes need to reconnect or change server if speeds dip.

NordVPN offers an intuitive interface built around a world map and a clear quick-connect button. It also has specialty categories for P2P, obfuscated or Double VPN servers, which makes it easier to find the right option without reading a manual. For many people this feels like a more polished, all-rounder Benutzererfahrung.

If you would rather avoid dealing with any app configuration at all, Shellfire’s software and the Shellfire Box provide plug-and-play VPN protection that can cover your entire home network. You simply connect the small hardware box to your router, and every device that uses it benefits from an encrypted tunnel, regardless of whether it supports native VPN apps.

Customer Support

Support channel	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Live chat	24/7 live chat available	24/7 live chat available
Email support	Yes	Yes
Knowledge base	Extensive guides and FAQs	Comprehensive guides, FAQs and tutorials

Both providers offer round-the-clock live chat, which is pretty standard for a premium VPN Dienst nowadays. In practice, responses are generally fast and friendly in both cases, although NordVPN has a slight edge in consistency and depth of troubleshooting articles.

CyberGhost’s support content covers most common problems, such as streaming issues, installation on routers and error codes on Windows or macOS. NordVPN goes a bit further with more advanced tutorials, including configuration guides for Linux, NAS devices and manual setups. If you are the type of user who likes to tweak things yourself, that extra documentation can save time.

Shellfire also provides responsive support via email and chat, with a particular focus on helping customers get the Shellfire Box integrated into mixed home networks that include smart TVs, consoles and streaming devices.

Additional Features

Feature	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Dedicated IP	Available as a paid add-on	Available as a paid add-on
Split tunneling	Supported on selected mobile and desktop apps	Supported on mobile and desktop apps
Ad & malware blocking	Built-in content blocker for ads and trackers	Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers and malicious domains
Mesh network	No	Yes, via Meshnet for device-to-device connections

On the feature side, CyberGhost delivers the essentials that most users want from a sicheres VPN: a kill switch, split tunneling on selected platforms, an optional dedicated IP and a content blocker to cut down on basic ads and trackers. It is a sensible, practical set of tools, especially if you prefer a simpler interface.

NordVPN takes a more ambitious route. In addition to standard VPN features, it offers Threat Protection for stronger ad and malware blocking, Double VPN and Onion over VPN for extra privacy, and Meshnet to create secure tunnels between your own devices. For some people this may feel like “too much,” but if you enjoy having all your privacy tools in one place, it is a big plus.

Shellfire keeps things closer to the essentials again. Its VPN focuses on core security features like encryption, ad blocking and port forwarding, making it attractive for users who want a günstige, reliable VPN without needing to manage an entire security suite. The Shellfire Box then adds the hardware angle, which can be interesting if you have a lot of IoT devices or game consoles that cannot run VPN apps themselves.

VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More

Use case	CyberGhost	NordVPN
Streaming	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Torrenting / P2P	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gaming	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Remote work	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Budget-conscious users	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Censorship-heavy countries	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best VPN for Streaming

CyberGhost makes streaming straightforward thanks to its labeled, streaming-optimized servers. If you mainly want to watch Netflix, Disney+ or BBC iPlayer without digging through server lists, this is a big advantage. In day-to-day use, however, performance can vary. If your base line is not very fast, the speed reductions may lead to occasional buffering or forced downgrades to lower resolutions.

NordVPN is usually the better choice if streaming is your top priority. It reliably unlocks a wide range of Netflix libraries, regional services and international platforms and keeps up high bitrates even during busy evening hours. For many users looking for a “bestes VPN für Streaming” or “Netflix VPN” in Google, NordVPN ends up on the shortlist for exactly this reason.

If you prefer a simple, hardware-supported solution for streaming on devices like Apple TV, Fire TV or game consoles, the Shellfire Box offers plug-and-play protection and stable access to popular services. You avoid app installations on each device and instead route the traffic from your TV or console through the box.

Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P

Both CyberGhost and NordVPN allow torrenting, but they approach it slightly differently. CyberGhost highlights specific servers for P2P traffic, which makes it easy to see where torrenting is allowed. Speeds on those servers are generally good, and the no-logs policy plus kill switch give you a solid baseline of privacy.

NordVPN offers dedicated P2P servers as well, but thanks to NordLynx and the overall network optimization, it often delivers even better performance. If you regularly download large files, such as Linux ISOs or game updates, this can save you a noticeable amount of time. The combination of strong privacy features and high speed makes NordVPN a very strong Kandidat for users who need a sicheres VPN für Torrenting.

