Astrill VPN review: Features, pros & cons

In this Astrill VPN review, we take an in-depth look at the service, covering user opinions, technical features, pros and cons, overall user experience, and more.

The VPN market is filled with many different types of providers. Some focus on premium plans, others offer free services, and some combine both options. There are fast VPNs with questionable privacy policies, along with many other alternatives. Today, we’re introducing a provider that, while more expensive than most of its competitors, stands out for its ability to effectively bypass censorship in many countries.

If you make it to the end, you’ll be left with a comprehensive review of Astrill VPN and know whether or not it’s worth the investment.

What is Astrill VPN and what does it offer?

Astrill is one of the many VPN providers on the market. Owned by Veloxee Corp, it positions itself as a solid option that combines strong privacy, high speeds, and an impressive ability to bypass geo-restrictions. That said, some Astrill VPN reviews point out that while it performs well at overcoming location-based blocks, its speeds can sometimes fall short compared to other premium VPN services.

A technically focused development team launched the VPN in 2009 and runs it, helping to build trust among its users. In addition, it has strong security credentials, and the company has not publicly confirmed any major incidents to date.

Astrill was originally based in Seychelles, a country outside global surveillance alliances like the Five Eyes, but it has recently moved its headquarters to Liechtenstein. While Liechtenstein is also not part of these alliances, the previous location offered an exceptionally high level of privacy.

What does Astrill VPN include?

As mentioned earlier, Astrill VPN stands out from many alternatives due to its more premium positioning and higher prices. Despite that, it offers a comprehensive set of features that cover most of what users expect from an advanced VPN. This makes it a good option for digital nomads or remote workers who need powerful tools to handle demanding environments.

Its main strengths include specialized protocols like OpenWeb, StealthVPN, and WireGuard, designed to maximize speed, enhance security, and bypass restrictions even in countries with strict censorship. It also offers broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, along with advanced configuration options such as split tunneling and router support.

One of the features that users most often highlight in Astrill VPN reviews is its ability to bypass China’s Great Firewall.

However, it’s worth noting that its server network is smaller than that of some industry giants, and its higher price, combined with a five-device limit, may make it less cost-effective for users who only need a VPN for everyday tasks.

To help you get a better understanding of this VPN, we’ve provided a table summarizing its key technical features, followed by a deeper look at some of them.

Below, we will tell you in more detail about some aspects of Astrill VPN that we consider important.

Astrill VPN server network

Astrill VPN has a network spanning roughly 56–58 countries, according to the information available on its official website. While its coverage isn’t as extensive as that of some larger providers, it is strategically distributed across all continents, including North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Oceania. Key countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Singapore, and Australia are included in its network.

The brand offers specialized servers for different uses:

• Streaming: Astrill can unblock some platforms, although its performance is not as consistent as other premium VPNs.
• P2P and torrenting: It has dedicated servers for secure file sharing.
• China: Its proprietary protocols, StealthVPN and OpenWeb, are optimized to bypass the Great Firewall, making this one of its biggest strengths.

One notable feature is that Astrill limits the number of users per server, helping to prevent congestion and improve stability. While its network is smaller than that of competitors like Proton VPN, its focus on high-quality hardware, physical servers, and advanced protocols ensures solid performance even in demanding environments.

Does Astrill VPN offer robust security features?

When subscribing to a premium VPN service, you expect it to cover basic security functions as well as offer advanced features. In this regard, Astrill VPN provides a solid set of security tools, though there are some important nuances to keep in mind.

• Encryption and protocols: Astrill uses military-grade AES-256 encryption, but it also allows users to choose AES-192, AES-128, or even no encryption to prioritize speed (the latter is not recommended). In addition, it supports a wide range of protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, OpenWeb, and StealthVPN, which is specifically designed to bypass restrictions in countries like China, Iran, and Turkey.
• Kill Switch: Its kill switch works very well on desktop systems (Windows, macOS, and Linux), completely blocking traffic if the VPN connection drops. On mobile devices, its availability depends on the operating system.
• Leak protection: Astrill effectively blocks DNS leaks and uses its own private DNS servers. IPv6 protection is also available, though on some systems it may require additional configuration.
• Advanced features: It includes split tunneling under the name “Site Filter,” router support, basic ad blocking, and the option to purchase a dedicated IP. It also lets you share your VPN connection with other devices through its “VPN Sharing” feature.

Features NOT included

• Astrill does not offer Multi-Hop (double hop).
• It does not allow users to configure custom DNS settings.
• Its malware blocker is basic and does not replace an antivirus program.

Astrill VPN stands out as a solid and dependable option for security, especially for users who need to bypass strict restrictions or navigate heavily censored environments. With its range of advanced protocols and privacy tools, it’s a well-rounded VPN, even if it lacks some premium features that competitors offer, such as Multi-Hop connections or advanced DNS settings.

Speed

Like security, speed is a key factor that users look for in a VPN. Astrill VPN benefits from an optimized infrastructure and advanced protocols, allowing it to have relatively little impact on connection speeds when using a nearby server.

One of its new features is Smart Mode, which lets you use regional IP addresses while maintaining high speeds without attracting too much attention from regulators or governments.

In recent tests, some independent measurements show that speed loss can range from about 10% to 15% on nearby servers using WireGuard, which is considered acceptable.

While Astrill doesn’t always match the performance of the top market leaders, the speed impact is generally moderate, making it suitable for HD and even 4K streaming, as well as light downloads. For high-demand online gaming or very large torrent downloads, however, it’s best to check latency and server performance beforehand.

Astrill also includes a built-in speed test tool that lets users find and connect to the fastest available server.

