Choosing the right VPN (virtual private network) depends on your specific needs. NordVPN caters well to businesses with its robust features and reliable speeds. Its comprehensive suite of tools supports secure communications, accessing geo-restricted content, and maintaining data privacy, making it a reliable ally for business environments.
CyberGhost VPN, in contrast, is ideal for individual users and small teams focused on streaming and gaming. Its user-friendly interface and specialized servers help bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms and provide a lag-free gaming experience.
| CyberGhost VPN | NordVPN | |
| Website | CyberGhostVPN.com | NordVPN.com |
| Location | Romania | Panama |
| Servers | 9,800+ | 6,400+ |
| Countries | 100 | 111 |
| Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
| Support | 24/7 live chat; Email; Knowledge Base | 24/7 live chat; Email; Knowledge Base |
| Apps for | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, and more |
| Money-back Guarantee | 45 days | 30 days |
| Price | $2.19/mo. | $3.09/mo. (with this coupon) |
Each service has unique strengths, and this comparison aims to help you identify which VPN suits your needs best.
Here are the categories I used to compare the services:
- Key features
Speed tests
Security measures
Logging policies
Jurisdiction and privacy
User experience
Server network
Streaming and torrenting
Customer support
Pricing
Payment and refunds
Key features comparison
| Feature | CyberGhost VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| RAM-only servers | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
| Multiple VPN protocols | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Private DNS | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Split tunneling | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Kill switch | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Obfuscation | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Browser extensions | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Built-in ad blocking | ✔️ | ✔️ |
CyberGhost and NordVPN both offer extensive security features to safeguard your online activity. They boast independently audited no-logs policies, ensuring that user data and online activities remain private. This means neither VPN service stores any records of your online behavior, crucial for privacy-conscious users.
Both VPN providers excel in advanced security features and offer specialized servers for specific needs like streaming and enhanced privacy. For instance, NordVPN’s double VPN servers route VPN traffic through two different servers for extra encryption, adding a layer of security. Both services also include malware protection to safeguard against threats like phishing and malware.
CyberGhost utilizes the WireGuard protocol, recognized for its fast speeds and robust security. In contrast, NordVPN provides its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard but incorporates extra privacy improvements. Both VPNs also support the flexible OpenVPN protocol.
Speed tests
NordVPN generally surpasses CyberGhost in internet speed.
| Server location | CyberGhost VPN download speed (Mbps) | NordVPN download speed (Mbps) |
| Seattle | 422 | 755 |
| Los Angeles | 408 | 636 |
| New York | 117 | 613 |
| London, UK | 284 | 592 |
Speed tests across various locations consistently show NordVPN outperforming CyberGhost, with NordVPN recording 755 Mbps in Seattle compared to CyberGhost’s 422 Mbps.
In New York, NordVPN bettered CyberGhost by an even larger margin with a download speed of 613 Mbps compared to CyberGhost’s 117 Mbps.
Speed tests show NordVPN significantly outperforms CyberGhost in download and upload speeds across multiple regions, making it more suitable for high-speed activities like streaming and online gaming.
Factors affecting speed
Several factors can affect VPN internet speeds. Server load can lead to decreased connection speeds and stability issues if too many users connect to a single server. Distance to the server also affects speeds; the further you are, the more likely you are to experience reduced speeds. Both VPNs support the WireGuard protocol for speed efficiency, but NordVPN’s advanced server network and optimization give it a slight edge.
Security
NordVPN and CyberGhost both boast advanced security features, including military-grade encryption and kill switches. NordVPN’s Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers, and harmful websites, while CyberGhost offers dark web monitoring to alert you if your personal information is compromised.
Neither NordVPN nor CyberGhost encountered security issues during testing, demonstrating their reliability, and their enhanced security protocols offer robust defense against online threats. Combined with regular security audits, both VPNs are formidable choices for security-conscious users.
Encryption standards
NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM and Perfect Forward Secrecy to ensure data protection. It also implements HMAC SHA-256 for hash authentication and DHE-4096 for key exchange, providing robust security for your online activities.
CyberGhost uses AES-256-CBC for encryption, a widely recognized secure standard. While AES-256-CBC is secure, NordVPN’s AES-256-GCM provides a slightly stronger encryption, making it a better choice for users needing the highest level of security.
VPN protocols
| VPN protocols supported | |
| CyberGhost | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, WireGuard |
| NordVPN | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, IPSec/L2TP, and NordLynx |
CyberGhost uses the WireGuard VPN protocol, known for its high-speed performance and strong security features. The lightweight codebase of WireGuard allows for faster connection speeds and more efficient use of resources, making it a suitable choice for users who prioritize both speed and security.
