NordVPN and Steganos Online Shield VPN are both reliable VPN services, but NordVPN edges ahead in various aspects. With over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN offers faster speeds and a more comprehensive security suite, including a robust no-logs policy. Additionally, NordVPN boasts a more thorough privacy policy that has been independently audited. The service provides an extensive range of features and superior customer support. Although it comes at a higher price, NordVPN’s overall performance and feature set make it a preferred choice for users seeking comprehensive security. On the other hand, Steganos Online Shield VPN, with its servers Presence in around the globe, provides good security features and affordability, making it a viable option for budget-conscious users who may not require the advanced features of NordVPN. However, it lacks the independent audit of its privacy policy and does not support smart TVs or routers.
NordVPN vs Steganos: A Comprehensive Comparison
Factors | NordVPN | Steganos |
---|---|---|
Servers | Over 5,500 servers in 59+ countries | undisclosed number of servers |
No Logs Policy | Strict no logs policy | No logs policy |
Headquarters | Panama | Germany |
Pricing | $12.99/month or $4.99/m ($59.88/year) or $3.19/m ($86.13/2year + 3 months Free) | Before $4.16/mo ($49.99/year), After Discount $1.66/mo ($19.99/year) |
VPN Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, NordLynx | OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
Streaming Services | Unblocks major streaming platforms | Unblocks limited streaming services |
Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and more | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
Multi-Login | upto 6 simultaneous connection | upto 5 devices |
Support | 24/7 live chat and email support | Email support |
Refund Policy | 30-day money-back guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee |
Payment Methods | Credit/debit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies | Credit/debit cards, PayPal |
Exclusive Features | CyberSec, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN | Internet Kill Switch, Steganos Safe for encrypted storage |
Customer Support | Excellent customer support with various channels | Responsive customer support |
NordVPN Strengths:
NordVPN offers a larger number of servers across more countries, ensuring faster and more diverse connection options. Their strict no logs policy, headquartered in Panama, provides enhanced privacy and security. NordVPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including the advanced NordLynx. It unblocks major streaming services and is compatible with various platforms. With 6 simultaneous multi-logins, NordVPN allows users to protect multiple devices simultaneously. Their 24/7 live chat and email support ensures prompt assistance, and they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free usage. NordVPN accepts various payment methods, including cryptocurrencies, and offers exclusive features like CyberSec, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN.
Steganos Strengths:
Steganos may have a smaller server network, but it still offers a decent number of servers in multiple countries. Their no logs policy ensures privacy, and although headquartered in Germany (which has data retention laws), Steganos is known for its privacy-focused approach. It supports popular VPN protocols and is compatible with major platforms. While it may not unblock as many streaming services as NordVPN, it still provides a satisfactory streaming experience. Steganos allows 5 simultaneous multi-logins, and their customer support is responsive. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for customer satisfaction. Steganos accepts credit/debit cards and PayPal as payment methods. Additionally, they offer an Internet Kill Switch feature for added security and Steganos Safe for encrypted storage.
Which is More Secure: NordVPN vs Steganos?
NordVPN surpasses Steganos Online Shield VPN in security, featuring a more comprehensive no-logs policy, independent audits confirming its security measures, and a broader range of security features. Both providers offer essential features like a kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, but NordVPN further distinguishes itself with additional functionalities such as split tunneling, Double VPN, and support for P2P connections. Overall, NordVPN stands out as a more secure VPN option compared to Steganos Online Shield VPN.
Online Activity Log’s and Monitoring: NordVPN vs Steganos
One of the key aspects of a VPN’s security is its logging policy. NordVPN strictly upholds a no-logs policy, independently audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), ensuring no retention of user online activity records. The comprehensive policy encompasses browsing and download history, connection timestamps, and IP addresses, with a commitment to never share data with third parties. In contrast, Steganos Online Shield VPN also asserts a no-logs policy but is less extensive, collecting some connection logs such as timestamps, IP addresses, and data transfer amounts. Notably, Steganos clarifies that it does not log browsing or download history. Both NordVPN and Steganos employ monitoring techniques for VPN functionality and network security, differing in the transparency levels regarding their monitoring practices.
