Internet security is no longer just a matter for us IT experts – it is now a matter for everyone who wants to control their privacy on the Internet. Maybe you’re thinking about a VPN service too, but you’re hesitant to settle for something free, or you’d rather invest in a proven solution. Today, we’re taking a look at two options – Opera VPN, which is integrated into your favorite browser, and NordVPN, one of the top-rated premium services.
How do they perform in real use? And is it worth risking safety in exchange for zero cost?
What does “free VPN” actually mean?
At first glance, “free” sounds like a great offer, but it usually has its limitations. Opera VPN is actually just a proxy service that routes traffic through several servers and masks the IP address – but it doesn’t encrypt the complete internet traffic. This means that once you use another browser or app, your real identity is still visible.
The main problems with Opera VPN
- It only works in Opera – other applications are not protected.
- It does not allow selection of servers – the connection is randomly assigned.
- No advanced features – you won’t find a kill switch, split tunneling or strong encryption.
- Does not guarantee anonymity – Opera does not specify how it handles user data.
- Limited speed and reliability – servers tend to be overloaded and slow.
- Not suitable for streaming and torrenting – due to slow connection and lack of advanced features.
Opera VPN is therefore more of a basic anonymization tool than a full-fledged VPN. If you’re looking for real privacy and security, you need something more powerful.
Why is NordVPN a better choice?
NordVPN isn’t just about changing your IP address, it’s about real privacy and security. It provides military-grade encryption, thousands of servers around the world, and advanced features that free services simply don’t have.
NordVPN Key Benefits
- Superior security – military-grade encryption protects all data.
- Global server network – over 7400+ servers in 118+ countries.
- Streaming support – unblocks Netflix, HBO, Hulu and more.
- Full anonymity – no records of user activity.
- Kill switch – prevents data leakage during connection failure.
- P2P and torrent support – unlike Opera VPN, it allows secure file sharing.
- Unlimited speed and data – no bandwidth restrictions.
- Support for multiple devices simultaneously – up to 10 devices per account.
- 24/7 customer support – help is always available if you have any problems.
NordVPN speed and performance
A slow VPN is useless. NordVPN uses the NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard), which provides an extremely fast connection. That way, you don’t have to worry about video choppiness or slowdowns while working. Streaming in 4K quality or playing online games is no problem.
Direct Opera VPN vs. NordVPN comparison
| Functions | NordVPN | Opera VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Number of servers | 7400+ in 118+ countries | Unknown, randomly assigned |
| Torrent support | Yes | No |
| Unblock streams | Yes (Netflix, HBO, Hulu) | No |
| Speed | High, stable | Low, fluctuating |
| Kill switch | Yes | No |
| Encryption | Strong, military AES-256 | Basic, weak |
| Multi-device protection | Yes (10 devices) | Opera browser only |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat | None |
| Price | From 3 USD per month | Free |
| Money back guarantee | 30 days | No |
Which VPN to choose?
If you want real privacy, NordVPN is the obvious choice. Opera VPN may be fine as a basic anonymization tool, but it certainly doesn’t offer pay-as-you-go security.
With NordVPN, you get speed, security, streaming support and protection on all your devices – and if you change your mind, you get 30 days to get your money back.
NordVPN provides much more comprehensive protection, stable speeds, and great connectivity options. If you travel frequently, work on public WiFi networks, or watch content from different countries, then this is clearly a better choice than Opera VPN.
Opera VPN may cost nothing, but when it comes to your data, the question is whether it’s really worth saving in the wrong place. The final decision is yours, but if you’re serious about your privacy, NordVPN is the way to go.