NordVPN, on the other hand, has developed its own proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard. NordLynx combines the speed and efficiency of WireGuard with NordVPN's custom double NAT (Network Address Translation) system to enhance user privacy and security, providing a robust and reliable VPN experience.
Both VPNs also support the OpenVPN protocol, which is widely recognized for its balance of speed and security, as well as IKEv2, offering users flexibility in choosing the protocol that best fits their needs.
Leak protection and kill switch
Both CyberGhost and NordVPN use a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops, ensuring that your internet traffic remains private during connection failures.
Both VPNs also offer DNS leak protection to keep your DNS requests private. These features, combined with the automatic kill switch, provide extra security to ensure your online activities remain private and secure.
Logging policies
CyberGhost and NordVPN both adhere to strict no-logs policies, meaning they do not store user activity. NordVPN does not store VPN servers used, timestamps, websites visited, or download history. CyberGhost similarly does not store any logs, including connection timestamps, IP addresses, DNS queries, browsing history, or used bandwidth.
These no-logs policies ensure that no data about your online activities is recorded or stored by the VPN provider, significantly enhancing your privacy and security.
Both providers retain only mandatory logs like payment method information and analytical data for troubleshooting, ensuring that you can browse the internet anonymously and securely.
Audited no logs policy
The no-logs policies of CyberGhost and NordVPN have been independently audited. An audited no-logs policy verifies the provider’s commitment to user privacy.
CyberGhost’s policy was confirmed by Deloitte in a security audit in May 2024, providing an additional layer of trust. NordVPN has undergone four independent audits, with the latest by Deloitte in early 2024, confirming its robust and trustworthy no-logs policy.
Transparency reports
Transparency reports provide insights into data handling practices and user privacy protections. CyberGhost publishes these reports every three months, informing users about their data handling and any requests for user data, building trust and demonstrating commitment to transparency.
NordVPN doesn’t publish transparency reports but frequently updates its blog with privacy-related information, keeping users informed about its privacy practices and policy changes.
Jurisdiction and privacy
The jurisdiction of a VPN provider impacts your privacy. NordVPN is based in Panama, where there are no mandatory data retention laws, enhancing user privacy.
CyberGhost operates from Romania, which has strong user privacy protections and no mandatory data retention laws, making it a reliable choice for privacy-conscious users.
Both VPNs have recently improved their privacy policies. NordVPN has undergone three security audits by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and Deloitte. These audits and the legal environments where these VPNs operate provide a strong foundation for the protection of user privacy.
Both VPNs use RAM-disk servers, which do not store data on physical hard drives, enhancing data security and preventing data retention. This approach ensures that your data is not stored anywhere, further protecting your privacy.
CyberGhost employs data breach scanners to safeguard user information proactively. This, along with features like malware and threat protection, ensures robust online security.
NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor feature proactively scans the dark web for any instances of your personal information being compromised, providing alerts to help you take timely action and protect your data.
User experience
Both CyberGhost and NordVPN offer user-friendly interfaces, making navigation easy.
| CyberGhost VPN | NordVPN | |
| Apps | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Browsers | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Other devices supported | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, gaming consoles (via SmartDNS), routers (manual setup), and more | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, gaming consoles (via SmartPlay), routers (manual setup), and more |
| Connections | 7 | 10 |
NordVPN has a modern, sleek design that keeps its interface uncluttered, enhancing user interaction. CyberGhost categorizes servers by their optimization for streaming, torrenting, and gaming, allowing quick access to the needed server. Both VPNs offer unique features that cater to different user preferences.
App design and ease of use
NordVPN’s app design enhances user interaction, making it simple for you to connect to a server and manage your VPN settings. The intuitive layout ensures that even novice users can navigate the app without difficulty.
CyberGhost includes a unique security updater feature that helps maintain the latest app versions. Additionally, the app groups servers based on their suitability for streaming, downloading torrents, and gaming, so you can easily find the right server for your activity. This categorization makes CyberGhost’s app particularly user-friendly for those with specific needs.
Device compatibility
Both NordVPN and CyberGhost support a wide range of platforms, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even routers, making them a versatile choice for users with multiple devices. This extensive compatibility ensures that you can protect all your devices with a single VPN subscription.
Browser extensions
Both NordVPN and CyberGhost provide browser extensions for Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Mozilla Firefox. These extensions are useful for securing your browsing activities, but they only secure traffic within the browser and do not protect data from other applications.