Post Connection Speed Comparison: NordVPN vs Steganos
In post-connection speed comparisons, NordVPN consistently outperforms Steganos Online Shield VPN, attributed to NordVPN’s extensive server network and the implementation of advanced technologies like NordLynx. Independent tests by PCMag, TechRadar, and VPNReview.net reveal NordVPN’s average download speeds ranging from 100 to 200 Mbps, surpassing Steganos Online Shield VPN’s speeds of 20 to 45 Mbps. This disparity becomes particularly noticeable during bandwidth-intensive activities such as streaming high-definition content or downloading large files. NordVPN’s faster speeds ensure smoother performance in these scenarios, while Steganos Online Shield VPN’s comparatively slower speeds may lead to buffering and reduced download rates.
Best VPN for Streaming: NordVPN vs Steganos?
NordVPN is widely regarded as the superior choice for streaming compared to Steganos Online Shield VPN, primarily due to its consistently faster speeds, extensive global server network, and optimized support for popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN’s broad device compatibility further enhances the streaming experience, ensuring reliable access on various devices. While, Steganos Online Shield VPN’s smaller server network and slower speeds may result in buffering or lag during streaming, particularly for high-definition content. Additionally, Steganos may not consistently unblock all streaming services with geo-restrictions. Overall, NordVPN provides a more reliable and high-quality streaming experience compared to Steganos Online Shield VPN.
Compatible Platforms: NordVPN vs Steganos
Both NordVPN and Steganos Online Shield VPN offer comprehensive compatibility across various operating systems and browsers. Both VPNs support Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms, ensuring users can secure their online activities on a wide range of devices. Additionally, both services are compatible with popular web browsers such as Chrome and Firefox. However, it’s worth noting that while NordVPN extends its support to Microsoft Edge, Steganos Online Shield VPN does not currently provide compatibility with this browser. Both VPNs offer broad coverage across major operating systems and browsers, but NordVPN includes support for Microsoft Edge, providing users with additional options for securing their online connections.
Value to Money: NordVPN vs Steganos
NordVPN provides three pricing options: $12.99 per month, $4.99 per month billed annually at $59.88, and a 2-year plan at $3.19 per month, totaling $86.13 with an additional 3 months free. In contrast, Steganos Online Shield VPN originally offers a plan at $4.16 per month or $49.99 per year, but with a discount, it is available at $1.66 per month or $19.99 per year. Both services present users with choices ranging from monthly to multi-year plans, with NordVPN’s 2-year plan including an additional three months free, while Steganos Online Shield VPN emphasizes affordability through discounted annual rates. still if we compare with the nuber of different features NORDVPN is a better value to money option.
Taking care of its Customer: NordVPN vs Steganos
NordVPN offers robust customer support through 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support, complemented by an extensive knowledge base and community forums. Response times are prompt, with live chat typically responding within seconds, email within 24 hours, and phone support maintaining average wait times under 5 minutes. The support team is known for its knowledgeable, helpful, and patient assistance, addressing a variety of technical and non-technical issues. On the other hand, Steganos Online Shield VPN provides support through email and a ticket system, with limited information in their knowledge base and FAQ section. However, response times can be comparatively slow, with email responses taking up to 24 hours or longer and ticket system responses up to 2 business days. While Steganos’ support representatives are generally helpful, the service falls short in terms of speed and comprehensiveness compared to NordVPN.
Walking an extra Mile: NordVPN vs Steganos
NordVPN stands out with a range of exclusive features that enhance its versatility and security. Notably, NordLynx, utilizing WireGuard technology, ensures faster and more secure connections. The Threat Protection feature blocks malware, ads, and trackers, fortifying device security. NordVPN’s Dedicated IP service offers a unique address for personalized connection needs, and the Onion over VPN feature adds an extra layer of anonymity by routing traffic through the Tor network. The inclusion of Multi-Factor Authentication strengthens account security. Additionally, NordVPN’s Meshnet and P2P Optimization features provide options for creating private networks and prioritizing peer-to-peer traffic for efficient file sharing. In contrast, Steganos Online Shield VPN lacks these exclusive features, making NordVPN a more advanced and comprehensive choice for users seeking heightened protection and functionality.
Conclusion
Both NordVPN and Steganos have their own strengths and weaknesses. However, when it comes to security, speed, streaming capabilities, platform availability, customer support, pricing options, and exclusive features, NordVPN emerges as the stronger choice. With its strict no-logs policy, fast speeds, extensive server network, and excellent customer support, NordVPN provides a comprehensive and secure VPN experience for users.