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If you’re a traveller or digital nomad, you need a strong VPN abroad. It helps avoid geo-blocks, protects public Wi-Fi, and unlocks restricted access. In this AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN comparison, we analyse differences, services, performance, security, and features. So, you can choose the best option for your browsing preferences.

Throughout this guide, you’ll find the key differentiators for each VPN. Also, you’ll learn what to expect after you subscribe.

Comparison table: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

AttributeAdGuard VPNNordVPN
Servers80 locations (countries/cities)+8800 servers in +165 countries 
ProtocolsProprietary (not including traditional WireGuard) NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2 
CountriesApproximately 64+ countries165+ countries
EncryptedAES-256 standard AES-256 plus advanced options
Customer SupportLimited / email, forum, and docs (not always 24/7)24/7 live chat and full support
PlansMonthly / Annual / 2 years (plus a limited free option)Various subscription options with 30-day guarantee 
Free trial / guaranteeFree with 3 GB per month; paid plans include refunds30-day refund on all plans
Impact on speedModerate (it depends on server and congestion)High speed with NordLynx (optimised), lower impact
Monthly priceFrom €2.53 ($2.99) (long plan)From €2.53 ($2.99) (long plan offer) 
Annual price€3.43 ($3.99)/month (annual) €2.45 ($2.60)/month (2-year plan) 
Ad BlockingIntegratedYes (with features like Threat Protection)
StreamingYes (Netflix, Prime, Disney+, and more)Yes (all major services)
Dedicated IPOptional (add-on)Optional (add-on)
Kill switchYesYes, full-featured
Compatible devicesWindows, macOS, Android, iOS (fewer advanced platforms)Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers 
Simultaneous connectionLimited by plan (usually several)Up to 10 simultaneous connections
Logging policyNo-logs claim (not audited)No-logs, externally audited
Comparison of both VPNs

Detailed analysis: AdGuard VPN NordVPN

Server coverage and performance

  • NordVPN offers a fairly wide global network, ideal for travellers who need access in distant regions or multiple servers for less congestion.
  • AdGuard VPN has a smaller network focused on key points, sufficient for general use but less ideal if you need consistent connections in many countries.

Protocols and security

  • NordVPN uses proven protocols such as NordLynx (based on WireGuard) and OpenVPN, offering better performance and security in various scenarios.
  • AdGuard uses a proprietary protocol with strong encryption, but does not incorporate traditional WireGuard, which may limit speeds compared to NordVPN.

Streaming and unblocking

  • Both VPNs work with services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+, but NordVPN tends to be more consistent even in more complex regional libraries.

Pricing and plans

  • AdGuard VPN is usually cheaper on longer plans and offers a limited free version (3 GB/month) that is perfect for occasional travel.
  • NordVPN typically offers greater overall value thanks to its comprehensive coverage and advanced features with 30-day payback.

Ease of use and support

  • NordVPN has 24/7 support and better guides, useful if you’re new to using VPNs while travelling.
  • AdGuard VPN offers more limited support and less presence on advanced platforms.
adguard vpn vs nordvpn
To choose the best VPN for travel, prioritise speed, security and a wide network of servers in many countries to access local content (banking, streaming) @unsplash

Reputation and reviews: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

When comparing AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN, brand reputation and perceived security play a key role for travellers connecting to public networks in airports, hotels or coffee shops.

NordVPN has a longer history in the cyber security industry. It has been recurrently recognised by technology media and specialised platforms for its focus on privacy, proprietary infrastructure and external audits of its no-logging policy. These audits build trust for long stays abroad and remote work.

AdGuard VPN benefits from the AdGuard brand, known for ad blocking and anti-tracking tools. Although its VPN is a newer product and has fewer specific awards, it is often rated positively for its simplicity, focus on privacy and ease of use, especially among people who are not looking for advanced configurations.

In terms of user opinions, some patterns are repeated in forums and review sites:

  • NordVPN receives high ratings for stability, speed and ability to unblock content, although some people mention that the non-discounted price can be steep.
  • AdGuard VPN often gets good reviews for its competitive pricing and integrated ad blocking, but there are also comments pointing to a more limited server network and fewer advanced options.

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Customer support comparison: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

Customer support can make the difference when you’re abroad and your connection fails.

NordVPN offers:

  • 24/7 live chat.
  • English-first support, plus very complete resources and guides.
  • Fast response times and detailed technical fixes.

AdGuard VPN features:

  • Email support and a help centre.
  • Clear documentation, but no real-time chat.
  • Correct replies, yet less immediate.

For travellers in need of urgent assistance, NordVPN has the upper hand here.

Streaming tests: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

During daily travel use, access to streaming platforms often becomes a deciding factor.