NordVPN’s extension includes additional features like ad-blocking and can work with its advanced security options. CyberGhost’s extension offers one-click access to unblock streaming services, focusing on user-friendliness. While both extensions are useful, they do not provide protection against DDoS attacks or ensure safe file-sharing.
Simultaneous connections
NordVPN permits connections for up to ten devices simultaneously, providing better options for multiple users. This feature is particularly beneficial for families or individuals who need to protect several devices at once.
CyberGhost allows for a maximum of seven devices connected simultaneously, which is less than NordVPN. This makes NordVPN a better choice for users who require more device connections.
Server network
NordVPN operates a large server network that includes over 6,400 servers distributed across 111 countries. This extensive server network allows users to connect from various locations worldwide, providing better coverage and potentially faster speeds.
CyberGhost, on the other hand, boasts over 9,800 servers across 100 countries worldwide, offering a wide range of options for users. Both VPNs feature a variety of server types, contributing to their overall efficiency and user experience. Whether you need a server for streaming, torrenting, or enhanced privacy, both NordVPN and CyberGhost have you covered.
The larger server network of CyberGhost can potentially lead to reduced server load and better speeds for users compared to NordVPN. However, NordVPN’s optimized server network ensures reliable performance and lower latency, enhancing your overall experience with the VPN service.
Server locations
CyberGhost servers are distributed in 100 countries, providing extensive global coverage. This wide distribution of servers ensures that you can find a server close to your location, potentially improving connection speeds and reducing latency.
NordVPN operates VPN servers in 111 countries, offering even broader coverage. This extensive server network allows you to connect from various locations worldwide, providing better coverage and potentially faster speeds.
Server types
CyberGhost offers dedicated servers for online protection and also utilizes virtual servers. It is transparent about its use of virtual servers and lists all their locations on its website. This transparency helps users make informed decisions about which servers to connect to based on their needs.
NordVPN has a wider range of specialized servers compared to CyberGhost. NordVPN’s server network is comprised entirely of physical servers, enhancing reliability and performance. Whether you need double VPN servers for extra encryption or obfuscated servers to bypass censorship, NordVPN provides a variety of options to meet your specific requirements.
Specialized servers
NordVPN provides specialized servers such as Double VPN servers, obfuscated servers, onion-over-VPN servers, dedicated IP addresses, and torrenting servers. These specialized servers enhance user experience by catering to specific needs. For instance, NordVPN’s obfuscated servers help bypass censorship and can be enabled directly from the server list without manual configuration.
CyberGhost offers specialized server options that enhance user experience for streaming and torrenting. CyberGhost’s specialized servers include streaming servers, torrenting servers, and NoSpy servers, focusing on privacy and performance. Whether you need a server optimized for streaming or a dedicated server for enhanced privacy, both VPNs provide a variety of specialized servers to meet your needs.
Streaming and torrenting
Both CyberGhost and NordVPN are recognized for their capabilities in bypassing geo-restrictions for streaming content. This ability is crucial for users who want to access content from different regions, such as watching Netflix libraries from other countries. NordVPN is particularly noted for its effectiveness in accessing sites typically blocked by networks, making it a reliable choice for streaming.
NordVPN boasts a higher success rate in accessing popular streaming platforms compared to CyberGhost. It includes dedicated servers specifically optimized for streaming, enhancing its performance with various platforms. This ensures that you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without buffering or interruptions.
In terms of torrenting, both VPNs offer robust support. NordVPN features specialized P2P servers located in about 50 countries, enabling effective torrenting options. CyberGhost offers P2P servers in over 70 countries, ensuring extensive options for torrenting. Both VPNs emphasize strong encryption and privacy policies to enhance user safety while torrenting.
Streaming performance
NordVPN is noted to have a higher success rate in accessing popular streaming platforms compared to CyberGhost. During tests, NordVPN successfully unblocked Netflix US, Canada, and Japan without any problems and offered class-leading speeds for streaming without buffering. Its dedicated streaming servers ensure that you can access your favorite content smoothly.
CyberGhost states that it is compatible with Netflix. However, it frequently encounters blocks from the streaming service. Additionally, the slower speeds from CyberGhost can hamper the streaming experience for some users, depending on their base speed. While CyberGhost offers streaming servers, NordVPN’s more extensive number of servers tailored for streaming purposes provides a more reliable option for avid streamers.
Torrenting support
NordVPN has specialized P2P servers located in about 50 countries, providing effective torrenting options. It features an automatic rerouting system for users to connect to a server best suited for torrenting, enhancing the overall torrenting experience. This feature ensures that you always connect to an optimized server for your torrenting activities.
