Our verdict: NordVPN is a fast, full-featured paid VPN with a polished Windows app. The free trial is real but limited to new users in certain countries and needs a payment method, so set a reminder to cancel. Intro prices are low, while renewals cost noticeably more.
About NordVPN
NordVPN routes your traffic through encrypted servers in more than 150 countries. The Windows app uses NordLynx, a protocol built on WireGuard, as well as OpenVPN and NordWhisper for networks that block VPNs. It includes a kill switch, split tunneling, obfuscated and Double VPN servers, and Threat Protection, which blocks malicious sites, ads and trackers. One account covers 10 devices at once. Meshnet, which links your own devices into a private network, works without a subscription.
The 7-day free trial is for new customers on 1-year and 2-year plans in countries including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and much of the EU. You enter a credit card or PayPal at signup; the plan starts automatically unless you cancel in your Nord Account before day 7. Elsewhere there is only a 30-day money-back guarantee. The cheapest plan, Basic for two years, cost $94.23 for the first 27 months when we checked and then renews at $139.08 a year.
What it does well
- NordLynx protocol. WireGuard-based protocol for fast, encrypted connections.
- Threat Protection. Blocks malicious websites, ads and trackers and scans downloads.
- Kill switch. Cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops.
- Split tunneling. Choose which apps go through the VPN and which do not.
- Meshnet. Free private network between your own devices for files and remote access.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who want a fast, easy VPN for public Wi-Fi, travel and streaming on several devices.
Look elsewhere
Users who want a VPN without a subscription, or who live outside the trial countries and do not want to pay first.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast NordLynx connections
- Built-in threat and ad blocking
- 10 devices per account
- Meshnet works for free
Cons
- Free trial only in some countries and needs a card or PayPal
- Renewal prices are much higher than the intro price
- Installer suggests other Nord products
How to install NordVPN
Pick a 1- or 2-year plan on NordVPN's trial page with a card or PayPal, then install the app and log in through the browser. The installer offers NordPass and browser extensions; untick them if you do not need them. To avoid being charged, cancel the trial in Nord Account under Billing before day 7.
Questions about NordVPN
Is NordVPN free?
No. New users in selected countries get a 7-day free trial on 1- or 2-year plans, but must enter a card or PayPal and cancel before day 7 to avoid paying. Elsewhere there is a 30-day money-back guarantee. Plans start at $94.23 for the first 27 months.
What can I use without paying?
Meshnet, which connects your own devices in a private encrypted network, is free in the NordVPN app. The regular VPN servers need a subscription or the trial.
How many devices can I use?
Up to 10 devices at the same time on one account.