Experience for streaming and gaming

Although Astrill is one of the best VPNs for use in China, its streaming performance isn’t particularly strong. The VPN has struggled to access content on several popular platforms.

User tests show that it can unblock US Netflix or Hulu on certain servers, but results are inconsistent, and services like BBC iPlayer, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video often experience issues. Additionally, 4K quality isn’t always stable, especially when connecting to distant servers.

When it comes to gaming, Astrill VPN performs well for most users. Its native apps for Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS ensure compatibility with major gaming platforms, and with router support, you can also protect consoles like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo through your home network.

For the best performance, it’s recommended to use the OpenWeb protocol, which provides high speeds and lower latency. That said, for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts, it’s worth testing different servers, as latency can vary.

Astrill VPN’s no-logs policy

Astrill VPN does not market itself as a strict “no-logs” VPN. Unlike some other providers, it retains certain technical information while you’re connected, such as your IP address, device type, session duration, and app version. The good news is that this data is only used during the session and is permanently deleted once the connection ends.

Astrill also monitors the total data transferred and keeps basic details from your last 20 connections, such as time, duration, country, and device type. It never logs your browsing history or the content of your traffic. This information is used only to optimize performance and assist the support team in resolving technical issues.

However, it’s important to note that Astrill has not yet undergone independent audits to verify its no-logs policy. This means users must rely solely on the company’s word, which may not be ideal for those seeking the highest level of transparency and independent verification.

How is the customer service?

According to user feedback, customer support is one of Astrill VPN’s strong points. The company offers 24/7 assistance and a live chat that typically responds within seconds, making it ideal for urgent issues or technical questions about setup. For less pressing inquiries, there’s also a contact form and email support, where response times are slightly longer but still reasonable.

Astrill also provides a comprehensive FAQ section, step-by-step guides, tutorials for setting up the VPN on various devices, and even instructional videos. The support is fairly technical, which can be a plus for advanced users, though it might feel a bit overwhelming for those looking for simpler answers.

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What is the user experience like with this VPN?

Now that you’re familiar with most of its features, it’s worth taking a closer look at the user experience with Astrill VPN. This is a key factor for many users, especially those who have never used a VPN before, as a confusing interface can easily push them toward a different provider.

While Astrill VPN is designed as an advanced solution for users who prioritize security, stability, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions, the overall experience is generally positive.

• The interface is clean and functional, although its design is not the most modern and may be a little technical for inexperienced users.
• The number of advanced options visible at first might create a slight learning curve, but it’s not overwhelming if you take a few minutes to get familiar with them.
• From the main panel, you can change protocols, choose specific servers, or activate security features without too much hassle.
• The servers are organized by country and function (such as P2P or streaming), which makes selection easy.
• Downloading and installing the app is quick on both computers and mobile devices, and once installed, connecting to a server takes just a single click.
• Configuration on routers is also possible, although this process is more technical.

Overall, Astrill VPN isn’t the simplest VPN on the market, but it balances its advanced features with educational resources that make it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.

Advantages and disadvantages of Astrill VPN

Like any service, Astrill VPN has its pros and cons. It’s a solid choice for advanced users seeking security and speed, but its cost and some usability limitations may not make it the best option for beginners or those looking for a more budget-friendly solution.

Here is a table summarizing its main pros and cons:

Astrill VPN: User reviews

Looking at real user feedback on Astrill VPN, opinions are mixed. Many praise its advanced protocols and strong performance in countries with censorship, while others point out its high price and inconsistent streaming experience.

Overall, advanced users appreciate this VPN for its specific features rather than as a quick and inexpensive solution.

Below, we review real opinions according to the most common uses: remote work, entertainment, travel, and digital nomadism.

Astrill VPN for remote work

In this area, most feedback is positive. Users particularly appreciate the connection stability and the ability to select protocols suited for demanding environments. However, the price is the main point of criticism.

Astrill VPN: Reviews for streaming and downloads

Feedback is mixed. Some users stream popular platforms successfully, while others face frequent issues with stricter services.

Astrill VPN for travel

Frequent travelers often appreciate Astrill for its strong performance on public Wi-Fi and in regions with heavy restrictions, though some users note that the app can feel more technical than expected.

In other words, it is reliable for those connecting from unsecure networks, but it may require a little more patience when setting it up on mobile devices.

Astrill VPN: Reviews for digital nomads

Here, the reviews are positive in terms of security and stability, but negative in terms of cost.

Users widely praise Astrill VPN for its performance in censored countries, its stability for remote work, and its advanced features. However, its high price, inconsistent streaming results, and more technical interface make it unsuitable for some users.

The VPN targets “experts” rather than beginners, occasional travelers, or those looking for an inexpensive option.

Proton VPN: An excellent alternative to Astrill VPN

What’s our verdict on Astrill VPN? After reviewing its features and user feedback, we’ve concluded that while it’s an excellent service, there are other VPNs that offer similar capabilities at much lower prices.

In this regard, Proton VPN appears to be a solid, more economical alternative with a very clear focus on privacy:

• It offers an externally audited no-logs policy, something that Astrill has not yet implemented.
• It is based in Switzerland, one of the countries with the strictest privacy laws in the world.
• Its free version is one of the best available, offering unlimited data and no ads, which makes it a very appealing option for users who want security without paying for an expensive subscription.
• It has a larger server network, stable speeds thanks to WireGuard, and reliable support for streaming on popular platforms.
• It strikes a strong balance between security, transparency, ease of use, and price, making it an excellent alternative for both new users and digital nomads or frequent travelers.

Frequently asked questions about Astrill VPN review

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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