CyberGhost offers P2P servers in over 70 countries. It also provides a dedicated button designed for users to initiate torrenting activities anonymously. Additionally, CyberGhost automatically connects users to a preferred torrenting server when launching their torrenting client, making it user-friendly for torrenting enthusiasts.
Customer support
Customer support is an essential aspect of any reputable VPN service. Both CyberGhost and NordVPN offer 24/7 live chat support, ensuring users have access to assistance at any time. This round-the-clock support is crucial for resolving issues quickly and maintaining a seamless user experience.
CyberGhost’s customer support system includes options like live chat, email support, and an extensive FAQ section. It also provides multi-language support in English, German, and French, catering to a diverse user base.
NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat support, a comprehensive knowledge base, and email assistance. Its knowledge base is noted to be more intuitive compared to that of CyberGhost. Additionally, NordVPN engages more frequently on YouTube and has more subscribers than CyberGhost, indicating a stronger presence in this support channel.
Pricing
| Subscription length | CyberGhost VPN | NordVPN Basic Plan |
| 1 month | $12.99 | $12.99 |
| 6 months | $6.99 | N/A |
| 1 year | N/A | $4.99/mo |
| 2 years | $2.19/mo (+2 months free) | $3.09/mo (+3 months free) |
CyberGhost offers a more straightforward and economical pricing structure compared to NordVPN, with cheaper 2-year plans. This makes CyberGhost a more budget-friendly option for users looking for long-term subscriptions. CyberGhost’s monthly subscription costs $12.99, similar to NordVPN.
NordVPN has three subscription tiers:
- Standard Plan: offers the essential security tools from NordVPN.
- Plus Plan: offers the basic features and additional tools like a password manager.
- Ultimate Plan: provides the most complete protection with features like secure cloud storage.
With CyberGhost, you can also add some extra features to your subscription: a private IP address for $2.50 per month, and a comprehensive security suite for Windows for $1 per month.
NordVPN's Cyber Deal is live:
Get 74% Off NordVPN with two-year plans plus 3 months extra:
(Coupon applied automatically; 30-day money-back guarantee.)
Both VPNs also made our list of the top cheap VPNs on the market. However, CyberGhost wins in this category due to its significantly lower price for the long-term plan.
Payment and refunds
Both CyberGhost and NordVPN accept major credit cards, cryptocurrencies, and PayPal. This variety of payment options ensures that you can choose the method that best suits your preferences and maintains your anonymity. In addition to credit cards, via iDeal and BitPay, providing more options for users.
NordVPN offers a wider range of payment options, including more cryptocurrency options for enhanced privacy. It also allows payments through various methods, including credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, and options like Sofort and Google Pay. For those preferring cash transactions, NordVPN subscriptions can also be purchased at retail locations.
CyberGhost offers a hassle-free refund process through their support center. It provides a 14-day money-back guarantee for monthly subscriptions and a 45-day money-back guarantee for longer-term plans, so you can try the VPN risk free.
NordVPN also promises a money-back guarantee for canceled subscriptions within the specified period, providing a 30-day money-back guarantee for all subscription plans.
Conclusion and final verdict
Here’s an overview of each category and the respective winners:
| Category | Winner |
| Key features | Tie |
| Speed tests | NordVPN |
| Security measures | Tie |
| Logging policies | Tie |
| Jurisdiction and privacy | NordVPN |
| User experience | NordVPN |
| Server network | NordVPN |
| Streaming and torrenting | NordVPN |
| Customer support | NordVPN |
| Pricing | CyberGhost |
| Payment and refunds | Tie |
Both VPNs provide great value and deservedly make our list of the best VPN services on the market. However, NordVPN’s extensive feature set and user-friendly application give it a competitive edge. In conclusion, NordVPN is considered the superior VPN option overall due to its robust features, diverse server locations, and consistent speed performance. It supports a higher number of simultaneous device connections, accommodating more users simultaneously compared to CyberGhost. This makes NordVPN an excellent choice for businesses and users with multiple devices.
See the latest NordVPN deals here: https://nordvpn.com/special-offers
CyberGhost VPN is a strong choice for individual users or small teams focused on specific use cases like streaming and torrenting. Its user-friendly interface and economical pricing structure make it an appealing option for those looking for a reliable and affordable VPN service.
This CyberGhost VPN vs. NordVPN comparison guide was last updated on October 4, 2024.
Leave a Reply