  • NordVPN works consistently with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max and regional libraries in several countries. It keeps strong performance on international connections.
  • AdGuard VPN also allows access to Netflix and other popular platforms, although there may be more limitations with specific catalogues or less common services.

If streaming is a priority when you are on the move, NordVPN is more reliable.

Countries and servers: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

Both brands show clear infrastructure differences:

  • NordVPN has thousands of servers spread across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania, with high density in Europe and North America. So, it reduces congestion and improves stability.
  • AdGuard VPN offers servers in a smaller number of countries, covering all major regions, but with fewer options per continent.

For multi-country travel or long routes, NordVPN offers greater geographical flexibility.

Performance and speed: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

In everyday travel tests:

  • NordVPN has a moderate impact on speed thanks to its WireGuard-based protocol, with good latency for video calls and remote work.
  • AdGuard VPN maintains correct speeds for standard browsing and streaming, although the impact may be greater on distant connections.

On mobile devices, both apps are stable, but NordVPN optimises background resource consumption better.

Dedicated IP for digital nomads

A dedicated IP helps digital nomads who access banks, work platforms, or private servers.

  • NordVPN offers dedicated IP as an extra, with multiple locations available and good integration with professional services.
  • AdGuard VPN also allows dedicated IPs, although with fewer locations and options.

For long stays and intensive remote work, NordVPN is the most recommended option in this section.

No-logs policy: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

The do-not-record policy is one of the most important aspects for privacy-conscious travellers, as it determines whether your online activity can ever be stored or shared.

NordVPN

  • NordVPN has a zero-logging policy verified by multiple independent audits, conducted by companies such as PwC and Deloitte at various dates (2018, 2020, 2022, 2023 and most recently). These audits have confirmed that it does not keep activity and usage logs of users and their IP addresses. 
  • It’s under the jurisdiction of Panama, a country that is not required by law to retain user data, which strengthens its privacy policy. 
  • All NordVPN servers are RAM-only, which means that any temporary data is completely deleted every time a server is restarted, avoiding persistent storage. 

AdGuard VPN

  • AdGuard VPN also claims a no-logging policy, which means that it does not log your browsing activity or IP while you are online. 
  • It’s located in Cyprus, also outside of alliances such as 5/9/14 Eyes, which is favourable for privacy.
  • However, unlike NordVPN, AdGuard VPN’s no-logging policy has not been extensively audited by independent third parties, so its implementation does not yet have the same external privacy verification.

Conclusion: NordVPN provides a stronger no-logs policy with external proof that boosts reliability. AdGuard VPN states privacy, yet it lacks equivalent audit confirmation.

adguard vpn vs nordvpn
Look for a VPN with servers in many countries (100+ is ideal) to access services in your country or wherever you are, and to get better prices on online shopping. @unsplash

Security quality: AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN

VPN security depends on encryption, anti-detection options, and tools that protect you on any public network.

Encryption and protocols

  • NordVPN: uses AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 to encrypt traffic, protocols such as NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN and IKEv2, all very robust and proven. 
  • AdGuard VPN: uses AES-256 with its own protocol and secure tunnels, although it does not have protocols like WireGuard or NordLynx, which may limit power and speed compared to NordVPN. 

Kill switch and advanced security

  • NordVPN: offers a full kill switch that cuts off your connection if the VPN fails, obfuscation on some servers to hide VPN usage, and additional tools such as malware and phishing protection on higher plans. 
  • AdGuard VPN: includes kill switch as well, but lacks advanced options such as certified obfuscated tunnels or anti-censorship features as robust as NordVPN.

Conclusion: In terms of pure security and advanced features, NordVPN is more comprehensive and offers greater confidence for travellers who face restrictive networks or need extra protection.

AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN: Which should you choose for travelling abroad?

Below, you’ll find a table of common scenarios for travellers and digital nomads, plus the best VPN choice:

ScenarioAdGuard VPNNordVPN
Basic privacy on public Wi-FiIt encrypts and protects trafficBetter no-logs auditing
Maximum security / anti-censorshipIt meets the needBetter protocols and obfuscation
Server variety per countryFewer optionsVery large network
Streaming across regionsIt worksMore consistent
Fast technical supportLimited24/7
Advanced options (Double VPN, Onion)NoYes
Ideal for remote work / digital nomadsGoodRecommended
Which VPN should you choose?

Summary:

  • NordVPN is the most complete option for those who need security, audited privacy, server choice and advanced features on long trips or global remote work.
  • AdGuard VPN may be sufficient if you want a simple VPN experience, with built-in ad blocking and basic protection, especially if your use is more casual while travelling.

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