For those who want an easy setup without worrying about which server to choose, Shellfire allows torrenting on several of its servers and includes a kill switch in its apps. This is a practical compromise if you simply want a secure tunnel for occasional P2P traffic without exploring tons of advanced options.

Best VPN for Gaming

CyberGhost can work for casual gaming, but its slower speeds and higher latency on some routes mean it is not the ideal choice for highly competitive online play. You might see increased ping and the occasional lag spike, especially when connecting to distant regions or at peak times.

NordVPN generally performs better for gaming thanks to lower latency and more consistent speeds. When routed through nearby servers, it can help stabilize your ping and protect you from DDoS attacks without slowing everything down. Many players who want a Gaming VPN that does not drag their connection prefer NordVPN for this reason.

Gamers who simply want to protect their traffic on a console or smart TV may find that Shellfire’s VPN and the Shellfire Box offer a convenient balance between protection and simplicity, even if they do not reach the same low ping levels as NordVPN.

Best VPN for Remote Work

CyberGhost offers secure connections and many server options, making it suitable for remote work tasks like accessing company dashboards, email, or simple file transfers. The main limitation is its speed drop, which can slow down very large uploads or regular, heavy file-syncing workflows.

NordVPN is particularly well-suited for remote work because of its higher speeds, large global network and advanced security options, such as Double VPN and Threat Protection. If you regularly connect to corporate systems, use remote desktops, or handle sensitive data, these extras can offer peace of mind and a smoother experience.

Shellfire’s VPN and the Shellfire Box provide a straightforward setup for freelancers or small teams that want an easy, secure tunnel without managing complex policies. You can quickly secure home offices, shared apartments or small co-working spaces with minimal configuration effort.

Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users

CyberGhost is one of the most affordable major VPN providers on the market, especially if you opt for a long-term subscription. It combines low monthly rates with up to seven simultaneous connections, making it attractive for families or users who want a günstige VPN Lösung without sacrificing too much in terms of features.

NordVPN is more expensive on paper, but the higher price includes advanced options, better performance and a more extensive security toolkit. If you use a VPN intensively every day, the extra cost can be justified by the experience and additional protection you get.

Shellfire offers competitive pricing as well, plus the possibility of investing once in the Shellfire Box as a hardware solution instead of paying recurring fees forever. This can be interesting if you are planning for the long term and like the idea of a “set it up once, use it for years” approach.

Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries

CyberGhost lacks advanced obfuscation features, which makes it less effective in countries like China, Iran or Turkey, where VPN traffic is actively detected and blocked. It can still work at times, but reliability is not on the same level as services that offer specialized stealth modes.

NordVPN provides obfuscated servers and Double VPN routes that are designed to bypass deep packet inspection and heavy censorship. While conditions in these countries can change quickly, NordVPN is generally among the better choices if you need an anonymer VPN Dienst to access a freer internet under restrictive regimes.

Shellfire has some stealth features and can work in certain regions, but its smaller network means success may depend heavily on your exact location and current local restrictions. As always in these cases, it is a good idea to test multiple services if possible before committing long term.

Conclusion

CyberGhost impresses with an extensive server network and very competitive pricing, especially on long-term plans. It is a good fit for users who mainly want to stream content, browse privately and secure public Wi-Fi without spending too much. The trade-off is that it cannot quite match the best services in terms of raw speed, stability in censorship-heavy countries or advanced privacy extras.

NordVPN remains the stronger option if you value consistently fast connections, multi-hop capabilities and a broad security toolkit. For power users, frequent travelers, remote workers or anyone searching for a “bestes VPN” that balances speed, privacy and usability, it often justifies its higher price. Features such as NordLynx, Threat Protection and Meshnet make it feel more like a complete security platform than just a simple VPN app.

At the same time, it is worth remembering that not everyone needs all of these advanced features. Solutions like the Shellfire VPN app and our Shellfire Box position themselves as a practical middle ground. We offer user-friendly protection, hardware-based coverage for your entire home network and straightforward access to major streaming platforms, without the complexity of managing a large set of specialist tools.

In the end, choosing between CyberGhost, NordVPN and Shellfire comes down to your priorities. If low price and many servers are your main criteria, CyberGhost makes sense. If you want maximum speed, strong privacy options and very robust unblocking, NordVPN is likely the better VPN Vergleich winner. If you prefer simplicity, plug-and-play hardware and a clean, approachable interface, Shellfire’s VPN and Box are well worth considering as an alternative path to a secure, private and flexible internet connection.